CDU Advice

[station master]

Hi all, I am looking to add a CDU to my DCC layout, any recommendations as to the best one?

Also in principle how may sets of point motors can be run from 1 CDU?

Many thanks

Gary

[Rog (RJ)]

There is no real limit to the number of point motors because each one only takes power when it is being operated. All the rest are taking no power at all, until you operate them. This assumes you are not using accessory decoders to switch the points.

Gaugemaster is supposed to be a good one. The Peco one is said to be a bit weak.

[Brian]

I like the BlockSignalling range. Three types available, so the sky is the limit regarding power output. http://www.blocksignalling.co.uk/index. ... du2c-cdu4c

[dtb]

I have recently installed one from blocksignalling and it is working fine, plus they are quick to respond with advice should any queries arise.

[Brian]

Just to ensure you understand.... You can not operate any solenoid point motor directly from the DCC system. You MUST use an Accessory Decoder as the interface between the DCC system and the motor.
If you want to operate your solenoid point motors from a totally separate system then you can use a CDU, with a separate power source and perhaps with a panel or a schematic track plan mimic panel or a bank of point levers.

[station master]

Hi Brian thanks for your comments, I am looking a running a separate power supply to the cdu and the use of toggle switches venturing into new territory so all advice very welcom

G

[station master]

Another question best toggle switches to use?

[Brian]

There is only one type of toggle switch to use...Sprung to centre Off. Often referred to as (On)-Off-(On) or Momentary type. It is essential that the On feed to the motor cannot remain in that position once the toggle switches lever is released. It needs to return to the centre Off position.
The CDU will provide the pulse needed then discharge and remain so until the operating switch is returned to the Off position.

[RAF96]

I have used a Gaugemaster CDU for many years, totally reliable and able to throw several solenoids at once, whether ganged in pairs across a loop or as a cascade when route setting.