Converting NCE PowerCab to Wireless

[Doughless]

I have the PowerCab starter system.  PowerCab is tethered by 7 foot cable to the PcP.  Is there a way to convert this system to wireless with extra NCE pieces, or would I need to buy the wireless system complete? 

I checked Google and the NCE website, which in undergoing maintenance, and couldn't find a straight answer.

[mlehman]

I'm pretty sure that NCE can convert the PowerCab to wireless. Have to send it to them to do the install IIRC.

[jrbernier]

  You will need the RB02 wireless receiver.  Your existing PowerCab throttle is the 'brains' for the PoweCab system, so it cannot be disconnected.  Any wireless Pro Cab or Cabxx wireless throttle can be used.  Converting your PowerCab throttle to wireless will force you to buy a SB3a or SB5 booster.

Jim

[Doughless]

I forgot to mention that I also have a Cab06 throttle, which says it is wireless compatible with an internal antenna. (needs 4 AAA batteries).

So I could use that as the cab, but would have to keep the tethered PowerCab when programming. 

So I'd just have to get a Radio base unit to be able to run the Cab06 as wireless, skipping the SB3a?  

[maxman]

Doughless

I forgot to mention that I also have a Cab06 throttle, which says it is wireless compatible with an internal antenna. (needs 4 AAA batteries).

So I could use that as the cab, but would have to keep the tethered PowerCab when programming. 

So I'd just have to get a Radio base unit to be able to run the Cab06 as wireless, skipping the SB3a?  

 

If you have a Cab06R, then I think you can get away with just purchasing the RB02.  The RB02 will plug into either the right side of the panel that came with the Powercab, or into any sister panels that you would install.

 

You can get the Powercab (or ProCab) converted to radio, but if I remember correctly the cost is almost as much as a new ProCab.  This is primarily because they have to replace the internal board.  I don't think it is practical to convert the Powercab you have to radio since you need to have it plugged in to operate the system, negating the wireless, walk-around ability.  Of course, if you intend to take your PowerCab to someone else's  layout, and they have wireless ability, that's a different story.

 

You mentioned leaving the Powercab plugged in for programming.  You have to leave it plugged in all the time unless you get another additional item, I think one of the smart boosters.

[Doughless]

Thanks Maxman.  I did find another thread on the forum, and the OP indicated the cab06 and the base RB02 should convert the PowerCab Starter System (not just the cab itself, I should have been more clear) to wireless use.  Nobody disagreed with him.

Since I already have the cab06, I just need to spend $150 for the RB02 (since I'm sure I need a radio base for any way I go here) and see if that works.

The PowerCab/command station can stay plugged in and out of the way no problem.  I do have an extra UTP panel if needed.  I don't need more amps, so if I can get by without the SB3a, that'll be best.

Interested in hearing other opinions.....

[modelmaker51]

Yes you can just get an RB02, but you also need to get the Cab 06 canverted to radio as well unless you have a cab 06R. The conversion costs about $50.

[Doughless]

Thanks Jay.  After closer inspection, I have a 06p.  So I'll call NCE about the conversion.

[maxman]

Doughless

Thanks Jay.  After closer inspection, I have a 06p.  So I'll call NCE about the conversion.

 

You indicated previously that you had a cab06 which was compatible with the radio and had an internal antenna, and only needed the 4 batteries.  Were you just assuming this, or did you read it somewhere in the instructions you got with the cab?

 

The "p" means it has a potentiometer.  If it had an "e", that would mean it had an encoder.  But there are 06pR and 06eR radio cabs, as well as non-radio 06p and 06e cabs.

 

Looking at information on the Tony's Trains website (http://dev.tonystrains.net/?product=nce-cab06pr the difference between the radio and non-radio 06p is that the radio item has a radio board board and a battery holder added.  If this information is correct, all you need to do is open the battery compartment on the back of the case and see if it has a battery holder.  If it does, you're good to go once you get the RB02.

[Doughless]

Maxman,  I think I was mistaken.  It appears that all of the versions of the 06 cab use the same box and operating manual, and I read what I think is now applicable to an 06r. 

The little retail inventory bar code lable stuck to the box, the only indicator of what I have, clearly states Cab06p. 

At this point, I'm pretty sure I need the RB2 base and have the 06p cab converted to radio. 

[modelmaker51]

Yes.