BRAKIE SpaceMouseOkay, I confess. I usually try to steer newbies to start with DCC because I think in most ways it is better. Maybe it would be best to steer them toward smooth track work,correct wheel gauge and coupler height? DCC can come later after they learn the most important steps after all what good is DCC or even DC if the newbie is frustrated from having constant derailments and break in twos? The way I see it there's a time and place for everything.
SpaceMouseOkay, I confess. I usually try to steer newbies to start with DCC because I think in most ways it is better.
Maybe it would be best to steer them toward smooth track work,correct wheel gauge and coupler height?
DCC can come later after they learn the most important steps after all what good is DCC or even DC if the newbie is frustrated from having constant derailments and break in twos?
The way I see it there's a time and place for everything.
I have to agree with Larry, a foundation in basics is the best place to start in any new activity. Starting right out with DCC is OK if you are tech savvy, but there is a lot of stuff to learn.
Question is, if you are new, how big a layout are you building right off?
How many trains are you trying to run? One loop on a 4x8 does not need DCC any way, any how.
And why buy some entry level DCC system just to replace it latter? I realize some of them are not that expensive, but they are generally more than a simple DC power pack - which can always serve other uses after you progress to DCC - if it turns out to be what you want.
Sheldon
ATLANTIC CENTRAL BRAKIE SpaceMouseOkay, I confess. I usually try to steer newbies to start with DCC because I think in most ways it is better. Maybe it would be best to steer them toward smooth track work,correct wheel gauge and coupler height? DCC can come later after they learn the most important steps after all what good is DCC or even DC if the newbie is frustrated from having constant derailments and break in twos? The way I see it there's a time and place for everything. Starting right out with DCC is OK if you are tech savvy, but there is a lot of stuff to learn. Question is, if you are new, how big a layout are you building right off? How many trains are you trying to run? One loop on a 4x8 does not need DCC any way, any how.
Starting right out with DCC is OK if you are tech savvy, but there is a lot of stuff to learn.
Being tech savvy has nothing to do with starting out with DCC control. Have you seen a modern phone? My 4 year old operates her train with either the nce power cab, or my cell phone.
Layout size has nothing to do with DCC, although the larger and more complex you make a railroad, the better and easier the choice to use DCC becomes. Ask a good club.
Shape and dimensions(oval) are not parameters for deciding to control locomotives with DCC either.
We're controlling locomotives, consisting them by road number, controlling a vast selection of lighting possibilities, and operating sounds on demand.
How do you blow the horn on your locomotive at a crossing on a layout?
I use the Horn button.
ATLANTIC CENTRAL Rich, When I run my layout by my self, it is much like the set up dougless has as well. I know my posts can be lengthy, but if you read what I write, I have said many times if my layout design and goals were different, I could easily choose DCC.
Rich,
When I run my layout by my self, it is much like the set up dougless has as well.
I know my posts can be lengthy, but if you read what I write, I have said many times if my layout design and goals were different, I could easily choose DCC.
Sheldon, as you know, I admire your layout, your operating system, and your skills.
And, I do read your posts in their entirety.
As Doughless noted, I am speaking mostly tongue in cheek on this whole matter.
But, I will say this. Most long time DC users have little motivation to convert to DCC and that is understandable. The OP has been away from the hobby for 6 years but has kept his old equipment so he may want to remain as a DC operator too. But, anybody new to the hobby ought to seriously consider DCC because the learning curve is far less challenging and DCC has greater flexibility.
Rich
Alton Junction
Smith SR,
Respectfully, if you had been following this conversation, or if you were familiar with me as a moderately active contributor to this forum, you would know, as as I explained earlier in this thread, I do not care for on board sound, and do not have any sound equipped locos, nor do I want any.
To fill you in briefly, I have a background in HiFi speaker design and find on board sound in small scales like HO to be of too poor a sound quality for my tastes.
But I do have plans for horns and whistles at crossing on my layout - layout based sound triggered by the same detector that will flash the lights and lower the gates.
What is a modern phone? No I don't have a smart phone, I don't send text messages, I don't take pictures with my phone and send them to people. That too is money I don't want to spend for things I don't need. But I wrote the programing for some of the first Programmable Logic Controllers put to use in industrial control back in the early 1980's.
I love the Blue Tooth and navigation in the dash of my new FLEX, and my home has had home automation for the last 16 years.
Are you volunteering to come over and speed match all 135 of my locos if I switch to DCC? Most of them run fine MU'ed together now without all that fuss.
I model the 50's, no ditch lights, or other fancy lighting. In fact, in the 50's most roads were just beginning to run with headlights always on - that's how we run here on the ATLANTIC CENTRAL. My DC trottles light the headlight to full brightness before the loco moves - don't need DCC for that.
And my grand children, 2 and 7, run my trains with my Aristo Train Engineer wireless radio throttles - so what?
And the truth is, I am not alone. Even on this forum, where we expect more tech savvy people, every informal survey on sound and DCC has resulted in fairly balanced results with DCC usage and interest in sound at only about 60% at the highest - that still a lot of people with DC who are not interested in sound.
richhotrain ATLANTIC CENTRAL Rich, When I run my layout by my self, it is much like the set up dougless has as well. I know my posts can be lengthy, but if you read what I write, I have said many times if my layout design and goals were different, I could easily choose DCC. Sheldon, as you know, I admire your layout, your operating system, and your skills. And, I do read your posts in their entirety. As Doughless noted, I am speaking mostly tongue in cheek on this whole matter. But, I will say this. Most long time DC users have little motivation to convert to DCC and that is understandable. The OP has been away from the hobby for 6 years but has kept his old equipment so he may want to remain as a DC operator too. But, anybody new to the hobby ought to seriously consider DCC because the learning curve is far less challenging and DCC has greater flexibility. Rich
I agree many new people will, and likely should go DCC once they have some idea what they would like to do. But a foundation in the basics is important in my view - having worked in a hobby shop and helped a lot of new people get started.
What I find unsettling sometimes is the lack of understanding that others may not have the same interests and goals, and therefore their money may be better spent in other ways.
I'm interested in signals and CTC. Modeling a 1950's Class I railroad without that would be like leaving the caboose off the train to me. Yet few others, regardless of prototype interest or era, or type of control system, are interested in signaling and CTC.
Many people just "dabble" with no set goals, that's fine, it's a hobby. But for some of us there is a clearly laid out path we desire to follow - for us that is the fun.
SmithSrWe're controlling locomotives, consisting them by road number, controlling a vast selection of lighting possibilities, and operating sounds on demand.
Want to see something wild? How about consisting DC locomotives by using the start and top voltage settings on a Tech 6...Who would have thought that? Of course once you removed them and use 'em on a DC club layout they revert back to regular DC operation.My old BB SW1500 will crawl slower and more smoothly then I ever imagine possible.
The basic Bachmann E Z DCC will give you several consist and multi train operation and basic sounds..The Tech 6 will operate one DCC engine add its hand held throttle you can operate 6 DCC engines.You can consist as well.
My point?
DCC for smaller layouts is affordable by using the basic systems.The E-Z is around $89.00 street and the Tech 6 and throttle can be had around $130.00 street by buying the T6 and then adding the throttle.
Oddly both the E-Z and T6 cost as much as a quality MRC power pack at street.
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
BRAKIE SmithSrWe're controlling locomotives, consisting them by road number, controlling a vast selection of lighting possibilities, and operating sounds on demand. Want to see something wild? How about consisting DC locomotives by using the start and top voltage settings on a Tech 6...Who would have thought that? Of course once you removed them and use 'em on a DC club layout they revert back to regular DC operation.My old BB SW1500 will crawl slower and more smoothly then I ever imagine possible. The basic Bachmann E Z DCC will give you several consist and multi train operation and basic sounds..The Tech 6 will operate one DCC engine add its hand held throttle you can operate 6 DCC engines.You can consist as well. My point? DCC for smaller layouts is affordable by using the basic systems.The E-Z is around $89.00 street and the Tech 6 and throttle can be had around $130.00 street by buying the T6 and then adding the throttle. Oddly both the E-Z and T6 cost as much as a quality MRC power pack at street.
And if you plan to stay in that layout size catagory, those products are great cohices for those who want to have onboard sound - and better control.
My Aristo Train Engineer throttles also provide dramatic improvements in speed control compared to most conventional power packs - they use pulse width modulation just like DCC decoders.
My old Blue Box F units and early Protos crawl just as well as my Genesis and Intermountain F units - all run just as well as any DCC locos I have run.
Yeah, I guess so! Next question: are Kadee couplers better than horn hooks? Dan
Southgate Yeah, I guess so! Next question: are Kadee couplers better than horn hooks? Dan
Yes, but I will not use the new semi scale couplers. They do not have enough gathering range for NMRA track tolerances.
Next question?
DCC is no more difficult than wiring up a bunch of blocks on a DC layout. Being able to run several trains on the same track, at the same time is worth the effort. If a train stalls on the hill, I don't have to crawl under the layout anymore. I just send out another loco, and MU them on the spot, to bring the train in. The possibilities of DCC are endless. And sound is nice. It's not that difficult. Once you go DCC, you'll never go back to DC and silent running.
Oddly enough when the X2F was mounted correctly it was a good coupler for its time and ended the manufacturer hodge podge coupler system that wasn't even compatible with other brands..
Thankfully the NMRA designed X2F coupler ended that mess.
Dear Mr. Sheldon,
Respectfully, I've followed the thread just fine.
I would love to volunteer my time to help you get your fleet up to modern control standards. For years I've been doing the same for any local club member who has a problem with his loco or fleet of locomotives, or just needs to update his antiques to get them up to club standards. This tech is my area of interest, fitting with my background and career field. Converting your massive fleet of all 135 silent locomotives would be a great effort, however I sense your stiff attitude would push away even the most generous 'tech savvy' -to use your term- volunteer.
Maybe you could convert and speed match your own locomotives and.... learn something new... ?
You don't just not use DCC & sound, you dislike it. Great choice for you. We've heard your thoughts. Can we get some fresh perspective or do you have to have the last word?
ATLANTIC CENTRALBut a foundation in the basics is important in my view - having worked in a hobby shop and helped a lot of new people get started. What I find unsettling sometimes is the lack of understanding that others may not have the same interests and goals, and therefore their money may be better spent in other ways.
Sheldon,
It seems we have another difference in opinion. I venture to guess that a newbie getting help is far more important than whether he/she choses DC or DCC to power a layout.
But, is there a really a different foundation of basics that a DC user learns that a DCC user doesn't. Certainly smooth track and wheels in gauge are about the same in either. I would hazard a guess that even signal wiring is similar. If it is not correct me. Signals on my railroad consist of the engineer carrying a stick. I don't want to spend my time doing complicated wiring, I get my fill just lighting structures. I'd rather spend my time hand-laying a custom turnout or adding detail to a forest scene or a logging camp. I get that everyone has a path, but how many newbies really need to know and/or spend time wiring their 4x8 if they want to run two trains. DCC makes it easier to focus on what it is the newbie likes in the hobby--including sophisticated wiring if they so choose.
Chip
Building the Rock Ridge Railroad with the slowest construction crew west of the Pecos.
BRAKIE DCC for smaller layouts is affordable by using the basic systems.The E-Z is around $89.00 street and the Tech 6 and throttle can be had around $130.00 street by buying the T6 and then adding the throttle. Oddly both the E-Z and T6 cost as much as a quality MRC power pack at street.
I hear (second hand so grain of salt) of an NCE Power Cab for $135. The Power Cab is easily expandable as the layout grows. Granted I got a Tech II for $40 and it works pretty well. Anyway, I second what you are saying.
SmithSr Dear Mr. Sheldon, Respectfully, I've followed the thread just fine. I would love to volunteer my time to help you get your fleet up to modern control standards. For years I've been doing the same for any local club member who has a problem with his loco or fleet of locomotives, or just needs to update his antiques to get them up to club standards. This tech is my area of interest, fitting with my background and career field. Converting your massive fleet of all 135 silent locomotives would be a great effort, however I sense your stiff attitude would push away even the most generous 'tech savvy' -to use your term- volunteer. Maybe you could convert and speed match your own locomotives and.... learn something new... ? You don't just not use DCC & sound, you dislike it. Great choice for you. We've heard your thoughts. Can we get some fresh perspective or do you have to have the last word?
If you have been following this thread, then you should know that I use DCC on a regular basis on other layouts. I am very familiar with DCC and all its features - they simply do not fit my needs and wants and the cost to use DCC with my current layout theme is in my view way past the point of deminishing return for the $5000 investment that would be required.
I have helped build and wire several DCC layouts - ones with decoder controlled turnouts, signals and CTC.
My "stiff" attitude only relates to my layout and me personally. In a different scale, and or with a different layout theme, I could and likely would choose DCC.
I have said hundreds of times on this forum that DCC is the best choice for many modelers, just not every modeler. Especially for those who like onboard sound, it is the only logical choice in the smaller scales.
But apparently you did not read all times I said these things.
As for sound in HO, it all sounds like a 1963 nine transistor radio stuck between stations. Now by the time you get to O scale or G scale, that's a diffeent story.
ATLANTIC CENTRAL SmithSr Dear Mr. Sheldon, Respectfully, I've followed the thread just fine. I would love to volunteer my time to help you get your fleet up to modern control standards. For years I've been doing the same for any local club member who has a problem with his loco or fleet of locomotives, or just needs to update his antiques to get them up to club standards. This tech is my area of interest, fitting with my background and career field. Converting your massive fleet of all 135 silent locomotives would be a great effort, however I sense your stiff attitude would push away even the most generous 'tech savvy' -to use your term- volunteer. Maybe you could convert and speed match your own locomotives and.... learn something new... ? You don't just not use DCC & sound, you dislike it. Great choice for you. We've heard your thoughts. Can we get some fresh perspective or do you have to have the last word? If you have been following this thread, then you should know that I use DCC on a regular basis on other layouts. I am very familiar with DCC and all its features - they simply do not fit my needs and wants and the cost to use DCC with my current layout theme is in my view way past the point of deminishing return for the $5000 investment that would be required. I have helped build and wire several DCC layouts - ones with decoder controlled turnouts, signals and CTC. My "stiff" attitude only relates to my layout and me personally. In a different scale, and or with a different layout theme, I could and likely would choose DCC. I have said hundreds of times on this forum that DCC is the best choice for many modelers, just not every modeler. Especially for those who like onboard sound, it is the only logical choice in the smaller scales. But apparently you did not read all times I said these things. As for sound in HO, it all sounds like a 1963 nine transistor radio stuck between stations. Now by the time you get to O scale or G scale, that's a diffeent story. Sheldon
Sheldon I have been following this thread since it started and some of the many previous threads in which you've stated your not interested in DCC and I think that is just fine, it's your hobby, something you do for fun and I fully believe you should pursue the hobby in what ever way you want!
However, why would DCC cost you $5,000.00?
NP 2626 "Northern Pacific, really terrific"
Northern Pacific Railway Historical Association: http://www.nprha.org/
From way back on page 2:
DCC, at great additional expense in my case, would give me a few extra features, but they are features not necessary in my view. For me DCC would easily add $5000 to my layout building costs, and the only DCC feature that would really enhance my operations would be independent control of locos in the engine terminal without "sub sections". And it would add unwanted complexity to MU'ed diesels and double headed steam.
Don't beleive my cost estimate? I have 135 locos - none currently have decoders, when complete my layout will have12 scale miles of track, and support 30 staged trains, eight operators.
135 x $25 (any quality non sound decoder) = $3375
I have eight wireless throttles:
8 x $159.00 (CVP T5000E) = $1272
Power and command:
command station, wireless base, zone masters, etc = $429 plus
$3375 + $1272 + 429 = $5076
AND:
The Aristo Craft throttles that DCC would replace only represent an investment of about $1200. That is still a net increase of $3800.
All the other components of my Advanced Cab Control would still be reqiured as they are needed for the intergrated turnout control which controls the signal interlocking and provides the CTC operation.
There is nothing about the features of DCC that would prompt me to change or "reduce" my other modeling goals.
Sheldon, I don't believe that anyone can seriously challenge you assertions regarding the cost of DCC conversion.
That's why I commented earlier in this thread that "Most long time DC users have little motivation to convert to DCC and that is understandable".
In a situation like yours, I cannot imagine that you would want to move from DC to DCC.
Keep doing what you are doing.
The short answer - Yes. Long live good old DC.
I began my 3rd layout in 1996. A large (34'x18') Swiss/German prototype in N-scale. Now, 17 years later, I'm in the early stages of de-construction with a new track plan on paper. Since I was and will be running many 1970s era Arnold-Rapido, Minitrix, and Fleischmann engines together with much more recent models from Kato, Atlas, Intermountain, etc., DCC is not an option for me.
In 2004 MRR ran an article about "digital block control" from Signal Research. This system is DC, but instead of running around flipping switches to select "cabs" and blocks, everything is under digital control from a central panel, with multiple blocks, and no toggles or rotary switches. The Digital Block Controller (DBC) allows you to run any DC engine, but have DCC-like multi-block operation.
The basic system consists of a Front Panel with LCD display, only a few buttons, and a large rotary knob for speed. A Block Control board (BC) is connected by a ribbon cable to the front panel. The block control board has DC outputs for up to 8 separate blocks, plus an optional plug in board for block occupancy LEDs and 3 color LED line side signals for each block in both directions. That's 16 line side block signals and no track sensors that need to be hidden between the rails or across the tracks, and no separate boards to power and wire to sensors!
In operation, you enter the engine number into the Front Panel, place the engine anywhere on the layout and tell the system which block you have placed the engine (or train) in. From that point, the system will monitor where the train goes, adjust polarity and speed as the train goes from block to block, and automatically prevent a second train from entering into an occupied block. You can configure momentum, starting voltage, and braking for each engine. And even if you only run 1 train at a time, you can enter hundreds of engine numbers and their individual operating characteristics. No CVs to remember, no decoders to solder in.
My current layout has 26 blocks which requires 4 block control boards (8 per BC board) and I can add 6 more blocks. Multiple trains can be simultaneously operated automatically, and you can manually control any train by selecting the engine number on the Front Panel. There is also a key-fob size remote that will allow you to remotely operate which ever train is displayed on the Front Panel.
If you have a medium to large layout with multiple blocks and don't want to "follow the leader" down the DCC path, then this is a great option to consider.
Happy Rails,
Audio Bob
Audio Bob,
The Signal Research system is a great system, and one I considered using back when it first came out.
It is a "plug and Play" version of computerized block control, not a new idea, the MIT model train club has been controlling their trains that way long before DCC.
ATLANTIC CENTRAL Sheldon I have been following this thread since it started and some of the many previous threads in which you've stated your not interested in DCC and I think that is just fine, it's your hobby, something you do for fun and I fully believe you should pursue the hobby in what ever way you want! However, why would DCC cost you $5,000.00? From way back on page 2: DCC, at great additional expense in my case, would give me a few extra features, but they are features not necessary in my view. For me DCC would easily add $5000 to my layout building costs, and the only DCC feature that would really enhance my operations would be independent control of locos in the engine terminal without "sub sections". And it would add unwanted complexity to MU'ed diesels and double headed steam. Don't beleive my cost estimate? I have 135 locos - none currently have decoders, when complete my layout will have12 scale miles of track, and support 30 staged trains, eight operators. 135 x $25 (any quality non sound decoder) = $3375 I have eight wireless throttles: 8 x $159.00 (CVP T5000E) = $1272 Power and command: command station, wireless base, zone masters, etc = $429 plus $3375 + $1272 + 429 = $5076 AND: The Aristo Craft throttles that DCC would replace only represent an investment of about $1200. That is still a net increase of $3800. All the other components of my Advanced Cab Control would still be reqiured as they are needed for the intergrated turnout control which controls the signal interlocking and provides the CTC operation. There is nothing about the features of DCC that would prompt me to change or "reduce" my other modeling goals. Sheldon
Sheldon, you place far to much emphasis on what you have to say. Even though you stated something on the second page of this thread, at least I (and maybe others), don't feel what you have to say is so important that it is indelibly burnt into my mind, anymore than what I have to say, is burnt into yours. I stated in my post, above, that I feel you should enjoy your hobby in whatever way you see fit. Obviously, you didn't catch this and went on to verbosely describe how you want to operate your hobby! My only question for you was why you felt that DCC was going to cost you $5,000.00 to install. You have explained that sufficiently well; so, thanks and have fun!
Time has moved on.... Every large layout in my area has been DCC for many years now. Most were converted from dc block systems.
There is no conspiracy or a "follow the leader mentality" at work. People saw the advantage (to them) of DCC and chose to spend the bucks and time to gain an operating advantage by using DCC. Many iof these layouts have large brass rosters, conversion wasn't trivial and it wasn't driven by what manufacturers were pushing, since there are very few DCC brass offerings.
Most of these pikes also host operating sessions and I'm sure that has something to do with it. My guess is that if a new technology appears that offers a clear advantage over DCC, that there might be another wave of conversions to gain operational advantage.
On one level DC won't ever go away as it is the basic locomotive wiring system which DCC is laid over the top of, just as any of the other systems, are or will be, an overlay.
If you enjoy DC, keep using it. Not telling anyone how to run a railroad, just offering an opinion on the topic.
Guy
see stuff at: the Willoughby Line Site
First, my reply to you was largely cut and paste from an earlier response to a different question, in this long ongoing conversation. Second, any extra explanation is simply to head off the DCC promoters who would explain to me that I don't need to convert all my locos at once, and who would ask why I need 8 throttles and so on.
So any "tone" you took from it was not directed at you. But I have had this conversation before and can almost tell you what many of the replies will be.
Holy smokes, what a thread!
I'm a first time model railroader and first time poster here.
Back to the original topic- I chose DCC because it was the easiest solution to build a layout where my 3 yr old son could learn the basics of running trains, while I geeked out on more complicated operations. Accomplishing that in DC just wasn't going to fit into my middle-aged available free time. Plus I just like the technology behind DCC.
Like anything, model railroading is advanced by technology, but that does not mean there is no merit in doing things other ways. I'm sure as fans, we can appreciate the end product of any well-done layout...DC or DCC.
I agree with Bubbles! (nice profile pic).
BRAKIE Carey,I'm not to sure where I fit in because my Bachmann S4 is DCC/Sound and I operate this unit in the DCC mode.I been running my Bachmann 70 Tonner in the DCC mode as well but,as I stated 90% of the time my T6 is in the DC mode.
Carey,I'm not to sure where I fit in because my Bachmann S4 is DCC/Sound and I operate this unit in the DCC mode.I been running my Bachmann 70 Tonner in the DCC mode as well but,as I stated 90% of the time my T6 is in the DC mode.
I can tell you Brakie exactly where you fit in. You fit into the slot where you have the most satisfaction. As long as it gives you the most satisfaction, in YOUR hobby, who am I to say that its wrong because you're not pure DC or DCC.
PS, sorry it took me so long to reply.
I have a question for you, if you don't mind. Would your signalling system even be compatible for use with DCC?
I know that most signalling systems designed for DC, involving detection thru the rails, is not compatible with DCC. If it isn't, there's another reason NOT to convert.
Sure would like to see your layout, and even operate on it. But Maryland's is a little far from 'Bama, to make a regular op session. I don't see me being able to come up there anytime soon.
Carey
Keep it between the Rails
Alabama Central Homepage
Nara member #128
NMRA &SER Life member
Actually, my fully integrated turnout control, signaling and CTC system will work with DCC. BUT, it actually looses several features on DCC.
As built, it has a kind of Automatic Train Control, if your train is not properly authorized by the dispatcher, and you run a red signal, your train just stops in a special "dead zone" that only gets power when two adjacent track sections are assigned to the same throttle.
I use inductive detectors and they will work with DCC or DC.
Well if you're ever up this way, look me up. Maybe by then the the current rebuild of the layout will be complete. The original version of the layout is undergoing a conversion into a fully modular walk around design that will allow me to move it to another location later when we retire. The bench work of the original layout was very much built right into the building - the second floor of my detached garage.
And I also have a friend nearby with a different version of the same control system on his layout which I designed and installed for him. His layout is part of our monthly round robin operating group.
This really sounds a whole like our argument as kids in the 1960's. Which was better: a Chevy or a Ford?
My old man's 64 Lincoln was clearly better than his 67 Caddy. But my 59 Corvette, in my opinion, was clearly better than either the Ford or Caddy. But I couldn't double date in the 'Vette, it didn't have nice leather seats, or a 430 CID engine, and half the girls I dated perferred the big boxy Lincoln anyhow.
So which car was better? A simple matter of taste, functionality, and down right eye appeal. To each his own as the saying goes.
I've been in the hobby since 1963, and had my first American Flyer 10 years before that. My home layout has been published in two of the regular hobby magazines, and my N-Trak modules have been seen frequently in the monthly N-Trak newsletter. I'm married to a "super geek" and I'm the typical "early adopter" when it comes to tech toys. I'm also reasonably pragmatic and frugal. I expect a car to last at least 10 years and a watch should last 20. I don't buy throw-aways just because they are flashy and new. With a little periodic TLC, I can still run Arnold Rapido engines that are 40 years old.
I almost jumped on the DCC bandwagon in 1996 when my roster consisted of fewer than 20 engines. But I didn't want to spend the money to convert those engines nor did I want to shelve them in favor of technology.
I run DC on my Signal Research DBC system at home, and I own several dual mode DCC engines just 'cause I like the prototype, or the color, or the functioning ditch lights.
My controller knows which way every turnout is set, doesn't matter whether power routing or live frog, twin-coil, Tortoise, or Blue-point. My controller will automatically set track polarity and voltage as a train progresses from block to block. It will prevent rear end collisions much like a CTC machine by cutting off power to the block that my train just cleared and simultaneously change the signal to red, and the block beyond that to yellow. I can let everything run on full auto or manually take over any train I want. It will automaticly shut down if there is a problem and tell me which block to check before performing a "resume". Block occupancy LEDs dot my main "switch panel". Is it the perfect system? Probably not, but it's right for me.
I can run my most ancient Arnold engine from 1967 or my newest Atlas, Kato, other, anywhere at any time I see fit.
I typically don't double head my trains, and several of my European engines will haul 40-60 freights all by themselves on level N-Trak layouts. But then again, sometimes I will double head a train just for looks. Is the extra cost of a built in decoder worth it just so I can precisely match engine speeds or turn off the head lights in the 2nd engine? If I like the engine, then the decoder really doesn't matter. It's just part of the cost of the engine.
Authentic engine sounds are nice, but not when I can hear a 5 inch long engine roaring when I'm three scale miles away. Tell me that's not way too loud and I'll whisper in your ear that you're probably deaf.
At home I can take an engine out of the box, put it on the tracks, tell my controller what block I put it in, and turn up the throttle. If I want to set up momentum, or braking, or starting voltage, I can do all that at my leisure.
There is the one thing that I don't have to worry about at the 10-12 N-Trak shows I do each year: Why isn't it working?
There is nothing wrong with Technology until it breaks. I don't need a lap top, a special programming track, or boosters. I don't worry about dead batteries, or special plugs or wires, or CVs. At shows we use the outer "red" track for DCC, and reserve the inner two tracks, yellow and blue, for the DC guys.
Everyone is happy. Every one gets to play with their trains, and that gentlemen, is what the hobby is supposed to be about.
happy rails,
I think the question has been beat, beaten, whipped, but will never be completely answered or put to rest.
I like DCC, I embraced it when it first came out, but I had been using a non dcc system called Dynatrol before and had it working with limitations that were built in so that I enjoyed using it. But when DCC came out, Dynatrol died.
Personally I will stay with DCC until my last breath because (1) it does the job and gives me various options, (2) I have used it long enough to be able to really use the functionality, (3) it is easy to learn to use, (4) it is easy for first time visitors and operators to use and (5) for old goats like me who grew up in the hobby with lots of limitations, it is a "final" solution.
Even so, I use very little sound in DCC because I wear hearing aids and the sound system (I use NCE) sometimes makes the sound a little crazy in my ears. I have a few sound units, but mostly just control DCC in all enginers.
Bob
To answer the OP's question in the thread topic;
Left behind by technology, am I alone?
The forums answer;
"No, you are obviously not alone, nor left behind, depending on how you look at it"
"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination."-Albert Einstein
http://gearedsteam.blogspot.com/