new to DCC. Is Power cab 2 amps

[Chitty Chitty]

Okay so that was then and this is now. So for the novice wanting to explore my dcc equipped locos.

There is a 2 amp expandable power cab for sale for 144.00. Apparently this is all I need to begin the transition from analog right? Then there is the 5 amp booster that can be added. But the 5 amp booster does not have a power supply. Does the power com e from the original 2 amp power I will purchase when I get the Power cab?  Will I even need the booster? Please keep in mind I am on a budget  but I need to get my diesel sound fix coming from my locos. My layout is The Great Eastern Trunk w/ turntable. Thanks for your input. Chitty

[gandydancer19]

The NCE Power Cab DCC set puts out 2 amps as is.  That will run about four sound locos all at the same time. (As a rule of thumb, each sound loco draws about one half amp when pulling a train.)

And yes, that is all you need to begin the transition from analog.  However, no DCC systems have the AUX outputs that are found on most DC power packs that run the turnouts and layout lights etc.  So if you are using the AUX outputs of your DC power pack, just keep them connected as is.  Just switch the track wires from your power pack to the Power Cab track output connections.

The 5 amp booster would need it's own power supply, and if you only have a small 4x8 layout or so, and just a few DCC sound locomotives, you shouldn't need the extra booster.

[tstage]

Chitty,

Here's the answers to your questions about the NCE Power Cab:

• It comes with the following and is everything you need to get going:
  
  • (1) Power Cab throttle - A command station, booster, and throttle all rolled up into one
  • (1) 7' RJ-12 power cable - 6-contact cord for use with Power Cab
  • (1) 4' Coily cord - 4-contact cord for use with an extra throttle
  • (1) PCP panel - This is what the Power Cab plugs into
  • (1) Wall transformer - This supplies power to the Power Cab

• It has a total output of 1.7A
• MSRP is $199.95/$155.95 discount so $144 would be a very good price - Be sure to ask if it has the newer upgrade chip (V1.28C vs. V1.11)
• The Smart Booster (SB3a) needs its own wall transformer (e.g. Magna Force MF615 or NCE P515 5A transformer) - Cost for the SB3a: $159.95 MSRP/$127.95 discounted.
• No, you don't need the SB3a in order to use and enjoy your Power Cab - It can be added later if you ever want or need it

Chitty, if you click on the link at the bottom of my post, it will take you to my web site.  Click on the Review link on the left side of the page.  There's an initial review of the Power Cab, CAB-04p throttle, and the older and newer Smart Boosters (SB3 and SB3a) that should answer some or most of your questions.

Hope that helps...

Tom