Being a novice in this DCC, are there are any issues (problems ) in running a PCM diesel EMD F3 Ph2a A/B/A set (lok sound DCC) at the same time with a Proto 2K EMD F7 A/B set (QSI sound DCC). I plan to use digitrax control system (DT 400 throttle) on an HO layout. Also what’s your opinion on quality of both units? Are all the PCM units A/B/A powered? I know the first A/B units are lashed up meaning they operate together what about the second A unit? Can the first A unit run by itself?
Errrmmm… WAL… ahem…
yes and no. You may or may not have to speed match them. I have the same throttle you do with my Chief system.
Now why would you ever want such a frankenstien lash up? The A/B/A is a respectable consist and adding the QSI Proto F7 A/B to it is just overkill. I can think of a number of reasons why the engines will not get along and play nicely, they will shove each other trying to assert dominance.
The PCM F units I know of contained one decoder in the A unit, ran wires to the B unit and fired the motor inside the B. If you had a second PCM A unit, you probably already had to consist to make the A/B/A
If you are going to attempt a PCM A/B to the QSI B/A… well… ahem… I guess we will learn about speed matching if such a thing is possible now wont we?
I dont want to come across as a dumdum or a idiot, but Im thinking about things about your QSI engine’s throttle settings. Are you running that QSI with RTC? STC? I am also thinking of the QSI’s back EMF versus the Lok sound’s decoder’s motor control as well.
Well, I did own a QSI M1a and a Reading PCM T1 and never attempted to consist them. I follow a rule on my railroad that like units shall work with units of a feather and the same brand.
I think by tinkering with the CVs that conrol the speed and speed curve you can accomplish that.
IDK anything about CVs, but all my engines run well together. (4 P2Ks, 2 SD9s, 2 GP9s)
I was not thinking of consisting the PCM with the Proto. Just running them separately but at the same time.
Well, if those two different engines are assigned to two different trains. Then you are not consisting. Proto engine pulls one train and the QSI another train going somewhere else.
Then it is a matter of addressing the engines and giving them a different name… usually the last two digits of thier cab numbers.