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Are you looking to purchase a new DCC system but are confused over all the different options available? In this video I’ll show you examples of several popular DCC systems that range from beginner level to advanced along with a little information on their capabilities.
Have you thought about reviewing the digital type systems that use a Smart Phone / Tablet as the user interface? These systems all look like older clunkier "handset" types
actually the Zephyer Express is a complete redesign of the system. Where as the DCS 50 and 51 are quite similar to one another, the 52 is quite different. At their core they are the same, still 3 amps, box design ect is still the same. Its where the LCD screen sits is different and even the buttons are different too, they are back lit and bigger. The LCD screen gives a LOT more information about what you are doing when programming a locomotive. Its a much improved system over the 50 and 51.
I have a small layout 3X25around the wall. And I use a simple mrc prodigy express and it has worked very well for me. The one thing i would like is a wireless throttle
If you use multiple dcc systems, say digitrax zephyr and nce, do you need to reprogram a locomotive in nce if it was already done in digitrax?
I have two layouts. One 28'x28' two level HO scale one. I use ESU Cab Control for this one. (its my favorite) I also have an N scale layout on a door.I have Digitrax for this one. (my second choice) I also belong to a club with a large layout. We use NCE. (it's my lest favorite.) The ESU is so simple to use, easily updated, and has so many features. Plus jmri isn't necessary with the ESU system. Digitrax is a good middle of the road reliable system. NCE is ok but after using the ESU system I hate it. It's outdated compared to the ESU. Just my experience and opinion.
I've been using a Lenz DCC system. I have no particular complaints except for one: The whistle/horn control key has a slight sound delay between separate button pushing events. This makes it difficult (or impossible) to have quick, short whistle blows in succession, or to "play" the whistle. Any ideas or comments on how to remedy this, if possible? Also the Lenz system did not come with a power supply, so I've been using my 60 year old MRC DC "Power Pack". However this recently died, and while replacing a power supply shouldn't be a difficult or expensive task, I am contemplating a new, different brand DCC system.
I model in "Scale S," (i.e., no 'Flyer or "high rail"), and the demands of my "S" equipment are not particularly greater than most HO, but maybe just a little bit. I've been using normal "Tsunami" (one) decoders up to now, but I'm not very happy about the Tsunami 2 decoders having no more chuff wire. So I'm probably going to switch decoder brands for future DCC loco installs. I machined the chuff cam on one of my steamers to be a little less than a perfect square, to represent slightly off valve timing with the chuff.
My layout is modular, with two standard gauge mainlines, 1 narrow gauge line,, and a bunch of sidings and industries. So as an outside maximum, I might need to control up to four different trains (or multi-unit consists) at the same time, but not too often that many. I do plan on occasional double heading steam or using multi-unit diesel lash ups on the main lines. Typical operations might be a 3-4 unit diesel train on one mainline (all powered, no "dummy" engines), and a steam (occasionally double headed) train on the other main line. A narrow gauge train will be single engine, fairly short train, fairly low draw.. Simultaneous switching somewhere on the layout will be infrequent, but occasional.
My local hobby shop offered me a new Digitrax "starter" (I guess) system for around $200.00, and for another $60.00 or so a set up that will let me use my iPhone(s) as a controller. I am unfamiliar with Digitrax model numbers, and so I don't know how adequate this system will be for my max needs described above. He seemed really eager to sell me this, so I'm wondering if he was trying to sell me an obsolete Digitrax system, to get it off his hands. I don't know the different Digitrax systems very well. I have 18 locos, with five already DCC installed, with six decoders on the shelf waiting to be installed. Any system or set up recommendations?
can I connect Kato Unitrack directly to Digitrax's DCS52? I Like Unitrack. Good quality track and was wanting use it for my dcc layout instead of flex track.
Great Video clip! Sorry for chiming in, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you considered – Januke Henatalie Formula (probably on Google)? It is an awesome one off guide for operating a model railroad minus the headache. Ive heard some extraordinary things about it and my close friend Aubrey after a lifetime of fighting got cool results with it.
When you try out a DCC system in a shop (don't buy online) ask for the system manual and have a go at doing a task like making up a consist and adding locos to that consist and deleting locos from that consist and see if it's an easy task to accomplish. Remember in the shop you have shop staff to help you whereas at home you're on your own. The reason I say don't buy online is because if the DCC system you buy online is not right for you then you've wasted your money maybe a lot of money and you won't be entitled to a refund because you made the wrong choice. Also if the DCC system is secondhand there's no telling how much abuse it's been through. Photos are no guarantee as photos can be photo shopped and where the family dog has been chewing on the throttle the teeth marks can be erased from the image and yes it does happen. Many people have paid good money for secondhand DCC systems which are not what the photos promise.
I like digitrax and have been using it for years but I am really annoyed by the fact that they refuse to make it Mac compatible. I want to switch DCC systems for that specific reason…
I'm startling , afresh new Start N scale modular layout; I want to use D.C.C. ,WHERE TO START
Need some help. I want to transition to DCC and begin building a small shelf switching layout- (1'×8' or maybe a 1'×16) due to limited space i have. What would be a good DCC starter set?
I did miss the Lenz, Esu, Uhlenbrock, PIKO, and the very interesting Digikeijs systems!