My train room is jsut off my computer room. My computer room is also were I work on my trans as well(cleaning,installing decoders etc) I.m going to run wire from my NCe unit to the computer room.
My question is this.
For my main power to my piece of track I will use 12/2 wire as the same on my layout.
There will be a phone plug in for my contoler to control it from my desk.
But what size wire should I use to go to the programing track. It will be about 30 feet away from the NCE unit.
If it is only a low power programming track; almost anything will work. If you will also be testing engines under operational conditions; heavier wire will be needed. You can safely use 18 g (like zip cord) for such a short run and single engine use. for programming (low power) use only; I would use 20-22g twisted bell wire.
Exactly. If the track power is simply to test run a single loco, you don’t really need to run the #12 wire. #18 or #14 would be fine. You might be able to find #18 with 4 conductors - that would make the power and program track runs very convenient.
Another alternative is to connect the actual system to the layout with some sort of plug and socket connectors, and use the same in yuor computer room. Since it’s your computer room, you might want to connect a computer to the PH Pro and use software like DecoderPro to aid in programming. 30 feet is a bit far to run an rs-232 serial cable.
Third alternative - acquire a PowerCab to use at your bench for testing and programming. If you plug it into your main layout - it works just like a ProCab and so you will have a second cab. Plugged into its special PowerPanel, the PowerCab is a full DCC system, just with lower total power. A computer interface is reportedly in the works so you will eventually be able to use the computer with it.