Electronics and DCC

Okay I am just getting started and have a Bachmann Digital Commander set as well as some other DCC locos and switchers.  Here is my question, does anyone have a particular setup (ie. DIGITRAXX, MRC, BACHMANN, etc) that they prefer?  I am going to have a 20 ft X 30 ft approx layout with about 8 to 10 locos running. Also, I know that the Bachmann set says to get the 5 amp power booster, what would I need if going with one of the other setups and can you use a DIGITRAXX decoder on a BACHMANN layout, are they interchangable?  I hope thats not too many questions at once but I am a newbiee at this.

Thank you in advance for all the help.

All DCC decoders are compatable with all DCC systems.  So, you can run any manufacturer's decoders with your Bachmann system.  This includes standard locomotive decoders, sound decoders and even "stationary" decoders used to run turnouts.  You do not have to run your turnouts with DCC, by the way.  It's an option, but not a requirement.  I still use panel-mounted toggles for my turnouts.

This applies to anything that goes on the track.  Things which connect to the DCC system, on the other hand, are generally proprietary and can not be used interchangeably.  So, you can't plug a Digitrax throttle into an NCE base station, or vice versa.

I bought a Lenz system four years ago, and I'm very happy with it.  At the time, it was one of the few out-of-the-box units that ran with 5 amps.  Since I've got big hands, I like the throttle with big buttons, as opposed to the cell-phone sized buttons on many other throttles.  Of course, big buttons means fewer buttons, but I can live with that.  My throttles are tethered (wired) so I've installed a "control bus" around the perimeter of my layout, and I can plug in anywhere.  Wireless throttles are gaining in popularity these days, so that might be another consideration for you.

Oh, and welcome aboard!

TazmanianDevils:

does anyone have a particular setup (ie. DIGITRAXX, MRC, BACHMANN, etc) that they prefer?

I do not understand that question?  What do you mean by "setup".  Do you mean which vendors DCC system to we prefer?  If so there is thread after thread of "Which DCC system is best", "which DCC system to choose", etc.  Just look back a few pages or use the search to find them. It is probably the most over-asked question on the forum.

Also, I know that the Bachmann set says to get the 5 amp power booster, what would I need if going with one of the other setups

5 amp is kind of a default.  The Digitrax Zephyr comes with a 2.5 amp.  Some vendors offer 8 and even 10 amp power supplies.   The idea is to match the power supply output with the need.  I personally prefer two smaller power supplies (two 5 amp. rather than one 10 amp.), that of course requires the basic DCC controller and a booster unit.

can you use a DIGITRAXX decoder on a BACHMANN layout, are they interchangable?

Yes, that is the whole point of standardization.

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/151705.aspx 

First welcome to the site!

All so welcome to the world of "I don't want to make a mistake"! It can drive you nuts, it did me for 2 years.

 

TazmanianDevils:

Bachmann Digital Commander

I am guessing you have a Bachmann E-Z command, am I right? If I am right, you have a good starting point. I have just retired my E-Z after 3 years and still think it is one of the best ways to get started. With out a booster I could run 3 sound engines. With a booster, well ran 6 engines and that was all I could keep track of. Still had power for more.

TazmanianDevils:

 I am going to have a 20 ft X 30 ft approx layout with about 8 to 10 locos running.

 That is a big layout, but with the booster your E-Z can do it.

 One of the reasons I am such a big fan of the E-Z command, IT IS EASY! I like easy. You will be learning a lot as you build your bench. So, keep the DCC Easy till you get the other stuff under control.

 One of the draw backs to the E-Z is you cannot read or change CV's. Digitrax make a computer interfaces called a PR 3 that will let you change and read CV's like a pro. I got mine for $59.99.

 Reason I changed, I want a walk around throttle and was not ready to spend another $100.00 on the Bachmann E-Z.  I did go with a Digitrax Super Empire Builder and a Digitrax PR 3. I have around $400.00 with cables and plug in ports.

           Cuda Ken

You do want to be able to program and read back CV's...if not now, eventually you will need to. Plus you'll want a system that has the ability to expand, so you can add a power booster or a wireless throttle down the road.

Other than that, it's like asking which car is better, a Chevy,  Ford, Honda etc. ?? We each have our preferences based on what we have and what we like. Right now MRC, Digitrax, Lenz, NCE and others all make good products with different options.

Welcome to DCC model railroading. Like my good friend Cudaken I too started with Bachmann EZ Command a little over 4 years and still using it. My layout is relatively the same as yours in square feet. It's 16' X 10', but with a 2 line subway under it. I use the Bachmann 5 amp booster with no problems and can run 6 main lines, but normally only run 2-3 at a time.

After Ken introduced me to the Digitrax PR3 prgrammer and downloading and learning the JRMI program, I now realize what I've been missing with adjusting CV's and the simplicity, LOL sort of like the EZ Commmand in ease of use. I will step up sooner or later to one of the Digitrax systems. Like has been said you are limited with EZ Command but it's good to learn DCC on and very simple. Nothing ever went wrong with my unit or additions I put on it. Have fun and enjoy the hobby! Jim

 Jim, did you get the PM I sent Sunday?

                     Ken

Thanks to all the input, I have the EZ Command and will use it for now but rather that spend the expense on a 5 amp booster upgrade I would rather buy a better more flexible system. I am looking at Digitraxx right now as it seems to be the most popular and most flexible.  I do understand that everyone has their own preferences and that was why I asked the question.  I got a lot of opinions that helped guide my choice. 

Again I would like to thank you all.  Its nice to have a place to ask and get the help you need.