hi group. i run dc only. have many Proto sound dcc units that i run with a quantum engineer. i wish to purchase an Atlas unit equipped with a dual mode decoder, no sound. with this run with no problem on my layout? i do not know which decoder Atlas uses. i just want it to run fine on DC. thanks, michael.
"Dual Mode" means that it will operate either on DC or DCC. You should be good.
But why not get a DCC system, if you already have lots of decoder-equipped engines?
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
It will run for sure. If you are purchasing it second hand and the current owner is DCC, make sure that they turn DC capability back on if they disabled it. One thing you might notice is that the start voltage is higher with a DCC equipped loco on your DC system. It is not unusual for DC guys to take out the decoder and rewire for DC only. Then you can sell the decoder and make back a bit of money on the deal.
Simon Modelling CB&Q and Wabash See my slowly evolving layout on my picturetrail site http://www.picturetrail.com/simontrains and our videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/MrCrispybake?feature=mhum
According to the Atlas website:
"The Quantum Engineer Controllers are designed to operate locomotives that have QARC (Quantum Analog Remote Control) technology. Except for simple horn and bell operations, the Quantum Engineer Control is not suitable for older Quantum-equipped engines that do not have QARC technology included. The Quantum Engineer will only operate sound locomotives that include the latest QSI technology. This technology is included in all Atlas, Life-Like/Proto 2000 and Hobbycraft Canada sound-equipped locomotives. The more recent locomotive releases from Broadway Limited Imports (BLI) can also be operated; this includes the PRR K-4, EMD E-series passenger units, EMD SD40-2, C&O T-1, EMD switchers, etc. BLI locomotive releases previous to these, as well as the Lionel Challenger and Turbine will not operate with the Quantum Engineer."
I think as long your dual mode decoder loco falls under this QARC criteria you should be okay. However, I myself have been having trouble locating any information regarding decoders that are QARC compatible. If any one wants to help enlighten us in how to find out if decoders are QARC/QSI based, please do.
-Paul
You should be able to open up the engine or tender and see the decoder. It should have the manufacturer name and model number on it.
Since the OP's new engine is non-sound I wouldn't think he would have any problems operating it with a Quantum Engineer, since he's basically just going to be turning the lights on and off (F0)??
As noted however, a non-sound engine may run quite a bit faster than a sound-equipped one when using DC, so it might not be possible to run the new engine with a sound one in a consist in DC. (However some decoders do have a way to adjust speed setting CVs that will work in DC also...assuming you have a way to program decoders?)
simon1966 If you are purchasing it second hand and the current owner is DCC, make sure that they turn DC capability back on if they disabled it.
If you are purchasing it second hand and the current owner is DCC, make sure that they turn DC capability back on if they disabled it.
To add a little to that, the various "dual-mode" decoders that Atlas has used in their locos over the years may require you to set a CV, move a jumper plug, or even set a switch to turn that DC capability back on.
thanks for all the input. the loco is a NIB unit from a 2009 run. is this a plug and go decoder that i can simply pull out. i sure don't need it and it might make DC operation a little less "quirky". this is a 2009 run of a Master Series H16-44. thanks all. michael.
thank you! your links to Atlas decoder info answers all my questions. regards, michael.