Digitrax DT602 "First Impressions" at Chadwick Model Railway | 106.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ก.ย. 2024
- Digitrax DT602, first impresions at Chadwick Model Railway
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I like that it has control knobs that you can turn to control the loco. One of the things that always put me off DCC is not having any sort of "mechanical" throttle.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Andrew
The thing that fascinates me here Charlie is the fact I no longer even have a railway. In years gone by I had one that pretty much covered the whole house, now I don't even have a single platform. Yet I have to keep following your posts ... I think that must mean you're pretty good at what you do. Good post again mate, very interesting, thank you.
What a heartwarming comment Jon.
Feels like we see a lot of little things about how the digitrax system works, but not much of an overall picture? It seems way more in-depth and modular than something like a Hornby system and I'd love to see more about what components talk to what and what they do. The technical/programming stuff is by far what appeals to me the most about model railways. :)
Keep up the good work!
Tomorrow’s video might be right up your street!
hey, now it looks like an early-00s mobile phone - that's progress!
Not a Digitrax user then RA?
@@ChadwickModelRailway DCC++ base station running on an Arduino, homemade controllers based on Atmel microcontrollers - am about to attempt one with a crude emulation of real train controls e.g. a power controller and a brake handle with off, lap, on positions.
I did receive yesterday a Digitrax DZ126T decoder I'm gonna cram inside a Farish Class 14. Only question is… can I add working marker lights too? Think that might be Too Ambitious.
Does it have Snake on it?
My wife looked over my shoulder at what I was watching and said "what kind of phone is that?"
@@SeanLamb-I-Am Precisely! :-))
When I first thought about getting back into model railways, DCC seemed an obvious way to go. Initial research showed Digitrax to be a very comprehensive way of doing layout control. However I have chosen z21, JMRI, and DCC concepts. JMRI really is the bees knees. Thanks as ever Charlie, top channel from a top guy.
That’s very kind of you to say so CJ
Well again Charlie you make the mundane interesting & informative. I must admit, control systems are an essential but overlooked aspect of any layout. When I had a layout, the Hornby Zero 1 was the control system everybody wanted (there's a blast from the past for you!). Looking at today's technology in model railways, the control system has to cope with far more than was dreamed possible in my day. Nevertheless you've delivered once again with a video on your chosen method of control & teaching us a little along the way. You have a gift of explaining things Charlie & I'm sure others will agree that this is what makes your videos entertaining, informative and stand out from other channels. Take care and best wishes.
The Hornby Zero One, wow! When I saw it I thought that it was fabulous.
Sadly I was mainly at sea during those years.
This handset seems a lot better but it's still early days.
Stay safe mate, Regards Charlie
Many thanks Charlie. I look forward to your next video.
It’s great to have you onboard Glen.
As a digitrax user in Australia,after the expense spent in the past on digitrax gear and the lack of service here for it, I'll be sticking with a mobile phone with an app, enjoy your vidos, a new subscriber a little while ago
It’s great to have you on-board Dash. Regards Charlie
I purchased the 500 the very week the 602 came out and I didn't want to shell out any more money. I know the 500 is cumbersome and sometimes the buttons stick, but it is still workable. Love your content and your explanation of 602 is very informative.
Thanks Dale, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate. Regards Charlie
Hello Charlie, You hinted at watching my video, but did not mention it specifically. I wish the manual had specified that I needed Digitrax brand specific devices, and not just LocoNet devices as it definitely would have saved me some headaches. The good news is that a distributor tested and was able to update his throttle with the same hardware setup (DR5000 and PR4) I have, so I am still waiting to hear from Digitrax if my throttle has a hardware issue.
Another great video as usual. I always look forward to seeing your posts.
Thanks!
Hi HCJ, Let’s be perfectly honest the Digitrax Layout manuals have a lot to be desired. They need to sack their technical authors!
Nice vid. As a new user, I'm very pleased. Options I can set or reset that I like: Ballistic encoder knobs, non-latching F2, which button groups turn on a timed out display. What I wish for is a larger speed % number.
It’s certainly a great step forward from the old multibutton clunky controllers. Regards Charlie
It's great to see another video this week as I wasn't expecting one. Nice surprise, thank you.
Thanks Simon. I hope that you enjoyed it.
I have 2 coming with my Digitrax order. Excitement much!
Great news Robin.
Thanks for that Charlie, will be really interested to hear how you get on with it. keep safe and take care.
Hi I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it John.
Digitrax is by far the best DCC ecosystem there is. You can control every aspect of your layout with a single remote
I’m on your side Brian.
Thanks Charlie, see you next week 👍
Thanks Kevin.
Hi Charlie. Good Intro. I've got one on order already and will check the Firmware issue. Its basically the DCS52 in your hand. PS Brilliant series of videos so far hope to see you one day at the end of the Covid-19 Tunnel.
I’m so pleased that you found it useful Anthony.
Waiting for my 602D to arrive so we can install the club UR93! Thanks for the video.
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Ken. Good luck with yours.
Hi Charlie
I have a DC602 and I find it very easy to use even though I haven’t figured everything out yet....working on it. As you say, I need more hands on. I’ve just watch this great post for the third time and found out something new again.
Cheers.
Thanks Mike, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, my layout is powered by Digitrax so I found your video interesting.....Thanks Greg
A man after my own heart Greg.
Pleasant surprise charlie. as always an informative video.Thanks .Looking forward to next week's Video !!!
Thanks NW.
I agree this looks to be a step forward, they seemed to got this one with some thought...thanks for sharing....Jack looking forward to seeing more👍
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Jack.
Hi Charlie,
Always looking forward to your next video, you have an amazing way of presenting, factual and entertaining at the same time. I’m always going back over your old videos while awaiting your new ones.
Have you run updates on your Digitrax DT602, if so how did it go? It seems a bit of a dark art.
Best wishes Steve
I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting Steve. I wouldn’t try to upgrade the firmware on the 602. Two of mine worked and one has frozen, which needs to be returned! Regards Charlie.
Thanks Charlie, I have seen images of this new throttle. Your the first video about it, I am looking forward to hearing more on it. Thanks for the tip on the firmware update. Thanks for sharing and stay safe. Ken
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Ken.
Great 80's remote has now turned into a 90's mobile phone hahahah. Always enjoy the videos
It’s a vast improvement H1.
This controller looks very interesting. I have gone down the nce range and am for the most part very happy with it. Will admit the lcd screen on this looks far more user friendly than the nce controller. Will research more into this as it is very appealing. Thanks for sharing. Clint
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Clint.
Eh,im confused,thought there was no episode this week, i mean im not complaining,love your videos to be quite honest 😁
It was just a quick review, next week's is a biggie!
@@ChadwickModelRailway oooooh is it gonna be long'n is it?
Charlie did mention he would drop the odd one in if there was something of interest to report. As you say, it was a welcome bonus :-)
Great to see your smiling face again looking forward to next test on controller cheers mate Mike
Thanks Michael, you’re too kind.
Looks good, I must think about upgrading from my DT100. Must be about time.
Sounds like a promising move Brian. Regards Charlie
Another great video, Charlie! Thank you!
Thanks Michael, regards Charlie
Nice unboxing Charlie. Thanks for sharing. Cheers Onno.
Thanks Onno
I'm using a Sig-na Trak Ace 2 which is a very nice and simple to use controller. The main unit has a colour touch screen for all the configuring and programming stuff as well as being able to control 1 loco direct and accessories. Another 4 control throttles can be plugged in to it which also have 5 configurable function buttons for your favourite functions. As a beginner I find it ideal and has way more features than most entry level controllers like Hornby's and Bachmann's ones. I don't think I will ever use all its 2044 accessory and 9999 locomotive address spaces.
That sounds like your very content with your choice Rob.
Nice video as always....Well done.
Philip
Thanks Philip, regards Charlie
I well remember the H&M 5000 and Hornby Zero One, gosh they looked clunky even back then.
I'd have loved digital control but never made it past the H&M Walkabout. How times have changed, thanks for the video.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Ralph
Hi Charlie another very informative video.
I had to return my DT602 to my supplier as they had been recalled by Digitrax for a modification to the battery terminals which in some instances has caused serious problems.
I did manage to update the firmware before returning them, but as usual for Digitrax the manuals are not that easy to follow.
When mine are returned I will let you know.
On the Digitrax web site there is a link at bottom of the home page to a Digitrax users forum, there is a lot of information on the DT602 and all things relating to Digitrax.
The Z21 is a very good system an upgraded version is on the way although not released yet DIGITAL Z21 XL CONTROL SYSTEM about £560.00 according to the Gaugemaster web site.
Thanks Terry, I shall have to check out the users forum. Regards Charlie
happy Friday Charlie
It was just a quick review, next week's is a biggie!
@@ChadwickModelRailway cool I ordered one of these this week
Very useful. Thanks Charlie. . I have been using Digitrax for 14 years and find it very flexible. My old 400 was updated to a 402 including postage - great customer service. So is it worth buying a 602 and replacing my 402? Or only if you are starting with Digitrax? How about a video comparing 402 and 602 and even perhaps an iPhone using LWTI?
yet another great video Charlie really informative, cheers Ash
Thanks Ash
Thanks for the new vid Charlie!
Thanks Mike.
Good review Charlie, as always. 👌
Thanks Paul.
Hi Charlie ....
Good informative video as always, watching this confirms why I'll stick with my Z21 thanks...
No trailing cable to trip over/Tie yourself up with...
No Loco Inventory to have to produce....
No Functions to have to find.....
No Turnout numbers to have to look up ...
Keep up the great work ....
Stay safe and well..
Regards Nigel at west hatton model railway...
Each to our own Nigel.
Looking on the Digitrax website it says that it is ir compatible if you add a UR90
So the Digitrax unit you're replacing looks exactly like a more buttoned version of the unit I got when I bought my first digitrax dcc system... in the 1980's! Definitely was time for an update. I AM a bit surprised they still don't have a proper wireless setup after all these years.
There are a few more up-to-date items in the range. The trouble is the technology is far too complicated for us simple folk. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie. Great video, thought for a second during your initial discription you were going to discribe the curves as "sexy" lol. At which point I was saying, you need to get out more.
Keep up the good work, take care and stay safe.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed this sexy review!
Afternoon Charlie. Thanks for a Friday afternoon video as it wasn't expected 😄 Looks like a funky hand held 👍🏻 I've got a gauge master prodigy that is very frustrating at times 😝 But at the moment changing it is prohibitive due to this bloody lockdown and furlough 😩 I don't know what's going too happen with my job come the end of all this!! Anyway looking forward to your review on this hand held as you always give a good honest review 😀 And hopefully I can invest in a new bit of kit when the times right. Have a lovely weekend with your family. Thanks again for a great video cheers Stevie 😎
What a heartwarming comment Stevie.
Have a great weekend too buddy.
Hi Charlie, some how blundered onto your site, I have started my first layout (digital) have power in the tracks and will start ballasting soon. Your posts/videos very helpful. Keep them coming. MANY THANKS
I’m so pleased that you found them interesting Russell.
Glad to see this as i wasn't expecting one this week,although Charlie did say he might do a short one to fill the bi-weekly Videos
Once again a great and informative, I'm still using Charlie's old favourite the Trusty but limited Dynamis it suits my needs may look into a Sprog III as only it only got one Ir sensor so i have to sometimes turn round to get the signal to the Base from the Handset as my Layout goes all around our Loft
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it chris. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
I’m currently building a layout. Already have a bunch of DCC sound steamers. In all my modern stuff I put RailPro in it. Really RailPro blew this DCC tech away 10 years ago. If it got the same advertising as the big guys nobody would use DCC anymore. Maybe just for the track power. But since it seems to be sticking around I might get one of these DT602Ds and will play with both. I’m just saying these DT602s are still like a Model T compared to the RailPro touchscreen wireless controllers but it’s being billed as 21st century. I still like it and want to buy one, it just doesn’t compare. Fwiw.
Thanks Grant, I clearly have no knowledge of railpro whatsoever. It clearly isn’t a mainstream system. Regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway It’s been out for quite some time. TH-cam it if if youre interested. Instead of a DCC chip or board you wire in a LM3S module into the loco. Then you download actual sound file recordings of specific engines off their website to the controller. Then you upload the files from the controller wirelessly to the LM3S module in the loco. Two pages of buttons to use with symbols. Consisting is really cool and easy. Evenly splits up the power usage between different brands for smooth running. Can even upload your own photos of the locos to have in the list.
That being said I did just purchase the EVOXD set for my layout. Will look forward to using this wireless controller for my steamers and turnouts.
The amount of sound files you can add to the LM-3S is only limited by the file space on the module. An ultimate prime mover (engine sound) uses up a good chunk of the space. But there’s still plenty of space left to add many other sounds that DCC doesn’t offer. You can add engine startup warnings. Fast spitter, sanding, coupler clank. Can set the load based on how heavy the train is supposed to be as well. So as you wind up the power the engines keep notching up but you’re not moving. you might be at 24% power with your consist and then the train starts creeping ahead at 1% speed. You can run them on any DCC layout with DCC locos at the same time. It’ll pull track power from the system but run wirelessly and directly.
"It has curves" Oh my Charlie, LOL
Just as speechless as I!
charlie, A very helpfull video, the units have been out but I haven't seen many reviews on the D.T.602. Digitrax really had to come up with this unit as the N.E.C. controller has been cutting the old Digitrax controller for lunch in the U.S. Cheers, Chris Perry.
Very true Chris, but the Digitrax system is huge.
Great video Charlie. I have been following your progress from here in Australia and have found your videos and comments a great help. I am just starting to get back in to model railways and hopefully will end up following british outline in n gauge. I had been tossing up going with the Roco z21 as this is teh jsystem my local shop carries. But after seeing your video, the greater power of the Digitrax system may be a better long term option which I can source from an interstate supplier. Thanks again.
I can’t really offer any advice Stuart, as I know so little about the other systems.
Hi Charlie. I am have a Hornby controller and the other half bought me the laptop software, but nice to have something in reserve if I do not get on with it. As a beginner I find your videos really useful.
CliveI'm so pleased that you found the video useful.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. Hmmm... Swings and roundabouts, I think. Yes, there are fewer buttons, but maybe many more button pushes getting through various menus to achieve the same result. I have also "knelt at the altar of Digitrax" (I'm sure that's all your fault - LOL). I bought the Digitrax starter set that came with the DT602. As I mentioned in my last comment to you (re skateboard-like trolley) I have literally just set up my baseboard(s), so it will be a little while before I get to try out my DT602.
At least with a new handset, there are far more accessible function buttons. Because Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Hi Charlie. Did your reply become truncated?
No Paul, I dictate responses normally, and it wrote because instead of regards!
Great review Charlie as always...I am an NCE user and happy where I am at mo. Always good to see others coming up to date of course...regards, Chris
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Chris.
Hi ya Charlie. You are absolutely correct in wanting it with the firmware upgrade. Heath over at Human(c)ity , bought one without and has had a lot of issues with the upgrade. Ergonomically, I don’t like the throttles up that high. To me they should have been placed mid-body. I’ll be interested in what you think after some real time use. Thanks, as always, for an interesting and informative video. See ya next week.
Thanks Norman, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting.
Bit old hat now but have successfully applied the latest firmware upgrade from 14th Aug using a Digitrax PR3 USB interface and DCS100 command station. Worked first time using a set of instructions I got off the 'Digitrax-Users' Groups.IO
Thanks Dan, I need to man up!
Hello Charlie, I know it's not your fault but I sadly gave up watching this video because i was inundated with adverts in the first few minutes of watching. They just seemed to come every few seconds or so. Sorry about this. As far as I'm concerned you are still up there among the greatest.
That’s disturbing John, I shall check it out.
I’ve just removed their auto adds.
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie; I'll give it another try
Hi charile
Sorry to hi-jack you comments but i thought this was a good place to let your followers know that theres been another firmware update released over night for the throttle according to the Digitrax page the new version is Sept. 18, 2020 (version 0.1) - Sub-Version: 0.3 so there are chages afoot .. as always i will update later and see what goodies we get
Tony
Thanks Tony, please do keep me posted with a fresh comment. Regards Charlie
Looks very futuristic. I’m looking to go digital next year , so look forward to your opinions on this.
Ron
Thanks Ron, I’m pleased that you found it interesting.
Hi Charlie thanks for reviewing this handset as I'm thinking of getting one. As you say the original handset is a bit button overload. It'll be interesting to see how you get on with it thanks again Andy
Andy I'm so pleased that you found the video useful.
Regards Charlie
Nice feline figured (36DD-28-34 LOL) controller, a Pamela Anderson that fits in your hand, LOL. I'll have to check them out on the website to see all the info etc, but keep us posted with an update later.
It’s certainly an improvement John but it does take some getting used too.
I wish the Hornby select was NMRA compatable. Its sooooo easy to use! To run something like a bachmann 21 pin DCC socket loco you have to rip the socket out and hard wire it. :( .Awesome video Charlie!
Sounds like that it’s time for a change!
@@ChadwickModelRailway Glad I Upgraded my Select for a Dynamis
Nice review Charlie. Great video, as usual. I've become a big fan of your presentations. As a Digitrax Dealer here in Tennessee, USA, (small family owned Hobby Shop - 'ARCY Hobby') I am always interested in how others view the changes in Digitrax offerings, especially since I am also a big user of Digitrax products personally. Thanks again.
What a heartwarming comment Arthur. I do hope that your shop is surviving during these somewhat testing times. Regards Charlie
I just started into DCC and my unit came with the 602 (with no beeps). Being new, I am unable to compare to old throttles. I do like the 602, although the auto shut off is annoying, especially when I have it tethered and do not need to save battery power. i hope they come up with an upgrade to turn the power save feature on and off. Easy to read, easy to use, and comfortable in the hand.
Please take a look at the comment which I have pinned to the start of the comment section. There is a link there to a video to show you how to do it. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. I’ve just watched this really useful video again as I’ve now got a DT602 for my O gauge setup. Like the other chap in this comment, the power save function is driving me nuts as I don’t need it, but I can’t seem to find your comment about how to disable it that you refer to in your reply to him. Could you possibly repost it or even write the name of the link (I know YT don’t allow links) so I can switch it off?
Best regards
Phil Davey
Hi Charlie thanks for the info, I use Digitrax but just have the DCS 51 Right now. After watching Humanity[c]ity I was kinda---. I'm looking to expanding soon and hopefully Digitrax comes out with a set that includes this new throttle. Again thank you for showing the good side. It really is helpful. Now they just need to drop the cost. Yeah right. 😆 LOL
I’m so pleased that you found it useful Chris, regards Charlie
Just starting out and not going DCC on purpose but do love your videos my loft layout is a bad weather mancave so if the suns out so am I.
A sound work plan BW.
Oh this is cool, I remember seeing this video, but actually today I just bought my first DCC system, and it includes the DT602. I'll have to re-watch this.
I didn't want to get the zephyr because I wanted to be able to have something handheld and be able to move at least a little bit with the cord. I didn't want the NCE because I didn't feel it would evolve as well with the supply of parts, as I've been told. Plus more people around me seem to have digitrax.
I've only got a very small n scale layout right now, but hopefully it'll move to something around the outside of a room in a few years.
Wish me luck!
A good choice Andrew that can expand as your layout grows. Regards Charlie
Works well most of the time but sometimes it has erratic speed changes, have you ever had any problems like this?
Awesome videos, always great information and presentation. Thanks
Yes, it’s not without its faults. Furthermore, there is another firmware upgrade available. Regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Aloha and thanks for the quick response and information
Thanks for the review Charlie. I'm looking to get away from the basic Hornby controllers and not sure where to look first. The Digitrax might be a good option
I’d contact DCC Train Automation for unbiased advice.
Hi Charlie,
Really enjoy your weekly videos, I am a ardent Digitrax and Loconet user so looking forward to your next video about this throttle.
On a different subject have you had any dealings with the Lux-Modellbau wheel cleaner?, I know they have one at Mckinley.
Cheers
Dave.
No Dave, I don’t have one, it’s pricy!
I film the McKinley videos so I have seen it in action and it’s good.
Hi Charlie,
thanks for the reply, yes it is pricey, hence I wanted to find out about peoples experience before buying one.
Found it. There is a setting to turn the power saving mode off, on, or adjust the power saving time. As they always told me in the Marines, RTM (read the manual).
In the navy it was RTFM !
@@ChadwickModelRailway Same here. Military is the same world over.
I have the wireless version - DT602DE - mint for pretty much everything (except finding it as it's not attached), at the moment I'm fault finding on my new layout, lying/crawling underneath, leaning over, squezing around etc checking points and dropper feeds with the controller in one hand and multimeter in the other - It is a tad (eye wateringly) expensive when you add in the wireless unit (UR92/3) I think that comes to around £/$400, but with a 2.5m x 1.5m layout a fixed location controller would be impossible
Fault finding is always such a joy!
Good luck, regards Charlie
Informative as usual. I will be upgrading my old system soon; looking forward to part II. Note:
I have noticed your last two videos have been rudely interrupted by a brief advertisement that just cuts you off. Very unprofessional so I assume TH-cam is responsible.
I’ll check it out John.
TH-cam recently made midroll adverts on by default - including on previously uploaded videos. Much annoyance from people with large channels over this!
hm, two ads started rolling after the first shutter-click in the outro around 9:48. Odd place for it.
It's their way of trying to get you to upgrade to the pay for premium "add free" service.
@@RoamingAdhocrat Thanks for the info. Like they don't already have enough control, they have to disrespect their own clients.
Missed this one. Wasn't expecting it so I stayed in bed.
I'm on NCE. I find their throttle very user friendly. Like a hammer head shark.
You pays your money, as I heard someone say...........once or twice.
Thanks,
Bob
It was such a relief for Digitrax to join in with the 21st century!
The updates can be done successfully using the Digitrax loconet to USB Interface device together with a Digitrax command station plus a PC or a laptop. I assume the throttle in the video is the European version with the radio duplex operation and if so 230 pounds is rather steep for this throttle I got the European model from the states for only $199- ( last minute update I do apologize for not noticing the loconet cable attached to the throttle) which means this is not the duplex model of course. As for infrared I agree it is not always reliable.
No mine is the standard version but I'm now getting the hang of it.
That looks a good bit of cit Charlie far cry from the other one look forward to you full review mate. thank you.
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Tony. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway kit oops wrong glasses
Brilliant video as ever Charlie, but for some reason every time I watch it I keep thinking of Joanie from Mad Men. I might need to get out more.
Perhaps you’re right Ian.
We’ve been locked up too long!
Thanks ,Charlie.Very informative .I shall follow your progress.I have yet to decide on a system,maybe the Roco/Fleischmann Z21 system or ESU for DC/DCC.For my AC trains I use Marklin analogue and digital mobile station.(I have both on different lines).We had problems with Digitrax at our club,especially the ps42.System not recognizing commands or needing frequent reboots.Keep well my friend.
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Simon. I have to rely on advice from high-end retailers such as James from DCC Train Automation, for my technical advice. We can’t learn all the systems! They’re far too complex.
Appreciate your video and your thoughts. I just received my DT602D in the post today. Read the manual, watched several TH-cam videos before ordering previously I used the DT402D. I belong to the Tennessee Valley Modeler club about 50 miles SE of Nashville in a historic town of Bell Buckle. The club has O Gauge, HO & N scale layouts ( Digitrax on N &HO) Recently more members are showing up with DT602s.
Great news, Steve. However, I have heard there is a new firmware upgrade out. You might wanna check it out. Regards Charlie.
Great Video Charlie. I bought my Digitrax System last Year so it’s a bit of a bugger having to splash out more Money, guess I’ll stick with the old Hand Controller for now.
It’ll be interesting to see how you get on and the true advantages over the old Controllers and whether it’s worth the extra Money, especially when there nought wrong with the old Unit. Thank you.
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Peter. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
Well it took a while but I’m finally changing to digitrax and must say excellent so far..... going to be expensive though lol 😬... hope you’re getting on with the new throttle ok I love mine
That's great news Richard.
Still an eye-wateringly expensive TV remote.
How about a fully fledged DCC system for £20 instead? With built-in WiFi and app support? That you can add physical dials to for speed control as well?
Yes, it's possible. Open source DCC-EX. Takes an hour to put together. No soldering needed.
Thanks for sharing your view.
Regards Charlie
Great review I was unaware of the new controller. I noticed that the train does not move under the throttle when you changed to the right hand side like the 402 does. I will need to check out these new ones looks great.
It certainly seems much better Giles
I think this new throttle is a step backwards over the 400s. The only good new feature is the AA batteries. And that's it.
I agree it does take some getting used to but the older style are so clunky. Regards Charlie
Uh oh. Finally a modern looking controller. and Curves! Oooooh. How many days until Christmas?
Or perhaps your birthday?
When I got back into the hobby I decided to go the analogue route. I’m wondering now if I should have bitten the bullet and opted for digital.
You probably know the answer already David!
I know it’s been a while since you’ve done this video but is there a chance you could do a how to speed match locomotives video using this throttle system?
I’m sorry JPO, but there’s only a couple of ways that I know of, to match loco speeds. One is to use a program such as Train Controller, and the other to adjust the CVs individually. I don’t believe you can simply do it with a handset.
Regards Charlie
OK, now I'm jealous. Give it a good wringing out for us. 😉
I certainly will Frank
Haha!
My „remote“ (it’s wired) only has 17 buttons!
Probably for the best mate.
I use the radio controlled throttle DT500D I've never had a problem bringing up any of the functions 0 through to 28. The receivers has also worked well. However beware of low battery, as that may have been the cause of the problems you had?
Thanks Sam, regards Charlie
Mmmm. For a new model and considering how long the previous model served.... I’m a little sad face. And firmware updates. I don’t think it will ever be a smooth update. While I know it has an incredible array of features I still can’t ignore the elegance and simplicity of the HORNBY ELITE. Lots of limitations but it still looks the bussiness. I always thought there would be a faster way for to access points and loco accessories but it’s always bogged down I’m sure they can make it easier by 2020 I used a Panasonic tough book with railroad master and the elite and while that’s a good way to go and we can do it with the iPad I feel the big names are still holding back but as Charlie demonstrates the plug and play lifestyle for model railway is evolving just not with the momentum of other areas. Still as always super vid. Don’t. Forget your hat and stay safe everyone. Oh Charlie what was the RRP in in GBP on the unit just an idea cheers.
I did mention that it was £160 delivered Josef.
hi charlie
interesting video, would be interested in an update. i have a Prodigy Advance 2, i think the controller is ok , however it has its limitations, only one thumb wheel, the build quality of the hand set is not robust, the 230v - 15 v trans former does not like the cold. given my railway is in the garage this is a pain. For use in the loft or garage i would avoid purchasing one.
regards Phil Holme
Thanks Philip, interesting about the effect of cold temperatures.
6:55 the inner immature child in me didn’t half laugh here.😁😂😂 Sorry Charlie, just my sense of humour.😆😇 Nice video by the way.👍🏻
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Simon
Great, this seems to be catching on as kids play trainsets are now incorporating this or cell phone apps
Sadly not when we were kids David!
Sam Barr How expensive was the radio control unit
Just google it Sam, I would be guessing.
Hi Charlie…… any chance of a “how too” add loco address…….. I’m having a hell of a time trying to get an Accurascale 37 to do anything
What system are you using Moff?
Regards Charlie
I have the DT6602 D coming today, I'll let you know how it works out, I have been using my iPad (the mini) with a LWI interface and I liked how it worked, however I found it inconvenient to change the speed and a wheel seemed uch more logical, almost went with a TCS UT 100 for the wifi aspect, but in the end decided to go all Digitrax, so for untethered operation, I had to also purchase the UR 93, hope it works out as I expect
Do keep us posted Buz.
Hi Charlie, well I got the DT 602D on Saturday, the good---I like the feel, and being able to easily run 2 loco's , the speed wheels are great----the Bad---won't stay connected to the UR92 when unplugged for moving around, contacted Digitrax, their only answer, send it in for repair, I did that this AM, so now I am back to my iPad , which wasn't awful, just not really what I want, now thinking I should have gone with th TCS UT 100 that uses WiFi, Regards Buz
Got word yesterday , that they are replacing the throttle and have shipped it---fingers crossed
Hi Charlie, just purchased one of these for my layout which is nearly finished - waiting for track from James -(I hope you get some commission promoting James =]) I am using a Digikeiijs D5000 with it which I understand I can also programme/write cv's with it.
I have scanned TH-cam to find a video on how to programme/write cv's for my loco's but haven't been able to find any.
Is this something you could do from scratch with a video for us 'newbies'? I'm sure I'm not the only one out there.
All the best and thanks in advance, you do a great job.
Hi Glen, I have already done an intro into CV programming. Please search for CVs for dummies!
@@ChadwickModelRailway Hi Charlie, yes I have already done that a few times. It's the finer detail of using the Digikeijs DR5000 CV entry and Hornby locos. I appreciate that your video was an intro to cv's. Perhaps you could do an 'in depth' video?
Regards
Glen
I’m sorry Glenn, but I just don’t have a DR5000. Regards Charlie
Hello Charlie
When can we expect a follow up video with your opinions and experiences of the DT620? Have one myself, but i'm curious of your opinions.
My DT600 is fine once you put the time in to get used to it. No other video planned as yet mate.
What else do you need Charlie? I'm coming back to the hobby after many decades away, therefore somewhat out of touch. How do you power the track and control and power the points? I'm presuming you can program and control points from this handset?
Hi Kieth, welcome back to the hobby. I think you ought to research DCC control systems. This can be quite a complicated subject but hey one step at a time. Regards, Charlie
Very snazzy indeed :)
Glad that you like it TM
Hi Charlie, a very imformative video, i like this handset, i'm very new in this hobby so what else would i need to go with this handset to control trains, Ron.
It’s part of a Digitrax system. Beware, it’s expensive and a little over complicated!