Connecting your model railroad to a transformer is a simple matter. The transformer has two pairs of electrical taps, one pair for the track power which runs the trains and a second pair for the power that runs the layout accessories such as lights.  But if you want more, it is there for the asking.

     There is a fundamental difference in the ways that European modelers and American modelers control their trains; it is discussed here.  But the net effect of this difference is that most European lines of model trains include a series of electrical devices which offer the layout builder the option of automated operation. Although this can be intimidating, if you take things slowly, and constantly test the new connections you are making, you will have a model railroad which will amaze visitors and yourself.

     Even the most basic connections should get the proper treatment:

     It is the transformer which takes power from your local energy supplier and turns it into model train power. Your transformer needs to be the proper one. Märklin and Micro-Trains locomotives require no more than 8 volts of Direct Current (“DC”) for proper operation; higher voltages from other types of transformer risks burning out the motors.  Likewise, the Märklin accessories require no more than 10 volts of Alternating Current (“AC”), with the same risks if higher voltages are used. These voltages are somewhat lower than that which is provided by a typical model train transformer. You also can power the trains themselves with a 9-volt battery using a special controller that Märklin includes with some sets.

     Even though your initial plans may be simple, go ahead and use the red wire for one track connection and a brown wire for the other. The terminals on the back of the transformer are marked so. While this may seem silly for a basic loop of track, if you ever want to add catenary for the independent operation of a second locomotive, the location of the brown rail becomes important.  If you ever want to use automatic signals for train control, the location of the red rail becomes important. And if you ever want to run two trains by using the catenary control method with automatic signals, knowing which rail is red and which is brown becomes absolutely important.

     Some care needs to be exercised when connecting the wires.  Contemporary Märklin transformers use spring loaded clips to connect the wires. These connections are very reliable if done properly:

     Note that the wire should be properly stripped, neither too long nor scraggly.  Note also that it is easy to push the wire in so far that you are clipping onto the insulated jacket of the wire, preventing electrical flow to the conductor of the wire.  I’ve done it and you probably will too. And, speaking of feeling silly, if things don’t seem to be working, make sure that the transformer itself is plugged into the wall. Okay, you probably won’t fall for that, but I have....

     Beyond this, there are several pages in this section of the web site that address model railroad electrical issues.  You will be surprised at what you can do with your Z-Scale railroad.

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Page last updated 02/02/2006

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