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MRC Black Box and decoders

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  • Member since
    September 2006
  • 411 posts
MRC Black Box and decoders
Posted by wobblinwheel on Tuesday, December 23, 2008 4:19 PM

Got a question: I have a MRC "Black Box" controller that works really well on my sound-equipped BLI, PCM, and ATHEARN locomotives.It is my understanding that the black box "simulates" dcc in order to access all the sounds PLUS throttle control AND headlight on-and-off. Oh yeah, now for the question:  Can I put plug-in decoders in my latest-version DCC-ready Rivarossi FEF-3, and the Spectrum Pennsy K-4. They both have the circuit boards with the dummy plugs in their sockets. They both have VERY DIM headlamps that requir at least a constant 12 volts to look good. Would the throttle on the BLACK BOX work on these with the proper decoder? That way I can shoot 12 to 15 volts to the headlights without running 90 miles an hour! Right? Don't most decoders have the same "default" values as far as address? Also, if this will work, what would be a good, and cheap decoder to go in there?

Thanks Guys,

Mike

Mike C.

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