I have the MRC Prodigy Express system and am operating DCC solely right now. My question is can I operate a DC locomotive on the layout and if so, how? I just received an Athearn Genesis F3 A/B unit set that are both powered but not DCC ready. Before I purchase new circuit boards, I thought there may be a way to operate as is. Thanks for the help in advance.
To my knowledge you cannot.
Did you read the manual?
The manual for a DCC contrroller will will tell you you can run one DC loco.
If it does not, then don't even try.
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.
Per the review in Tonys Train exchange, it does not support DC engines. Here is a link to the review:
http://www.tonystrains.com/technews/mrc-prodigye-review.htm
I have a Digitrax system and it does support a DC engine, but the control and 'whine' is not good. Wait untill you get the decoders and install them!
Jim
Modeling BNSF and Milwaukee Road in SW Wisconsin
Thanks guys, I will just get decoder for them. Being they are not dcc ready, will I need new circuit boards and decodes? I am not wanting sound, just simple light functions... Any help on what boards and or decodes to purchase for that specific model?
Your Athearn Genesis F-3's are almost certainly DCC Ready (maufactured with the motor electrically isolated from the frame). Take a look at the photo at the link below which shows the installation of a TCS A4X decoder. While you can't go wrong with a TCS decoder, other manufacturers make similar decoders, all of which are simple board replacements for your locomotives.
http://www.tcsdcc.com/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/HO_Scale/Athearn/Genesis_F3A/athearn-genesis-f3a-a4x-decoder-installation.html
One thing to remember--Athearn uses little plastic clips to attache the wires to the light board. When installing a decoder, solder those wire connections. Done correctly, they will never come loose or otherwise fail.
The narrative with the photo mentions having to add a resistor in order to use a 1.5v light bulb. The A4X is now made with a resistor on board so adding one is not necessary.
Good luck.