I am wiring up a new layout and want to use a separate transformer to power all accessories (lights, switches, uncoupling track). I followed the directions with my fastrack switch to set it up for auxiliary power (remove track jumper, connect "aux in" and "aux gnd" to auxiliary power line), but now I'm finding that somehow the track power is getting to the accessories. How can I isolate the two circuits?
Welcome to the forum.
Make sure both your track and accessory transformers are phased together properly, so that both ground wires are at ground potential, and both hot wires are in phase with each other.
After that, double check all power and controller connections are correct. If that does not solve the problem, disconnect all power and controller wires from the problem switch. Turn up track power, and put a meter or bulb across the "aux in" and "aux gnd" connection and see if you are getting track voltage at these terminals. You should not. If you do, there is an internal short in the switch, and it needs repair/replacement.
Do this suggestion, and report back to the forum.
How many switches do you have on your layout? Do this to all switches.
Larry
Hi Larry,
Thanks for the quick reply and the welcome. I have two switches in this layout. I checked them both, and one may be the problem. I did a continuity check and found that on one switch the Aux In terminal connects to the center rail on the track (the Aux Gnd connects to the outer rail as expected). Oddly enough, on that switch the Track Jumper terminal doesn't connect to either rail. I'm guessing that the crosstalk came from here, with the Aux In taking power from the track to supply the lights. Does that make sense? Do I need to send the switch in for repair or is this a simple fix?
Also, thanks for the heads-up on phasing. I hadn't thought that one through enough. Fortunately I haven't connected up both transformers yet. I'll review the wiring to make sure both transformers are connected in parallel.
Leathem
How's this for strange: I powered up the switch using Aux In an Aux GND: no results; I changed the wires to Track Jumper and Aux GND and the switch worked perfectly - also, no power went to the rails. It seems to me that the switch is wired incorrectly internally, with Track Jumper and Aux In internally reversed. Is there any reason I shouldn't just go with the present wiring, i.e., power supplied to Track Jumper and Aux GND?
Leathem
Leathem,
Thanks for the reply back, and for explaining your diagnosis.
It does seem that the one switch is wired incorrectly internally. You have worked out a solution to get the switch to work properly, and that is good for you. You can either leave the switch as is, or open it up and trace the wiring to find and fix the problem. You can use your other good switch as a guide to the correct wiring. If the switch is new and under warranty, bring it back to the place of purchase for an exchange.
Enjoy your trains.
Larry