Large Scale Central

Powering a PH-10 from NCE

Electronics DCC
#1

So I’m looking into power sources for an NCE PH-10. I was directed to Jameco which makes a Meanwell power source. I’m considering a 24 volt, 10 amp, 240 watt for around $50.00. However, I found two other of these units on E-bay. Both were $100.00 +. One is 24 volts, 13 amp, 320 watt and the other is 24 volt 14.6 amp 350 watt unit. Is the extra wattage necessary? I did learn from some knowledgeable members that I would want to lower the track volts to 18 on any of these units with a voltmeter I’m guessing (?). I would like to know what people are using for DCC power sources. Thanks for any advice-Phil Nymark

#2

Hi Phil, I run the NCE PH-10 radio system with the Mean Well# SP-320-24 which is the 24 volt 13 amp power supply. I got it from Jameco. All Electronics has it also for around $50. I have had no problems. Here are the links:

http://www.jameco.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10001_10001_244752_-1

http://www.allelectronics.com/make-a-store/category/480/power-supplies/1.html

I can run a Bachmann Connie, Annie, Climax and a Heisler with no trouble. I have the Mean Well set to 20 volts which would be a couple of volts lower on the track. All locomotives run Phoenix NCE and QSI decoder/sound boards no smoke. All lights have been converted to LED’s.

Hope this helps

Steve

#3

Hi Steve, These power sources are adjustable with some kind of electronic tool, maybe a voltmeter? I saw a picture of a guy changing the output with something I can get at Home Depot I think. My lack of electronic knowledge is embarrassing but I’m working on it and getting a little better especially by reading the posts and websites of the Large scale community. I like the 13 amp Meanwell for the extra power and thanks for the info and the links.

Phil

#4

“…My lack of electronic knowledge is …”

Phil;

Not directly related to your power supply query but, can you use this ‘general’ info off David Bodnar’s website; http://www.trainelectronics.com/Meter_Workshop/index.htm

I’m personally finding it very enlightening !! He has quite a lot of other informative articles.

doug c

#5

Thanks Doug, I’ll bookmark this-Phil

#6

i might suggest these pages for reading

read the voltage and amps part:

http://www.elmassian.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=322&Itemid=360

read about setting voltage, voltage drop, booster specific stuff:

http://www.elmassian.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=417&Itemid=462

I’ve got a lot of pages on the NCE system. Running over 10 amp supply does not do much, the breaker will trip at 10 amps or so, the voltage and setting the booster is important.

Greg

#7

Hey Greg, I have your site bookmarked and have been reading it quite a bit over the last few nights. Little by little this stuff is sinking in. Also, Mark Gurries site will help with my lack of electronic knowledge. It seems I need to read stuff over a number of times to get the idea. The photos sure help and I eventually want to set up a power source like the NCE you have. I read about the drop in track voltage (only once so far) and really appreciate everyone who can share this knowledge. Thanks-Phil