12v 'interference-free' / 'isolated' conducting pieces

[harnbak]

Interesting thread about load on transformers.

I run one or two motor blocks on each transformer. Adding a third slows down the trains substantially (maybe because of the number of cars pulled by each motor - 3 large or 6 small cars, or, because I make big loops), but what is even worse, if one motor is climbing up a slope, all trains on the track almost stop...

I found a nice solution to this problem in the next vid uploaded to youtube by Olivier Zacek:

His solution is to lower the load not by decreasing the number of motors but increasing the number of transformers!

Modify a handful conductors by removing the metal in one end and use these to create a series of loops which are electronically independent but mechanically connected. Each of these loops can now be powered by an individual transformer while the motors still can run from one loop to another.

Remember to bend the metal such that transition is not too rough on the motor's sleepers and

always make the train on adjacent loops run in the same direction.

By the way, what is the 13v output on the transformer used for? I found this thread http://www.eurobricks.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=49321&view=findpost&p=872346 describing some cleaner?

Edited November 7, 2011 by harnbak

[Sokratesz]

What about using an offbrand power supply that can provide a lot more amps?

- Sok.

[Beej]

What about using an offbrand power supply that can provide a lot more amps?

- Sok.

Be careful you don't go too far in the quest for more amps because too much current across a 12V motor's contacts when it inevitably jumps the tracks and causes a short circuit can melt the copper springs inside the motor and render it useless.

I have found this out through experience.