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How to connect power across mobile baseboard section?
There are a number of reasons modellers will need to create a layout in sections, some may desire a transportable show or display layout, others may simply prefer the practicality of a layout that can be packed away after use, whatever the reasons, power will be required to bridge baseboard sections when the layout is erected. But how is this done?
There are a couple of ways to connect power across baseboard sections, some more crude than others. The most basic way is to use track power clips. These are often found in starter sets and simply clip to the track. In this case though, instead of connecting the track to a controller, connect it to an opposing track.
The above method is clearly only for use on family fun or home layouts as cumbersome power clips are rarely seen on a display layout. For those, a plug-in terminal block hidden beneath the baseboard can provide multiple power sources across the gap. The advantage of using these is the number of terminals can be any number you wish, meaning the main track power and auxiliary supplies can all be plugged in using a single terminal bank. A neat and versatile solution.
Another (and more traditional) method is to use phosphor-bronze strips. These are soldered below each rail on both sides of the join, when the boards align (using dowels), the strips make contact and power is transferred. This method does, however, have its shortcomings as strips can become damaged over time and reliability can suffer as a result.
Posted in: Power and control
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Link Wire Set
Price: £ 11.99Link wire set containing two standard Hornby power clips and one set of wires.
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