would i be able to use one of the power packs from a Bachmann trainset as a second power pack for 2 train block control?
this power pack is one of the small gray squares with a black knob?
The actual answer is on a larger layout the little Bachann controller probably isn't appropriate.
The answer is Yes, but the forum software won't allow a post that is only three characters. Just connect the Bachmann as one of the cabs.would i be able to use one of the power packs from a Bachmann trainset as a second power pack for 2 train block control?
I am basically planning on doing the same thing, but the thought of the third block doesn't seem to compute in my mind. Take a look at my (bad) drawing of my layout. I have an additional controller that I want to use. I was going to isolate the inner loop (in blue) from the outer loop (in black) by simply putting in isolators where indicated in red. Would this work, or do I need something else to make this feasible?
(ignore the goofy train. It's been along day... I'm getting punchy...)
As GenSet said what you have drawn is not considered normal blocks for DC cab control. Normally you would divide the layout into blocks as the diagram below. Each color is one block so there are 9. Then there is one wire to each block that goes to a selector switch that chooses which power pack or (cab) controls that track. The selector can choose any number of cabs so 2, 3, 4 it doesn't matter. Any power pack can control any block.I'm a little confused. I am basically planning on doing the same thing, but the thought of the third block doesn't seem to compute in my mind. Take a look at my (bad) drawing of my layout. I have an additional controller that I want to use. I was going to isolate the inner loop (in blue) from the outer loop (in black) by simply putting in isolators where indicated in red. Would this work, or do I need something else to make this feasible?
I can see now why people want to use DCC if they are dividing up a simple layout into 9 blocks. Lots of room there for an error.
Yes. Always the right tools. That is just Atlas Right track version 8. I've gotten so used to the software I can throw a layout together pretty quickly. Then I exported in to Windows Paint to add the colors.I guess having the proper software helps, huh?
Not just the error but the constant flipping of switches to keep the correct power supply routing power in front of the correct train. Makes operations not so much about the trains but about the electrical panel.I can see now why people want to use DCC if they are dividing up a simple layout into 9 blocks. Lots of room there for an error.