I have the original MRC prodigy advance DCC system. The power switch is broken and I when I can get the system to turn on for a few minutes I notice that most of my locomotives do not run smoothly at all likely due to fluctuations in the track current. The cover to the top of the base unit is also detached and all the screws are gone from a failed attempt at repairing the power switch issue. My question is should I send this 8 year old unit in for repair or just buy a new DCC system all together? Does MRC fix things this bad and how long are their repair times? I really like the prodigy advance squared from what I saw of it in my LHS so if its best to replace the system Ill get that.
If you still like your PA, contact MRC directly about having your unit repaired. Only they can tell you what the turnaround time is for a repair.
Personally, if your unit is already 8 years old and it’s going to be $100 or more to repair it, you may want to just consider a new unit altogether. MRC now has the Prodigy Advanced Squared (PA2). Digitrax, NCE, Lenz, and CVP all make very fine DCC systems; all which has some real advantages over the MRC offerings. However, if you’ve been happy with MRC, there’s no harm in sticking with it.
Tom
I sent my unit in a few months ago to have it updated to the lastest software. Now it is the same as the adv. sq. with the exception of the use of 28 functions which would require a new squared or wireless handheld. The cost was about 35.00 and the turnaround time was 3 to 4 weeks.
have fun
Philip
Thanks for the input guys. I think that Ill send it in once I head back to engineering school in August. I was just able to fix the power switch issue so Ill get an amp meter tomorrow and see whats really going on and get some numbers on the current in the rails. Since you say its upgrade-able to the adv-squared software I might just have them do that.