6
• Controlling Points using switches
As well as controlling points using DCC commands, the DCC32 also enables control using
conventional switches and buttons or by Train-Tech Mimic switches which can also display the
position of a point using an LED. These can either be used to allow manual override of the DCC
commands on a control panel or be used standalone either powered by DCC or 12-16 Volts DC
without DCC being used at all. Each of the 4 Point outputs also has a switch input and there are
no programming or settings to make. When a switch is activated the associated point will move.
Important:
If you choose a switch which latches in position (eg a slide switch or a non-sprung
toggle switch) then this will override any opposing DCC commands sent to that point. However if
you use a momentary switch, such as a push button or sprung-centered toggle switch, then this
will only override a DCC command whilst it is making contact, eg when it is being pressed.
Each switch input has three terminals; a common terminal marked T and switch terminals A & B.
The switch wires can either be soldered onto the solder pads provided or if preferred you can fit
screw terminal blocks, available as part CON 6 from Train-Tech or other component suppliers.
Mimic Switch
B
A
A
Not used
Not used
DC or DCC power input
Switch connections
T
The mimic
switch LEDs
will also light
to show the
point position.
B
T
A
2 Position Toggle switch (latching)
B
T
A
2 Position Slide switch (latching)
B
T
A
3 Position centre sprung Toggle switch
(momentary)
2 Push buttons (momentary)
This example only
shows connections
to one switch input
but the others are
connected in the
same way.
B
T
A
Control using a Train-Tech Mimic switch