1
1: Rig DPDT switches to run Tortoise switch machines
from more than one location. Mike Baynes diagram.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Remote-control Tortoise
Q.
I would like to know if it is possible to have a Tortoise
switch motor be thrown from two separate locations by sepa-
rate DPDT switches, and if so, how would you wire it?
– David
A.
This circuit acts like 3-way wall switches. Toggling either
switch will change the position of the turnout from where it was.
I can’t see any reason that you couldn’t extend this to as many
DPDT switches as you might desire. Here is a simple schematic
in .jpeg form (1). Not my idea of the best user interface, but
there you go.
The one big disadvantage for this approach is that the position
of the toggles doesn't tell you which way the turnout is thrown.
So if you can’t see the turnout position, you would need some
kind of indicator.
(Notice that I didn't say anything about this circuit being wired
like 3-way light switches. Only that it acts like 3-way light
switches. Toggle either switch and the output will toggle, plus to
minus in this case versus on/off with the light switches.)
– Mike Baynes
Rico asked, “Don't Tortoise machines need constant power to
hold their position being that they are stall motors? I find mine
back off a little when the power is off. I now use NCE 'switch its'
to throw mine via DCC.”
Prof. Klyzlr explained: “In basic terms, yes, Tortoises need con-
stant power
while changing position.
However, once at the
desired position, power can be removed and they will stay
essentially where they were left. With center off toggles, just
flicking the toggle won't completely throw the Tortoise, you're
absolutely on the ball there. However, if the user presses and
holds the toggle, the Tortoise will make the desired movement.
Questions, Answers & Tips - 1
MRH-Feb 2014
