05-09-2009, 07:49 AM
The test track at the club is more or less what you describe, although there is a rerailer section in the middle to make it easier to get stuff on the track. It also includes:
I realize that this will not directly answer your question, but we use DCC at the club, so the track is wired through a DPDT switch to plug into a Digitrax Zephyr. The switch enables us to flip back and forth between programming track and mainline programming without moving the loco.
I would think that a 9V battery would provide sufficient power for DC-only locos, although those with sound, constant lighting, or other features may draw enough current to drain the battery fairly quickly. The other thing to consider is how will you regulate the speed? Most DC locos approach their top speed at 9V, and you would not want the loco to shoot off the end of the track...!
I guess I am wondering why you would not use a standard powerpack with a DC test track? :?:
Hope that helps.
Andrew
- a bumper at one end, and a couple height gauge at the other
- a "ruler" marked with the NMRA suggested weights for HO scale
- an NMRA wheel gauge attached by a string
I realize that this will not directly answer your question, but we use DCC at the club, so the track is wired through a DPDT switch to plug into a Digitrax Zephyr. The switch enables us to flip back and forth between programming track and mainline programming without moving the loco.
I would think that a 9V battery would provide sufficient power for DC-only locos, although those with sound, constant lighting, or other features may draw enough current to drain the battery fairly quickly. The other thing to consider is how will you regulate the speed? Most DC locos approach their top speed at 9V, and you would not want the loco to shoot off the end of the track...!
I guess I am wondering why you would not use a standard powerpack with a DC test track? :?: Hope that helps.
Andrew