I need some basic advice on converting my small layout to DCC. I don’t want to do anything fancy with my layout like switch control, etc. I just want to run 2 to 4 trains “at the same time”. One SW-1 (Walthers) working the yard, one GP9 (Proto 2000) working the industry in town, and a GP30 (Proto 2000) running freight trains to the small town at the other end of the layout. I may have one other operator with me. If on my own, I would just switch between trains and let the others sit while I work on each one.
I’m thinking of getting the Digitrax Zephyr control system. Is that a good choice?
What else do I need besides the Zephyr system and decoders for each locomotive?
Are the Proto 2000 units DCC ready? Plug and Play, in essence?
Is the Walthers SW-1 DCC ready?
The Zephyr would be an excellent start for you. If it turns out that you were too conservative in your estimated needs over the next couple of years, and end up with more locomotives than what you have, you can add boosters for that.
Some of your locos that are advertised as DCC ready really are, but some are probably not. Randy Rinker, our top dog in things DCC will tell you that some P2K locos, for example, need proper motor-frame isolation. In fact, the wise modeler assures him/herself that every locomotive motor IS isolated electrically from the frame.
You should not have to modify your DC track wiring at all. As your layout power demands rise over time (most all do), you might want to spend some time on Joe Fugate’s clinic titled “Twelve years in DCC” in which he performs a wonderful community service to us by explaining how to wire our layouts safely to minimize burning out systems and decoders when high-running layouts short.
I have a Zephyr and A UT1 throttle which allow me to easily control two trains. Would
say it is a excellent starter set. Additionally, using the jump ports you can add up to
two additional throttles with your old DC power pack(s) without buying anything else.
I have a Zephyr and I have run 5 trains at once on my 4x8 layout. My club president has a 20 x 30 ft layout in his basement and I have seen him run 8 trains–3 with sound on his Zephyr. There are other good choices, but you really can’t go wrong with the Zephyr.
I don’t know about the Zephyr specifically, but many DCC systems do NOT include a power supply. My Lenz wants an AC supply of 14-16 volts to power it. With luck, your old DC power pack will have the appropriate output, but if not, then you’ll need to get a power supply for it.
My P2K GP9 was pretty much DCC ready. I did NOT need to isolate the frame. You will need to add resistors for the low-voltage headlight bulbs, and you might want to replace them with LEDs while you’re in there.
My P2K S-1 switcher DID require frame isolation. (Not a big deal. A bit of electrical tape and a nylon 2-56 screw or two is all it takes. But, you’ve got a Walters, so I can’t say. (Of course, Walthers now owns Life-Like. Was your S-1 originally a Life-Like, or did you buy the engine before Walthers bought Life-Like?)
Your going to love DCC, by the way. I bet you’ll end up consisting those Geeps, and even when you’re operating by yourself, you’ll set up one train to crawl around the layout while you do switching with the other. DCC is just like that. A lot of people seem to think that DCC is really for giant layouts that you can’t run without a 6-pack of buddies, but once you have it on a smaller layout, you can really get so much more out of running by yourself.
Also, Digitrax makes a drop-in decoder for the P2K GP7/GP9 locos that has the resister built-in, so you don’t need to add any when you use it. If memory serves, it’s the DH163LO decoder. It also works in the GP30, according to the list on the Digitrax website (http://www.digitrax.com/decsel.php#HO - a handy source to have).
astenz,
I have a Zephyr and a DT400 throttle. I have two power packs hooked up to the jump ports on the Zephyr for a total of 5 throttles. I have run as many as 5 trains with 6-7 powered locos, 4 with sound, without problems. Its a little crowded on the 4x10’ BRVRR and in the train room, but it can be done.
The Zephyr is an excellent system right out of the box. With the addition of a hand-held throttle or two, you shouldn’t have any problem running 3-4 trains. I have photos of my set-up posted on my website. Link is in my signature. Just pu***he Layout button once on site.
Good luck with your project and keep us posted here.