Can I Leave My Digitrax DCC Controller Switched on 24/7?

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September 30, 2020

Victor asks readers:

I have a Digitrax DCS 52 controller without a power switch, but it does have a track power switch . I’m in the habit of unplugging the power cable from the controller after each session, but I have forgotten a couple of times. I am nervous leaving it on over night. Does anyone leave their controller plugged in all the time? Can I just switch off the power to the track when not in use?

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5 Responses to Can I Leave My Digitrax DCC Controller Switched on 24/7?

Jerret (Pete) Grisham says:

October 1, 2020 at 12:00 am

I use AC power strips (surge protected) With an ON/OFF switch for everything. Anything needing DC power is plugged in to one of 2 or 3 of them mounted around the layout, and, as I walk around the layout and turn them on, I inspect the layout for any potential problem. As I leave, turn everything off. I also have several toggle switches on the layout to turn on the “burning house”, the HOBO cave bonfire, the city lights and the five story fire downtown, etc.

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Kevin Ching says:

October 1, 2020 at 12:06 am

+

Hi Victor
Not a good idea to leave your expensive controller plugged in 24/7 as if there is a power surge you may have to say goodbye to your controller etc. I make a habit of disconnecting all my electronic components when not in use. It also helps not to have unwanted persons fiddling either.

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Jim Rosensweet says:

October 1, 2020 at 1:14 am

Cut the lead and add an on/off switch. Easy.

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skipduld says:

October 1, 2020 at 10:10 am

I LEAVE IN MD EASTON SHORE AND WE GET A LOT OF BURN OUTS. MY SOFA, TRAINS , COFFEE POT EVERYTHING ELE. IS ON GFCI OR STRIP W/ GFCI. 2 WKS. AGO MY NEIBOR HAD A BURN OUT FROM THE DELMARVA ELE. WIRE COMING INTO THE HOUSE. RUINED THE COFFEE POT, COMPUTER AND THATS ALL. THE TRAINS WERE FINE.

SO DO WHAT JERRET SAYS. IT REALY HELPS.

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Morgan Bilbo says:

October 1, 2020 at 10:11 pm

Get a surge protector. An absolute must. No questions. Just get one!

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