Re: Transformer power

Not seasoned yetOGR Forum Member

Can anyone tell me how many accessories can be put on a lionel 80 watt trans former? I have 2 80 watts and a small lionel accessory transformer that I am using just for accessories and a zw 275 just for the trains. Most of the accessories are lights and are hooked up to a MTH 12 point Block. Right now the block has 6 different items running on it with just my small lionel accessory transformer and all seems to be ok. Could I hook up two transformers to the block for the power source ?

11/5/138:59 PM

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Arthur P. BloomOGR Forum Member

Figuring out the answer to these questions involves very simple arithmetic, and the use of a very inexpensive (under $15.00) digital volt-ohm-ammeter.

You need to measure how much current (in amps) each accessory uses, and then just add them up. Ohm's law says that the wattage is the product of the volts times the amps. So, as an example, assuming a 12-volt supply, and adding the lamps, etc, and getting, say 5 amps, you multiply the 12 times the 5 and you get 60 watts. Since an 80 watt transformer probably delivers around 50 watts, you are at the limit of the transformer.

The good news is that you can use another small transformer, and another terminal block. You can't use two transformers to get you the wattage you need by connecting them together. Just split the load between them. Or buy a used KW transformer and you'll have all the power and various voltages that you'll ever need.

11/5/1310:37 PM

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Not seasoned yetOGR Forum Member

Thanks Arthur for the great info. I will do that.

11/6/137:31 AM

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