Manufacturer
Model Rectifier Corp.
80 Newfield Ave.
Edison, NJ 08837
www.modelrectifier.com
Comments: Model Rectifier Corp. has launched its latest set of direct-current power packs, the Tech7 line. The Ampac 760 includes built-in momentum and enough power to run even large scale locomotives.
One of the biggest improvements over previous MRC power packs is what the firm refers to as Accutec technology. Many older power packs often experience a voltage drop when a heavy load is placed on a locomotive. Accutec helps keep the voltage and locomotive speed constant when it goes from flat to a grade, or pulls a heavy train.
The Tech7 Ampac 760 is housed in a high-impact plastic case with a large throttle knob, several switches, and three indicator light-emitting diodes on the top. The pack has screw terminals on the back for both variable DC (track power) and alternating current (used by accessories like lights and switch motors).
The throttle knob turns smoothly 300 degrees, and the switches (power, direction, and momentum) have a solid feel. There’s also a pressure sensitive brake push-button that works well to simulate locomotive braking. The LEDs are bright and easy to see.
I tested the power pack with a digital multimeter and with several locomotives on our HO scale Beer Line layout. A direct-current engine made by Athearn and a dual-mode Digital Command Control sound-equipped diesel from Walthers ran well using the pack. Both responded at low speeds and accelerated smoothly through the pack’s voltage range.
The pack’s built-in momentum feature did a good job of simulating the inertia of a fully loaded train. With the momentum switch on, it took about 11⁄2 minutes for the voltage to drop from 12V to 0V. With momentum, when the direction switch is flipped, a locomotive will coast to a stop before accelerating in the opposite direction.
It’s worth noting that the Ampac 760 we tested topped out at 22V on our digital multimeter. That’s enough to run most large scale engines, but it could be too much for the motors, decoders, and lights in smaller-scale model locomotives. HO, N, and Z scale modelers should consider the similarly featured Tech7 Ampac 700, which is rated for a top voltage of 15.5V.
The new Tech7 power packs from MRC are solid performers for modelers who run their layouts on DC current.
