Skip to main content

I have a large two level layout; lower level TMCC only and upper level is conventional only.  Lower level is TMCC.   I control the TMCC by walking around and control switches at Ross controller mounted at edge of layout.  This is completed and all 22 Ross switches are working great!  

Now I have moved on to the conventional controlled upper level.    Control is by a KW transformer.  Each  throttle will have several blocks assigned to it.  I am working on a control panel for that level.  I plan to attach the Ross switch controller to the panel schematic  and use toggles to switch on the blocks.  

A few questions:

1)  My first choice would be to use a lighted toggle. Most I have seen are low voltage DC and the current going through the toggle will be 0-18 AC.  Thought of a DPST toggle and using one pole for the  variable AC from the transformer and the other pole for a fixed AC going to a pilot light for the block.  But again I'm finding most pilot lights are listed as DC.

2) Anyone have a good source for the electrical components;  toggle switches, pilot lights. etc.  In the old days I could rely on Radio Shack and local electronic stores. 

Thanks for any help.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

One caveat on the lighted toggles. Some actually are like double throw switches, in that they connect to ground when turned off. It is not a problem until a car or engine bridges two blocks and one is off. The center rail current goes from one pickup to the other directly to ground. I used them for powering sidings, and it took me a while to figure out where the short originated if I accidently drove onto an unpowered siding. I still use the switches, but with no ground connection,  they aren't lighted anymore.

Add Reply

Post

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

×
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×
×