I have an N gauge layout that I haven't worked with for several years. All the switches used the old Atlas lever that you could line up several controlers together. Due to age, some of these just aren't working. I know Atlas has a differnt newer style switch controler but it seems rather large. Does anyone have a recommendation for a different kind of switch or toggle type switch that could be used in place of the current Atlas switch controller. It would be nice to have a smaller unit that could be mounted on the underside of a control board so it wouldn't take up so much room.
Switch Controller for Atlas switches
- Thread starter dwight77
- Start date
I use the normally off pushbuttons Radio Shack sells. They are not expensive and can be mounted on the control panel or facia with a small hole. You need one for each route of the turnout (2 per normal switch).
cpNscale: Thanks for the information. Just to make sure I have it straight. You said you are using a 3 position momentary mini toggle switch. Am I right is presuming that it normally stays in the center position. You just push it up or down and it either opens or closes the switch, leaving the track switch in the appropriate position but the toggle switch returns to the center position. You can't actually tell by glancing at the toggle switch the position of the track switch. ?????
dwight77 said:
That's the only way you should switch them to minimize having power on a coil too long. Spring -loaded, center off. Press and release quickly otherwise you will burn out a coil. You can do the same thing with two momentary-action pushbuttons.
Dwight77,yes a 3 postion momentary.I place them in the panel so when i push on the switch my train would take either the left or right route.
Same here. You'll find them listed in online and in Tandy/RS as either mom-off-mom switches, or sometimes (on)-off-(on). The brackets round the 'on' refers to them being momentary. The same switches work lovely for tortoises off DCC controllers. You'll need to run separate LEDs to show the position of the switch (which looks nicer anyway).
You can get switches by mail at:Circuit Specialists The have a toll-free #. Prices are a fraction of what you pay at Radio Shack and the quality is comperable. I've been dealing with these people for a very long time when we had our electronic manufacting business and have bought many hundreds of these switches over the years. Mouser Electronics is another good source, and they gurantee same day shipping. You can buy in larger or small quantities from either company.
Thanks Don (ezdays). Circuit Specialist looks to have just the ticket and at $1.20 each on quantities of 10 or more. Thanks again.
Dwight
Dwight