Review of DP4 Switch

Posted by Gary Potter on 15th Oct 2024

For my layout I like to use "under the table" (UTT) switches to create a realistic look to the layout. I built the bench using 3/4" plywood and 2" foam sheets, so I ended up needing a 3" switch pin to get from the bottom of the table to the top which ruled out all UTT devices on the market. Previously, I used an Atlas, code 100 snap switch installed horizonally, which required cutting a larger hole, lining up the pin, and then wiring it to a NCE "Q Snap" board to program the switch. This proceedure took hours per switch. The great thing about the DP4 switch is it has it's own decoder so you only have to hook it up to your bus wires, assign a number to the switch and adjust the directional flow, if needed. But the real beauty of this switch is the throw pin is adjustable, so I only needed to insert a 3 1/2" piece of piano wire into the switch, push the wire up through the pre drilled hole, test its operation and then sightly loosen the set screw, for the pin, and push the pin down to it's proper level for the track and re-tighten the set screw; all of which can be done by one person. I only wish that the DP4 had been available whern I fist started my track work and if I ever do another layout this is the only switch motor I will use.