Walthers 942-101 Series Instruction Manual

Layout Control System
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do you program the switch machine?
A1: You don’t have to – it’s ready to go on arrival, but for DCC use you can assign a unique address. The complete instruction and user
guide will be available on Walthers.com shortly, linked as a PDF on the SKU page for the Switch Machine. Therein you’ll find all the
details needed to program a DCC address.
Q2: Does the switch machine include a built-in decoder?
A2: Yes, a DCC accessory decoder is integrated into each Switch Machine. Any standard accessory decoder address may be used to
control the Switch Machine.
Q3: Do you have to use the Walthers Distribution Block to control the Switch Machine?
A3: The Distribution Block is essentially a terminal strip/connection between the power supply and up to eight switch machines. The
Distribution Block is not necessary if you are controlling only one Switch Machine and are plugged into an alternate power source
via the servo connections.
Q4: Does the Switch Machine require use of the Fascia Controllers?
A4: No, the Walthers Fascia Controllers and accompanying indicators are designed to seamlessly integrate with the Switch Machine in
an easy plug-and-play manner, but are not required. The user may use their own push-button controller or toggle switch for control.
Complete details on control connections are included in the instruction manual and user guide.
Q5: Is this system compatible with similar types of servo-based switch machines and/or accessories?
A5: No - our system is designed for simpler installation with no programming or component assembly needed; some other systems are
also designed for use with specific track products.
Q6: Can the Walthers Layout Control System be powered from any power source?
A6: We recommend powering your switch machine with Walthers 2 Amp 12V Filtered DC Power Supply (#942-110, sold separately).
You can also connect to a standard DCC booster output and use accessory decoder commands, electrical switches or other digital
inputs. If you use any other type of power supply, be sure it provides 12-18V of filtered DC before installation.
Q7: Does a DCC bus control the power?
A7: A DCC track bus is not recommended and may cause a system shut down if used. You may connect the Switch Machine to a
standard DCC booster output.
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©2017 Wm. K. Walthers, Inc. All rights reserved
942-101 Series

Layout Control System
Q8: How far does the Switch Machine output rod throw?
A8: Throw of the output rod is adjustable between 1/32" to 1/2" (1mm to 12mm), so it can be used in most popular scales.
Q9: How fast does the Switch Machine output rod throw?
A9: The speed of the output rod throw is adjustable between .5 to 5 seconds.
Q10: Do you have a recommended accessory starting package for using the system?
A10: Because the Walthers Layout Control System is customizable to operate everything from a single turnout to a busy yard, there are
many ways to get started and expand at any time. The heart of the system is the Switch Machine and the accessories that work
together. Using the system’s plug-&-play wiring and a few basic hand tools, modelers can quickly and easily combine products
and complete any installation - here’s the current selection of accessories:
Turnout Drill Set – Handy set includes four drill bits needed to drill through benchwork to clear the Switch Machine actuating
rod, and drill mounting holes for the screws included with the Switch Machine. Drills can also be used when installing any of the
Fascia Controllers too!
Distribution Block – Provides a simple plug and play electrical connection between the Power Supply (sold separately) and from
one to as many as eight Switch Machines – great for passing sidings, interchanges, yards and other trackwork with multiple
turnouts.
2 Amp, 12V Filtered DC Power Supply – Provides necessary filtered power to all Walthers Layout Control System components.
Powers up to 16 Switch Machines using Distribution Blocks (each sold separately). Can also be used to power other layout
accessories.
Extension Cables – For covering long distance between components, each extension cable reaches 48" (1.2m) long with no
cutting, splicing or soldering needed.
Connecting Cables – When you need to cover even longer distances than the Extension Cable allows, add Connecting Cables
between Extension Cables to extend another 48" (1.2m.)
Dual Color LED Fascia Controllers
Crossover Controller – Perfect for crossovers and similar busy locations where crews need to throw two switches. This set
makes it easy to provide positive indication for both turnouts using the large and small controllers, both equipped with yellow/
green LEDs. A drilling template is included for a neat, compact fascia installation, along with complete instructions and a
connecting cable to complete your electrical hook-up.
Turnout Controller – Crews will love this unit’s one-touch operation and positive LED indication if a single switch is thrown for the
through or diverging route. Easy to install facing left or right as needed for single or double track sections, a mounting template is
included for a neat and compact fascia installation. Comes complete with connection cable to speed new or existing installations.
Accessory Controller – Use this smaller controller at yards, interchanges or interlockings for one-touch control with a smaller
footprint. A single yellow/green LED indicator quickly and clearly communicates switch status. Comes complete with connection
cable to speed new or existing installations.
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942-101 Series
©2017 Wm. K. Walthers, Inc. All rights reserved