Electrical interference from passing next to breaker box

[Bill H]

Hi;
I am in the process of designing a new layout and I need a track to pass thru a closet area that holds the 200 amp breaker box. The breaker box itself is at right angles to the direction the track and the outside of the box case is six inches away from the track. The bottom of the box is slightly about the height of the box, and the mains are at the usual top of the box position.

So the question is, should i be concerned about any sort of interference with the DCC signal in the track as the train passes by?

Kind regards,
Bill

[C855B]

No concerns if there are no wires that make a sharp turn horizontal, paralleling the track. It's been years since I had to worry this on the job (computer and communications wiring), so I forget the exact guidelines about small-signal cabling close to power wires, but if the proximate crossing remains perpendicular you should be OK.

[wvgca]

there should be no worries ... after all the covers are on ??? aren't they ??

[peteski]

Power line is a low-frequency 60Hz AC signal .  DCC track signal is a high power (whatever amperage your booster is capable of) square-wave signal with frequency of several kHz.  It is not low power millivolt-level signal that might possibly by affected by nearby electromagnetic fields (like your breaker box). Besides, the breaker box is a solid metal enclosure that is grounded.  I wouldn't worry.

[jagged ben]

There will be no effect.  I would be more concerned about impeding access to the breakers, which is an electrical code violation.  From your right angle description it doesn't sound like you're doing anything suspect.  Be aware that code requires a 30" wide, 3ft deep clear space in front of the electrical panel.  It doesn't have to be centered on the box though.

[Bill H]

Hi;
Thanks to all for their prompt response. Not having to worry about any interference makes my layout plan much easier.

Thanks again,
Bill