The NMRA has a standard for bi-directional communication between a decoder and the command station. It seems that at this time only Lenz makes decoders that can handle this (as they basically created and gave the standard to the NMRA) while Digitrax seems to be sticking with their transponding. Nobody makes a decoder that can provide this two-way communication and sound. Why are no other companies making decoders with this NMRA standard? Has anyone heard anything about this lately?
The ‘Standard’ is sort of a ‘work in progess’ - A lot of folks just really do not need this right now - As you mentioned, ‘sound’ has taken a higher priority with consumers right now.
Jim Bernier
Eric,
IIRC, the new NMRA Bi-D standard was voted on this summer at the NMRA Convention. It’s only been a few months. Give the manufacturers time to develop the products to take advantage of this new technology. Just look at how long Soundtraxx has taken with the Tsunami decoder. And then you have the whole thing with MTH’s patents… Sigh.
And BTW, I don’t think the Lenz decoders are true “Bi-D” as of yet. However, they are compatible with the new standard, as in it won’t interfere with it’s operation. But I could be wrong, so don’t take my word for it.
The guy with all the answers WRT the NMRA’s DCC Working Group is Stan Ames, it’s chairman. He usually hangs out over on the newsgroup rec.models.railroad, tho’ it’s been a long time since I’ve heard from him.
Paul A. Cutler III
Weather Or No Go New Haven