provides an amazingly bright light output while using very little power.
The light emitting diodes (LEDs) used incorporate the latest technology
and have a rated operating life of over 100,000 hours. That is over
11 years of continuous use!
Having a total power consumption of less than a ½
Watt (HO model),
can be placed in the same block with an operating train and have no visible
effect on the train’s motion or lighting. There is no capacitance
coupling which could interfere with signaling and automated control systems
or cause a power drain on AC systems. This allows
to be an effective tool for checking the “turnaround” wiring on layouts
using DCC (Digital Command Control) systems.
The
electronics were designed to withstand “electrical abuse” in the
form of voltage surges sometimes experienced when working with model train
systems. The regulator portion of the electronic circuit has an overload
protection feature. If a severe overload condition is encountered,
the circuit will shut down and, after a short delay, return to full operation
when the “insult” is removed.
The
case is made of hard acrylic plastic, which is both durable and easy to
clean. It is “factory sealed” to keep the light chambers dust
free, but the seal is not designed to withstand water immersion.
The “indicator” label on top of the case is covered by a thick polyester
(MylarTM) film which will hold up well to long term wear. The rail
“contact plates” are made of a hardened Nickel Silver alloy to ensure good
electrical contact. The use of Nickel Silver for the contact plates
and acrylic plastic for the case ensures excellent corrosion protection
if left unprotected in a damp/humid environment.
