I use the MRC Elite Wireless system. It seems to have been discontinued and no longer available. But they've recently made a newer version of their Prodigy Advance 2 Wireless system which is basically the same thing as the Elite. The nice thing about the Advance 2 system is that you can buy an optional WiFi module so you can use your phone as a train controller (but I don't want to control my trains with my phone). I like the MRC controllers because they have a knob to control speed instead of a thumbwheel or buttons. I would love to see you do a review of the Lenz and ESU systems. The ESU seems really nice because it gives you a graphical image of all your locomotives and a graphical map of your layout to control everything, but that's overkill for me.
Since I did this video I now have a Digikeijs and Piko system but not the others. I sold my Lenz system years ago when they left the US market, and the ESU and Uhlenbrock are real sleepers over here.
@@TheDCCGuy Thank you, and for the very interesting video's, I only recently discovered. btw, Piko is , as far as I know, the same (and maybe even made by) as the Uhlenbrock system.
I just found your channel looking for info on jmri and i think you do a great job. IT seems that you start with a brief overview and then get deeper into the topics in subsequent videos and i like that approach, very informative.
actually the Zephyer Express is a complete redesign of the system. Where as the DCS 50 and 51 are quite similar to one another, the 52 is quite different. At their core they are the same, still 3 amps, box design ect is still the same. Its where the LCD screen sits is different and even the buttons are different too, they are back lit and bigger. The LCD screen gives a LOT more information about what you are doing when programming a locomotive. Its a much improved system over the 50 and 51.
@@TheDCCGuy not at all, the menu system is straight forward (granted i am a computer nut so it wasn't too hard for me to get used to the buttons). Its different if you are used to the old system, but if its your first system, its fine. I have the Express running my layout and I have added the LNWI to it as well, allowing myself and my dad to run our trains via our phones. No need to go buy the super expensive extra throttles, just using our phones or a tablet to do the same thing. Oh and one of the most important things to remember about the new DCS52, is has a built in USB interface. No need for any interpreter unit, you can plug your computer right into the unit and use JMRI out of the box, no advance setup required.
There are actually two versions coming. One will be very similar to the NCE PowerCab in its capabilities whereas the larger one will offer more capabilities. As I understand it the first run may be limited in number.
I have two layouts. One 28'x28' two level HO scale one. I use ESU Cab Control for this one. (its my favorite) I also have an N scale layout on a door.I have Digitrax for this one. (my second choice) I also belong to a club with a large layout. We use NCE. (it's my lest favorite.) The ESU is so simple to use, easily updated, and has so many features. Plus jmri isn't necessary with the ESU system. Digitrax is a good middle of the road reliable system. NCE is ok but after using the ESU system I hate it. It's outdated compared to the ESU. Just my experience and opinion.
Boy that’s loaded question. Digitrax used to offer clubs who wanted to convert a hefty discount allowing them and their members to buy everything they needed at cost! I don’t know if they still do that but it sure made it an easy choice for many clubs and would be worth asking them. I personally have never done that kind of cost comparison but you could easily do it and I think that Tonys has the NCE Power Pro system in stock and on sale right as of yesterday. In most cases it usually comes down to which system most members have at home or are most comfortable with.
can I connect Kato Unitrack directly to Digitrax's DCS52? I Like Unitrack. Good quality track and was wanting use it for my dcc layout instead of flex track.
Thank you very much for your informative done overview of DCC Systems and DCC Components. Well I am located at Luebeck in northern Germany and using an older DCC System created by by Roco/Fleischmann with their here popular MultiMouse handheld throttle. The red Roco MultiMouse and the grey Fleischmann MultiMouse are similar but with one difference in their colour printed Company name onto it. My Question is, do all DCC Systems you described in your overview would have rhe possibility to use these Roco/Fleischmann DCC Throttles? Not all US American DCC Systems are availble at all time and I am interested in upgrading my DCC System to a more better System what allows me using Consist Addresses for multiple train helper engines as double header and pushing helper engine in the back? Me I am modelling a fictional Roadname in Georgia in the year of 1928 and a fictional private railroad at the prussian kingdom of the year of 1908, located in northern germany as coastal railroad.
I have amore recent video (#224) that deals with this question so you might want to watch it. Basically it is unlikely that you throttles would work with other systems unless they are designed for that capability.
Have you thought about reviewing the digital type systems that use a Smart Phone / Tablet as the user interface? These systems all look like older clunkier "handset" types
Some of those touchscreen systems are nice, but I prefer actual buttons and knobs. I use the MRC system because I like a round speed knob, but the Digitrax controller looks like it was built by a kid in his basement.
Cheers for the Video! Sorry for chiming in, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you heard about - Januke Henatalie Formula (just google it)? It is a smashing exclusive guide for dominating DCC model railroads without the headache. Ive heard some amazing things about it and my buddy at very last got astronomical success with it.
Do you remember the link or item number where you purchased your led with resistors? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I was unable to find them on eBay. It would be a big help for me as I have hand tremors. Thank You Bill
I've been using a Lenz DCC system. I have no particular complaints except for one: The whistle/horn control key has a slight sound delay between separate button pushing events. This makes it difficult (or impossible) to have quick, short whistle blows in succession, or to "play" the whistle. Any ideas or comments on how to remedy this, if possible? Also the Lenz system did not come with a power supply, so I've been using my 60 year old MRC DC "Power Pack". However this recently died, and while replacing a power supply shouldn't be a difficult or expensive task, I am contemplating a new, different brand DCC system. I model in "Scale S," (i.e., no 'Flyer or "high rail"), and the demands of my "S" equipment are not particularly greater than most HO, but maybe just a little bit. I've been using normal "Tsunami" (one) decoders up to now, but I'm not very happy about the Tsunami 2 decoders having no more chuff wire. So I'm probably going to switch decoder brands for future DCC loco installs. I machined the chuff cam on one of my steamers to be a little less than a perfect square, to represent slightly off valve timing with the chuff. My layout is modular, with two standard gauge mainlines, 1 narrow gauge line,, and a bunch of sidings and industries. So as an outside maximum, I might need to control up to four different trains (or multi-unit consists) at the same time, but not too often that many. I do plan on occasional double heading steam or using multi-unit diesel lash ups on the main lines. Typical operations might be a 3-4 unit diesel train on one mainline (all powered, no "dummy" engines), and a steam (occasionally double headed) train on the other main line. A narrow gauge train will be single engine, fairly short train, fairly low draw.. Simultaneous switching somewhere on the layout will be infrequent, but occasional. My local hobby shop offered me a new Digitrax "starter" (I guess) system for around $200.00, and for another $60.00 or so a set up that will let me use my iPhone(s) as a controller. I am unfamiliar with Digitrax model numbers, and so I don't know how adequate this system will be for my max needs described above. He seemed really eager to sell me this, so I'm wondering if he was trying to sell me an obsolete Digitrax system, to get it off his hands. I don't know the different Digitrax systems very well. I have 18 locos, with five already DCC installed, with six decoders on the shelf waiting to be installed. Any system or set up recommendations?
I would need to know the Digitrax set name if it is a starter set and/or the command station designation. Current versions might be the DCS210. Older versions might be a DCS200. Let me know that and I can try to advise you.
I am thinking of going dcc, my layout is a 3 time around the layout, with 150 feet of track in in 33 1/2 square feet, want to be able to run up to 3 trains at a time, it is dc right now, can only run 1 train at a time
I have been planning a video on just your question. My answer would be yes DCC is right for you. But keep in mind the added cost of decoders or decoder equipped locos. This of course is offset by the increased enjoyment of running more trains along with lights and realistic sounds. If your expectations are as modest as you suggest then the cost of a beginners DCC system would be lower than for a full blown top of the line one. Do some reading and download manuals from the various manufacturer websites to see what might be right for you.
Surprised you didn’t discuss the ease of use and clarity of each respective system manual. Reports from many users state the NCE Powercab is much easier to use than any other manufacturer.
That is a very subjective subject and I wouldn’t want to bias things. I think it best for folks to download and read the manuals and see for themselves what they might be most comfortable with. I have found that I am one of those types who can pick up an electronic gadget and use it without having to even look at the manual, but I know a lot of folks who are electronically challenged. When folks ask me which system is best for them I tell them they are all good and it is best to find someone or a shop where they can actually test the system to see if it is comfortable for them. In the end you are probably going to benefit most with a system that is widely used by your friends, club, or other locals who can serve as a resource when you have questions.
I want to start a layout i have a 4'x16' platform set up allready but i have no idea where to start,i am really interested in dcc to start but i just get flustered just thinking about starting.
If you are near a club that runs with DCC then join and learn before you buy. Having a local help resource can really take a lot of the angst out of the learning process especially if you are electron adverse. My wife can make an electronic device malfunction just by getting near one!
I have the NCE power cab and am looking to get the SB5 booster. However I do have two MTH Ho locomotives and want to acquire more in the very close future, which DCS system should I get if I want to keep all engines at 4 digit address and run more than two or three?
The SB5 is a good DCC option and MTH locos do operate on DCC systems. However you may be a bit disappointed with them under DCC. I have one MTH loco and it basically is a shelf sitter. Remember that DCC and DCS are not the same thing. If you are happy with how your MTH locos operate with your PowerCab system then you will be just as happy with the SB5. It gives you more power and capabilities and is an excellent upgrade path for the PowerCab.
The DCC Guy thank you. The one engine draws basically all of the power from the power cab with all lights and the smoke unit turned on, I just ordered an SB5 so it should be fine now. I just wanted the DCS system for when I want to run only MTH locos and make use of the features of Protosound 3 that DCC can’t access. Might get it down the line when the layout is a little closer to finished.
Yes, in my book Digitrax and NCE systems in general are top of the pile, MRC is middle, Bachmann is lower end. They all work but some offer more features and expansion paths than others.
Those are very robust systems designed for O scale because Jim Scorse, NCE owner/developer, runs O scale. I suggest you ask them about that statement. Also check to see if the track voltage can be set for something down around 14-14.5 volts. If it is designed just for large scale they may not have designed it for lower voltages. I know one has been used for N scale in the past and it ended up melting through the rails under a shorted loco, so it may be a liability warning too.
I have an older Digitrax system with a DCS150 box. I need to program some locomotives with sound capability but don't have a programming track and can't find info on how to set one up. In an article in the current MR you mention using a service programming track and then a LokSound programming track for the Atlas S2 installation. So do I need 2 programming tracks one of which is decoder manufacturer dependent, so maybe 4 or 5 for the layout? Also, can the 150 control system deliver enough power to program a sound decoder? Maybe you have a video that goes through these things, or it may be a good topic for the future. Thanks
The DB150 is an either/or system, you can either run trains or program locos but not both at the same time. There is at least one diagram i your DB150 manual on how to set up a programming track and I showed how in the June 2019 DCC Corner column in Model Railroader magazine. You go go the cheap route and use a DPDT switch or buy the NCE Auto-SW. This neat device has 2 input terminals and 4 output. The 2 inout terminals are connected to your Rail A and Rail B terminals on the DB150. Two of the 4 output terminals go to your layout and the other 2 go to an isolated programming track. Normally power is directed to the layout. However when you start to program the Auto-SW detects the programming preamble and switches the output to the programming track for you, automatically! Now as far as programming sound decoders. The LokProgrammer is only necessary to load new sound packages into the decoder. The Digitrax PR4 is used to do the same thing with Digitrax sound decoders. For changing things like addresses or sound volumes, etc. you can use your throttle or DecoderPro. I did a video here on programming tracks but honestly don’t remember how much of this I covered in it. Maybe I’ll review that and see if I need to do a video on simple programming tracks.
@@TheDCCGuy Thanks! One thing at a time is fine, as long as I can do both the same day or even eventually :-) Another part of my overall problem is that I have locomotives from several manufacturers: Athearn Genesis, Broadway Limited, etc, along with older stuff with aftermarket decoders from Digitrax and Soundtrax, and hopefully to be able to add a LokSound unit or two as shown in your videos. Basic programming capability is what I'm looking for. Maybe eventually consisting which means speed table work, and maybe selecting a prime mover for diesels which are to be converted from DC to DCC. Are dedicated Athearn / BLI / Digitrax / etc devices needed with separate tracks for each? Much appreciated.
I am subscribed and have enjoyed many of your videos. I am, however, disappointed that you only reviewed these three systems. There are a number of other systems that offer features that none of these systems have. There are many like, myself, that run European prototypes. I have found that the these systems, as stand alone, are not capable of programming my locomotives, nor do they have enough function buttons available to fully utilize all the sound outputs many of my locomotives have. A follow on discussing other available systems would be nice.
Mark-I appreciate your comment and wish I had access to a larger array of DCC systems especially the European ones. Unfortunately these are the limitations I have to work under. Also, I did not mean this to be an exhaustive review of all DCC systems just a range of options. I also am working under a time constraint with these videos since after about 15 minutes folks start to move on to other videos so I have to be a little selective. I will be discussing the Sprog system but did not include it in this video since it really isn’t a full system like those I showed. It is a very reliable programmer but is limited to using other manufacturer’s wireless Wifi based throttles and other manufacturer’s boosters at this time. It would be helpful if you would tell me which decoders you are using that you cannot program using these systems. I have programmed decoders made by all the major US manufacturers as well as Zimo and ESU LokSound decoders using these systems so find it interesting that you have some that can’t be programmed. Thanks for you input-Larry
Need some help. I want to transition to DCC and begin building a small shelf switching layout- (1'×8' or maybe a 1'×16) due to limited space i have. What would be a good DCC starter set?
I’d suggest the NCE PowerCab. See my video #151 on how to install it and video #162 on using the utility throttle Cab06. You can get by with the PowerCab throttle itself but cannot unplug it. The Cab06 gives you a second throttle that can easily be moved from panel to panel and I think is easier to hold-I like a throttle with a knob for control instead of a thumbwheel.
I have a small layout 3X25around the wall. And I use a simple mrc prodigy express and it has worked very well for me. The one thing i would like is a wireless throttle
I like digitrax and have been using it for years but I am really annoyed by the fact that they refuse to make it Mac compatible. I want to switch DCC systems for that specific reason...
@@TheDCCGuy well any firmware updates or software in general. It's quite frustrating in this day and age to have to struggle because of the OS you prefer to use. We the common people pay hundreds of dollars for these DCC systems and they can't even be bothered to make them fully accessible for everyone without sending the product back to the manufacturer. I Would appreciate it if somebody out there has any recommendations for other DCC platforms which are more user-friendly, thanks!
I use NCE Power Cab. I like the functionality and it's easy to use.
I use the MRC Elite Wireless system.
It seems to have been discontinued and no longer available.
But they've recently made a newer version of their Prodigy Advance 2 Wireless system which is basically the same thing as the Elite.
The nice thing about the Advance 2 system is that you can buy an optional WiFi module so you can use your phone as a train controller (but I don't want to control my trains with my phone).
I like the MRC controllers because they have a knob to control speed instead of a thumbwheel or buttons.
I would love to see you do a review of the Lenz and ESU systems.
The ESU seems really nice because it gives you a graphical image of all your locomotives and a graphical map of your layout to control everything, but that's overkill for me.
Thanks for going over the different starting units. Looking to get started into model railroading and this was a big help!! Stay Safe & God Bless!!
I've used every system and yes, DCC is great. I chose NCE due to its ease of use. My system works great.
Can you list the systems you have used and detail the pros and cons for each sytem and then why you went for the NCE ?
Cheers
Ian
I did miss the Lenz, Esu, Uhlenbrock, PIKO, and the very interesting Digikeijs systems!
Since I did this video I now have a Digikeijs and Piko system but not the others. I sold my Lenz system years ago when they left the US market, and the ESU and Uhlenbrock are real sleepers over here.
@@TheDCCGuy Thank you, and for the very interesting video's, I only recently discovered. btw, Piko is , as far as I know, the same (and maybe even made by) as the Uhlenbrock system.
I just found your channel looking for info on jmri and i think you do a great job. IT seems that you start with a brief overview and then get deeper into the topics in subsequent videos and i like that approach, very informative.
if a model train can be powered like a rc, it can run different rail loops without short circuit problem
The last time I checked those were not listed but they were still populating the website so I’m glad to hear they are available.
actually the Zephyer Express is a complete redesign of the system. Where as the DCS 50 and 51 are quite similar to one another, the 52 is quite different. At their core they are the same, still 3 amps, box design ect is still the same. Its where the LCD screen sits is different and even the buttons are different too, they are back lit and bigger. The LCD screen gives a LOT more information about what you are doing when programming a locomotive. Its a much improved system over the 50 and 51.
Thanks for that info on the new design. Do you find the menu system easy to use or too complicated? I have heard complaints to that effect.
@@TheDCCGuy not at all, the menu system is straight forward (granted i am a computer nut so it wasn't too hard for me to get used to the buttons). Its different if you are used to the old system, but if its your first system, its fine. I have the Express running my layout and I have added the LNWI to it as well, allowing myself and my dad to run our trains via our phones. No need to go buy the super expensive extra throttles, just using our phones or a tablet to do the same thing. Oh and one of the most important things to remember about the new DCS52, is has a built in USB interface. No need for any interpreter unit, you can plug your computer right into the unit and use JMRI out of the box, no advance setup required.
I'm thinking maybe TCS DCC system, now available August 2022 since this video popped into my feed.
There are actually two versions coming. One will be very similar to the NCE PowerCab in its capabilities whereas the larger one will offer more capabilities. As I understand it the first run may be limited in number.
I have two layouts. One 28'x28' two level HO scale one. I use ESU Cab Control for this one. (its my favorite) I also have an N scale layout on a door.I have Digitrax for this one. (my second choice) I also belong to a club with a large layout. We use NCE. (it's my lest favorite.) The ESU is so simple to use, easily updated, and has so many features. Plus jmri isn't necessary with the ESU system. Digitrax is a good middle of the road reliable system. NCE is ok but after using the ESU system I hate it. It's outdated compared to the ESU. Just my experience and opinion.
Which system is more cost effective for a club?...Digitrax or NCE????
Boy that’s loaded question. Digitrax used to offer clubs who wanted to convert a hefty discount allowing them and their members to buy everything they needed at cost! I don’t know if they still do that but it sure made it an easy choice for many clubs and would be worth asking them. I personally have never done that kind of cost comparison but you could easily do it and I think that Tonys has the NCE Power Pro system in stock and on sale right as of yesterday. In most cases it usually comes down to which system most members have at home or are most comfortable with.
can I connect Kato Unitrack directly to Digitrax's DCS52? I Like Unitrack. Good quality track and was wanting use it for my dcc layout instead of flex track.
I don’t see why not. Just make sure your power bus is large enough diameter wire.
Thank you very much for your informative done overview of DCC Systems and DCC Components.
Well I am located at Luebeck in northern Germany and using an older DCC System created by by Roco/Fleischmann with their here popular MultiMouse handheld throttle. The red Roco MultiMouse and the grey Fleischmann MultiMouse are similar but with one difference in their colour printed Company name onto it.
My Question is, do all DCC Systems you described in your overview would have rhe possibility to use these Roco/Fleischmann DCC Throttles?
Not all US American DCC Systems are availble at all time and I am interested in upgrading my DCC System to a more better System what allows me using Consist Addresses for multiple train helper engines as double header and pushing helper engine in the back?
Me I am modelling a fictional Roadname in Georgia in the year of 1928 and a fictional private railroad at the prussian kingdom of the year of 1908, located in northern germany as coastal railroad.
I have amore recent video (#224) that deals with this question so you might want to watch it. Basically it is unlikely that you throttles would work with other systems unless they are designed for that capability.
Have you thought about reviewing the digital type systems that use a Smart Phone / Tablet as the user interface? These systems all look like older clunkier "handset" types
We’ll get there. I just got one of the new TCS universal wifi throttles (UWT-100) and you can expect a look at it soon too.
Some of those touchscreen systems are nice, but I prefer actual buttons and knobs. I use the MRC system because I like a round speed knob, but the Digitrax controller looks like it was built by a kid in his basement.
Cheers for the Video! Sorry for chiming in, I would love your initial thoughts. Have you heard about - Januke Henatalie Formula (just google it)? It is a smashing exclusive guide for dominating DCC model railroads without the headache. Ive heard some amazing things about it and my buddy at very last got astronomical success with it.
@@Nature_r-n6v don't spam.
Which system is right for me? How do I know? I'm lucky I understand how it works 😂😂😂
Do you remember the link or item number where you purchased your led with resistors? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I was unable to find them on eBay. It would be a big help for me as I have hand tremors. Thank You Bill
You just need to do a search on eNay for golden white surface mount LEDs. You’ll get tons and can pick the cheapest.
I'm startling , afresh new Start N scale modular layout; I want to use D.C.C. ,WHERE TO START
It’s a whole new approach so take it in easily digested bites. Don’t get overwhelmed.
I've been using a Lenz DCC system. I have no particular complaints except for one: The whistle/horn control key has a slight sound delay between separate button pushing events. This makes it difficult (or impossible) to have quick, short whistle blows in succession, or to "play" the whistle. Any ideas or comments on how to remedy this, if possible? Also the Lenz system did not come with a power supply, so I've been using my 60 year old MRC DC "Power Pack". However this recently died, and while replacing a power supply shouldn't be a difficult or expensive task, I am contemplating a new, different brand DCC system.
I model in "Scale S," (i.e., no 'Flyer or "high rail"), and the demands of my "S" equipment are not particularly greater than most HO, but maybe just a little bit. I've been using normal "Tsunami" (one) decoders up to now, but I'm not very happy about the Tsunami 2 decoders having no more chuff wire. So I'm probably going to switch decoder brands for future DCC loco installs. I machined the chuff cam on one of my steamers to be a little less than a perfect square, to represent slightly off valve timing with the chuff.
My layout is modular, with two standard gauge mainlines, 1 narrow gauge line,, and a bunch of sidings and industries. So as an outside maximum, I might need to control up to four different trains (or multi-unit consists) at the same time, but not too often that many. I do plan on occasional double heading steam or using multi-unit diesel lash ups on the main lines. Typical operations might be a 3-4 unit diesel train on one mainline (all powered, no "dummy" engines), and a steam (occasionally double headed) train on the other main line. A narrow gauge train will be single engine, fairly short train, fairly low draw.. Simultaneous switching somewhere on the layout will be infrequent, but occasional.
My local hobby shop offered me a new Digitrax "starter" (I guess) system for around $200.00, and for another $60.00 or so a set up that will let me use my iPhone(s) as a controller. I am unfamiliar with Digitrax model numbers, and so I don't know how adequate this system will be for my max needs described above. He seemed really eager to sell me this, so I'm wondering if he was trying to sell me an obsolete Digitrax system, to get it off his hands. I don't know the different Digitrax systems very well. I have 18 locos, with five already DCC installed, with six decoders on the shelf waiting to be installed. Any system or set up recommendations?
I would need to know the Digitrax set name if it is a starter set and/or the command station designation. Current versions might be the DCS210. Older versions might be a DCS200. Let me know that and I can try to advise you.
I am thinking of going dcc, my layout is a 3 time around the layout, with 150 feet of track in in 33 1/2 square feet, want to be able to run up to 3 trains at a time, it is dc right now, can only run 1 train at a time
I have been planning a video on just your question. My answer would be yes DCC is right for you. But keep in mind the added cost of decoders or decoder equipped locos. This of course is offset by the increased enjoyment of running more trains along with lights and realistic sounds. If your expectations are as modest as you suggest then the cost of a beginners DCC system would be lower than for a full blown top of the line one. Do some reading and download manuals from the various manufacturer websites to see what might be right for you.
Where did you get the NCE logo on the panel
It is a sticker that comes with them.
Surprised you didn’t discuss the ease of use and clarity of each respective system manual. Reports from many users state the NCE Powercab is much easier to use than any other manufacturer.
That is a very subjective subject and I wouldn’t want to bias things. I think it best for folks to download and read the manuals and see for themselves what they might be most comfortable with. I have found that I am one of those types who can pick up an electronic gadget and use it without having to even look at the manual, but I know a lot of folks who are electronically challenged. When folks ask me which system is best for them I tell them they are all good and it is best to find someone or a shop where they can actually test the system to see if it is comfortable for them. In the end you are probably going to benefit most with a system that is widely used by your friends, club, or other locals who can serve as a resource when you have questions.
Any new controllers since this video?
There are 250 videos on this channel so please watch them for more info.
I want to start a layout i have a 4'x16' platform set up allready but i have no idea where to start,i am really interested in dcc to start but i just get flustered just thinking about starting.
If you are near a club that runs with DCC then join and learn before you buy. Having a local help resource can really take a lot of the angst out of the learning process especially if you are electron adverse. My wife can make an electronic device malfunction just by getting near one!
@@TheDCCGuy Thank you,i am gonna look into a club around here.
I have the NCE power cab and am looking to get the SB5 booster. However I do have two MTH Ho locomotives and want to acquire more in the very close future, which DCS system should I get if I want to keep all engines at 4 digit address and run more than two or three?
The SB5 is a good DCC option and MTH locos do operate on DCC systems. However you may be a bit disappointed with them under DCC. I have one MTH loco and it basically is a shelf sitter. Remember that DCC and DCS are not the same thing. If you are happy with how your MTH locos operate with your PowerCab system then you will be just as happy with the SB5. It gives you more power and capabilities and is an excellent upgrade path for the PowerCab.
The DCC Guy thank you. The one engine draws basically all of the power from the power cab with all lights and the smoke unit turned on, I just ordered an SB5 so it should be fine now. I just wanted the DCS system for when I want to run only MTH locos and make use of the features of Protosound 3 that DCC can’t access. Might get it down the line when the layout is a little closer to finished.
If you use multiple dcc systems, say digitrax zephyr and nce, do you need to reprogram a locomotive in nce if it was already done in digitrax?
No.
@@TheDCCGuy Thanks . Do you think the 10amp mrc prodigy is worth it for a medium sized layout over say the digitrax super chief or nce pro cab?
Yes, in my book Digitrax and NCE systems in general are top of the pile, MRC is middle, Bachmann is lower end. They all work but some offer more features and expansion paths than others.
@@TheDCCGuy thanks again! Can nce ph10/ph10r be used in ho scale too? It tallks about the 10a system as reserved for o/g scale layouts.
Those are very robust systems designed for O scale because Jim Scorse, NCE owner/developer, runs O scale. I suggest you ask them about that statement. Also check to see if the track voltage can be set for something down around 14-14.5 volts. If it is designed just for large scale they may not have designed it for lower voltages. I know one has been used for N scale in the past and it ended up melting through the rails under a shorted loco, so it may be a liability warning too.
I have an older Digitrax system with a DCS150 box. I need to program some locomotives with sound capability but don't have a programming track and can't find info on how to set one up. In an article in the current MR you mention using a service programming track and then a LokSound programming track for the Atlas S2 installation. So do I need 2 programming tracks one of which is decoder manufacturer dependent, so maybe 4 or 5 for the layout? Also, can the 150 control system deliver enough power to program a sound decoder? Maybe you have a video that goes through these things, or it may be a good topic for the future. Thanks
The DB150 is an either/or system, you can either run trains or program locos but not both at the same time. There is at least one diagram i your DB150 manual on how to set up a programming track and I showed how in the June 2019 DCC Corner column in Model Railroader magazine. You go go the cheap route and use a DPDT switch or buy the NCE Auto-SW. This neat device has 2 input terminals and 4 output. The 2 inout terminals are connected to your Rail A and Rail B terminals on the DB150. Two of the 4 output terminals go to your layout and the other 2 go to an isolated programming track. Normally power is directed to the layout. However when you start to program the Auto-SW detects the programming preamble and switches the output to the programming track for you, automatically! Now as far as programming sound decoders. The LokProgrammer is only necessary to load new sound packages into the decoder. The Digitrax PR4 is used to do the same thing with Digitrax sound decoders. For changing things like addresses or sound volumes, etc. you can use your throttle or DecoderPro. I did a video here on programming tracks but honestly don’t remember how much of this I covered in it. Maybe I’ll review that and see if I need to do a video on simple programming tracks.
@@TheDCCGuy Thanks! One thing at a time is fine, as long as I can do both the same day or even eventually :-) Another part of my overall problem is that I have locomotives from several manufacturers: Athearn Genesis, Broadway Limited, etc, along with older stuff with aftermarket decoders from Digitrax and Soundtrax, and hopefully to be able to add a LokSound unit or two as shown in your videos. Basic programming capability is what I'm looking for. Maybe eventually consisting which means speed table work, and maybe selecting a prime mover for diesels which are to be converted from DC to DCC. Are dedicated Athearn / BLI / Digitrax / etc devices needed with separate tracks for each? Much appreciated.
By the way my layout is/will be of the N&W-Southern in and out of Bristol TN/VA. Your Southern roster is very impressive! Nicely done.
I am subscribed and have enjoyed many of your videos. I am, however, disappointed that you only reviewed these three systems. There are a number of other systems that offer features that none of these systems have. There are many like, myself, that run European prototypes. I have found that the these systems, as stand alone, are not capable of programming my locomotives, nor do they have enough function buttons available to fully utilize all the sound outputs many of my locomotives have. A follow on discussing other available systems would be nice.
Mark-I appreciate your comment and wish I had access to a larger array of DCC systems especially the European ones. Unfortunately these are the limitations I have to work under. Also, I did not mean this to be an exhaustive review of all DCC systems just a range of options. I also am working under a time constraint with these videos since after about 15 minutes folks start to move on to other videos so I have to be a little selective.
I will be discussing the Sprog system but did not include it in this video since it really isn’t a full system like those I showed. It is a very reliable programmer but is limited to using other manufacturer’s wireless Wifi based throttles and other manufacturer’s boosters at this time. It would be helpful if you would tell me which decoders you are using that you cannot program using these systems. I have programmed decoders made by all the major US manufacturers as well as Zimo and ESU LokSound decoders using these systems so find it interesting that you have some that can’t be programmed. Thanks for you input-Larry
Need some help. I want to transition to DCC and begin building a small shelf switching layout- (1'×8' or maybe a 1'×16) due to limited space i have. What would be a good DCC starter set?
I’d suggest the NCE PowerCab. See my video #151 on how to install it and video #162 on using the utility throttle Cab06. You can get by with the PowerCab throttle itself but cannot unplug it. The Cab06 gives you a second throttle that can easily be moved from panel to panel and I think is easier to hold-I like a throttle with a knob for control instead of a thumbwheel.
@@TheDCCGuy thanks for the reply. I was looking into NCE! Definitely going to visit my local hobby shop soon!
I have a small layout 3X25around the wall. And I use a simple mrc prodigy express and it has worked very well for me. The one thing i would like is a wireless throttle
"small layout"
I like digitrax and have been using it for years but I am really annoyed by the fact that they refuse to make it Mac compatible. I want to switch DCC systems for that specific reason...
I assume you mean the Soundloader package?
@@TheDCCGuy well any firmware updates or software in general. It's quite frustrating in this day and age to have to struggle because of the OS you prefer to use. We the common people pay hundreds of dollars for these DCC systems and they can't even be bothered to make them fully accessible for everyone without sending the product back to the manufacturer. I Would appreciate it if somebody out there has any recommendations for other DCC platforms which are more user-friendly, thanks!