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Using The Optional ZoneShare
For details on ZoneShare setup and operation see the ZoneShare User Guide.
The ZoneShare connects to a ZoneMaster Single booster to create 4 independent outputs each
protected from short circuits and overloads. Each independent output has its own protection and
electronic circuit breaker. Any fault on one ZoneShare output will not affect the remaining
outputs.
ZoneShare works best in lightly loaded power zones or areas - those areas that don’t see lots
of trains running through them under the control of more than one operator. However, for busy
areas with lots of active locomotives, a yard for example, a dedicated high power booster, like a
ZoneMaster-Single or ZoneMaster-Dual is best. But for smaller areas that don’t need that much
power, it is more economical to take a high-power booster and use the ZoneShare to divide its
output into 4 separate and independent outputs.
The peak track voltage and maximum current is determined by the ZoneMaster booster. The
ZoneShare outputs have their individual current limits set at about 4.5 amps. However, the
ZoneShare cannot create power, and the sum of all 4 ZoneShare outputs can’t exceed the
ZoneMaster current rating. If the sum of all ZoneShare output currents exceeds the
ZoneMaster’s rating, the ZoneMaster will shut down.
Track wiring for the ZoneShare is no different than for the ZoneMaster. Heavy duty wiring is
always required. Also, the connection from the ZoneMaster to the ZoneShare should be
#12AWG to insure maximum power transfer between the two units.
Zone-A
w/Autoreverse
Zone-B
Zone-C Zone-D
Typical ZoneShare Hookup With Autoreverse Zone
One ZoneMaster Single booster can feed multiple ZoneShares. However, it is easy to run out
of power as your locomotive fleet grows. Beware that in some cases, a simultaneous demand of
more than 7 Amps will shutdown the ZoneMaster Single and everything loses power. This can
also occur when power is first applied and the surge current exceeds the ZoneMaster’s 30A surge
capacity. If this occurs, you must split up the load and add more ZoneMaster boosters.
For best performance, it is best to have all power zones fed by ZoneShares and not have one
zone fed by a ZoneMaster that is adjacent to a power zone fed by a ZoneShare. This will allow all
locomotives to cross block boundaries without any hesitation or speed changes.
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