Just getting started on new DCC layout using Kato Unitrack and Digitrax components. Hit a snag with using Digitrax DS64 controllers for the two wire solonoids in the Kato turnouts. Did not realize initially that the DS64 has no (reasionable $$) provisions for control panel indicator lights so I am looking at options. I can abandon control panel indicator lighting but I really hate that idea. I have seen some very creative solutions to this issue but all cost more than I want to invest per switch or involve surgery to the switch ( I do not like this idea). I already have most components from a previous layout but I have not purchased any DS64's yet. Are there any other products out there that I can use in lieu of DS64's that might offer a straight forward way support control panel lighting while operating two wire switch solonoids?
I need informed answers. Don't tell me to uses Tortoise or other answers that tell me you do not understand these products.
Paul D
N scale Washita and Santa Fe RailroadSouthern Oklahoma circa late 70's
Because of the way the Kato switch motors work, there really isn't an easy AND cheap option. An easy option is to use another statioanry decoder (something simpler and not as expensive as the DS64) programmed to the same address to drive the LEDs. Another option is to use something beisdes a DS64, there is NO reason to use only Digitrax equipment with a Digitrax system, there are many Loconet compatible accessories plus anything that runs off the track signal is compatible because of the NMRA DCC standards. The NCE Switch-Kat, for example, drives a kato motor, has connections for pushbuttons for local control, AND has terminals on it to connect LED indicators.
The other consideration is, do you really want DCC control of the turnouts? If you plan on using JMRI or something, then you probably want to, but operating turnouts from the throttle is awkward at best no matter what DCC system yoou use, and the basic operator throttles (UT4 for Digitrax) do not have turnout operation.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Thanks Randy. The NCE Switch-Kat looks like the best solution to my delimina. Would cost me about $20-22 per turnout but it offers the indicator lights and would be cheaper than using the DS64 plus some other widget to incorporate indicator lights.
I am not locked into Digitrax across the board although I already have most of the components. Switch decoders is about the only piece missing. I do plan to set up routes so DCC control of the turnouts is important to me. I can still do that with the Switch-Kat.