An introduction to the Tomix N-1000CL controller (ref. 5502)

and the 'TCS' wiring system

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With the introduction of the TCS cabling system and 'NECST Neo' control system in 1997, Tomix had to introduce a complete range of train controllers, accessory switches and turnouts. One of the finest items in this new range is the N-1000CL controller, suitable for N and H0-scale models trains with its output of 700mA of controlled DC, 200mA of 12V DC on its 'TCS' output and 300mA 12V DC on its side connector outputs to power the new point motors.

Tomix 5502 controller

Some words of warning: The Tomix 5502 controller is made to operate on the Japanese 100V AC mains. If using this controller outside Japan, use a step down transformer that transforms your local mains voltage down to 100V AC. Too high input voltages may damage the electronics inside the unit!

DCC-decoder-equipped loco owners: Please take notice of the following: The output of the 'CL'  constant lighting feature equipped controllers may damage the sensitive  decoders. I know from  experience.

The N-1000CL controller has a few unique features built-in, which you will not find on any other model train controller: sophisticated pulse-type control on the controlled 12V DC output and 'CL' type high-frequency constant lighting, this enables you to have the lights on in a train that is standing at a station or waiting at a signal. The only provision is that you need 'CL' type head, tail and/or interior lights in your trains. Inside the N-1000CL there's a lightweight 'switched' power supply that provides 12V DC output. This output is supplied to 3 regulator circuits, one has a controlled output and is used to control train speed. The other 2 have a fixed 12V DC output and are used to power 'TCS' accessories and points motors.

Back of Tomix 5502 controller, showing outputs.

Tomix 5502 controller, showing controls and mains cord.

With the 'TCS' system, which stands for 'Train Connector System' Tomix had introduced new point motors that could operate on DC only, instead of the older ones that could operate on both AC or DC, but needed 3 wires to hook up, the new point motors need only 2 wires to hook up, Tomix done the hard work for us and offer convenient cables with plugs and sockets fitted. More information on this in [Point control].

Tomix 5810 level crossing extension lead.

Tomix 5812 track power 'Y' lead. (splitter lead)

Tomix 5813 track power lead

Tomix 5814 point motor extension lead.

The plugs and sockets are colour-coded, white is for track power, black is for points and other accessories. Both plug and socket combinations are of a different shape and don't fit each other, so is nearly impossible to mix up track control wiring with accessory control wiring. One type of connecting lead is left. This is the 3-wire 'touch sensor' lead, used to detect the presence of trains. The information is used by the 3 and 5 light signals and the level crossing. Of course there's an extension lead available.

Wiring diagram for track power circuit, making the relationship between polarity and direction of travel clear.

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