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Battery vs Track power with digital controller

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Yes, Battery R/C is a great way to solve the delimma of track cleaning outdoors. But I think DCC outdoors with track power isn't such a bad idea. But for one thing, the initial investment is much higher than for battery power trains! Track power of mult-trains involves significant additional initial investment. Here is my list of things that should be considered if you are using track power DCC multi-train system on your outdoor pike. Note that the asterisk (*) items may need continual attention as your empire grows. *(1) a cleaning locomotive and/or *(1) cleaning pads and timely manual labor. (2) conductive paste and/or rail clamps for electrical conductivity *(3) access to tunnel sections or far reaches of trackage if without cleaning loco (4) excellent grade of wiring (5) adequate water drainage *(6) adequate amperage /current (7) surge protected and safe power sources (8) adequate quality of metal (brass, ns,etc.) track to conduct power (8) sub-blocks insulated for power routing of dcc boosters and reverse loops The layout for my brother is going to include all the above items; DCC isn't for everybody that's for sure, but I believe our initial extra money and work will produce a layout that is friendly with our indoor layouts and reliable for enjoyment (my brother being a electrical guru will help!!). If the above is accomplished, Here are some of our positive results: (1) All newly purchased LGB locos need no mods for running on any layout (2) All decoder-equipped locos seemlessly transfer from any of our layouts (3) Sound systems are simple to install because they have DCC decoders built-in (4) All loco features incl. smoke,light,sound,talk,etc. will be controlled from handhelds (5) Radio-control is available when needed (6) System is "non proprietary" whereby we can choose decoders, boosters,etc. from any NMRA compliant dcc manufacturer. (7) Unlimitted lighting, animation , signal and turnout control , incl. with computer operations (8) We can upgrade our DCC system but need not replace decoders.
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