Hi,
Some comments from a new member...
Saw this thread as I was looking for more info on the Peco smart switch, and by all accounts here I would probably discount it, on several counts.
I have been looking for a robust, simple but small motor for quite some time, to be used in a 3-track hidden siding on an N-scale layout.
I recently came across a new type of point switch which came highly recommended - the czech-made MP1.
Link:
http://www.mtb-model.com/pages/mp1.php?lang=en
I grabbed one, and did test setup for both N-scale and H0-scale points - and both worked beautifully.
It looks to be a stall-type device (means easy to wire up to a simple SPDT switch) - it is extremely compact - and it's designed to be mounted below the trackbed.
It has outputs for frog polarity - alternative other uses such as control panel feedback or whatever. Feeds off AC or DC.
It can be set up with different throw lengths - 3, 6 and 12 mm, of which 3mm works fine with N-scale, and 6mm with H0 scale points.
It moves slowly (but still only 2 secs or so), but very very quietly.
And when I checked pricing just now, it goes for 12-13 euros - I guess around £10-11.
I will be installing these for the hidden sidings shortly, having bought 3 more -
Personally I think these beat everything else on the market - only unknown is how well they will last.
And in case you wondered - no, I have no interest in the company or its products :-)
Happy railroading
Bo
Denmark
US prototype fan