I think "Dealing with DCC" can include a lot of things besides building and wiring the layout. Choosing a DCC system, and learning about consisting, speed matching, momentum, and let's not forget decoder installations, sound programming, etc., can all be done on/with/for a small layout. But Sumner is right that wiring a small layout for DCC is really simpler than wiring one for DC, especially when you consider DC multiple block control (since the OP want's to have multiple trains running at a time). Any of several DCC systems are well suited for small layouts like this, but I suggest that whichever one is chosen, getting one with, or adding a computer interface (e.g. USB interface, etc.) to it, and learning to use JMRI will be immensely rewarding. You can start with programming decoders (much easier than using a throttle), and continue with operations and layout control (for which additional layout wiring for sensors, turnouts, signals, etc. can be added). A small layout is the perfect place to experiment with and learn about these aspects of model railroading. JMRI can also run a Wi Throttle server, which allows WiFi throttles or throttle apps on smart phones to be used to control the trains and layout functions (throwing switches). That'll save the cost of a WiFi interface for the DCC system too.
Oops, looks like our posts crossed in the night, in the blissful fog of ignorance of each other... Yes, JMRI can be a hobby unto itself, along with Arduinos, and...
That is exactly the issue I have had. I can ask but never get an answer. Just bunches of combined LETTERS and/or WEARD NAMES. Yes the wiring for the tracks might be easier but it's the "control modules" that bypass what used to be there that are not explained. I learned how to run, set-up and program computer controlled milling machines and the the computer operated measuring devices. There were legable books, college level courses and people willing to educate. I made and inspected engines the size used in railroad engines. Oh well, yesterday I received a book 'The Complete Atlas Wiring Book' and today a neighbor woman who saw it gave me a new 'Wiring Projects for your model railroad' from 'Model Railroader'. So I'll read them and hopefully have some understanding. I still don't understand Windows 10 even though I used to build my own computers up to Real Windows 7. Also the Smart A Phone the religious leadership demands is a mess. Yet there necessary to run DCC and new cars. Hope ya'll had a nice Sunday. Rich
Admitted some aspects of DCC can be more challenging but they are things that you basically can't do with a DC system and don't have to do with DCC in order to run a train. If you want to control most everything on your layout via DCC then yes one is going to have to do a lot of studying to accomplish that. If you want to operate trains with a wireless throttle and do everything else in a more manual mode DCC doesn't require much on ones part to get up to speed. About all that you need to learn is how to use JMRI or possibly the command station you bought to program the road number into the decoder for the loco you bought. For now that is basically my road. Turnouts will be either manually controlled or with switches and servos where you don't need an Arduino or computer knowledge and only need to spend about $8.00 per turnout. Sumner
I guess it all depends on where the priorities and interests are. The hardware (Arduinos and all their bits and pieces) and software development is to me an essential part of it all. There is a list of things to work on, like autonomous trains with their own DCC controller on board, (optical?) recognition of obstructions and signals, responding to ATC (forced stop after passing halt, etc.). The general idea is that the train responds to the environment, rather than being completely controlled externally. There will many hours of programming and testing ahead. 2m of track and couple of turnouts would do, but things should look pretty too, hence my little layout.
Yup! You nailed it. Care to translate the manual for my NCE Power CAB and two DCC steamers with sound.
The e-mails I got on how to fix my faulty electric bicycle was half in Chinese as well. Strange considering they belong to TREK. Bikes I've owned since '81. The Schwinn's now come with WallyWorld Script.
I purchased a portable multiband radio receiver before it was officially available in the US. I had seen enough pre-release reviews on it, and it was similar enough to earlier products, that I could use it well enough without understanding a word of of the Chinese manual. But once I downloaded the English manual after it was officially released in the US, I found a couple new tricks for that pony!
