Hi Folks im in the UK my layout is about 450 feet long with passing loops ive noticed that im getting power drop at the farthest poit from track input, can any one recomend how many extra feeds should I put in. Do I need to take the new input from my power supply or can I take it from the input point at the track?[:)]
All you need to do is put a jumper wire across your layout from the source, to the furthest point. That should take care of it. Be sure to keep the polarity correct.
Paul
Like Paul said:
Just tap into your current feeder wires and lay out an extension. I have power points about every 100 foot of rail. That way no engine is ever more than 50 foot from power, may be a bit of overkill, but it works for me.
The gauge of wire is important (as well as good connections at each end).
How many locos in the train and are there any lighted cars?
The heavier gauge wire, the better, but cost can be a factor.
Greg
What they said![:-^] A simple jumper from the first connection to the second will be sufficient. I use low voltage lighting wire (16 gauge not solid wire). It has a smooth insulation on one wire and a ribbed on the other. Make sure the same one is connected to the same rail, else bad things happen.
Hi Greg, I was thinking of using the same cable that came with the track the red/blue its quite a thick one, is this what you would use.
Two Tone
Really depends on the current you are drawing and the length of the run.
I would never use anything under 14 gauge, even a couple of volts drop makes a significant difference in loco speed.
I run heavy trains up steep grades. 10 gauge did the trick, 12 was a little light. About 850 feet, SS with SS split jaw clamps, feeders about every 30 feet.
Greg