Questions, Answers & Tips -
Using such center-off/momentary toggles has the benefit of only
powering any given Tortoise when it's in motion. The power sup-
ply is not being loaded down by Tortoises at stall. I see a poten-
tial issue if two or more operators try to throw the same turnout
at the same time (and thus are holding down their respective
momentary toggles). This could present a short circuit condition,
with possible bad results.”
He suggests a stall-motor 555-based circuit a la the Rob Paisley
"Electronics for Model RRs" website:
Multiple press-button (or momentary center-off toggle) switches
can be parallel-connected, and are only switching 12-volt low-
current logic lines. The 555 chip does not care if multiple opera-
tors try to throw the turnout at the same time, and will work out
what to do if near-simultaneous contradictory commands are
received. As always with model railroading, there are umpteen
different ways to peel a feline.
“In Free-mo we use Mike's diagram,” says Chris Palomarez. “It's
the simplest – two components (two double-pole, double throw
switches) – and is very easy
to wire. It's been 100% reli-
able and not subject to
bad momentary buttons/
bad electronic boards. We
use DPDT on/on push but-
tons (2) due to liking their
2
2: Push buttons don't
show any switch posi-
tion but can be more
durable than toggles.
MRH-Feb 2013
