DCC questions

[Anonymous]

1. Can sound only be used with DCC?
2. Can two diffrent brand locos run on the same DCC system?
3. How are the decoder chips installed?
4. Can the decoder chips be installed in any loco?
5. Do you need a computer to run it?

[Anonymous]

1. Sound can be used without DCC, BLI does it, but I've no idea how.
2. Yes.
3. DCC ready locomotives will have a decoder socket in them. So all you'll need to do is put one in. Locos that aren't DCC ready will have to be modified.
4. Yes, as long as they have a decoder socket or if you modify it to be DCC ready.
5. If you want your system to really advanced, you could use a computer. But if you have a smaller layout, no, you don't need a computer.

[CP5170]

To answer a couple of your questions:

3. When you purchase the decoder, there are installation instructions with it. I have installed decoders in older engines and it is not that difficult if you follow the instructions.

4. A decoder can be installed in almost all engines. I have installed them in both steam and diesel. I say almost because I don't know of any engine that cannot be DCC equiped but there may be some.

5. You do not need a computer to run your layout nor to install the decoders. However, there is some freeware that is available that makes programming the decoders very easy because it is explained in plain language. Usually, the instructions talk about CVs which are Control Variables. Once you get the hang of it, it's not that difficult.

I would encourage you to try decoder installations yourself or with someone who has done it so that they can guide you.

DCC is a wonderful improvement.

Hope this helps...Ken

[Anonymous]

thanks guys. I now know what to expect when installing DCC on my new layout