Hi,
I am completely new to model railroading. By that I mean that I have a couple of Bachmann engines that I set up from time to time that I have had for a few years. But that is basically the extent of my knowledge.
I have a couple of inexpensive Bachmann engines, the Bachman EZ Command, and my nicest engine is a Bachman Spectrum engine. All of my engines are DCC, but none have sound. I know that none of these things are high end, and local modelers have told me such, but its what I have at the moment and likely all I am to get for some time.
I like to occasionally set up a small track. I would like to expand that. I am not interested in huge garage scale models I just want to mess around with it from time to time. What I *do* want to do is to automate things like having 2 or 3 trains on the same system and having them start and stop at certain locations for predetermined time setting. Or switch to a side track and wait until another train passes. Things like that. I know that it is possible using non-DCC setups like this:
http://rr-concepts.com/StationMaster/index.shtml
However, its my understanding that DCC should make this all much simpler and not require wired controllers but do it all via computer. However, I can't seem to figure out what I need to get started. I understand that I need an upgraded controller, and software like those found here:
http://jmri.sourceforge.net/help/en/html/apps/index.shtml
But since I don't know anything, I don't know what any of the acronyms are or what I need to get the job done. Its all very foreign to me.
So..... I am looking for some basic guidance. Please talk to me like I am a 3 year old that knows nothing, because that is about where I am in my understanding.
What sort of controller do I need? Any suggestions for one that won't break the bank? Once I get the controller, what software do I need to do my automation that I would like? I don't need to do anything super complicated, I think. I would prefer something simple and not really DIY. I have enough hobbies where I spend hours poring over instructions, I don't think I have enough time in my life to do another. In other words, point and click is preferred over assigning tasks with arcane codes in command line. :)
Of the JMRI software, which does what task? I don't completely get what each application does.
Is any special track required for this or will any old track suffice?
Any other advice?
Once I figure this out, I will be back to talk about adding sound :) and maybe some smoke to my steamer. But I want to get a good feel for scheduling trains to do things automatically on a layout before I delve into 'customizing' and 'upgrading' specific engines.
Thanks so much for any help or advice. The more detailed, and simple, the better :)
Corn,
First off, you won't be able to achieve what you desire with your current E-Z Command. It's simple, basic, and limited. You'll need a more sophisticated DCC system to accomplish all that.
Second, the cheapest alternative for you with your current set up would be to purchase a Paragon2 locomotive. The Paragon2 decoders have a built-in "recording mode" that enables you to record a sequence of commands - i.e. stops, starts, and durations. However - come to think of it - you'll need to access functions higher than F8 in order to utilize that, which you don't have with your E-Z Command.
Bottom line: You're going to need to spend some $$$ in order to achieve what you have listed above. A Digitrax Zephyr Xtra or an NCE Power Cab will cost you at least $160, discounted. Then there's the cost of the Paragon2 locomotive(s). (You might want to check eBay for some deals.) At least JMRI is FREE!
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
Thanks for the reply. I knew I wouldn't be able to do much with the EZ command thing - it came with some starter set and I realized at the time it was basically just for making a train go. HOWEVER, I didn't realize I had to get a whole new loco that can record. Wow. That is pretty surprising to me.
So, the Digitrax Zephyr Extra or NCE Power Cab that you mention are both replacements for the EZ Command, correct? I was thinking that I would wind up spending several hundred to get this going. Of course, maybe just doing the hard wiring with the equipment I mentioned in the first link is the way to go?
Ack.
cornfuzzled So..... I am looking for some basic guidance. Please talk to me like I am a 3 year old that knows nothing, because that is about where I am in my understanding. Of the JMRI software, which does what task? I don't completely get what each application does. Thanks so much for any help or advice. The more detailed, and simple, the better :)
Decoder-Pro allows you to program almost any NMRA compatible DCC decoder.
Panel-Pro allows you to build a layout diagram that you can run trains from -or- create a CTC type of panel that you can have a dispatcher sit at and control all or parts of your layout. (The CTC panel is a simulation of the way a real RR dispatcher would operate.)
I think the first thing you should choose is the type of automated system you are going to use. This will determine the type of DCC system you will need to buy.
Most automatic train control systems require money or time. JMRI claims it can automate a layout, but there is no manual, and you will have to learn some type of programming along with having to learn how to use JMRI. RR&Co has a good program but it is not cheap. It does have a manual, and seems like it is a point and click interface. With both JMRI and RR&Co you will need to divide your layout up into track electrical blocks. To do that, you will need block detection hardware and turnout control hardware. The next logical step after setting up block detection is signals. Here is a link that will give you some of the basics on the hardware required:
http://www.waynes-trains.com/site/Signals/Model-Railroad-Signaling.html
The step after signals is layout automation. Here is another link to a different type of system that may be used for layout automation:
http://www.dccbitswitch.com/BitSwitch_Devices.htm
I don't know of anyone using this system, but it seems like it is rather simple and may be what you are looking for. This system appears to be much more simple than JMRI or RR&Co.
Elmer.
The above is my opinion, from an active and experienced Model Railroader in N scale and HO since 1961.
(Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone LocoNet for block detection and signals.) http://waynes-trains.com/ at home, and N scale at the Club.
corn,
You don't NEED the Paragon2 locomotive for automated action. However, it would be the most cost-effect way to do that. Here's how BLI describes it:
Paragon2: The new benchmark for premium HO locomotives is here. These DC and DCC-Sound equipped locomotives feature the ALL-NEW Paragon2 sound and control system. Each Paragon2 locomotive comes with BLI's own integral DCC Decoder factory installed. Each Paragon2 locomotive features superb back EMF motor control in DC and DCC, recordable DCC operation for automated playback, SYNCHRONIZED PUFFING SMOKE (steam only), Radio Chatter, Ambient Surround Sounds, & the same detail level as the original Paragon Series-- All in the familiar sturdy maroon box! [Underscore mine]
The E-Z Command is what it is and it works well - within it's limitations. I enjoyed mine for the year that I had it. The Zephyr Xtra or Power Cab, OTOH, are both starter DCC systems but offer quite it bit more (i.e. functions, programming, etc.) than what the E-Z Command can do.
I'm not an electrical expert, corn, but wiring for automation is going to get pretty involved - whether you're talking DC or DCC. And it won't be an inexpensive proposition either. That's why I mentioned the Paragon2 locomotive option. You record your sequence (using your DCC throttle) and play it back.