DCC vs Turnouts

[Anonymous]

Hello:

I'm continuing the learning process about DCC [:)]

Am I correct in understanding that only the Micro Engineering line of turnouts is DCC compatible as delivered?

If so, then what needs to be done to Walthers/Shinohara in order to make them DCC compatible?

What must be done to a rr crossing? (i.e. 90 degree/etc.)

Last question for now: If I set up a smallish layout to have a couple conventional cabs as well as a DCC cab (via rotaries), will conventional electrical blocking methods (double insulation) work okay for DCC?

Thanks for input.

Andre

[rrinker]

This site explains it all.

http://www.wiringfordcc.com/switches.htm

--Randy

[mike33469]

Peco insulfrog turnouts are completely DCC compatible.

[Anonymous]

Thanks fellows.

I've begun reading the DCC Primer pdf at Tony's Tips and have digested the switch info at the above link. I'm getting DCC smarter by the minute. [:)]

Should I return to HO, I really think I would go ahead and wire it for conventional blocks using DCC compatible track components and make the wiring very DCC friendly. (Besides, I already have tons of rotaries and toggles left from my previous HO layout, so there would only be minimal expense for wire.)

Seems to me that doing that would allow me to go ahead and get started with all the control components and engines I have left over from my previous HO years. I can then choose/purchase the DCC system I settle on, and ease into DCC with the newer stuff that will be purchased, retrofitting the existing equipment to DCC as mood inclines.

In the meantime, I'm ready to purchase my first "new age" HO product in order to do a test track head-to-head comparison with a similar 3-rail product. I will be finding/purchasing an undecorated B Ltd SW7 w/QSI sound.

I will then see how the B Ltd SW7 w/QSI sound compares in sound effectiveness and smooth running capabilities to its 3-rail counterpart, an MTH SW8 w/QSI sound. I fully expect the 3-rail to have more "resonance", but if the little HO tiddler is acceptable enough in overall capabilities... then that's another vote for returning to HO!

The above assumes that the B Ltd SW7 w/QSI will operate in a DC enviorn, albeit likely with less sound features? Correct me if I'm wrong?

If a go on the SW7 w/DC operation... I'm off to market to find an undec B Ltd SW7!

Andre