Using EZ Track Remote Switches.

Started by jbfox1977, December 23, 2011, 05:17:19 AM

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jbfox1977

I am having trouble figuring out how to connect the two bare wires to the AC of my powerpack.  I have EZ Commander Set up.  I have the green wire attached to the supplied switch, and the red terminal attached to the switch.  From what I am reading, I am suppose to attach the bear wires to the AC terminals of my powerpack.  But I really don't see AC terminals on the EZ commander.  Any suggestions on what I need to do from here. I just don't see that anywhere to hook these wires up too.

Jerrys HO

#1
jb-

Sorry to say there are no AC outs on the DCC Command Controller. The best way is to hook up is if you have an older power supply or walwart laying around.
The reasoning behind this is if you tap into track power you would be robbing the switch and loco's of power when using. The more power you can keep to the rails the better.

Jerry

jbfox1977

Thanks Jerry,
that does make sense.  I guess my thought process was to try and keep the wiring at a minimum. That most likely will be an impossibility.  Unfortunately, I am just starting this hobby, I saw on ebay some bachman power supplys with accessory hookups.  I was just going to purchase one of those.  From what I have been reading from Chris Lane's EZ Model Railroad book, I can set up numerous switches on a single accessory outlet.  I guess if it gets more complicated, I can always purchase another powerpack.  Just would hate to have these things lying all over the place.  I am sure wires, power supplys will be everywhere.   I am also sure there is a better way to do it.  I just don't have the experience.  But it is very fascinating. 

John.

Jerrys HO

jb

You can run numerous switches off of the power supply your talking about. The only time the power is drawn is when you throw the switch and  most of the time it is one switch at a time. Crossovers are using 2 machines at once but still does not effect it.
I would suggest picking up a DCC book from your LHS as it will help.

Also try these links

http://www.awrr.com/dccintro1.html

http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn2/DCC.htm

http://www.brian-lambert.co.uk/DCC.htm#Reversing%20Loops

Jerry

Desertdweller

jb,

If you construct anything beyond the most basic of track layouts, you are apt to wind up with "wires going everywhere".  Even DCC systems beyond the smallest require multiple feeders to maintain optimal performance.  Track switches require their own power feeds.

And if you want to have powered accessories, or lighted buildings, well, that all needs wiring too.

It seems "wires going everywhere" is just a fact of life under model railroads.

Les