Does anybody have info on the max number of decoupling sections that can be run off one push button and not burn up either the button or the transformer? I would like to just use one button for 3 sections to operate simultaneously, and only one of them would have a car on them at any time, so the other two would be on with nothing above them to decouple. Due to the very intermittent nature of operating a decoupling section, hoping the current strain would not overtax the system.
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I can't imagine your could burn up either with a such a momentary push of the button . If it makes you more comfortable, set them up on the work bench and try it before installing. I did this with two uncouplers years ago. The same goes for multiple switches (turnouts). Works great for crossovers.
What transformer do you have? What track system? Are you using a separate transformer for the uncouplers (recommended)? The vulnerable part would be the button. The transformer should just trip the breaker if it is drawing too many amps. The uncouplers won't burnout from being underpowered. As Earl said, I would just try it. Wire the uncouplers in parallel.
Brendan
Why not just have three buttons, no current worries and your button is safe?
The current draw doesn't depend on a car being on the uncoupler. If you really wanted to do this you could spec a higher current push button from an electrical supplier or an auto parts store.
I have five uncoupling sections running off one UCS controller with no issues.
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