I'm new at this DCC thing so bear with me. I will apologize in advance if this has been tackled before. (If so, can you hotlink me to the thread? Thanks)
I'd like to convert my HO layout to DCC eventually. I like the option that DCC offers in that it's 100% (vs DC) power all the time to the rails, no block wiring to run multiple trains, etc.
Here's what I'd require.
Wireless hanheld throttles for ease of operator movement.
Layout is 2 4X8 in a L shape
I'd like to run at least 2 trains at one time on it.
I like the option of a conventional dial for a throttle.
OH and the lowest price for reputation.
I've looked into Digitrax Zepher but I don't like the idea of being tied to a non-moving throttle. I thought about MRC...but not sure how they rate.
Thanks!
Modeling the N&W freelanced at the height of their steam era in HO.
Daniel G.
You can add wireless throttles to the Zephyr. Or start with a different system, like the Radio Super Empire Builder.
Biggest problem I have with MRC is lack of detailed information (sure, the BASIC instructions are printed on the back of the throttle - you know, the others could do that too) but what about when you get beyond just the basics? And even more so - of all the major brands of DCC systems you can buy, worldwide, MRC is the ONLY one that doesn;t work with JMRI (or RR&CO). Why is this important? JMRI is free softweare that makes decoder programming easy, just checkboxes and drop down menus, no knowing any CV numbers. It also provides for computer operation, either automated or via a virtual dispatcher panel.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Take a look at the NCE power cab. I don't believe it can have radio throttles but otherwise it fits your driteria. Radio throttles hardly seem necessary on your size layout but it's your railroad.
Two 4 X 8's in an L shape is perfect for walk around throttles. I would recommend the Digitrax Super Empire Builder Radio system. The Dt series throttles have a speed indicator on the throttle and you can run two trains, one on each control knob. Five amps of power but you should use after market circuit breakers to lower the current protection to prevent a meltdown incase of a derailment where the command station does not trip its circuit breaker.
Thanks everyone.
I had leaned towards Digitrax originally. This gives me some good options for ideas. Thanks again.
Jumping into wireless right away is a pricey endevour. Only the higher end models of NCE and Digitrax offer it.No matter which system you choose, you can always upgrade them later to be wireless when the budget allows.
BTW: I personally owned or operated NCE, Digitrax, and Lenz.
Don - Specializing in layout DC->DCC conversions
Modeling C&O transition era and steel industries There's Nothing Like Big Steam!
Your best bet is the Digitrax Zephyr with a corded UT4 handheld throttle. That will run two trains for you. Add another throttle and run three trains. How many can you keep track of, before they crash or derail on a small layout.
Sounds like this is a good way to go. I didn't know the zephyr could be expanded to use hand helds. I've been doing some research but I'm slightly confused: I get how the cab bus goes into the front of the layout so you can plug your handheld into it to dial in the locomotive and get it going, but can it be unplugged and used to control the locomotive speed, etc without plugging it back in again?
Thanks
With the UT4 or DT400 throttles you can unplug and move to another plug in station but you can't change the settings of the loco while unplugged. To do that you will need a radio throttle. This will require a UR91 panel and either a UT4R or DT402R throttle or UR92 panel and either a UT4D or DT402D throttle. I have the UR91/DT400R setup and am very pleased with it.
Joe
In 2007, I bought the Digitrax Super Empire Builder Radio system with the DT400R. Later, over the next few years I have gotten two UT4R throttles and three UP5 panels. Yes, it cost a larger amount, but now I have it, and do not have to worry about future DCC cost. Cars and engines I can buy as needed.
Like any DCC system there is a learning curve, but even life itself is a learning curve.
As Joe stated "I have the UR91/DT400R setup and am very pleased with it." So am I.
Ken G Price My N-Scale Layout
Digitrax Super Empire Builder Radio System. South Valley Texas Railroad. SVTRR
N-Scale out west. 1996-1998 or so! UP, SP, Missouri Pacific, C&NW.
"Only the higher end models of NCE and Digitrax offer it."
Wireless can be added to the NCE power cab system by adding an RB02 radio base station
Brendan
Hi, I'm partial to Digitrax as that is what I run and can speak to.............
Your proposed layout is rather small. You would do well with the Zephyr, even though its a set throttle.
If you must have walk around - and money is a factor - forget radio control and buy the Empire Builder or Super Chief. The tethered throttles can be moved from outlet to outlet, and again, considering the size of your layout, it shouldn't be a problem at all.
I run an 11x15 full room layout with a lower level, and am extremely happy with the Super Chief and tethered throttles. A radio control unit for me is just not worth it. Now, if you have a very large layout, or one that has areas of difficult access, then I would surely consider the radio control option.
But lets get down to earth........ For the layout you are considering, I would definitely opt for the Zephyr. You will have lots of other stuff to spend money on, and the Zephyr will serve you well at this point.
ENJOY !
Mobilman44
Living in southeast Texas, formerly modeling the "postwar" Santa Fe and Illinois Central
About 3 years ago I got a MRC wireless Prodigy and got a 2nd throttle . All i want to do is run trains All my decoders are TCS T1's , as basic as it comes. Its ez to set the T1 decoders with the throttle so its all I want or need, So I suspect it depends on what you plan on doing. I know folks will say things about the MRC , and its true if you want to get real fancy , but for me , its great.
I would recommend Digitrax for DCC, its simple to use and works well! The instructions are pretty thorough too. Just keep in mind that if you buy the Zephyr, you need to set "blast mode" to program sound equipped locomotives. I also like how Digitrax systems have bright colors (red, white, black) so they don't look "dull" (plain black and white). Hope this helps!
-Khang Lu, University of Minnesota Railroad Club
If you have a spare computer and wifi available in the layout room, load it up with JMRI. A Sprog 3 and some used Android phones from eBay - install EngineDriver on each - and you've got the most affordable wireless DCC system there is. I've spent all of $160 and I've got full wireless DCC with 4 phones for "throttles." No cab bus wiring, no plug ins, just full wireless.
If you need more power, the Tam Valley boosters work great with the Sprog.
After operating at layouts with all the major brands - MRC, Digitrax, NCE and Lenz - I far prefer my setup. No figuring out which buttons control which sound. It's all labeled nicely there on the touchscreen. And the Sprog 3 has enough power to program anything. Hands down the best value in DCC.
No matter which system you choose, you'll love it compared to the old DC days! Enjoy!
Best of luck,
Scott