Well, some of you all have nurtured me through the decision to go to DCC, what manufacturer to go with, and what specifically would work for my situation. With your help, and the good folks on the Yahoo Digitrax forum, I placed the initial order from Caboose Hobbies.
So, forthcoming is the 5 Amp SuperChief starter set, a 5 amp power supply, and a DCC Specialties PSX4 power manager. Even though the new layout has not yet been built (in the middle of demo of the existing one), getting the first part of the system will allow me to get familiar with its workings, ready access to the manual, and the ability to program locos on a test track before the layout is up and running. I initially was going to get the Digitrax PM42 power manager, but was advised to go with the PSX4 as it was more modern technology and was worth the extra money.
I say this is the initial order, as the completed system will need the Empire Builder to get that second 5 amp booster, and DT400 throttle, etc. And also, a second PSX4 will be included.
Anyway, I'm glad I finally placed the order, and I want to thank you all for your comments and advice.
Now all I need are about 50 decoders....................
ENJOY,
Mobilman44
ENJOY !
Living in southeast Texas, formerly modeling the "postwar" Santa Fe and Illinois Central
mobilman44 Well, some of you all have nurtured me through the decision to go to DCC, what manufacturer to go with, and what specifically would work for my situation. With your help, and the good folks on the Yahoo Digitrax forum, I placed the initial order from Caboose Hobbies. So, forthcoming is the 5 Amp SuperChief starter set, a 5 amp power supply, and a DCC Specialties PSX4 power manager. Even though the new layout has not yet been built (in the middle of demo of the existing one), getting the first part of the system will allow me to get familiar with its workings, ready access to the manual, and the ability to program locos on a test track before the layout is up and running. I initially was going to get the Digitrax PM42 power manager, but was advised to go with the PSX4 as it was more modern technology and was worth the extra money. I say this is the initial order, as the completed system will need the Empire Builder to get that second 5 amp booster, and DT400 throttle, etc. And also, a second PSX4 will be included. Anyway, I'm glad I finally placed the order, and I want to thank you all for your comments and advice. Now all I need are about 50 decoders.................... ENJOY, Mobilman44
Congratulations. I am sure you'll enjoy your purchase. Likewise I am sure they'll be some challenges. You've got plenty of us here to help so don't hesitate to ask. You can get the Superchief manual on-line . It is still current.
Engineer Jeff NS Nut Visit my layout at: http://www.thebinks.com/trains/
It was a very big step, I am sure. Three months from now you'll wonder why you waited so long. Although I sincerely respect those who continue to use, and enjoy, DC operations, I could not willingly go back. I have perhaps become spoiled with what the technology can do for me. You will quickly become a big fan of DCC, and very likely of Digitrax's way of offering it. It will be sure to present some trials here and there. I recall a couple of late nights being baffled about something, but I forget now what the problem was. In the end I won....or maybe Digitrax did.
-Crandell
Noticed you did from your post on the Yahoo group. Echo the rest, you're going to soon be wondering why you even debated doing this.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Good luck Mobileman , Get a few decoders at a time & before You know it You'll be completely "converted" . Now, where to stash that big box of toggle swithes .