Basic Model Train Wiring

Basic Model Train Wiring

Basic Model Train Wiring

Don't you just love the way model trains go chugging along their merry way right in your living room? It's like a little piece of heaven being able to control these little beauties with a touch of a button or the flip of a switch. But it takes some wiring as well as a bump in your electricity bill to make these little beauties go.

Many people break out in cold sweat when faced with a rat's nest of wiring. Installing model train wiring seems equally as hard. Why? Because of all the wires! A first glance at the plethora of types of wiring can put even the hardiest of souls off this hobby. Fear not. If you want to take up this 'sophisticated' pastime, then read on. The following basic tips on some of the wires used may help you in wiping off some of that sweat:

The most basic standard, which is used by model railways, utilizes 12 volt direct current. This is used to change the direction the train is going on the tracks. The controller used also changes the electricity or voltage to the track, which in turn determines the speed of the train. If you want to change the direction of your engine, then all you'll have to do is change the polarity (+ and -) of the wiring.

You should probably start with a simple circuit if you are a newbie at this hobby. Nowadays DCC (digital command control) is used the most because of its simplified wiring. Starting with a simple circuit, you will usually find two wires running from the controller to the track marked "TO TRACK," "CONTROLLED," "DC" or "12V DC VARIABLE." Remember to never connect AC current to the track if you don't want your model train to get the shivers or get irreparably damaged.

Most model trains run on 12 volt DC (Direct Current) current while the 16 volt AC (Alternate Current) is usually intended for accessories like remote controlled points, lighting, signals, etc. If you are more of a 'big picture' kind of individual, then you better get a transformer to power your mini metropolis without a train service.

Don't worry about your track overloading you. In emergency scenarios, a thermal overload switch will be tripped, and as a result, the power will be cut off to protect the transformer. The fun won't end there though. After it cools down, the connection will reset.

If you want two trains to transport the people of your mini city then that is also achievable. Don't worry about overloading the circuit. Normally, the controller provided with the standard train set has sufficient juice to power an extra train. Plus, you can add extra tracks to accommodate the new member of your locomotive paradise. Remember, the accessories are the ones which drain power, not the tracks.

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