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wiring commons on transformers together?

jcovertjcovertOGR Forum Member
Hi-

I am just setting up DCS on a brand new layout. I have read Barry's book (excellent), and have read other threads dealing with this issue. I am still a little confused on the need to wire commons on transformers together.

Here is my scenario:

I am powering 2 completely separate loops, one for conventional, one for command. I plan to attach a Z4000 to power the fixed outputs on my TIU (one channel for each side of the command loop). I am using a PW ZW to power the variable channels (one channel for each side of the conventional loop).

I know to phase the 2 transformers and use the fast acting fuses between the transformer and the TIU.

Since the transformers are powering 2 separate, non interacting loops, do I still need to tie the commons together? If so, do I do this prior to, or after the TIU?

Last ? I am using another TIU for 3 other loops. Do the TIUs somehow get tied together or does the second TIU require its own aux power supply (i.e. the radio shack adapter)?

Thanks in advance for any input/suggestions-

Jeff
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Barry BroskowitzBarry BroskowitzOGR Forum Member MEMORIALIZED MEMBER
Joe,
quote:
Since the transformers are powering 2 separate, non interacting loops, do I still need to tie the commons together?
It is highly recommended to do so, since your tasking of the transformers may change in the future.
quote:
If so, do I do this prior to, or after the TIU?
Either way will work, however, if you plan to also connect a TMCC or Legacy command base to the same wire, be sure to make the connection after the TIU rather than before, so as not to run the TMCC or Legacy signal thorough the TIU channels.
quote:
I am using another TIU for 3 other loops. Do the TIUs somehow get tied together or does the second TIU require its own aux power supply (i.e. the radio shack adapter)?
While you could share a power source across a pair of TIUs if the power source has sufficient capacity (1-1.5 amps per TIU), it is recommended to have a separate power supply for each TIU. This way, the failure of one TIU's power source for any reason affects only that one TIU.
Pine Creek RailroadPine Creek RailroadOGR Forum Member
Jeff,
I wanted Barry to make sure you connected them together after the TIU so if you decide to add TMCC nothing would run thru the TIU. I used the individual Grounding method because I wanted the ability to
trouble shoot each individual part of my layout, knowing it was not grounded universally. It is more work to engineer in this manner also. Both ways are acceptable but the individual grounding cost more
money to build, and on most layouts its not any better. I did not want to influence you into individual grounding, when most times it is not really necessary.
PCRR/Dave
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