FYI,
It appears that NCE has now released it’s new PowerCab SB3 Smart Booster. The new Smart Booster is a full five amps. While NCE doesn’t show it on their website, Tony’s Train Exchange is now selling them for $127.96.
Larry
Larry,
I e-mailed Larry Larsen @ NCE last week inquiring about sending my old SB3 in to be upgraded. He sent me the following response:
I think NCE has made a very wise business move with the completely revised SB3a. Not only does it increase the total amperage of the SB3 from 3A to 5A, the recall stack also increases from 2 to 6 slots. (Just like with the PH-Pro system.)
The newer design also makes it usable with auto-reversers and circuit breakers. (One of the main reasons for the redesign.) And, the SB3a can be used in “booster-only” mode with another manufacturer’s DCC system.
The original SB3 suffered with being a dead-end system if you upgraded to the PH-Pro. NCE has taken a page right out of Digitrax’s philosophy book by making the new SB3a a “non-dead” component, as well as improving its functionality. In my eyes, that’s good for NCE and good for the hobby! [tup]
Tom