two transformers are wired to a multi-pole rotary switch to power three blocks. Would like to monitor the AC voltage and current from each transformer. For example, the Lionel trainmaster & MTH railking engines have (appparently) very different wattage requirements. I would like to keep the cab control panel as compact as possible and therein lies my question: what manufacturer & model of small meters have users been satisfied with?
The O-Gauge railroading sells on for $24.95. See the following link.
http://www.ogaugerr.com/cgi-bin/shopper.cgi?preadd=action&key=BS-T-dvm
Regards,
Tim Piganatri
Probably any volt/amp meter will do. Look for an electronic one with a possibility for Ohm’s (resistance) which is an extra hardly extra paid for. About any hardwareshop has them for sale for around 20-25 dollar.
Don’t use one with an analog meter on it (display with a needle pointing on a scale) because these ones are hard to read and inaccurate after a drop on the floor.
Sears stocks a very inexpensive, yet accurate, digital meter.
BillFromWayne
www.modeltrainjournal.com
For an ammeter, I would suggest the $20 Radio Shack analog clamp-on meter. It measures up to 20 amps for an indefinite amount of time, while most digital meters I have encountered(including the $90 I’m using now) can only measure 10 amps for no more than 30 seconds. The clamp-on part makes it easy to take a quick reading.
As the other have said, any good digital meter should work for voltage. I use an Extech True RMS AC one that can be had from Radio Shack for $90, although you don’t have to use one that expensive. The TRMS feature ensures that you get an accurate voltage reading regardless of the waveform, although any standard AC meter should give you a good idea.
Remember, finally, that a voltmeter should be connected across both polls of the transformer, and that an ammeter should be in series with the hot(center-rail) lead. A clamp-on meter should clamp around the hot lead of the transformer.
Small notice: the clamp-ons only work on AC!