i feel dumb asking but...

[Guilford Guy9887]

i was given a 4x6 ho layout a week ago and in currently rewiring it and moving some of the track around, i just need to know if the switches run on ac or dc.

 

[cncproadwarrior]

The only dumb questions are the ones that are not asked.

AC

 

[wvg_ca]

if you have an old DC transformer, the ACC or accessory terminals are labelled [about] 14v AC..... the turnout solenoids will run on either AC or DC, they really don't care, I use a Capacitor charge circuit for safety [in case a momentary control switch sticks], and I get reliable operation at 8 volts DC....I didn't like the loud 'clack' from flipping the points at higher voltages... minimum voltage will vary with brand, condition... the usual disclaimer that while mine works, your's may not..

..enjoy..

 

[Western Star]

i was given a 4x6 ho layout a week ago and in currently rewiring it and moving some of the track around, i just need to know if the switches run on ac or dc.

It depends on the switches. If they are the twin coil kind that just click back and forth they will run on either AC or DC. The coils are just electromagnets. Traditionally people have used AC power because it is cheaper. The power pack should have an "Accessories" output for this.

On the other hand, if the switchs have motors (slow moving), not twin coils(snap action), mounted under the table they are probably stall motors and require DC.