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Reply to "Operating switch tower...direct power/multiple tracks?"

Definitely do-able, but as Adriatic suggests, the devil may be in the details here.

Switchtowers and Gateman are very similar.  Both use a solenoid (or similar motor mechanism for some modern units) for the motion, and also have a light inside.

Lots of times, one side of the solenoid and one side of the light share a hookup terminal (though this may vary depending on which model you have - modern versions may have differently marked terminals than post war versions).

The general idea is the same though.  You apply the "hot" voltage (whatever your source is, small transformer, additional constant voltage tap off of the one you are using (like if you have a TW with available unused taps), etc) to the post that is shared.  This provides the  voltage you desire so it's independent of the track voltage.  Your "triggers" as Adriatic outlined are then hooked to the other terminal of the solenoid and/or light, providing the common/ground to the circuits so the action and light come on when the train passes by your trigger points.

-Dave

OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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