Hi all,

I've been stockpiling ASC (14182) controllers to eventually control my fastrack switches, and figured I'd eventually get a couple OTC (14185) controllers to control my fastrack uncoupling track.

However, noticed the other day in the uncoupling track manual that you can also use the ASC to control the uncoupling track, although this isn't mentioned in the ASC manual.

Anybody know if any advantages to using the OTC instead of the ASC to control these, or will either work the same? Only difference I see in the electrical specs is max output voltage (24v for ASC, 30v for OTC), and max output current (20amps for ASC, 15 amps for OTC).

If possible I'd prefer to just use one controller to have more flexibility to drive various switches, uncoupling track, and accessories.

Thanks,

Matt

Matt, if your talking about just the magnet for uncoupling use the ASC. It will be much cheaper. The ASC will operate it with no problem.

If your talking about the operating track with the two extra rails you'll need the OTC unless you want to play around with the wires a little. Not too hard, I did it. <G>

There is a quick blurb in the manual on page 6. Don't blink or you'll miss it.

Also remember to use AUX 1. AUX 2 will leave the power on until you hit AUX 2 a second time which will probably burn out your coil.

Thanks for the response Steve. Yes, am thinking uncoupling use to start, but maybe will have a need for an operating track at some point. Your point about AUX1/AUX2 now makes my see the advantage of the OTC though - no possibility to melt the track if I (or more likely my 5 year old son) hit AUX2 by mistake!

I just lost a section of uncoupling track last week as I had one of the manual buttons stick closed until I noticed the smell of melting plastic...

--Matt

Uncouplers draw a LOT of power. Using a remote controlled relay box to control them is not the best plan. Should the remote stick on you will have some problems for sure. I use a sturdy push button and direct wire to each remote section...

quote:

There is a quick blurb in the manual on page 6.

Yeah there is... I've just taken my first ASC out of the box, never wired one, only know about the 4-wire UCS....etc... but the blurb makes no sense to me. Isn't it step TWO you skip for an uncoupling track?

I mean HTH can you address a remote accessory that isn't connected to a numbered terminal!!

Bill, the ASC can handle 20 amps, the OTC can handle 15 amps. I've been using them for years with no problems.

cap, I didn't notice that. (who reads instructions) You're right, it should be step 2. The AMC manual also has an error in it for the log loader. It's tells you to connect it to the wrong AC terminal on the log loader.