I have not built my layout yet but will be building it with DCC and want to know what would be a good system to start with and expand as my layout grows.
I got started in DCC with a Lenz 90 system and as soon as I was able to afford it I upgraded to the 100. You can’t go wrong with Lenz… Also if you don’t want sound their decoders are the best.
I think it depends on the size of the layout you are planning on building. I chose the MRC Prodigy Advance. I know it is not a popular choice among many of the members of the forum, but I have not had any issues with it at all. I bought it from Tony’s and got the suggested power pack in addition so that I can operate it at 3.5 amps. It really is as easy to use as they say, and I have not had any problems operating my BLI Class A.
I am also considering Lenz. I’ve been pleased with their decoders.
I am interested in Grapevine DCC from Protrak too. I see great potential for integration with their switch list generating program.
A club I was in used EasyDCC. It works well and never gave any problems.
Depends on your budget, if you’re looking at low cost good systems, look at the Atlas Command or the prodigy Advanced. if however you want more functionality and support, any of the big three (NCE, Digitrax, or lenz) will be better for you. if you have an unlimited budget, then the Zimo system is for you. each has their pro’s and con’s, I suggest checkingout tony’s and seeing what works for you.
http://tonystrains.com/productcompare/dcccomparison.htm note that he doesn’t show the Zimo here, as it’s not a system bought by most. You can find info on Zimo at http://www.zimo.at/web2003/index2E.htm .
I’m running the Lenz compact (same as Atlas commander) it runs fine access to three decoder functions, lights on-off, bell, horn or whistle. My next purchase is the phone adaptor so I can go wireless using our spare cordless home phone (see december MR magazine).
Ken
I have the Digitrax Zephyr because it is compatible with all Digitrax stuff. But are the rumors true that you cannot program a BLI with a Zephyr?[:O]
This is not a question that is answerable with words. You need to find clubs or private layouts that you can go and get some hands on use of each system. I studied this for a year looking for a new system for our club. All the study and looking can’t replace hands on exposure. At the hobby store they had a pre-programmed demo that also didn’t help. They wouldn’t let me “play” with the systems afraid I would reset stuff and ruin their “dog and pony”.
It also depends if you are going to be a single operator or have others over.
I currently own two MCR systems, a Lenz 100, and a Digitrax Zephyr. I can recommend all of them but your need determines which would be better for you. My children can pick up an use the MCR. I like the interopability of the Lenz, and all the technical details of the Digitrax. And while I don’t own one I can recommend the CVP Easy-DCC. I also use the CVP 1300 wireless throttels with the Lenz. I have the computer interface for each (Digitrax & Lenz), and several other accesories (like block detectors and block dividers) from all the vendors. I’ve had excellent success with the cheapo Lenz and NCE decoders. I bought some of the real fancy and expensive Digitrax and they seem to have a mind of their own, I need to go in and do a register by register (CV) re-programming to make them behave how I want.
TexasZepher has probably given you the best answer, I can only add that I use lenz set 100 and like the system alot.I just ordered the wirless throttle from CVP and from all i have read I think they make a very good system.Good luck with your layout and finding the system you like the best.And welcome to the forum.
I run Digitrax Super Empire Builder. The good thing about Digitrax is theeir expandability. Almost everything they make will work with any Digitrax system. Just look for stuff that says Loconet, if it says that it will work with your system. You won’t believe how nice it is to run DCC, and it makes your layout much more enjoyable.
Good Luck
Greg
Actually the problem seems to creep up on ANY DCC system, mainly because there never were any standards set for the current draw of the locomotive on the programming track, and the QSI decoders just take too much power.
That being said, I’ve been able to program a BLI GG1 and an Atlas Trainmaster with no problems using my Zephyr. And you can always program on the main, assumign your DCC system supports it - Ops Mode programming directed to a specific address, not broadcast programming that would change every loco on the layout. That way you have the full capacity of your booster available to drive the programming.
–Randy
I have owned Lenz and EasyDCC and have operated a lot on other layouts that use Digitrax and NCE. Any of these “big 4” vendors have good systems and all other things being equal, I recommend you find out what is popular in your area and go with that.
Then you can get local support if you need it.
I currently own EasyDCC because I love their compact, economical and easy to use wireless throttles. And yes, several local layout owners also use EasyDCC.
Thanks for the info, never have done any mainline programming. anything special i should know?
I have to say that I have been very happy with my Zephyr purchase. It has sprouted an extra booster, IR control, a DT400 Throttle, a PC interface, 2 jump throttles and 3 connection panels for tethered hand held operation. The loconet has made it really easy to grow the system, yet my 5 yr and 8 yr old boys find it really easy to use. As it happens, all the local MRR’s I know have Digitrax, but to be honest the only support I have needed was quickly provided by the Digitrax yahoo group. My biggest problems have been with some tricky decoder installations, which has nothing to do with the main system manufacturer. One thing I can say is that having now had DCC for 6 months, I can not imagine running without it!
Thank you everybody that added a posting to mine, it has helped guide me In the right direction and soon will be up and running.
Make certain the locomotive you are programming is the only one on the track! We had one fellow at the club who programmed every single locomotive in the roundhouse to his number.
I’m hoping Santa will provide a few extra appendages for my Zephyr, now that I am reaching the point where a single point control console like that isn’t practical. Worked great for my test track setup, allowing me to get a jump on installing and testing decoders before the layout was ready, but it’s getting close to train running time and I want a DT400. I did build a jump throttle that works great.
–Randy
Nope. With the loco selected and able to be controlled, just hit the Program button until it says Pg Ops, Hit CV, enter the CV number, Hit CV, enter the value you want, hit CV WR.
Basically the same as programming on the program track, except you use the Ops Mode instead of Dir, Phys, or Page. And unless you haev transponding set up you can’t do the CV RD like you can from the programming track.
–Randy
That’s only going to happen if more than one loco has the same address. This is a little different from programming on the main with other DCC systems. Not all of them support an Ops Mode programming like Digitrax, very usful feature though. Heck, not even all the Digitrax system support his - only the Zephyr and Super Chief 9DCS100). Attempt this with a Super Empire Builder (DB150) and it WILL program every loco on the track. With the Zephyr and Chief, it’s directed programming - the programming commands are only sent to the specified address, not broadcast on the main line for all to respond.
–Randy
I’m a few days late in adding to this thread, but I’ll chime in…I use the Lenz 100, and will be adding a CVP 1300 wireless to it someday. Some of the postings here are right-on! I do beleive one aspect of a buying decision , for many people, will be access to local expertise, such a supporting dealer and plenty of experienced users in your area to help when/if needed. Some of are lone-wolfs and pretty independant. so buying decisions will be more based on features, customization and interfacing potentials, and system expansion capabilities. Even the no-frills budget systems offer great operational possibilities for smaller railroads. Good luck, and Happy Holidays