Voltage

[rookie123]

I have the Bachamann HO trains and power supply units. What voltage is it? Need to know so I get the right street lights and other building lights.

Thanks,
Rookie

[rogertra]

It will tell you the voltage on your power supply.

If DC, then it's 12VDC to the track and probably a 12VAC for accessories.

Just read the labels on your power supply.


Cheers

Roger.

[jbrock27]

Rook, I suggest you get yourself a multi meter, this way you can check AC, DC, resistance, whenever and wherever you want.  SEARS currently has a Craftsman model on sale for $12.99 that has 8 functions and 20 ranges.  You could also find them at HOME DEPOT, LOWE'S or TRUE VALUE hardware stores.  It will have a multitude of uses beyond model trains as well.  Some recommend one from HARBOR FREIGHT bc it is cheap; I do not.  But that is just my opinion, in part based on how many who purchase it, post a review of its poor performance and how they would not "recommend" buying one.

[richg]

I have three. They come with manuals that anyone can understand.

http://www.trainelectronics.com/Meter_Workshop/index.htm

http://www.trainelectronics.com/Meter_HF/index.htm

Rich

[jbrock27]

Yes, I believe anyone who reads this board, is well aware of that.

[Jerrys HO]

I have two of the Harbor Freight one,s and one Klein 1000. I use the HF one's the most.

[jbrock27]

Is that bc it is the one that is handiest (closest by), Jerry to where and when you find yourself looking to use one?

[Jerrys HO]

Nah, Why break out my hundred dollar meter when my one 9.95 and my one free with coupon work just as good. I have put one at each end of the layout though so I don't have to keep getting up and walking to the other side of the garage.
If it get's serious though out comes the Klein. Mainly use it on my auto's.

[jbrock27]

Thank you for clarifying.  I hope you provided feedback on HFs website recommending the meter.
My way less that $100 SPERRY has served me well for the last 10 years or so and before that, a RADIO SHACK analog meter which I keep in my truck.  Both have been used for household and automotive diagnoses as well.  I can rely it and would rather have 1 tool I can rely on rather than 1 "I don't care if it stops working tomorrow" (or if I run it over with my truck or I drop it on concrete) and 1 that is my "good one".  I have never had to replace any fuses in them either, which if memory serves me, Mr. G has mentioned having to replace the HF's fuses from time to time.  And no, it's not about the expense, I understand he has said they are cheap, it is about the inconveninece of grabbing something I need to work only to find some 15 cent fuse needs to be replaced.
Can I ask, if you had the KLEIN already, why'd you buy the first HF you have? (the 2nd I get, bc of the free coupon)

[Jerrys HO]

Yes you may ask. I bought the first HF because I could not find where I put the Klein so HF is 2 miles away and went and got one till I found mine.
Finding it was hard since my dad borrowed it and never returned it. Wow, that's usually the other way around.
Give it a rest Jim .

By the way have not had to replace a fuse yet.

[jbrock27]

LOL!! (re: temporarily misplaced meter)

[electrical whiz kid]

I have a Fluke, which I like for general usage in my trade.  They are reasonable and reliable.  Don't buy a cheap piece of junk-you will kick yourself.
Rich C.

[jbrock27]

Thank you Rich.  I think we are in the minority mindset.  My dad's had a FLUKE that he brought home from Physics class when he retired.  The thing has been flawless for 20+ years now.  If I am not mistaken, I do believe they are a bit more expensive than my HOME DEPOT special or Jerry's KLEIN though.

[Jerrys HO]

Thank you Rich.  I think we are in the minority mindset.  My dad's had a FLUKE that he brought home from Physics class when he retired.  The thing has been flawless for 20+ years now.  If I am not mistaken, I do believe they are a bit more expensive than my HOME DEPOT special or Jerry's KLEIN though.

The price depends on the model. My meter is comparable to Flukes 114 which is about 140.00.
I had a Fluke long time ago when I was an auto mechanic and guess what? my brother had one a couple months later just like mine, same initials scribed in it and all . I think he misplaced it.

Jerry

[jbrock27]

LOL again!

Wow, that is more than I thought but, that is definitely a good meter in my book.  It will last you for 30+ years as long as it is not misplaced Mr. B!