Are Bachmann HO gauge E-Z Track switch machines dual-coil? What does this mean?
Yes.
The switch machines are basically two back-to-back solenoids that move the points back and forth depending on which solenoid coil is activated by the control button(s). In practical terms this means DO NOT hold the button down longer than it takes to throw the switch or you risk burning out a solenoid coil. Or, if your cat or kids like to play with the buttons, power the switches through a Capacitive Discharge Unit that limits the time power can be applied to the switches to a fraction of a second. You can buy prebuilt CDU's or you get download plans and build your own.
Len
My cat likes to turn on my turntables.
Les