@Bob G (WNY) posted:Stan2004 asked me to calculate the scale speed of my train as it moves along the short loop of track I'm using for test purposes [see my last post for a related video clip]. It traverses the total 200 inches of track in about 13 seconds- -a speed of 15.4 "/sec. Using 0,275"/sec per actual 1 mph for 1/64 S scale, my train is traveling at 15.4/0.275 = 56 mph. That's a bit slow for my liking; I'd prefer roughly 100 mph at full throttle so that my complete six-car Budd consist can really zip along my planned layout's straightaways.
I contacted Digitrax tech support about my train's speed problem. Their solution is to integrate a DB210 Single 3/5/8 Amp AutoReversing DCC Booster [https://www.digitrax.com/produ...ions-boosters/db210/] and a PS2012E 20 Amp Power Supply 13.8-23VDC [https://www.digitrax.com/produ...er-supplies/ps2012e/] into my existing starter DCC system [Zephyr DCS50 command station and PS315 power supply]. That'll turn out to be a pretty expensive fix [total MSRP = $334]; however, it's quite acceptable to me because the DB210 Booster also provides the means for using at least one- -maybe more?- -reverse track loop[s], a capability I'll eventually need to have for my planned home-and-back passenger terminal/switching layout.
Thanks for posting the video. It is a little faster than I imagined from your description. I suggest trying a laptop supply before investing in a booster/PS to verify it will satisfy your need for speed! They can be had on ebay or amazon for $15-20. It can remain the PS for your DCS50 if you decide to get the booster. Power part of the layout with the DCS50 and the rest from the booster.
Edit:
I took a look at the PS2012E PS manual and noticed it only has three voltage options: 13.8, 16, and 23. Not sure how much voltage the 23V setting will put on the track - might be worth asking Digitrax. I am not sure what the maximum voltage is for a AM loco. The 16V isn't much better than 15.
Brendan
