Zephyr DCC

[Anonymous]

I am new to DCC and I am interested in the Zephyr by Digitrack. I was wondering if anyone knew the answers to these questions regarding the Zephyr. I am only looking at running 3 trains on my layout, 2 at the same time.


1. Does the Zephyr allow sound in the locomotives?
2. Does it control lighting on the locos such as ditch lighting?
3. Can a remote throttle be hooked to it so I can walk around without being "attached" to the main unit? If so, can you switch from train to train using it?

I have also noticed on some web sites that there is a module of some sort that hooks to a computer for programming decoders and that would allow control of the trains, switches, and some signaling. Does anyone have any input?

Thanks

Ross

[Anonymous]

Ross, I have the Zephyr and the answer to all three of your question is yes. The Zephyr is a fully functioned DCC system, no differant than any other DCC system, except for amperage output. You can adjust starting, mid range and top voltage to hone the system to every loco address. It allows for a roster of 20 locos. I am unsure what this really means, Ie. If it means you can only run 20 locos at a time or you can only load 20 loco addresses into the system. I am using a DT300 walk arouund throttle with my Zephyr. As far as operating switch machines from the Zephyr, I am unsure of this. WWW.digitrax.com will answer these and any other questions you may have.

[nfmisso]

As Mark says: YES. You can attach any Digitrax throttle to the Zephyr. I have a DT400R - look ma, no wires !!! <G>

You can run 20 locomotives at once, if you have enough throttles. You can have an unlimited number sitting on the tracks not running.

Operating switch machines depends on the throttle, some have that feature, some don't. But you do not want to power the switch machines from the track due to the low current output, and you want to power your control bus seperately too, so that throttle power is not pulled from the Zephyr either.

[Anonymous]

Yes to all

[Anonymous]

Ok guys, here a couple of additional questions for you. Thanks, by the way for your input, it is very helpful.

When you run a standard DC loco on a standard DC setup and you want the look of a lead loco and say 3 others hooked together so you have 4 locos heading up your train, the lead is powered and the rest are non-powered or "dummies". What happens in DCC? Is this still the same or can you hook up 4 powered locos together all with encoders and they work "together" so to speak?

The next question deals with what you referenced Nigel in regards to the BUS. I was under the impression that a BUS line comes off the main Zephyr unit and runs under your layout and that "feeders" connect from the track to the BUS at various points around the layout. Is this correct? I've read that the BUS can be made with 14 gauge wire and the feeders 18 gauge. If this is correct then I could run a separate line under my layout to wire up my switches and power lights in my structures correct? Does the Zephyr provide power terminals for switch hook ups?

Thanks again if you could answer these questions. I've read nothing but positive about the Zephyr. Thanks

Ross