Subject:
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Re: Eliminate high-speed derailments forever! (and possibly void your warranty)
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Newsgroups:
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lugnet.trains
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Date:
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Mon, 23 Aug 1999 14:32:19 GMT
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Viewed:
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709 times
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FWIW:
I have two LEGO train transformers that are labeled for an output of
12 VAC and two that are labeled for an output of 11 VAC. Both rate
the power output at 7 VA.
One of my speed controllers is labeled for an input of 9-11 VAC, and
three for an input of 9-12 VAC.
My RCXs are labeled for an input of 9-12 VAC and I've had no problems
running them on train transformers.
All of the above were packaged for the U.S. market.
Remember that LEGO builds their toys for small children ... it is
difficult to damage them.
- Nick -
Tom McDonald wrote:
>
> In lugnet.trains, John R. Clark writes:
> <snipped interesting idea>
>
> > So the obvious question is: Am I damaging/shortening the life of my • transformer
> > by feeding 1.5 volts less than it expects into it?
>
> The transformer in the wall socket adapter probably won't be bothered too
> terribly, as it's only a 17% reduction in voltage. The motors don't try and
> suck additional current to make up for it. But a 17% raise in voltage however
> is *not* recommended, if anyone is thinking of trying it. You could overheat
> or fry it.
>
> > And another question that someone with more electronics knowledge than I have
> > can answer: The universal converter has removable male jacks, which are
> > designed
> > to fit many different devices. They are also reversible, which means that the
> > tip can be either positive or negative. So does it matter which way it goes
> > into
> > the transformer?
>
> In this question, by stating "transformer", I assume you mean speed
> controller, where it absolutely does matter by that point. The wall socket
> adapter itself has the rectification that converts AC into DC, and the step-
> down transformer which converts the higher voltage to 9V or 7.5V.
>
> It's okay for the speed controller to have approximate voltage to play with,
> such as 7.5V in this case, but the polarity must always match. Why would you
> need to switch polarity if the speed controller can make things go backwards?
>
> Older adjustable voltage regulators (such as the LM317) require correct
> polarity to function, and there could a couple in there or their equivalents.
> Incorrect polarity could well do damage, but at the very least I expect the
> LED not to work.
>
> -Tom McD.
> when replying, all natural spamcake contains no triglycerides!*
> *spamcake has been known to cause tumors in laboratory technicians.
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