DCC verses Conventiional

[Anonymous]

I installed the super empire builder into my layout and right now I currently do not have control of my swtches so Im installing the tortoise controllers in but do I install decoders into the machines or do I do it the conventional way with dpdt switches?

[Anonymous]

If you want to use the "routes" feature on the Digitrax system you will need decoders on your switches. Routes enables you to control turnouts from your throttle. I f yoy can afford the tortoise switch motors you might as well go all the way. I installed the Digitrax Chief in 1998, but don't use it to control any turnouts. I just use Caboose ground throws.

[rrinker]

Depends on what you want. If you want to control them from the DCC handheld (which IMO is awkward with ALL brands of DCC) then you will need 'stationary decoders' to control them. Some stationary decoders also allow for pushbuttons so you can have BOTH kinds of control. I like the NCE Switch-Its in this regard, relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to use. However, toggle switches will work just fine, you just won't have control via the DCC system. If that's all you need, it's a heck of a lot cheaper to buy a bunch of DPDT switches than a bunch of stationary decoders.

--Randy