ok, I’m sure this has been bandied around before but latest i’ve found was 2017. Maybe new thoughts?
there are three ways to go for controlling solenoid machines that I’m considering:
DS64, QSnap, and Jack Wabbit. Prices all around $60. All control 4 machines. The Wabbit and DS64 handle cascade paths. I’m running NCE power.
Also, I have a capacitive discharger for the snap machines. Will that be usable with any of the DCC decoders?
looking for discussion.
I've tried these, and I decided I prefer a control panel with buttons. The extra work involved to remember and enter the turnout address, possibly losing control of your train, is not worth it to me.
If nothing else, get a DCC module that allows you to wire buttons in parallel.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Pesonally I use DS64's but I have Digitrax DCC. IIRC, you will need a Digitrax throttle or at minimum Decoderpro to program a DS64 for routes. I would definitely use a controller that does routes and allows for external button control of those switches. I have also found that actually remembering the switch addresses and using a throttle to control them is cumbersome. The buttons are much easier.
Martin Myers
DS64 and Jack Wabbit have a CD supply integrated in, there's no need for an external one.
What you might want to do is get an NCE SNap-It and try controolling OONE turnout fromt eh throottle to see how you like it. I suspect yooou'll grow tired of switching between train running and accessory mode, then back again, over and over, and want simple buttons on the fascia to control the turnoouts.
Or at least some method of having both, which the DS64 and jack Wabbit support, so you can have local buttons OR control through DCC, which is more commonly in the form of a dispatcher panel in JMRI or some other automation software.
I've found changing modes on the throttle is a pain, regardless of the brand of DCC system.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
I use NCE Q Snap and Snap It for switch control. Both can work with pushbuttons.
And like others here have said, I also recommend using pushbuttons.