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dcc generators

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  • Member since
    April 2003
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dcc generators
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, January 19, 2004 7:38 AM
i was wondering if i would need to buy a dcc generator for my layout or can i just use the regular dcc pack?
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, January 19, 2004 8:36 AM
QUOTE: Originally posted by tylers dad

i was wondering if i would need to buy a dcc generator for my layout or can i just use the regular dcc pack?


I'm assuming you mean your regular DC power pack, Digfitrax comes with a biult in power supply, other manufactuers can use your power pack as the input power supply.

Most will buy a dedicated powersupply for the DCC unit (as they'll be a bit stronger than a set's powerpack), then use the old powerpack to run the accessories (house lights, switches, ect).

Jay.
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    April 2003
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, January 19, 2004 10:39 AM
To Tyler's dad:

Go to www.cvpusa.com and look at the EasyDCC system, and go to Loy's Toys website (I don't have the URL) and do some research on DCC. There are no "generators". There are power supplies, command stations, throttles, decoders, etc. Get familiar with the various systems and pick the one that fits you (and your budget!). If at all possible visit some layouts in your area. If the owners will let you (and they most likley will) try running some trains with Digitrax, EasyDCC, NCE, MRC, etc. and see which one(s) you like the best. Again, welcome to the hobby.

Ed Briley
Independence, MO
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Posted by Anonymous on Monday, January 19, 2004 11:35 AM
Our club uses the Digitrax Super Chief system on our N-scale layout. We have a DCS-100 command station with an Astron RS-20 DC power supply. This gives us approximately 20 amps IF we need it, especially since we have 10.6 scale miles of double-tracked mainline and several more of sidings, spurs, yards, etc.

I'm not saying that Digitrax is the best, just that Digitrax is what we use and how we have it set up. You make the decision for what's best for your layout.

Regards,
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, January 19, 2004 11:53 AM
Lots of people and clubs like and recommend the Digitrax stuff. I would buy a Digitrax Zephyr for my 4x8 layout if I didn't need the cash for other stuff... [;)] I am running it as a "one-train" show for now anyway.

Andrew
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    September 2002
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Posted by ndbprr on Tuesday, January 20, 2004 11:45 AM
It appears you are confusing DCC (digtal comand Control) with DC ( direct current) if your question is about direct current a power pack is basically a direct current generator since it converts AC (alternating current) to DC. Many people in the early days used an automotive battery as their 12 volt source. It was very steady and could take high utilization before needing recharging. The amount of amperage in a battery would fry every electronic circuit in use today if a short developed so I would just stick with the power pack.

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