Electrical "Odds-n-Ends" for Model Railroading Enthusiasts

FAQ

Surge Suppressor FAQs

Interest is high and questions are fast and furious. Here are some we have received to date:

Which model do I need, DTK-2plus or DTK-4plus?

The DTK-2 to is designed for two loops of track and the DTK-4 is for four. We introduced the DTK-2 thinking of ZWs or Z-4000s using the two outside outputs (A & D). We then added DTK-4 with four protected circuits for those using all four outputs of a ZW. Note: Paired connections are independent so you can use multiple transformers with a single DTK.

Where do I hook up the DTK?

For a conventional layout, the DTK is connected in line between the transformer and the track in this combination: transformer : DTK : inline fuses : track. In a DCS system the DTK/fuse combination goes between the TIU and the track. And with TMCC, the DTK/fuse combination goes in between the PowerHouse and the track.

Do I need a DTKplus before and after the TIU?

Good question - and our position on this has changed recently. Initial sales were for DTKs and then DTKs with fuses (fuses for over amperage protection). Then we waffled a little bit because fuses was all that was recommended by MTH®. But frankly, "going all the way" and using the DTK / Fuse combination is the better way. The DTK will actually "condition" the line.

But regarding protection after the TIU, initially we all assumed that the TIU's built-in spike protection was enough, but numerous phone calls, e-mails and conversations at trade show have indicated a need for protection after the TIU. This April ('04)we introduced the DTK-Z which is specifically for this application.

Order of hook up: Transformer : Fuses : DTKplus or DTK-Z : TIU : DTK-Z : Fuses : Track

Added 4/05: What about TMCC's TPC?

It's come to our attention that Lionel TMCC users with TPCs in their layout are having the same over-voltage issues as many experienced with TIUs. People are starting to protect both sides of the TPC using the same hook up as described for TIU above.

Will your DTKs interfere with my TMCC/DCS signal?

Mike's Train House DCS™ signals broadcasted from a TIU pass through our DTK-Z without any problem. TMCC's signal seems to works better if you wire the Command base directly to the track rather than through the DTK. We've had customers run TMCC signal through DTKs without issue, others have had degradation in signal. So we suggest PowerMaster (or other transformer) : DTK-Z: Inline Fuse : Track, and then Command Base to track.

What's the extra terminal/wire for on the DTK?

This is a ground wire that needs to be connected to ground in your house at the electrical socket. When the DTK is detects a voltage or amperage spike/surge it shunts it to ground.

What's a good ground?

Not to be confused with your "common", below I listed options for a good ground in order:

Building Frame
Dedicated Rod
Cold Water Pipe
Electrical Service Ground
Secondary Electrical Service Ground

I highlighted in blue what will probably be the most commonly used ground for model railroaders, which is a wall plug. Use 10 gauge wire (now available separately) with a spade terminal on the end to connect to the center screw. However, it may not be unusual for a more sophisticated layout to strive for a better ground.

Path of least resistance.....

In the event of a spike or surge we want the voltage to want to go to ground - not to your layout. Because a ground circuit is very low ohms, this becomes the more desirable route for a surge. It's best if the distance to ground is closer than the distance between the transformer and your TIU and/or your layout. But let's be sensible...this is rarely true in our case. Some tricks include making a small, loose loop (couple wraps, nothing crazy) with the wires between the DTK and your layout. Another trick is to use a heavier gauge wire for your ground wire. Again, the less resistance will make this a better path.

Why aren't surge protection devices built into my equipment?

I believe to some extent surge / spike protection is built into most everything. But the expense of quality protection can easily out weight the manufacture cost of the product. An good example is when you buy a desktop computer, it comes with basic software and that's it. After all, the price of most deluxe software programs can well exceed the price of the computer. Another interesting thing is there isn't at this point a "spike protection class" in electronics school. The handful of companies that are really into this consist of select entrepreneurs developing the technology as they go.

Is one DTK enough?

This is an interesting new trend - and it makes sense. If you're operating a large layout the transformer(s) and surge protection devices can be pretty darn far away from the source problem. To speed up reaction time in this cases, customers have been locating their surge protectors closer to the protected blocks - not necessarily right beside the transformer.

Explain your Lifetime Limited Warranty.

Our DTK-2, DTK-4 and DTK-Z are guaranteed for life. If something happens to them (assuming it's correctly hooked up) Scott's Odds-n-Ends and the manufacturer will replace it. For example - your layout is exposed to a major spike and the unit is forced to self sacrifice: return the unit and we'll replace it - free of charge.

Why did you change the product name from "Surge Arrestors" to "Surge Protectors"?

The term "suppressor" is more accurate relative to the UL classification. We make every effort to represent our products accurately.

Are the in-line fuses necessary?

Yes. Ground faults caused by some derailments or other unfortunate accident are the same as putting a screwdriver across the tracks. Or shorting the wall socket in your house. In these circumstances it is necessary to just shut off power, and fast blow fuses are the fastest, least expensive solution I've found so far. (Note fuses are not nearly as fast for voltage spikes - which is why both levels of protection is best.)

Did you consider circuit breakers instead of fuses?

Yes, we contacted Bussman asking for selection advise and they responded: "We don't really have a circuit breaker solution that would be as fast acting as the fuse you have selected....." Regards, Fusetech

Update - we've added in line circuit breakers responding to popular requests. Still, fuses are the faster solution. Check out CB4-XX for more information.

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