Can someone recommend a system of straight DC walkaround, which utilizes more sound. I have alot of newer engines with sound, such as Intermountain, Paragon, Ath Genesis, and Proto 2000. Switching to DCC is not an option due to the size of the layout. Someone said the MRC Tech 6 can be used. Any suggestions. Thanks.
PRIO Can someone recommend a system of straight DC walkaround, which utilizes more sound. I have alot of newer engines with sound, such as Intermountain, Paragon, Ath Genesis, and Proto 2000. Switching to DCC is not an option due to the size of the layout. Someone said the MRC Tech 6 can be used. Any suggestions. Thanks.
Why is size a problem?
Joe
I was told that I have to put a large buss wire around the entire layout and jumpers every 3 ft of rail for the entire layout and that would be a huge project for my size of a layout. I have a few jumpers now with no problem running 3-5 engines in tandem with straight DC, but was told from some DCC modelers that it would not work without redoing my complete electrical. I am confused. I only mainline with a few small yards, but I have alot of newer engines with sound. I sold all my old engines just to hear the engines go by.
Gotta agree with the other replies.
I have a 25' x 42' DCC-powered layout with a single pair of 14 gauge bus wires and feeders every 8 feet or so.
Some guys suggest feeders every 3 week, but IMHO that is overkill.
I'll bet that DCC would be simple to install and operate on your layout without a lot of modifications.
As David B. suggests, try it, you'll like it.
Rich
Alton Junction
We've got almost 300 feet of mainline and don't use a bus with our Digitrax. No problems, but we do solder key joints and jumper many turnouts all of which was done when it was DC--for better reliability,etc. We also have the DCC running through our legacy block system, so not all of the 300 feet is carrying all of the signal. Running through the block system also helps avoid shorting problems/correct shorting problems.
Richard
Changing a properly wired, operating DC block controlled layout to DCC is a simple matter of connecting the DCC system's track output to the wires that are presently connected to the DC controller's power output.