banelson posted:Thanks Rick. It will be a pretty permanent layout as I finally have a decent sized space with a table, but I like to kind of futz with the layout, so while "permanent" it will always be changing. I will order a voltmeter. Thanks for the video! Very helpful.
Ben
Ben,
get a set of mixed color jumpers with alligator clips. Then, you'll be all set to test and diagnose track and train stuff. Clip of probe and clip on test subject.
Don't get thrown if the meter reads 15.5 - 16.5 volts for the PH180's. They reliably output close to 18 volts AC . It requires a meter which has True RMS for AC. They are more costly than you need for playing with trains. An old thread had a chart for the typical variances. I'll try to find it for you.
The test that you will want to do for track is a voltage test with lighted car as a load on the track. Working you way around, pushing the car(s) ahead, you'll find bad joints(voltage drops) if any, that way. They can give good voltage readings with no load.
You'll also be able check between the blocks to confirm that there is no large voltage difference and that they are phased.
