What is the spec for DCC cables? I like to order from mono-price, great cables at a low price. If I order 6 wire, straight-through data cables with RJ11 or RJ12 plugs, would they be considered "DCC data cables"? I'm in process of ordering a Berrett Hill servo system for turnout control. This cable would be connected between the control base and the set-up remote.
Since no one has answered this I think you will be fine but you might want to order just one initiallly to be sure
since you mention RJ12, you must mean the cable between the controller and UTP fascia panel.
for NCE these are cabbus and only need 4 conductors, the 2 outmost conductors are used by the PowerCab to supply DCC track power and are only needed by the single PowerCab.
the RJ11 connectors for NCE cables shouldn't be crossed, they should be wired pin1 to pin1 since 2 of the pins carry power
my PowerCab came with a 6 conductor cable to use it standalone and a coiled 4 conductor cable to use it as a ProCab on a larger layout.
i'm not so sure about DigiTrax Loconet, but i think it's similar, that only 4 conductor cables. i think the railsync signals are only needed between command stations and boosters. obviously get a 6 conductor / RJ12 non-crossed cable to be sure
greg - Philadelphia & Reading / Reading
6 wire cable (6p6c) using RJ12 connectors is considered DCC data cable.
If you need a lot of cables, with the right tools it may be cheaper to make your own cables. Just remember to reverse the connector on one end of the cable.
Rich
Alton Junction
Please note this statement from NCE's website:
"A flat 6 wire cable used for the cab bus and for the Power Cab. When used with the Power Cab this cable carries full track power AND Cab bus. The Flat 6 wire cable used for the Power Cab is custom made to our specifications and only available thru NCE. Do not attempt to use any other cable. Any 4 or 6 wire cable you purchase from other vendors will not have the same size wires and will void your Power Cab factory warranty."
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
I would think that the type of cable required to connect Berret Hill devices would best be answered by Berret Hill.
is this what the cables are needed for?
are these controlled as accessory decoders?
Greg,
The data cable is used between the BH servo base unit and the servo remote (used to set up each servo). This connection is only made during the initial set up. I have talked with Kevin at BH and shared the cable I plan to purchase from monoprice. He agreed it was a good choice.
Monoprice Phone Cable, RJ12 (6P6C), Straight for Data - 7ft - Monoprice.com
It does pass this quick test for determining if a data cable (straight through) or a phone cable (cross over):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7o3NecVwPA