Hi guys,
If I buy a DCC ready locomotive with a sound decoder, could I run it on my DC layout ?
I understand there won't be no sound but could it be ran with my other DC locos ?
Thanks,
MD
I have never tried this but I believe you can set a DCC decoder to run on analog (DC) power. However, I believe the decoder would have to be so programmed using a DCC system,
I disclaim any responsibility if the smoke gets out! Good luck!
I have bought locos with what is called dual mode decoder. Runs on DCC or DC. The advertisement usually tells you this as does the documentation that comes with the loco. Try to read the instructions before you loose them or throw them away.
If you buy from private source, many disable the DC option so it may not run on a DC layout. I have read this many times in DCC forums.
If it is from the factory, they usually run right out of the box on DC or DCC with some sounds that are automatically run but you cannot control the sounds.
Usually you have to turn up the DC power pack higher than normal. First, the loco starts to move and them the sounds come into play.
Manufactures realize some will not want a DCC controller but it is second best for running decoder equipped locos.
Rich
If you ever fall over in public, pick yourself up and say “sorry it’s been a while since I inhabited a body.” And just walk away.
What locomotive are you looking at. If it said DCC ready there is no decoder in it. If it said dual mode or DCC equipped then it has a decoder in already and can run on DC and DCC. If it is a BLI Blueline model then it has a sound decoder that will require a motor decoder to run on DCC but will run on DC as is.
Please note that a sound decoder takes a lot of power and the locomotive will not be as responsive as a regular locomotive. It will probably take more then half throttle to start moving and top speed will be slower then a non sound locomotive.
Pete
I pray every day I break even, Cause I can really use the money!
I started with nothing and still have most of it left!
Yep, _most_ sound decoder equipped locos can work straight out of the box on standard DC.
check with the LHS first (or mention the specific model here) to get a definitive answer for that particular model.
-Dan
Builder of Bowser steam! Railimages Site
Thanks guys,
Michel D.
The BLI Blueline loco's are Sound equipped and DCC ready. You can run them on DC with no problem and you'll have sound. Most other sound loco's will run fine on DC. They typically run a bit slower than DC but they do run and they do have sound less the horn and bell on most
Springfield PA