Many model railroad enthusiasts find that the power packs that come in most model train sets available for purchase in hobby shops are far less than satisfactory. This feeling is very common. Before you decide which power pack you want to buy for your train set, though, it would be in your best interests to do some thinking about just which one will be best for your situation.
It is very important to consider just how big you eventually want to make your model train layout and, based on that, what power pack would be best. Think about the scale you use, as well as how many cars will be propelled by the power pack you use. If you really are interested in making a smart buy when shopping for your model train's power pack, you need to take all of these factors into consideration. You will thus avoid much needless frustration.
Power packs and transformers do the job of converting normal 110 volt AC electric currents to the lower voltages needed by most model trains, which is usually somewhere between 0 and 20 volts. Many power packs are sold with an accompanying transformer.
Not all trains use the same current, and some larger ones do run on AC power. For that reason, it is quite important that you know what your train needs to run well. The product specifications of your model train can tell you what voltage your train uses.
Most power packs work with Ho and N scale model trains since they both use DC power to run. Z scale trains also use DC power, while O scale trains need AC power. There are some exceptions, so it is always best to check in the information from the manufacturer on your particular model train. For example, Marklin trains only work when used with special Marklin brand power packs that use AC power.
Power packs receive their ratings based off of when load it is able to carry. Instead of worrying about how much track you have, take the number of trains and other track accessories you need to run off of your power pack. You need to plan out what things you plan on having on your track so that you can get a power pack that will be able to supply enough power.
Of course, you don't have to use only one power pack. Many people who build model train sets use different power packs with each section of their model, which is an effective solution to the problem of high electric loads.
Figuring out which power pack (or packs) to go with for your model train requires a bit of time and research, but it is well worth it.
Are you using DCC control for your model railway layout? Find out how it's different from analog control (and why it's better) on The Model Railroader website. Visit http://www.themodelrailroader.com for more helpful tips and advice about building a model railroad.
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By B. Murphy
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