DCC Power Supply
Steve BarkleyDescription
All digital command control stations need a power supply. Basic systems are normally sold with a power supply already included, but some advanced systems require a separate purchase. Modeler and DCC Expert Steve Barkley provides some helpful tips on choosing the correct power supply for your DCC command station.
DCC Components – Power Supply
In this video, Steve discusses his own experience with DCC systems and power supply components. He demonstrates two different DCC systems that he has worked with. The first system he mentions is a basic model and includes a power supply in the box all ready to go. The second system he mentions is an advanced model and does not come with a power supply.
The most important step in purchasing a power supply for your DCC system is reading the manual that comes with your system. The manual will provide information regarding the specific power supply to use for your system. When choosing a power supply, you need to make sure that the power supply you purchase meets the manufactures requirement of your system.
The next component that we're going to discuss is the power supply. All DCC Command Stations need a power supply. Basic systems are normally sold with a power supply already included. For instance, the basic system here on my left came with this power supply already in the box, ready to go. More advanced systems may require you to purchase a separate power supply. The advanced system on my right did not come with a power supply. So when I first purchased it and put it on the layout I used an old HO Power Pack to run my system. It worked for a while. The problem was it didn't quite have the amperage necessary. Much like decoders, anybody's power supply should work with about anybody's system, provided it gives you about 15 to 16 volts, AC or DC power. When choosing a power supply, make sure that the power supply that you purchased meets the requirement of the manufacturer of your system. Read the manual that comes with your system to find out what kind of power supply you use.
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