Atlas switch machine question

[wolfcarnahan]

Not being familiar with switch machines, I bought several Atlas Switch Control Switches. In figuring out the wiring, I noticed they all have the same characteristics, that being you need to slide them one way or the other, then push in to make momentary contact. Is that because constant voltage on the switch machines will burn them out?

Thanks,
Wolf

[pdlethbridge]

   Wolf, the atlas type powered turnouts are solenoid powered. All they need is a momentary contact otherwise they over heat and burn out.

[jward]

any solenoid type switch motor will burn out if energized too long. that is why you csn't use a regular slide switch to control then. the atlas units are slide pushbuttons as you've fount out. any spdt switch with momentary contacts can also be used with these switch motors, or pushbuttons.

[wolfcarnahan]

Thanks, folks.