"I like my Pullman Standards & Budds in Stainless Steel flavors, thank you!"
QUOTE: Originally posted by BNlover1 I have a 10x10 foot layout in progress. I am planning on using Digitrax. The most operators I will have at one time is three. Probably no more than 7 locos at one time. Would the Zephyr system be a good choice for me? Reed
QUOTE: Originally posted by chadnark QUOTE: Originally posted by rsn48 The two big players are Digitrax and Lenz. Digitrax is number one in North America, Lenz is number one in Europe. Both are very good systems, either will bring a smile to your face. Although I own Digitrax, I'm beginning to think Zimo is the best (I'm interested in computer run trains) but it is pricey. Atlas is Lenz. What is it about zimo that is better so far as computer/automation is concerned? thanks
QUOTE: Originally posted by rsn48 The two big players are Digitrax and Lenz. Digitrax is number one in North America, Lenz is number one in Europe. Both are very good systems, either will bring a smile to your face. Although I own Digitrax, I'm beginning to think Zimo is the best (I'm interested in computer run trains) but it is pricey. Atlas is Lenz.
QUOTE: Originally posted by NTDN Lenz has Stop on Red As well, and bi-directional is on hold for all systems for awhile, Zimo is sub-par but expensive. Jay
QUOTE: Originally posted by kbrant Geoff: Let me try to take you questions in sequence. First, NMRA conformance. This means that the NMRA has verified that a manufacturers product meets all the S9 and RP9 requriements for interoperatibility. Digatrax is ABSOLUTLY NMRA compliant, any comments to the contrary are marketing bull. Second, software upgrades ARE available for Digatrax, though you will probably not need them. The Empire Builder is not Digitrax's best set. Look at the Super Chief for a more direct comparision to Lenz. The signaling systems you refer to are not software upgrades in the usual sense. They are LocoNet add on's jhat you just plug in and they work. See my reply to Cmdr.WedgeAntilles above for more details. The bottom line is that almost any GOOD system will work. Most decoders and command stations willo play together OK. The command station you choise should boil down to what you want and how you will use it. Lenz and most other systems use a polled network while Digitrax uses a CMSACD network. How important this will depend on how much expansion you want. If you are going to run 5 or less trains at once and don't care about computer control, transponding, or signalling, then any system will be OK. If you want an open ended system that can adapt to future options then Digatrax has all the advantages. Regards; Ken
Tom
QUOTE: Originally posted by caellis I started with Lenz 100. Why? Because their XpressNet is a universal protocol network and is supported by more manufacturers than any other.
QUOTE: Originally posted by caellis I have no doubt that all manufacturers produce good working DCC systems. But having 42 years of computer, Ham Radio and R/C Flying experience, I feel qualified to rate Lenz as a superior product.
QUOTE: Originally posted by warhammerdriver Hypothetical question: If I wired a layout for a DCC system manufactured by the XYZ company and later decided to switch to a DCC system from the ABC company would I need to re-wire the layout assuming both systems are NMRA compliant?