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another (specific) dcc question...
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Ok, question you need to ask: <br /> <br />How many locomotives are you wanting to run at once? (4 from above) <br />Are there lighted cars on the track (Passenger cars, ect)? <br /> <br />these two here will help us determine if a 2.5 amp zepher is what you need (I assume from your post you've already decided on it). Somone posted earlier a similar question on the atlas DCC forum, he wants to run 3 consists of 3 loco's each and wanted to use the zepher as well. but unfortunatly he would be constantly tripping the breaker as he would be over the 2.5 amp limit. <br /> <br />You say 3-4 loco's, well those alone bring you to at or near 2 amps, any more or any lighted cars and your over. if you want better expandability, you'll need to start with a 5 amp system. you coulds still use the Zepher by adding a couple of boosters and blocking the track (but them you've just paid more than just getting a 5 amp in the first place). <br /> <br />Also remember that any crossover's between track sections need to be checked for polarity, if there's a change, you'll need a reversing module there as well. So you need at least 2 reversing modules, maybe more for crossovers, a starter set and 3-4 decoders. <br /> <br />You could get a Lenz 90 for a little more than a Zepher, giving you 5 amps, a stronger warrenty, free upgrades (software) and 2 coupons for decoders. <br /> <br />Zepher is $199 with power supply <br />Lenz 90 is $290 witout power supply, add $35 for powersupply <br /> <br />4 decoders is roughly $120 ($30 each, there's cheaper and more expensive ones) <br /> <br />so Zepher + 4 decoders is $319 <br />Lenz 90 + power supply + 2 decoders( 2 others via the coupons) is 385 <br /> <br />Note: Prices are MSRP, you can aquire cheaper values at certain sites <br /> <br />So for $66 you get 2.5 amps more, a 10 year vs 1 year warrenty, and free software upgrades. there's other differences, but that should be enough to give you some thought. <br /> <br />the reversing modules are additional costs to that above. Digitrax reverser is listed at $30, Lenz's is listed at $57, again difference is Lenz is software upgradeable, Digitrax isn't. <br /> <br />Jay. <br />
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