Yes, you can use your existing power pack you were using on your layout prior to
converting to Digitrax. There are some advantages and disadvantages by doing this.
Advantage
You will not have any additional expense for a power supply.
Disadvantage
Your existing power pack was designed to run 1, 2 or maybe even three locomotives at the
same time. Your power pack is probably rated at about 1.5 to 3 amps. This amp
rating is directly related to how many locomotives you can operate, check out the table
below for the scale you are modeling in.
Purchasing a commercial power supply.
Advantage
Digitrax has the PS-515 5 Amp power supply available,
we highly recommend this unit. You simply pick one up, hook it up to your Digitrax DCS-100 or DB-150
Command Station/Power Booster and you are ready to go.
Disadvantage
None
Build your own power supply.
Advantage
More cost effective.
Disadvantage
You need to assemble it, it takes about an hour to solder the wires on it and install
all of the fuses and insulation.
The kit does NOT come with a protective enclosure, you can build a super insulated
enclosure for it out of plywood. Be sure an leave a couple of small vent holes so
heat can dissipate.
