Bob D,
1. The Aristo Train Engineer cannot control two different locos without some sort of block system, but that does not need to be a bunch of switches on one fixed control panel.
2. Yes, but again, there is a way to make those blocks so you can asign them as you walk around with your train and a way to cut the number of blocks needed to 1/2 or 1/4 of the number normally thought to be needed without limiting operation.
3. Anyone who sells Aristo large scale trains can get it for you.
4. Aristo is about to release a newer TE. I will be one of those testing the new model. I will post info as soon as they are out.
5. Yes block control - BUT, I have tested the idea of putting a reciever on each block, it does not work well. Much better to use an Advanced Cab Control System. Contact me by private message and I can give you more info.
Or post a repley here and I can explain more here latter. Got to go for now.
Sheldon
submanNot wanting to hijack chazmanf s` post il`l start a new one with some questions about the Aristo-Craft (Crest) train engineer. I. Without any engine wiring modifications how do you control 2 or more engines ? Do you need a separate external receiver for each engine and how does the engine know what receiver to listen to? 2. Do you still set up your layouts with electrical blocks like cab control DC? 3.Where can you buy this system on line beside trainworld? I know MB Klein does not sell it. 4.What is the latest system that you can buy without any on board receivers? 5. Lastly say you have 2 receivers and 4 engines on the layout. What would stop the other 2 engines from running. I`m guessing the block control.
Not wanting to hijack chazmanf s` post il`l start a new one with some questions about the Aristo-Craft (Crest) train engineer.
I. Without any engine wiring modifications how do you control 2 or more engines ? Do you need a separate external receiver for each engine and how does the engine know what receiver to listen to?
2. Do you still set up your layouts with electrical blocks like cab control DC?
3.Where can you buy this system on line beside trainworld? I know MB Klein does not sell it.
4.What is the latest system that you can buy without any on board receivers?
5. Lastly say you have 2 receivers and 4 engines on the layout. What would stop the other 2 engines from running. I`m guessing the block control.
As far as I know, There are two versions of the Train Engineer.. One requires adding a receiver to each engine via an eight pin DCC plug. I think there can be up to 100 different radio ID's controlled by a transmitter. it appears to be the Crest system which I've heard about but never actually seen in operation.
The second version that I've actually used and helped hook up, requires a block system. Instead of toggles, a receiver is connected to each block. You need a receiver for each block. The instructions that I read also required a power supply for each receiver. Not sure if that is still the case. Each receiver can be set to one of ten frequencies and each frequency can have one of ten channels. So you can have up to 100 blocks controlled by 100 receivers.
The hand held transmitter can select any of the frequencies and each of the channels. Doing so is how you move around a layout through each block with wireless control. So instead of programming CV's with DCC you just need to remember frequency/ channel ID's. One transmitter is required for each operator. The system has memory so that one train can be left in motion while you switch to another channel to operate another train.
From what I've seen, Aristos are as expensive as DCC systems so don't expect to get off cheaper. There is an easier learning curve as most of the technology is installed permanently on the layout. Once installed, it just works.
Martin Myers
Bob D As long as you surface as many times as you dive you`ll be alive to read these posts.