I’m just a beginnner trying to determine whether to go DCC or DC. Am I right, after browsing digitraxx systems, that in a DCC system I will have to buy a “stationary decoder” for every two of my turnouts to control them with a DCC system like digitraxx Zephyr or some other. That’s going to cost me a bundle as I now have 13 turnouts planned on my still modest layout.
Yes,you will “have” to buy stationary decoders ONLY if you want to control your turnouts with your handheld throttle.However,this is an option that I personally don’t want but that’s me.I find easier to simply flick a SPDT switch next to the turnout than having to remember and dial different adresses every single time I want to switch a TO.
You can have DCC to power your trains and still have Tortoises or a CDU system to power your TO’s through momentary SPDT switches installed along the layout’s edges or regrouped on a single control panel or even both.The stationary decoders offer other possibilities,like computer layout control,but I wouldn’t go for this choice even if it was more affordable.
A North Coast Engineering Switch8 stationary decoder that can control 8 Tortoise or other stall motor switch machines can be had for $47. I don’t consider that to be unreasonable. The stall motor switch machines are going to be your main expense.
http://litchfieldstation.com/xcart/product.php?productid=524136&cat=60&page=2
Personally, I use Caboose Industries ground throws or Peco turnouts that can be thrown by hand without any need for a ground throw if they are in a location that I can reach, and power only those turnouts that are too far away.
I agree with Jacktal, and my turnouts are all controlled just the way they would be with DC. I use a centrally-located control panel with a track schematic, and the SPDT controls are right on the panel and easy to distinguish.
If you wish, you can start out your layout with the SPDT switches, and then slowly convert a few turnouts at a time to DCC. It’s not an all-or-nothing thing.
You don’t HAVE to get anything, the turnouts can be controlled manually with ground throws or electrically with the appropriate buttons or toggles. You can add the DCC control later.
I have 13 turnouts on my layout as well. I intend to put under DCC control only the 6 of those which connect off the main line. The ones in the yard and industry sidings will be controlled by buttons on the control panel.
–Randy