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Easy Wire Joins Between Modules
Online Model Train Club Member Richo has started work on the second of four planned modules on his N scale layout and questions:
“Is there an easy joining system for disconnecting and reconnecting wires between modules?”
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Do you plan to exhibit your ;layout or move it regularly?
If not cheap connectors attached to each module with jumper wires soldered between them would do.
If so, proprietary 25 pin ex computer plugs ( from your favourite junk shop) are ideal.
David. It won’t get moved much.
Any kind of keyed male/female connectors. You want them keyed so you can’t plug the together incorrectly. I like the ones from Molex since they are durable and handle decent size wires.
If only power wires are in concern; I used trailer to car plugs. You cannot miss connect them and they can carry all the dc power you use.
I would use a terminal strip close to the edge of your modules with your bus wiring connected into it, that way you always have a good solid connection point. This will prevent a voltage drop in between modules.
I am considering using 7 pin trailer light plugs. Both ends to be spliced 1 to 2, so I can put both Male, and female on each end. Reason being, my layout is not only going to be modular, but each module can go wherever I feel like it. Well almost. Yes, each module will be it’s own industry. So if I choose not to use one, I dont have to worry about it.
If it’s only track power you want connect between boards the method I used was 1/4 wide thin brass strip soldered to each rail then bent over the edge of the base board and the same on the adjoining board so that when the boards are bolted together the brass strips are pressing against each other.