The new Bachmann DCC limits-pro or con?

[rrinker]

I'm just saying - but please, operating accessory decoders is not a function reserved for the "advanced" model railroader who has a "giant" layout.
Operating thousands of them, that is. But just liek there is no need for a starter set to operate hundreds of loco addresses, a small subset with a limited number of accessory addresses support would be perfect for a basic set. There are at least 2 and maybe 3 other brands of basic starter sets that do not have this limitation.

[Anonymous]

But not for $53. Even MRC Command 2000's (used) on Ebay are going for more.

[RMax1]

At a show in Ft. Worth last month a dealer had the one with the loco for $89 and the basic without for around $53 or so.

RMax

[bcammack]

I think that the point is, and has been, that this unit is for the "casual" model railroader as a replacement for a simple power-pack.

[Anonymous]

A few have been waiting for this so here it goes…

UPS delivered my loco shortly after noon today. [:D]

First of all my hats off to Bachmann, BLI, and QSI for their excellent documentation and ingenuity!

After unpacking and inspecting everything I proceeded to check out.

I then hooked up my Bachmann Analog power source verified connections, throttle at “0” and removed power from wall. Remove my Bachmann analog diesel from the tracks and put it aside for the time being.

Placed engine number one my BLI PRR M1b on the tracks consisting of a small 4x8 oval with two switches which makeup a siding. All turns are limited to 18” radius in this slightly expanded starter set.

The M1b performed just as described in their manual using the direction slide switch to active sounds, a bit tedious but does work. Most of the sounds are preprogrammed so the engine sounds good with little or no intervention unless you sound horn or bell.

I powered down the analog power pack and switched over to the Bachmann DCC.
Powered up and BLI came right up as ID#3 factory default. The only observation I noticed at first was sound was to loud in this particular surroundings. More on this later.

First step was to reassign engine from ID#3 to an alternate, ID#1 in this instance. The Bachmann DCC controller reprogrammed the ID in an instant if you follow the instructions. ;) All function switches activated and deactivated sounds as described in the manual. Takes a little getting use two as one press is on takes a second press to reset or off. The only thing I needed to do was turn the overall sound level and chuff level. But you can’t do that with the Bachmann DCC power module…. DARN! But wait thanks to the ingenious Quantum sound module you can program certain levels with an analog power source WOW! It takes a little effort to get the hang of it (short vs. long switching) but with patience it does work!

Now how about loading, can the Bachman put out enough current? Considering this is a small oval track but I was able to run two BLI engines at the same time at about 75% full speed with horn and bell blasting away and the Bachmann DCC power source hung right in there. There were only four freight cars on the PPR M1b and a GG-1 running behind the freight train a couple of feet or so. Other than then the GG-1 negating 18” turns everything was very positive.

Well that about sums it up for now..

I give the Bachmann DCC power source a big thumbs up! [tup] I found it simple yet fun to use. It does take a bit to get use to and you have to be careful switch from engine mode to functions mode. But if all else fails hit the red stop, set all speed levels to “0” then engage power again and start over. I would avoid ID#1 and ID#2 at first since these are used for bell and horn, it will obvious why once you first try it..

Enjoy… and a happy holiday everyone!

OTH

[Anonymous]

I must have been a good boy as the guy in the red suit brought me a Bachmann E-Z Command system including a NS GP50 and a basic Lenz decoder ( Headlights only) as well. Besides the inability to program functions on decoders the system is better than I was aware. Loco is a bit loud at low speed but for A$200 it is acceptable for the time being.
If Bachmann is bringing out some add ons this could become a versatile starter to intermediate set. Until then I might have to find a way to program the CV's on the decoders as I install them. The Lenz Decoder is going into my switcher (SW9 I think).
I will have to look at the decoder for the Doodlebug next I think (8 Pin plug) to try out setting up different decoder types.
Have a good and safe holiday.

[Anonymous]

Greetings!

I have the bachmann dcc system and i must say besides the lack of power (as running 2 - 3 trains drag a bit, as in when i start up the 2nd the 1st slows down etc..) but besides that the simplicity of it and really just having controll of all the locos on the track and less wiring to put into the track now, it's really nice. I'd run at most 3 - 4 locos at a time (2 mainline, 1 or 2 sidings). 1.8m x 3.6m scale (sorry about the metric but i'm in australia [:D]). Once the 5amp power pack comes out (although the dvd which came with it states that the controller can handle more power or you can add a booster pack). Once this happens i'll be happy with the system.

As for accessories, with sound i'm not sure, but i can control a lot of features (up to 10 i think) with the unit too. And it's future expandable with walkaround controllers and if i want to add later on a unit to control dcc points and stuff.

For the price it's good. If you want to have all your locos with different numbers, well perhaps sometimes you forget its running the trains thats fun. Taking a loco off the track (do you have 1000 locos on the track?) isn't that hard to do.

Anyway it's only my opinion but the system stands on it's own quite well to me.

Soulnet

[samgolden]

I have a Digitrac Empire Builder with 2 - DT300 Throttles. This was bought before the Zepher was produded. I bought this system because My son belongs to a Modular group, and Digitrac is what they use. My son got me back into model railroading about 4 years ago, because of what DCC could do. When I got to visit my son, I take my throttles and a couple of locos with me and run on his modules when his modular group meets.
Two years ago my two Grandsons and I built a 4x8 layout in their basement. My oldest grandson (13) likes to run consists of up to 4 loco's and with the two throttles we have had 3 trains running, with 7 locos at the same time. I don't think the Zepher would run all seven at the same time, because 3 of them are the old old Atherns from the 60's and 70's.
BTW My grandson can and does most of the decoder installs and the programing of the start, mid and max volts. The imposible Installs, I do myself.
I have just this winter started reserecting my own layout that has been dormant for 30-35 years.

[Anonymous]

HI Yall,
I just purchased the ez command, for my N scale 3' X 7' layout with 3 independant loops and sidings. I find it "adequate" . at 1/2 throttle my n scale atlas gp50's run as fast as I would care for them to go. with no way to set the acceleration on the locos, I just have to turn the speed controll more slowly. as for power, bachmann says they have plans for a 3 amp " powerpack " NOT a booster. therefore I am going to try using a $10 RADIO SHACK 12 volt 3 amp transformer to power my E-Z Command. If 50 % of 18 volts is enough to run my trains fast enough 66% of 12 volts should still be enough especially as there will be a full 3 amps available.

I still want to know if the I/O port can be used with a pc??? and how???

[duck69a]

For the record, if you read the Bachmann planned equipment list for this year for the E-Z command there is:

1) 5amp power booster
2) Walk-Around Companion & Walk-Around Companion Connector Panel
3) Turnout and Accessory Controller
4) Automatic Reversing Loop Module
5) Decoder-Equipped E-Z Command® Nickel Silver E-Z Track® Turnouts

[selector]

well!

My cursory glance through all of this has the newly intrigued in conflict with the experienced and the jaded.

To sum up, those with fewer power requirements and simpler/smaller tracks who want an intuitive introduction to DCC find that the EZ Command fills the bill reasonably well. It works as advertised in the majority of applications, and has limitations that are easily divined after a few hours of operaitons.

It will not...repeat, NOT.. program the first generation of BLI locos with the heavy capacitors. Ask me. Also, at a current max of one amp, it will run out of 'steam' quickly as the rails are added to the layout and as the current-drawing loco motors start to power up. It's a fact. Every system has this problem.

It will get those with limited $ and tonnes of enthusiasm into the ballpark. It is just, if I can use this analogy, a bleacher seat, not one behind Home plate. If we couldn't fill the bleachers, there would be no game!!!!!!

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by enduringexp

I am sure most people that can afford BLI locos have no budget issues limiting them to a starter DCC system. As mentioned, this should be an entry level product for small and medium size home layouts with Athearn and P2K level locos at $20-40 each. Bottomless pockets that can afford top of the line would never need to give this a second look.

[Anonymous]

I have had a Bachmann E-Z Command system for the last 6 months or so. I opted to go for the Bachmann DCC Equipped locos (for AUD99.00 each they are great value), but my P2k loco still run OK if I use #10 (analog loco) on the controller, as do my 10-15 year old Athearn DC locos! Although I did notice that when a DC loco is being controlled, there can be a slowing of any DCC locos that are running.

I beleive Bachmann is bringing out out a 5A power booster within the year (2005), and a second control panel to allow two person operation. Can't wait for that!

I only have an 8 x 5 foot layout, and I find the E-Z Command system works well with that size layout. I have 4 DCC equipped locos, and the controller will run 3 locos at once - I reckon thats not bad for what is labelled a 'budget system'.

One of the BIG advantages of any DCC system is that you don't have to have any isolating sections for standard operation (although it's handy to have one to de-consist locos!).

[oleirish]

I'am using the Bachman EZ comand And I like it ! The big problem is the power supply is too small and has no on an off switch.It is easy to program for sure.I also an older MRC2000 btu fried it trying to run it off the AC on my power pack,It is a bear to program,so it sets in the box wateing for me to send it to MRC and get it fixed.

JIM

[Anonymous]

I am considering the purchase of an EZ-Command system but would like to know some more information.

Can the EZ-Command program the following:

1) speed step tables
2) adjust acceleration/ de-acceleration values
3) ditch and strobe lights
4) function remapping
5) analog mode on/ off (in the decoder)



Thanks in advance!

Greg

[scubaterry]

Well I have a small 13 x 7 ft oval and at last count I have 11 loco's. When all is said and done however I doubt I will ever have more than four running at the same time. But most of my loco's have sound and I love to have a couple of them sitting on sidings or at the diesel pumps rumbling away while I "operate the railroad".
I did this whole thing butt backward two years ago. I got interested in MRR , did allot of research (most from Polls like this and feedback from forum members) and bought the Digitrax Super chief first and then started designing and building my layout. A decision I have never regretted. No matter how rambunctious I get with my layout in the future I can always add on more boosters etc. With my very limited knowledge level at the time it was quite the learning curve but that is what for me anyway is one of the most rewarding aspects of this hobby. Learning and ATTEMPTING to master new things.
Bottom line IMHO buy what you think will work for you but make sure you do all of your research first. That way you will get what you need with no surprises later. The fact that the system we are discussing has only a one amp power supply with no sign that their are add ons would preclude me from even considering this system.
Terry

[Anonymous]

Scubaterry,

You might want to visit bachmanntrains.com. Bachmann has announced a 5 amp power booster, walkarounds, and a load of other add-ons to be delivered late in 2005. They are also going to substantially expand the DCC equiped locomotive offerings.

[rrinker]

QUOTE: Originally posted by gkterry

I am considering the purchase of an EZ-Command system but would like to know some more information.

Can the EZ-Command program the following:

1) speed step tables
2) adjust acceleration/ de-acceleration values
3) ditch and strobe lights
4) function remapping
5) analog mode on/ off (in the decoder)



Thanks in advance!

Greg

Nope, Nope, Nope, Nope, and Nope. No CV programming on the Bachmann.

All you can set is the address, and control functions 0-8. There's a reason it's inexpensive. Your next level option are the Atlas Commander or Digitrax Zephyr, both available if you shop around for < $150. I would (again) chose the Zephyr given those tow choices, simply because the Zephyr can do 4 digit addressing and remains a key component in an expanded system later on.

--Randy

[Anonymous]

I think it the Bachmann EZ Command System is great. It is cheap and I can controll my Bachmann Spectrum Dash 8-40CW, Athearn GP38-2, and Bachmann B23-30/7. I just would like to thank Bachmann for making it.

[Anonymous]

I just recently purchased my Bachmann EZ-Command system. I will admit there are some shortcomings. However, for a small swtiching layout this system is wonderful for the price! As for power output, I don't need to run 6 trains at once...only one. It's just handy not having to wire several different blocks like we used to do in the old days.

[Binderchk]

I just read the comments and I have a question for you who own the E-Z Command. Can more then on operator run on this system. From what I have read the walk around is suppose to make it so one more person can operate it. If you can run 9 DCC and 1 DC engine, Point 10. Will you be able to run 9 walk arounds?

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by enduringexp

kbfcsme,
Is that your home layout?

Also, why does this thread have 174 views, but only 12 votes?? If it is being viewed, doesn't it take about 3 seconds to vote? Is the forum filled with lots of "armchair" railroaders that don't have layouts? This question/poll would apply to everybody that has a layout.

[tstage]

Binderchk,

The answer to the last question is no. The present Bachmann EZ Command is a command station/booster rolled up into one - i.e. a stand alone unit. You can NOT add another unit (or EZ Command) onto it. It does have an I/O jack in the back for future add-ons. Bachmann states that they will be coming out with a 5-amp add-on later this year. The current EZC is only rated at 1-amp.

If adding walk arounds to your DCC system is something that you are desiring, I'd encourage you to look into the Digitrax Zephyr. It has much more options, more power, and is very expandible - when you roster and/or layout get bigger.

Tom

[tag21]

as far as i know, bachman are bringing out a ez comand compainion which acta as a second controller and is dairsy chainable.
check out bachman website for details
thanks bachman for a nice esy to use system
ps whens the 5amp power booster due???


tag21

[tstage]

tag21,

Should be coming out at the same time...

Tom

[Anonymous]

I've got the Bachman system, it works great. I was able put together a 4 x 8 layout with no problems wiring up cabs etc. I've only got one dcc loco so I really can't say how many you can actually run with it, but there is a power booster listed in Walther"s catalog, along with a walk around control. I expect that as time goes further expansion will be possible. Because it was developed with input from Lenz I felt that it would be a good value.

[james saunders]

ok im not sure if this Q has been posted, can any decoder be used with the EZC set or will only certain brands work?


OZJIM

[warhammerdriver]

The 5A power booster is due out 12/31/05 and stickers at $149 (per bachmann.com)

[tstage]

QUOTE: Originally posted by james saunders

ok im not sure if this Q has been posted, can any decoder be used with the EZC set or will only certain brands work?

OZJIM

James,

Yes, ANY decoder will work with the E-Z Command. Any NMRA approved system has to be able to do that.

Tom

[Anonymous]

Hi all, I live in Australia and have had my EZ-DCC for about 6-8 months now and find it great it is a fantastic introduction into DCC and is quite suited to my point to point On30 Australian Logging Exhibition Layout. I have found I can run two DCC locos with ease on the layout and at times have run an analogue loco at the same time however this can require a third eye, but the unit seems to cope with it quite well. IN REGARDS TO DECODER CHIPS my sources here tell me any brand of chip can be used as long as it has the standard 8 pin plug. With On30 locos 1.5 to 2amp or higher rated chips are adviseable, personally I have used digitrax or bachmann chips. With modern HO locos apparently 1-1.5amp are substantial enough unless you're running a huge loco that draws alot of current. with older locos you may need to do a little research but they do tend to draw more current as I have been told by a good friend here so you may need a high rated chip e.g. 2amp or higher. In any case I find the EZ-DCC great and I think it's worth an A+++++++++