DC Supplies etc

[Senalizacion]

Looking for some advice please: have limited space and thus my control desk has to be mobile so that on occasions it can be un-plugged and moved. The un-plugging needs to include the 12v DC supplies from each controller (4 off) and the 16v AC supplies (2 off) for point motors and turntable. (Standard Guagemaster 4 way Controller)

 

Any thoughts on a suitable plug & socket arrangement - was thinking along the lines of mono-jackplugs and sockets 1/4" size which are rated at 50v.

[Brian]

As you're dc and unlikely to draw more than 1.5Amp per connection to each of the controllers and if your soldering skills are OK consider using 3 x 4 way DIN plugs and sockets. Example... http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-din-4-pin-plug-hh26d and chassis socket example... http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/maplin-chassis-din-4-pin-socket-hh33l

Note: You can get 8 way DIN plug/sockets but whether you would get all the cables into the plug is the main issue then?

Or you could use a mix of 240 degree and 180 degree plugs and sockets to stop accidental swapping of the connections.

 

Alternatively consider using Phone plugs with differing coloured plugs and sockets, so as you don't get them mixed up.

Or use a 9 way D connectors, covers and mating sockets http://www.maplin.co.uk/search?text=Maplin+D+Sub+Connector+9+Way

Or consider the more expensive Bulgin 8 way plug and socket for the rail feeds only... Example .... http://www.maplin.co.uk/p/bulgin-6a-px0552-panel-mount-female-circular-connector-hl40t and plug http://www.maplin.co.uk/search?text=Bulgin+6A+PX0551+Flex+Mount+Male+Circular+Connector

 

Note; while I have used Maplin as the example most items may be obtained cheaper via an internet search or even ebay.

 

 

Edit to add URL link

[DCB]

Din Plugs are Ok but 8 pin are very fiddly to solder and with use the center can pull out when disconnecting the plug. 

[Suzie]

Stick with a 'D' plug. You can get 16/02 wires into the pins OK and you will be able to double up on the AC supply for the points (will give the equivalent of using 32/02 wires which will avoid excessive voltage drop).

[BG John]

I've used a handheld control panel connected by a ribbon cable on two exhibition layouts. Obviously this only works for layouts with a fairly small number of sections and points.

 

[Senalizacion]

Thanks for responses, appreciated

[ColinK]

You can get a special type of 'choc block' connectors. Usually in a strip of 12. One strip has pins, the other sockets, you just push the two together when assembling the layout, unplug them when dismantling. We've used them on our club layput for over 10 years.

 

Squires sell them,as do other suppliers.