I greatly appreciate all the responses. I believe I now have an idea how to proceed. The QSI programmer sounds tempting as I also want to be able to use the computer to easily program, but that would only be limited to QSI decoders. Based on the responses and the cost, the ROCO system has now become really attractive.
Thank you all again, cheers.
-Vefanuri
I own a Roco multimouse system from a starter set.It is made from Lenz company and the CVs range is "0" to "255".
One disadvantage is that you can't read the CVs from your decoder, you must remember or wrote down to a paper what changes you have made to them.
I have a Lenz system. For my QSI-equipped BLI engine, I need to use the POM (Program-On-Main) capability rather than programming the engine on the programming track, but other than that it works fine. This decoder takes more power to program than is provided on a programming track.
FYI, one of the reasons for low-power programming tracks is to let you test a decoder without applying full power to it. It should be the first stop on your layout when you install a decoder in a locomotive. For most decoders, if you can't at least read and write the address on the programming track, that's a sign that something is wrong with your wiring, and you shouldn't put it on the main yet. If you ignore this advice, you may "make toast" with that decoder.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Vefanuri,
I own several BLI locos, and I began in DCC with the previous Roco Lokmaus2 system.
No problem whatsoever (as the Roco systems are DCC compliant), apart from the fact that the LM2 could not program values above 99.
This problem has disappeared with the new multiMAUS, which is really a very nice entry system. The only limitation comes from the amplifier (old design), which can not read CV values. It is not a problem with QSI verbal readout feature.
Apart from this, this is (here in Europe) the best choice for a first DCC system : affordable, and really powerful. You can download the manual here : http://www.modelleisenbahn.at/media/pdf/pdf1169.pdf
You can even download a simulator.
Be aware that the multiMAUS software has been recently updated (to take into acount functions F13 to F20, mainly), and that you need the Roco 10785 computer interface to update it. Or chack when you buy it that it has the new software (V 1.02). See the Roco website for more information. <http://www.roco.cc>
The big question that needs to be answered is, what range of CVs can the Roco DCC system program? QSI decoders require a system that can program CVs into the 200+ range, and some systems require a programming booster in order to program QSI decoders.
Try to find documentation to the Roco system and see what its programming range is before you buy it. Some Roco systems were not compatible with U.S. DCC standards; and I don't think Lenz made the Roco system. Roco is an Austrian company and Lenz is based in Giessen, Germany.
I dont think so.
QSI is a pretty specific set of language if you will.
Instead of saying "Nope, nada, sorry no-way etc.. I offer you the QSI programmer that is becoming availible to program your engines. It needs a peice of track to set your engine on and a Computer such as a PC to run the program. You will probably be able to adjust some values and configure others with this device pretty well.
I use a Digitrax Super Chief which is not cheap and a list of CV's for a particular engine. I have about 12 QSI equippted engines in my fleet. And am considering the QSI Programmer along with the ESU for the loksound unit.
One disadvantage to having a Home PC programming of your engines is that should they malfunction while on someone else's railroad or in a club etc.. you really dont have access to your PC. A laptop might do it but need to be careful how you equipt it because there are specific things a computer needs to be able to communicate to the engine via the Software that comes with the programmer.
Finally, I offer that you already indicated your learning of the limitations of the previous system and have a pretty good idea of what you want to do, I can only encourage you and say it's time to move on up. You could sell your basic set for a discount to someone else just starting out and use the seed money from the sale to help finance the new programmer.\
Bottom line, I dont think European systems will work with programming of USA systems. QSI is pretty propietary. To me, it is the best thing to have since sliced bread in this hobby.
A one time expense on a basic set might do good but sometimes it's better to endure the higher cost of a premium system that can do all the things and then some one time.
It goes without saying, trying to save money or cheapen the path to full functionality is not the way to go.
Dear Model Railroaders,
I have recently purchased a Broadway Limited Imports EMD F7 (A&B). I enjoy these locos quite a lot, with their sound and smooth operation. As you know, the QSI stuff works on both DC and DCC. Since I am a beginner, I did not want to invest much in DCC and opted for the cheap Bachmann E-Z Command. It too is fun and easy to operate but has limitations. For example you cannot access and program CVs. I want to change some throttling functions (delayed acceleration and decleration, which exist in DC, but need programming in DCC).
Here comes the question. Being the person who is always looking for a good deal, I found this ROCO digital starter set with the new ROCO MultiMouse Digital Controller + a diesel loco + few wagons + a crane + tracks (ROCO 51231). Do you think I could also program my BLI locos with the ROCO digital controller? I believe ROCO DCC uses Lenz inside. Are QSI and Lenz compatible?
The digital starter set is really affordable. If I can get the ROCO Multimaus program my BLI locos, it would be the ultimate case.
Looking forward to your comments.
Thank you,
-Vefa