Can you safely run the AF Fastrack turnout on a DC track system by using a separate AC supply to power the external supply terminals on the FS switch?
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Carl, according to page 11 of the instruction booklet it appears that is ok. A jumper needs to be removed before connecting the separate AC Turnout power. The instructions are less than clear regarding a possible common point between track power and turnout power. If there is a common internal "ground" connection this could cause problems with reverse loops when the track connections are flipped.
Cool! Thanks for checking.
I assume the AC and DC power supplies have to have their common Isolated so the polarity of the DC can be reversed.
Carl Tuveson posted:Cool! Thanks for checking.
I assume the AC and DC power supplies have to have their common Isolated so the polarity of the DC can be reversed.
That is why I removed the one wire that said “TRK PWR”. I flipped the DC polarity with no problem. Both power supplies had polarized plugs.
Brendan
OK Thanks.
Something was bothering me about this. I rechecked it all. It didn't affect the outcome, but I have to take back my comment about isolation. The outside rail is electrically tied to the switch common. There are actually 3 connections marked TRK PWR all tied together; I initially thought there were two and that I had them all disconnected. There were no sparks when changing polarity with the alligator clips. It could be the power supply I used. I will have to go back and try a different DC source.
Brendan
