I have a Bachmann command control and would like to phase it with a transformer off a higer amperage to be able to run more than 1 or 2 trains at the same time is this possible
unless you have DCC, i believe what you may want to do is create “blocks”, isolating sections of track from one another, allowing separate transformer/power-packs to control separate engines in each block. See Model Railroad Wiring for a simple article describing blocks using multiple transformer/cabs.
If you do indeed what to increase the current capacity of you power source by combining transformers, i think it would be much less expensive to simply buy a transformer/power-pack with greater current.
It’s not clear if you’re running DC or DCC, but power packs and DCC systems are designed to handle a set current, so powering your system with a higher capacity transformer will not help. The internal circuit breaker will trip when it reaches or passes the trip current level. Adding a booster will help along with external circuit breaker protection but you must add power districts for it to function properly
The simple answer to combining the outputs of multiple transformers is “don’t do it.” It is far better to just get a single transformer with the power you want.
If what you have is Bachmann EZCommand, that is a primitive DCC system You CAN buy a booster, but for the same amount of money you can buy a much better DCC starter system that will do much more and grow with you as your system grows.
I have Digitrax and recommend it highly, but there are several other good systems.
The simple answer is, NO, you cannot simply add another transformer to boost the output of a Bachmann EZCommand. Replace it with a better system such as an NCE or Digitrax if you need more power.
Trying to “boost” an EZCcommand could create electrical problems and even a fire if you have no electrical or electronics experience beyond asking if it can be done.
Mechanic 1206
It’s possible you are not being understood. You did say you had command control which would mean DCC. If you don’t have enough power to trains you would need a power booster. I don’t know if it’s available for your Bachmann or not. Might ask the folks in the DCC section of the forum but be prepared for blistering attacks on your choice of gear.
Phasing a transformer means matching its output leads to anothers (generally identical transformer) so that the AC sine waves line up with rather than oppose each other. If the wiring isn’t marked (black and white or something) this is done by twisting the output leads together, measuring voltage at output, reversing the prior connection and rechecking voltage. For example, two 12 volt transformers might yield 24.5 volts in phase, 23.5 out of phase. Numbers vary, but that’s the drift. Higher voltage is properly “phased”. Transformers are only the first part of the power supply to your train. We call them “transformers” as a hangover from the olden days of Lionel and so on.
If you study the process and work carefully electricity is your worker. If you’re not careful…well, just be careful.
Lou
You CAN add a booster to the EZCommand, the question is why would you.
http://www.hobbylinc.com/htm/bac/bac44910.htm
When you can get a much better DCC System for the same price or even less.
http://www.modeltrainstuff.com/Digitrax-Zephyr-Xtra-Complete-DCC-Starter-System-w-p/dig-zepx.htm
Hey, I was wrong, you’re understood. Sounds like the Bachmann can be powered up but no one recommends it. Your call I guess. Have fun![swg]
Lou
Hope I’m doing this right. what I wanted to do is use another transformer of the same voltage but higher amps after reading the comments here I believe the only problem might be to much amps frying the Bachmann unit although the booster kicks amps up to 5 amps rather than the very expensive bachmnn booster maybe I will go with a digitrac dcc as suggested here Thanks to all who replied BTW I;m just getting back into hobby and building my first layout in 35 years things have definitely gotten more expensive and accurately detailed I’ll let you Know how I make out with my first mini n scale xmas layout before I attempt my ho Bruce