A reader question about DCC and electrofrogs you might want to answer.

“Some books suggests that electrofrog turnouts should be used with DCC layouts whereas other sources I read suggest that non-electrofrogs are better with DCC. Can one of your blog readers please explain why views differ on this point?”

To contribute your answer simply click on the comments tag.

Small model train layouts can get by with the basic transformer that comes with many starter model train sets. However, a starter model train set transformer probably won’t have a lot of extra power and may not have a circuit breaker to prevent burn-outs. The transformer that came with the model train set may be all you need to get started if the locomotive doesn’t have a strong engine.

Here is a reader question for O gauge modelers to get their teeth into:

“I am just starting to set up a large O gauge model railroad which I was able to purchase at a very reasonable price. I am looking for a mini toggle switch, spdt, with center return. I want to replace the old, large Lionel switch controllers. I know they are out there but I just don’t know where to look. Also, I understand they should be 10 amp or more? Can your O gauge blog readers give me any suggestions or a company to contact. Thanks”

To submit your answer simply click on the comments tag below.

If you are an experienced model railroader you might like to contribute some ideas and help
to this reader:

“I have just downloaded the 4th ebook and looked at just parts of it. This is GREAT!!!!!At 54 years old I am just getting ready to design a layout to be built after I retire and move to a bigger location. I have a lot of plans and at this point I have several HO locomotives and rolling stock in storage. I plan to do the design on 8×4 styrene sheets and store them until building time. All of the info will help me plan for the future.I do have one question right now. I use to work with telephone equipment and have some 25 to 75 pair wire. It is just single strand and I was just wanting to know if it is good enough to use even with DCC. Any info you can provide will be a great help.”

Electricity Supply To Model Train Sets: “How A Locomotive Moves Around A Model Train Set Layout”

DC electricity is directional, so the electricity flows along the wires in a certain direction, and the locomotive moves in the direction set by the directional switch on your controller (or left and right if your controller has a centre off type control knob).

There’s nothing more frustrating than not having the power that you need.

When buying a model train transformer, it’s better not to skimp on quality at the expense of price, especially if you’re planning to buy accessories as well. You want to ask yourself just how much current draw will the train set transformer provide.

Larger model train layouts or those with lots of accessories will require transformers with a larger power output. You can upgrade your train set transformer as your layout grows, using your older units to power accessories and powered turnouts. A more powerful transformer will be able to run more locomotives.

If the amperes drawn exceed the transformers capacity, the pack begins to overheat. A 14 VA transformer will easily power three or four locomotives. Have the power you need.

If you have a lot of accessories then you’ll need to get a larger transformer or use multiple transformer packs that can deliver powerful 18 volt amps of current.

Small model train layouts can get by with the basic transformer that comes with many starter train sets.

Remember, that a starter train set transformer probably doesn’t have a lot of extra power, and may not have a circuit breaker to prevent burn-outs.

If however, you’ve purchased a locomotive that doesn’t have a strong engine, then this type of transformer may be all you need to get started.

The transformer that comes with a typical starter train set (rated as low as 7 volt-amps, or just 0.7 amps delivered at 10 volts) will run one (maybe two) locomotives at the same time.

It might sound strange, but there are turnouts on real roads that are know as ‘swing nose frogs’.

In railroading terms, “frogs” have nothing to do with those little creatures that jump around. A railroad “frog” is best described as the part of a turnout or a crossing where the rails have an intersection which allows the wheel flanges to cross the running rail (the spot where the deverging rail crosses the straight rail).

These ‘swing nose frog’ turnouts require the conductor to throw the points of the switch, and then walk up to the frog and manipulate that mechanism as well.

‘swing nose frogs’ are used where high tonnages meet high speeds.

Regardless of how simple or complex the model train layout is, all model train operation follows one basic principle. The train speed and direction is controlled by varying the voltage and polarity of the electricity reaching the motor.

Electrical currents are not the same in every country. It is important to know what voltage system operates. A local electricity supplier, or a local electrical contractor can supply the required voltage information. The high voltage circuit in the wall socket can cause injury or death. Also, it pays to carefully read any safety instructions that are included with most train sets before getting started.

Most model train sets run on low voltage power. Unlike the AC electrical circuit in a house, the electricity that moves your model train locos is DC, ie. Direct Current.

The supply to a model train layout comes by plugging a power pack (also called a transformer) into a wall socket that takes the AC supply, steps it down to the 12-15 volts needed to run the model trains and up to 18 volts for the train set accessories.

The transformer converts the output to DC, filters the DC to purify it, then outputs the supply from the terminals on the back of the controller, along a couple of wires to the model train tracks where it is picked up by a locomotives wheels, turning the motor within. The throttle control varies the voltage to the rails, changing the speed of the motor and consequently the rate the locomotive moves down the train track.

Model railroaders sometimes experience lighting problems with street lights & other accessories being too dim or erratic. More often than not the problem can be traced to the transformer/power pack.

Dim lights are usually a result of too many items drawing power at once. One option is to invest in more powerful transformer/power pack or to buy an inexpensive unit and use it only for accessories while a second more powerful unit runs the model trains.

A quality transformer, when treated properly, should have a lifespan of 30+ years. (Pictured: Lionel CW-80 80-Watt Transformer)

The golden rule is to ALWAYS operate the transformer within its rating. It is also important to keep the transformer dry and avoid damp areas (take particular care in basement locations).

When not using your train layout unplug the transformer. Don’t walk away and leave it plugged in and unattended as it could start a fire. If a transformer gives off a burning odor, or expels smoke, heed these warning signs and immediately replace it or take it in for servicing.

A loud BUZZING noise coming from a transformer could be due to the transformer’s core laminations moving. Servicing would be needed as this vibration can cause damage to insulation in contact with the moving metal.

A transformer’s circuit breaker can trip occasionally. If this happens simply unplug the transformer and let it cool off. The transformer will usually work again after it has cooled down. However, if the transformer continues to trip without a load, it will need servicing to fix the problem.

One more thing; NEVER use a transformer with a damaged, split, or cracked power cord. If in doubt have the transformer serviced immediately.

The command station on a model train set is the brains of any DCC system (besides the engineer!). The command station is basically a dedicated computer that communicates with all other parts of the DCC system.

The command station processes the signals from one or more throttles, and transmits them to the track via a ‘booster’. The throttles connect to the command station either directly via the socket on the unit or via a ‘network’ for more than one throttle.

Take care when selecting the brand and model of command station for your model train set, because it is the key to selecting the type of throttle controls as well as system features that can be expanded on.

An Analog model railway is simply a conventional model railway with conventional analogue controls [DC or AC] to provide a power feed to a piece of track. Any locomotive that is on that piece of track will respond by moving forwards or backwards. The speed and direction of a model train is controlled by varying the voltage and polarity on the rails. The higher the voltage , the faster the locomotive moves, the lower the voltage, the slower the locomotive moves.

There is a big choice when it comes to power packs for model train layouts. Power packs come in a variety of designs to suit individual requirements. All power packs contain a few basic components, including a transformer to provide the 12 volts, a throttle to vary tile output voltage, and a direction switch to control the polarity of the circuit. Power packs also have screw terminals for the track (which is DC) and AC accessory connections.

Larger units may include a larger power supply as well as additional electronic features such as: operating modes, pilot lights and meters, and multiple terminals for accessories such as add-on walkaround throttle units. These units make it easier to operate your train, enabling you to follow it as it moves around the track, rather than standing in one spot and watching it.