best low-profile table-top switch machine

[JackLeg]

I am building a shelf/ceiling railroad and need advise on switch machines. They need to be able to be rigged for DCC at some point, and they need to mount to the shelf top. The viewpoint of this shelf is looking upward so I can't mount them underneath. What should I use? Thanks.

 

[Scordicus]

Well if you want nothing below board, you will have to hide what ever you use in buildings.. I would suggest Fulgurex slow action machines, but their not overly small..

Can you not 'box in' the underneath of the shelf?

 

[waltr]

Or, mount on top of the shelve but at the back where they won't be easily seen.

 

[JackLeg]

Well the size is somewhat important as they cant stick up too much. The shelf will be mounted at about 7' (above the door trim). Now this would be a problem for most people, but I am 6'7" and the shelf will only be about 4" deep with the mainline on the front edge. Since nobody will be looking down at the tracks, there is no need for a slow motion machine either. I also want to place the machines on the diverging side of the turnouts in some cases so that the machine is always furthest from the edge of the shelf. Most of all, I want to get something that works every time, as I wont be able to see it and derailments would be disastrous for my future rolling stock.

I hope that makes what I am trying to accomplish a bit clearer.

I looked up the Fulgurex and it looks like it would work if it was mounted flat, but still might be a bit big. Then there is the fact that the slow feature isn't necessary. Is there any DCC capable linear motor switches?

Thanks!

 

[waltr]

Is there any DCC capable linear motor switches?

Ask the question the other way around:
Is there DDC stationary decoders that can drive a linear switch motor.
I believe the answer is yes. Check out the DigiTrax stationary decoder's manual and app notes on setting up and wiring for different switch motors.
http://www.digitrax.com/menu_statdecoders.php