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Atlas C 420 decoder recommendations

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  • Member since
    July 2003
  • From: Sierra Vista, Arizona
  • 13,757 posts
Posted by cacole on Monday, August 1, 2011 7:29 AM

modelmaker51

I use the NCE D13SR/J (the J has an 8-pin plug)

One minor correction to your statement -- the J (for JST) is a 9-pin header on the decoder, not 8.

The D13SRJ decoders are even cheaper if you purchase the 10 pack from Empire Northern Models in Webster, New York.

  • Member since
    August 2005
  • From: S.E. Adirondacks, NY
  • 3,246 posts
Posted by modelmaker51 on Monday, August 1, 2011 5:02 AM

I use the NCE D13SR/J (the J has an 8-pin plug) for $15 each. You can buy them in multi-packs. Also has very smooth slow speed control (w/Torque Compensation) and 4 programable lighting funtions. Very reliable.

Jay 

C-415 Build: https://imageshack.com/a/tShC/1 

Other builds: https://imageshack.com/my/albums 

  • Member since
    April 2004
  • From: Ontario Canada
  • 3,574 posts
Posted by Mark R. on Monday, August 1, 2011 2:00 AM

For years, I've always used TCS decoders for my non-sound installations. Then I discovered ESU's Lok-Pilot decoder. ESU's decoders have been touted for years as having the best motor control of any decoder .... and I'm a believer. I've never experienced any other decoder that has as smooth a contol as these. Even in 14 and 28 steps, the transition between steps is silky smooth with no noticeable jump in speed at at. Starts and stops are as smooth as it gets.

I highly recommend trying one - if for nothing else, just as a comparison .... you'll be back for more !

Mark.

¡ uʍop ǝpısdn sı ǝɹnʇɐuƃıs ʎɯ 'dlǝɥ

  • Member since
    May 2006
  • From: Brisbane, Australia
  • 784 posts
Posted by mikelhh on Monday, August 1, 2011 1:35 AM

For my Atlas C424 I used the Digitrax DH165 IP

Runs like a charm and the decoder was dead easy to fit.  I like the switching speed function too, toggled by pressing the F6 button, which greatly reduces acceleration and top speed.  Using NCE Power Cab.

 I have noticed a slight tendency for the loco to seem to be running on speed step 1 even though the display reads zero. Another press of the speed decrease button fixes it.

 

Mike

Modelling the UK in 00, and New England - MEC, B&M, D&H and Guilford - in H0

  • Member since
    July 2007
  • 29 posts
Atlas C 420 decoder recommendations
Posted by citroen15 on Sunday, July 31, 2011 10:40 PM

Looking for advice / experince on what basic ( no sound) decoder is recommended.  I have the Silver series that is apparentlt DCC ready. thanks, jake

Tags: Atlas , Decoders

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