Large Scale Central

How to Build a Power Controller for Your Model Railroad

Electronics Power and Sound
#1

I just uploaded a video that shows how you can make a simple power controller for G-Scale trains.

The video is here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slYEKFz1GXs&feature=youtu.be

and the web page that goes into more detail is here

http://trainelectronics.com/PowerController/

dave

#2

Thanks, David. I want to do something similar, but for AC, for my 3 rail layout. I want to be able to plug the speed controller into a “district,” so I can do switch operations, at the spot, without having to stand at the transformer (3 rail speak) and do it long distance.

What modifications would I have to make?

#3

Steve - I am not big on AC controllers so my best suggestion would be to find a Lionel variable power supply as that would give the same type of variable speed control as I did with DC.

dave

#4

Like a rheostat?

#5

Lionel power supplies (transformers) did use rheostats - not sure they still do - more likely triacs

dave

#6

The old stuff actually were autotransformers / a transformer with a variable tap on the secondary side. I don’t believe they ever used rheostats. (see Variac)

Later they were simple circuits with triacs.

Greg

#7

Dave,

Great inexpensive train power controller… I have used what appears to be the same motor control on a few projects unrelated to trains, we’re very happy with same.

Michael

#8

That is good to hear, Michael - There are dozens of different motor controllers around and all I have experimented with work well.

dave

#9

BTW, Dave’s wireless controller he showed at his seminar was very cool. He passed the controller around the audience, and we all got to control the loco he had up on the table (was on rollers). Very impressive.

#10

Thanks, Cliff - the YouTube link for that project is here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpcBw8IOWUI

dave

#11

Thank you David. Your videos are very inspirational.

#12

I found a source of higher voltage power supplies for free, many of the newer smaller printers (read: cheap) have 24 volt or above power supplies. I just picked up 2 from the scrap pile at work. Not super high current, but will allow me to make one of Dave’s units.

Greg