DC To DCC

[Anonymous]

I'm in the process of converting my layout from
DC to DCC and having a little trouble with all
the rats nest of wires underneath. I have a reverse loop, a turntable, blocks, stall tracks.
Do I need to re-wire the whole layout or what?
I'm trying to eliminate as much wiring as posible.
Which wires I need and which ones I don't. On my
layout I have Atlas Selectors and two MRC power
packs. Do I need both power packs or just one?
I'm planning on running three locos on this layout
thats why I have blocks.I need to get my layout
up and running. Any information on this problem
would be greatly appreciated.

[Anonymous]

I think its pretty easy!
1.Run a 12 gauge or close to it set of wires all the way around the layout.These are your main feeds!
2.connect all your block wiring to that.
3.the reverse loop....MRC and a few others make autoreversers(is that a word?)Use one of those.
Turntable leave it as it is
and that is the basics of it
from my knowledge.

Hope that helps

[Anonymous]

Lindsay,

The advantage of DCC is that the 'rats nest' of wiring is greatly reduced. You don't need blocks. Unless your layout is an MR centrefold, you can wire all the track (less the reversing loop) to the same circuit, that is, one big fat block. Then connect the DCC output to that block and Bob's your uncle.

If your layout ran well under block control, an alternative would be to connect the DCC output where one of your existing power packs is connected and switch all blocks to that source. If your layout is not double insulated you should completely disconnect the other cab's power pack.

The reversing loop poses a separate, but not insurmoutable, challenge. Under block control you used a reverse-loop switch to change the polarity of the loop when a loco was inside: you can use the same switch with DCC. But electronic gizmos are available that do the switching for you automatically. Look to your DCC manufacturer or Loy's Toys.

Lots of wiring advice is available on the web - I personally found Allan Gartner's information very helpfull,
http://www.wiringfordcc.com/

Good luck,
Dwayne A.

[greendiamond]

Greetings:

As a DCC dealer in your area. I do layout consulting,installs, etc. I carry Digitrax, Lenz, Atlas, NCE and Soundtraxx. Let me know if I can be of any assistance. Fax me a track plan at 708-343-8927 and I can see what I can do for you. NO CHARGE!

I'll be at the main building at the Wheaton Train show this SUnday from 10am to 4pm.

LOOK FOR OUR BANNER --- GREEN DIAMOND HOBBIES.

You can also send me a direct email for more assistance.

Mike Tyl
[e-mail]