CW-80 Transformer operation
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Powering your layout with the CW-80 Transformer
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our CW-80 Transformer provides a total output of five amps. The track outputs will deliver all of
this power to the track when no accessories are connected to the Transformer. Keep in mind that
connected accessories borrow some of this power. For example, if the accessories require two amps of the
total five-amp capacity of the Transformer, you have three amps available for track power. This built-in
flexibility will provide power for virtually any small- to medium-sized railroad. Also, available voltage
depends on how much load is on the two outputs. Generally, track voltage and accessory voltage are 0-18
volts (AC) each.
This Transformer is capable of operating trains up to and including dual-motored AC locomotives.
To operate at this level of track power, it may be necessary to disconnect any accessories. You may also
attempt to lower the accessory voltage settings. Refer to the “Setting the accessory output” section on
page 15.
You may momentarily approach or exceed the five-amp limit of the CW-80 Transformer when pull-
ing illuminated cars, fighting over grades with heavy loads, or operating accessories. When you reach
five amps, the green light on the Transformer will begin to flash. This indicates that the Transformer is
in “fold-back mode.” In fold-back mode, the Transformer is automatically reducing, or folding back,
power. This gradual reduction in power provides interruption-free operation while you bring the amper-
age back down to a safe level.
L
ionel offers accessories of all shapes and sizes — from crossing signals to coal and lumber loaders
— available at your authorized Lionel dealer. When you are ready to operate your new accessory, the
CW-80 Transformer allows you to choose how much power your accessory receives with programmable
accessory output. The ability to control the voltage allows you to set the speed of your accessory motors
and the intensity of your lights. Accessories connected to the accessory output terminals receive constant
voltage whenever the transformer is plugged in, regardless of the throttle position. Follow these steps to
set the voltage.
The accessory output voltage was set to 12 volts at the factory.
1. Connect your accessory to the CW-80 Transformer as discussed on page 7.
2. Bring the throttle all the way back to the OFF position.
3. Press and hold down the DIRECTION, WHISTLE, and BELL buttons on the
Transformer. Refer to Figure 8 on page 13 for the location of these buttons.
The green light on the Transformer will flash, and track power will turn off.
4. With all three buttons held down, raise the throttle slowly until you reach your
desired accessory voltage.
5. Release the buttons once you have reached your desired voltage.
The accessory turns off, and the solid green light indicates that you have set the accessory voltage.
6. Bring the throttle all the way back to turn off the power.
The voltage will momentarily increase, briefly causing the lights to shine brighter or the motors to
operate faster, before returning to the set level. At this point, increasing the throttle again will control
track power only.
note!
Setting the accessory output
