Lenz SET100 power supply

[Railpassion]

I'm thinking of buying a Lenz SET100 to start in DCC. Apparently the main box requires a transformer. Would a Gaugemaster dual transformer 16v AC output be sufficient? 

 

[RFS]

The SET100 has been replaced by the SET101 (LZV200 + LH101) but both have the same options - 3A or 5A transformers for which Lenz recommend their TR100 and TR150 respectively. 

[Nigelcliffe]

And no, a typical Gaugemaster transformer is unlikely to be sufficient (in terms of current) to meet the demands of the Lenz system.  Its about 5-fold under-specified.

 

- Nigel

[michaelp]

There is a brand new TR 150 on that famous auction website.

[newbryford]

Personally, I would avoid a transformer with it's AC output.

Since I swapped from a Lenz transformer to a regulated DC power supply for my LZV100, I've had less unexplained occurrences. I put it down to the transformer/AC supply passing through any cr&p from the mains.

 

First item on the power input side within the Lenz (and quite a few other systems) is a bridge rectifier converting it to DC anyway.

 

 

 

 

[WIMorrison]

I would buy a SMPS (also known as a laptop power supply ) that has a decent current output. I used to use one on my Lenz LZV100 without issue when I owned it. Plus they are a lot cheaper!

[Crosland]

SMPS are cheaper and more efficient but there are three issues you need to be aware of.

 

Feeding DC into a bridge rectifier means the bridge needs to be rated for the 100% duty cycle through only two of the diodes.

 

You need to choose a higher voltage SMPS that the RMS voltage of the transformer. Using a 12V SMPS to replace a 12V transformer may result in disappointment

 

SMPS will cut out very quickly in the face of an overload, compared to a transformer. The command station/booster design needs to take this into account to avoid having the plug pulled, so to speak.