do you DC or do you DCC ???

[der5997]

Why am I planniing to go to DCC? I don't have an unlimeited budget either, but I have only a few locomotives, having changed from HO to N. So I don't need a whole bunch of decoders initially.
I have many hand thrown turnouts, so am not planning to run the layout by computer. I do want to be able to better match locomotives when they are in consists. I do want to be able to run one onto another when I consist. I don't like having to think about block toggles and turnouts at the same time. [:0] I do want to be able to do some animation such as wrecking cranes or hoists etc. The reverse loops I have are presently hand thrown, I may figure a way to power them from the front of the layout and then put in reversing decoders. (or whatever the correct name for those might be)
[:)] As time goes by, I may add a loco or two. Then the additional industrial switching layouts that are planned as part of the larger scheme can be operated by other people, or I can do it while the mainline is runniing "on its own". Could this be done without DCC, undoubtedly. Would I find it fun? I didn't in HO, so I don't expect to in N.
Am I confused as to which system to go to in DCC? You betcha. [:D]

[Anonymous]

I am using DDC. at the present time I have 4 X 6 layout with a double track main line with crossover turn outs. The are two spur track. I can run trains much more easily .I have ideas for a larger layout in the near future.

John

[aluesch]

QUOTE: Originally posted by ccetjstew




What I really want is more info on running my train (S) using my laptop. No other method seems right for me. I can't seem to find any really detailed info anywhere.
Can anyone who uses their PC to run trains set me straight on A/D converters, interfaces, detectors and anything else needed. The PC seems like the only way to go for a lone wolf if you want to simulate many trains but stay under control.

You may find that switching to DCC may still be the best way to go. If computer control is one of your main criteria's, check in to Zimo/STP.
It provides exactly what you want and has many advantages over other PC controls.

Art
www.mrsonline.net

[electromotive]

The only way to go. I switched to DCC in 96. Digitrax...
System still runs great..
No more switches!! Very little trouble...

prices on decoders just keep coming down, GREAT

[bruce22]

like everything in life it's a compromise. You budget for what you want and need. It's a cop-out when you say you can't afford to go to dcc. I have , like everyone else, on a limited budget changed to dcc. It's some effort to do the changeover at first but the end results are certanly worth it. As my very with it son and daughter say " get with it dad " Dcc is the wave of the future, either you get on it or get off !

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by patrick63

My big question upon returning to the hobby was DC or DCC. My first move was to invest is a book about DCC. I strongly suggest this to others interested in DCC. I purchased Model Railroader's DCC Made Easy and read it before doing anything else. In my opinion, this book is an excellent source for the DCC beginner. It covered all of my DCC questions.

Where can one locate this book? I searched Amazon and found nothing like it. I have many of the same questions you raised and like you began in this hobby years ago, have taken a decades long break, and am now looking to get my layout back up and running again. I am trying to decide between DC and DCC and in order to do that I need to learn the differences and the pro's and Con's of each.

[jrbarney]

Glupii,
You should be able to find DCC Made Easy at your local hobby shop if it is adequately stocked. If not, you can buy it directly from MR's parent, Kalmbach Publishing Co. for, I think, $ 12.95. Possibly you'll find a used copy at <http://www.alibris.com>.
Bob

[Anonymous]

DC is old fashioned.
DCC is new, the wave of the future....
NOT!
Thanks to the well meaning folks at NMRA we have at our disposal a pile of crude, simplistic, ancient technology hopelessly overpriced, hopelessly limited.

If you want computer control the obvious place to put the computer is in the train. With todays technology an embedded system with it's own IP address responding to unlimited number of commands and providing unlimited sensor data can be scratch built for less than the price of a decent premade DCC receiver.

DCC was the wave of the future, a long time ago. Today it's just pathetic, sort of like a VIC20.

DC is still old fashioned, sort of like a steam engine.

[der5997]

Tony: I though DCC decoders were little computers on the train. Would you explain more what you are getting at when you write "DCC was the wave of the future, a long time ago. Today it's just pathetic, sort of like a VIC20."
I "ve built some electronic circuits, but don't reli***h ethought of trying to build anything as small as a decoder, or the computer on the train you are suggesting. [:)]

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: I've built some electronic circuits, but don't reli***he thought of trying to build anything as small as a decoder, or the computer on the train you are suggesting. [:)]

Hello there,

The wow factor disappeared from DCC many years ago. You can get simple embedded systems for Lego that make DCC decoders look lame. The 6-7 year old Cricket is about the size of a 9v battery and would control 2 motors and relay from 2 sensors communicating through infrared. Of course scratch built systems would do more and cost way less and circuits for this stuff abound on the internet. Google embedded computer systems and check some of the 2 million plus hits.

[eastcoast]

I am quite happy with my DC. I run a 12x14 shelf around the room and have 3 tech2 2500 and 1 spectrum 1000 and have no problem with all the switching I do. I run passenger trains , a Bachman ACELA is my prize, and DCC is not in my future, and most of my equipment can't handle it.