what sort of power supply does everyone reccomend for powering switch machines (controllers), lights, etc.? I’m in N scale.
Joe;
It depends on the switch machine.
For twin coil types, use low voltage AC, or a capacitive discharge system (which is DC, sort of).
Motor type switch machines (like Tortise) need DC.
Lights can use either AC or DC.
Use a seperate supply for you trains, switches and other accessories. You do not want the lights dimming or the train slowing every time you throw a switch.
Nigel
You might want to try using a wall transformer power supply, also called a battery eliminator or AC adapter. You can get them with either AC or DC outputs, with voltages from 1.5 to 24 volts and currents up to 2.5 amps.
…Bob
Normally, your power-pack should have “accsessory” terminals built right in. This is usually low voltage AC which will work just fine for switches, structure lighting, etc.
Todd C.