@SteveH posted:If a TVS diode is also installed across each transformer secondary powering the layout, would there be a good case for installing any additional TVS diodes around the layout (assuming all Locos had individual TVS protection installed)?
I sometimes see that there are those who think only to focus on the track/locomotives and completely overlook the accessory power buses.Accessories are filled with transient inducing solenoids and what not. Take a look at your track switch machines, your crossing gates etc... and that there are other accessories that have sensitive electronics in them.
I guess there are two points I am trying to make:
- Transients don't solely exist on track power buses
- When addressing your accessory buses, be sure to think about placement: @bmoran4 posted:
I came to the conclusion that the absolute best place for the TVS is at the source of the transient, but in our layouts that can be "unpredictable", so next best is at the entrance points to sensitive electronics (inside the locomotive), but ultimately clamping somewhere instead of nowhere may be a reasonable compromise.
Also, I see you specifically disavowing DCS, but I just want to make it clear that TVS diodes and DCS are not automatically a no-no, but it is true that they do raise the capacitance and there will be a point at which that capacitance becomes too high and interfears with the DCS signal. You could expect to have DCS issues if you put a TVS diode on even piece of sectional track ;-)
