55F Posted March 21, 2018 Share Posted March 21, 2018 I have traditionally used miniature toggle switches but recent experience makes me wonder if it might be better to use the 'Hornby' type switches. I know they are much more expensive but on the basis that you get what you pay for, are they so much better?? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Free At Last Posted March 21, 2018 Share Posted March 21, 2018 Better to go for the PECO passing contact switch rather than the Hornby, especially if using a CDU. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pete the Elaner Posted March 21, 2018 Share Posted March 21, 2018 The previous reply has assumed you want them for switching solenoid point motors, but you did not actually say. This is what they are designed for. What problem did you have with the miniature toggle switches? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Free At Last Posted March 21, 2018 Share Posted March 21, 2018 (edited) The previous reply has assumed you want them for switching solenoid point motors, but you did not actually say. This is what they are designed for. What problem did you have with the miniature toggle switches? I assumed it after reading of his problems with using momentary contact switches to operate solenoid motors. http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/132487-baffledpoint-motor-electrics/ Edited March 21, 2018 by Free At Last Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
55F Posted March 22, 2018 Author Share Posted March 22, 2018 The idea of changing switches resulted from responses to a different thread. I think some of my switches have been damaged through re-use [probably poor soldering skills!]resulting, it seems, in one/some of them being permanently on. So A fresh start with new switches seems a good idea. Thanks for your comments. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
woodenhead Posted March 22, 2018 Share Posted March 22, 2018 After years of using mini toggles I decided to splash out on peco switches and housings recently, I've had no issues with them and the passing contact versions are great for point motors as you don't have to use a CDU with them if you don't want to. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pete the Elaner Posted March 22, 2018 Share Posted March 22, 2018 (edited) Having read your other thread, Hornby switches are not suited to CDUs. CDUs take a short while between uses to recharge. Hornby passing contact switches will first discharge themselves across the coil which was selected, then have inadequate recharge time before passing over the contact for the new selection. You can get around this by pausing the switch in neutral but this would quickly become annoying. I have used push buttons, which would have burned out quickly without a CDU. Edited March 23, 2018 by Pete the Elaner Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
55F Posted March 22, 2018 Author Share Posted March 22, 2018 Many thanks Pete, some useful information. One continues to live and learn [and enjoy]!!!! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ron Solly Posted March 24, 2018 Share Posted March 24, 2018 and this site down the page shows how the Peco passing contact switches work http://www.talkingelectronics.com/projects/CDU%20-%20overview/CDU%20-%20Overview.html I found them perfect. 1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
DCB Posted March 29, 2018 Share Posted March 29, 2018 My preference is for on/on switches rather than passing contact with a separate press button to energise. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tricky Dicky Posted March 29, 2018 Share Posted March 29, 2018 The OP mentions "miniature" toggle switches in his first post and later that some of his switches are permanently ON. This suggests that the switches were under-rated in the first place and not capable of handling the several Amps current involved using solenoid motors. Switches without robust internal contacts and adequate separation gaps will fail exactly like mentioned as contacts get welded together. Richard Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
justin1985 Posted March 29, 2018 Share Posted March 29, 2018 The OP mentions "miniature" toggle switches in his first post and later that some of his switches are permanently ON. This suggests that the switches were under-rated in the first place and not capable of handling the several Amps current involved using solenoid motors. Switches without robust internal contacts and adequate separation gaps will fail exactly like mentioned as contacts get welded together. Richard "Miniature" (and "subminiature", "ultra subminiature" etc) are specific terms when it comes to switches etc. And "miniature" is the largest that is commonly found. A quick check suggests most are rated for at least 3A. It seems more likely the OP has the wrong variety of switch, as discussed above. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now