Just getting started in setting up a layout and need to get a good power supply currently using a Atlas commander DCC controller with a old Lionel transformer thats only putting out 14.7 volts. I just picked up two engines a Blueline M1b and a EMD SD-40 both DCC and sound and look to be running 3 or 4 trains at once. Looking for suggestions.
The Atlas Commander will not have enough power to program your locos.There’s a booster sold by Tony’s Train Exchange that will solve this problem, cost about 50 dollars.I had the same problem, and was using the power generator that came with my Atlas system.
Actually, a 14.7V supply may be fine, depending on the current capability. You may not need anything for running trains. Programming is another issue with some sound locos, but it isn’t a pwer supply issue, as has been said.
I was also using an old Lionel transformer to power my DCC system, a Lenz-100. At some point I reached the limit of the old transformer, so I retired it to running scenic lighting, and bought a 5-amp DCC supply from NCE. It works great.
Check Ebay as you can usually find a nice DCC power suppy. I picked up a Digitrax 5A power supply for about 1/2 of the retail price of a new one.
JIM
The 14.7 volts AC is OK but everytime you add a ‘load’, it pulls ‘amps’.
It’s the Amp rating that counts. Take “Wattage” or “VA” and divide by 12 (or 13 to account for Recification loss) - to get Amps. (14.7v. - 1.4v = 13.3volts.)
As soon as your amps reach max. the voltage will start to drop. Engines take .25a -.5amps each (if you don’t have a meter). Some old ones even 1-2 amps each.
is the booster used only on the program track or does it run the main line also ?
The Power Pax (programming booster) only goes to the programming track. The regular DCC booster (which I think is built into the Commander command station is the input to the Power Pax, and goes to all of the track. Booster may be an unfortunate word to desrcibe the Power Pax, as it already has a meaning in the DC world.