Dcc stationary decoders on matrixed switch machines

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

I want to use stationary decoaders on a matrixed interchange yard.

Have tenshodo twin coil sw. machines on all turnouts in interchange, fed by 40 volts DC transformer.

Am concerned about amperage spike from throwing mutiple switches and how stationary decoder triggers switch machines. decoder uses(?) track power?
would seem to nees relay to keep amperage down to reasonable rate to not “smoke” the decoder.

Appreciate some advise.

thanks

Tom C.

2

I’m not an electrical engineer but I’m sure there is no decoder that can handle the kind of power needed to throw multi turnouts. The relay idea sounds like a good one. Or use the same address, set up in a matrix, for each decoder for each turnout.

3

I don’t know of any that handle that voltage level out of the box. You’re going to have to add relays or something. Check the CVP ADC4, there is a high power version but even that I don’t think goes to 40v.
However - there is no need to throw all the switches at the same time. With DCC accessory decoders, you can set up routes in your DCC system. Route 1 lines the switches for yard track 1, Route 2 for track 2, etc. No more diode matrix stuff - the system handles that part for you.

–Randy

4

Thanks for the help, I was sure their was a way to get around the problem!

I’ve got some direction now.

Tom C.