Re: Powering Caboose Markers

Posted by Todd A Ferguson on Feb 12, 2015; 11:37pm
URL: http://c-sng-discussion-forum.254.s1.nabble.com/Powering-Caboose-Markers-tp950p957.html

Are you looking for DCC lighting?

If so you can add a simpler function decoder that will allow you to turn on and off the lights. Marker lights, interior lights, brakeman with lantern on the back platform, etc.  The weight is next to nothing given the capability it adds.  

If you want to go simple with DCC you can simply put the LEDs with the appropriate resistor between the two rails. This is the same as a Power on The Track indicator that are used to show the DCC power is going to the track.  This method can be used to light train lights and even other lights on signals or in buildings, whatever.  The thing is it is pulling power, amperage to be precise, off you track power supply. Not a big deal,with LEDs though.  The downside is that if you turn off the track power on the layout, or that section of the track the lights go out.

For DC power you can go to capacitors with voltage limiting diodes which have been used since the early 1970s.  There are likely still some commercial boards available to do,this with DC power.  

Several resources to be aware of are www.ngineering.com and Laurie Greene's postings on several Yahoo narrow minded groups and a book he created in conjunction with Tim Mulina.

Best,
Todd Ferguson
Harrisburg, NC