I notice both Digikey and Mouser Electronics have small push to reset thermal circuit breakers available in 3, 4 and 6 Amp sizes in the 2.00 to 4.00 price range. Can these breakers be used in placeof the 1156 auto bulbs for short protection in turnout feeder wires?

Thanks,

John Krestel

-- John Krestel (jkrestel@zoominternet.net), April 28, 2002

Answers

John,

Thank you for posting your question to the Forum for all to benefit.

Unfortunately, thermal circuit breakers cannot be used. Boosters use an electronic system that are faster than thermal breakers. Your booster will continue to trip before the breaker reacts. DCC modelers have been wishing this wasn't true for years!

Yes, electronic circuit breakers, sold for DCC use, are not inexpensive, but they are worth what you pay for them. I personally tried to develope a much lower cost electronic circuit breaker and even thought I found a component that would be the key. When I called for part samples the manufacturer sounded like he was waiting for a model railroader to call. He just knew he had a product we could use. Alas, it was too slow, too. Every other design I've come up with would also have to sell for about $20.

Sorry, that seems to be just the way it is!

-- Allan Gartner (bigboy@WiringForDCC.com), April 29, 2002.