Hi everybody, my friend is building a double deck 9 by 12 layout (dont ask how we fit a helix in that space) and I'm helping him. We would like to know what a good DCC system would be affordable AND expandable (I swear, if anybody says Bachmann). We were looking at an NCE system, as a trusted friend has recommended it to us. What is the bare minimum you need to start off in NCE? Thanks!
I have the NCE Power Cab for a home HO scale layout. Good for 2 amps and it is expandable.
You are correct. Don't even think Bachmann EZ Command or Dynamis.
What ever system you get, keep the sales receipt. My cab display back light failed after a year and NCE repaired it for free. Good solid system.
Check the NCE website.
Tony's Trains website has good comparisons.
Good prices on line.
I run three sound 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.
I would recommend Digitrax's Super Empire Builder with the UR92 and DT402d duplex throttle.
The below fellow uses NCE and has lots of DCC experince. Check him out carefuly. Lots of good DCC info. Yes he is advanced but this will give you some idea of what can be done.
Our club uses the 5 amp Pro system, cable connected. Wireless is an option.
There is an active NCE forum at Yahoo Groups.
http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn/my_nce.htm
I can certainly recommend NCE. I have a 5 amp system for running my rail road and a PowerCab I use for programming at the workbench. Among my reasons for choosing NCE were intuitive info screen making programming decoders and running locomotives much easier (in my opinion). I did not care for the feel of the Digitrax throttlw in my hand--the NCE "hammerhead" throttle felt much more comfortable and the buttons size, shape and arrangement were (again my opinion) much more rational. And don't forget. When you operate your railroad the throttle will spend a LOT of time in your hand so be sure it feels right to you.
That said, there is much value in getting a system of the same brand as other model railroaders in your area use. These folks can be your tech support group.
Good luck.
You can also use this system with a PC and download JMRI for ease of programming decoders. Keeps all your CV's so you can easily program after a CV loss. Does happen. JMRI is a free download.
Google DCC JMRI if you are not familiar with this.
Some other systems, not all, can use a PC and JMRI also.
I would recommend the Digitrax Zephyr Xtra set. It is an affordable, easy to use and set up system that is expandable. The best part, though, is that it is all in one small package, so you don't need to buy extra throttles and boosters until you absolutely have to. It is also very easy to connect to a pc running JMRI using a PR3. The Zephyr provides more than enough power for me to run 6 locomotives at once.
I'm with Roger on the ease of use of the NCE throttle.
The NCE Powercab system is a great place to start, easily expandable and can be converted to wireless if desired. You don't need anything else in addition to the Powercab to get started. Everything you need is in the package.
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
I found it best to use what my local Train store was using. I know if I run into any problems, or have any questions they will be able to guide me in the right direction. In my case it was NCE.
Do you like the throttles?
The DCC standards make sure that all DCC systems will run all DCC equipment on the track side, but that's where the standards end. So, you can't take an NCE system and plug a Digitrax throttle into it, or vice versa. And, it's not just the plugs and jacks. The two systems are fundamentally different at that point.
On the other hand, all of the better systems are very, very good. So, you can choose the one you like and be comfortable with your decision.
I've been running my Lenz system for over 11 years now. I liked the throttle, and that's one of the reasons I bought it.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Digitrax Zephyr would be my recommendation
Richard
A few years ago I switched from DC to DCC with the purchase of a NCE PowerCab. I never regretted my choice. My layout is a shelf layout about 50 feet long and I once ran four trains together, some with sound. Plenty of power for my need.
Guy
Modeling CNR in the 50's
Thanks for the input everybody! I think I will end up goin with NCE, as I have used it before, and as I said, other friends of mine use it as well. Unfortunately, the club I go to uses digitrax, but they have more than enough throttles for everyone.
Hi,
I hope you guys got your plans on paper before you started benchwork!
I did a lot of study before picking a DCC system, and it came down to NCE or Digitrax. I ended up with Digitrax, but NCE would have been fine too. Both vendors have starter systems and I would check out their websites.
I would say........ if you have the money and believe you are in the hobby for the long haul, I would get something beyond a starter set as it will be cheaper in the long run, and you won't have to fool with upgrades.
Got lots of layout building advice, but I'll say only this......... put in LOTS of feeders - every 4 foot and one on every dead end siding. Remember, no one ever regretted putting in too many feeders.
ENJOY !
Mobilman44
Living in southeast Texas, formerly modeling the "postwar" Santa Fe and Illinois Central
I've had a Digitrax Zephyr for more than a decade and found it to do all I need on my 22 X 8 foot layout. I was able to simply splice in my Zephyr as a second throttle on my DC layout without going to #12 buss wires and have had no problems. It is priced well and easy to use and Digitrax has a very indepth webiste and there help is quick to respond. You can't get much better than that!
NP 2626 "Northern Pacific, really terrific"
Northern Pacific Railway Historical Association: http://www.nprha.org/
About three years ago I started building a new layout after being an armchair modeler for years. On the advice of a neighbor and also the owner of the LHS, I went with the NCE Powercab, and have never regretted it. It doesn't cost much, is easily expandable, and easy to use (my 8-year-old grandson and 6-year-old granddaughter have both mastered it).
E and E Fan Thanks for the input everybody! I think I will end up goin with NCE, as I have used it before, and as I said, other friends of mine use it as well. Unfortunately, the club I go to uses digitrax, but they have more than enough throttles for everyone.
If you need a booster, Tam Valley sells a nice one for $42 the last time I looked. Five amps.
The designer and builder has info on it in the MRH eZine forums.
We went with the NCE Power Cab and couldn't be happier. It's user-friendly enough that my 11 yr old is setting up his own consists.