Sorry for all of the novice questions, but I have another one. Hopefully it won't stir up as strong of responses as did my Kato turnout question .
The question is really quite simple: If I install a decoder in an engine, can I still use it on a DC-powered layout?
Richard
Yes - for the most part. Most newer decoders will detect whether the track is DC or DCC and adjust automatically. However, some older decoders were either not DC-compatible or required you to move a jumper on the DCC board to make them compatible.
Needless to say, be sure to check the manual that comes with the decoder to determine if there is anything you need to do first before placing it on the track.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
If CV 29 is set to the proper value the decoder will run on DC power. But why go to the expense of a decoder if you don't use DCC? It might actually make a model run worse on DC than one without a decoder.
cacole . . .But why go to the expense of a decoder if you don't use DCC? It might actually make a model run worse on DC than one without a decoder.
. . .But why go to the expense of a decoder if you don't use DCC? It might actually make a model run worse on DC than one without a decoder.
It is all about expense management. The objective is to convert to DCC, but I can't afford to make the complete leap right now. I am considering asking for decoders for my birthday and wanted to know if they will have to sit in the box until I buy my starter system or if I can install them now. I am looking to get TCS decoders.
When you do upgrade to DCC, you should consider resetting the decoders so that they do not use DC. Leaving DC operation enabled when operating on DCC can cause glitches when the decoder sees shorts or other power fluctuations.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
Usually a loco with dual mode decoder will run ok on DC, BUT, you will have to turn the power pack up much higher. The microprocessor on the decoder requires about five volts just to wake up and the motor will maybe require a couple volts more to start turning. Nature of the beast.
The decoder sends pulse power to the motor so that helps some in overcoming the cogging action in the motor.
TCS has a very good decoder.
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.
I have decided to use the big-bang approach. I will start stockpiling the decoders and when I have everything, do a complete conversion. Sounds like that may be the easiest approach in the long run.
Richard,
How many decoders will you need to stockpile? Given the change in technology, it may be worth just saving the $$$ and buying them after you convert to DCC. Would hate to see you invest in a bunch of decoders then later regret it because better decoders were available on the market.
I will be needing 4 decoders plus the starter system. I wouldn't be stockpiling for long; my goal is to make the conversion in the next 3-6 months.
RideOnRoad I have decided to use the big-bang approach. I will start stockpiling the decoders and when I have everything, do a complete conversion. Sounds like that may be the easiest approach in the long run.
I would recommend doing them over time for lots of reasons. But to me, the 2 most important are, improving technique, methods, experience,etc and 2. you're working on your hobby.
Purchase decoders as you go. Better to receive money to put toward the DCC system then stocking up on decoders.
I started stocking up in the mid 90's buying decoders in larger quantities to save a few dollars. I still have a couple of $50 decoders that can be replaced today with $18 decoders that have ten times the features and are 1/3 the size.
Martin Myers