Do any of you use the Z scale decoders in your HO engines? According to the Digitrax website you can put a micro z scale decoder (DZ143) in an Atlas RS3. I would be worried about heat in these micro decoders.The current rating is the same as an HO decoder.
Bob D As long as you surface as many times as you dive you`ll be alive to read these posts.
subman...The current rating is the same as an HO decoder.
If so, why worry about heat?! The designers must feel pretty good about their engineering if they boast that it can take the power draws for a typical HO application. I'd use it with confidence, and let their warranty do their talking for them.
-Crandell
Yes. My first Broadway Limited Heavy Mike came with a DZ123 recommended by Bob Gruba. Runs like a champ and is perfectly compatible with the Blueline sound system. No complaints, and no heating issues after a year.
Should not be a problem. The key factor is the current rating of the decoder. If it can handle what your loco draws, it will be fine.
However, being the cheapskate that I am, I see no reason to buy a more expensive Z scale decoder when there is room for a much less expensive HO size one. All things equal (function outputs, BEMF, etc), a Z scale decoder is goign to be significantly more expensive than an HO size one.
Of course I almost always buy wired in decoders instead of board replacement types because the 'specialty' ones always cost more too. A little soldering never hurt anyone.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
SInce when? The DZ125 is at least $5 more. Although BEMF makes it worth it. Finally Digitrax is bringing their decoder prices in line with others - the Z scale decoders used to be $35.