Hi, I want to rebuild a small layout (N scale, 36x80). I'm hesitating between NCE Power Cab, Digitrax Zephyr and MRC Prodigy Advance. My priority is: cheap, expandable, easy to use, and ultimately possibility to connect a computer on it. I plan to use a maximum of 4 or 5 engines at the same time. Please give me your advice....I've heard that NCE will issue soon a USB connection for their Power Cab system? 1 more question: can I use a LENZ LS 150 turnout decoder with a Zephyr or Power Cab system, and what is the smallest decoder to put in an engine? Thanks
Also, welcome to the board, here is a nice chart on DCC systems from Tony's Trains, their website also gives details on comparing the systems. Michael http://www.tonystrains.com/productcompare/dcccomparison.htm
A quick reply based in my own experience is that Digitrax is expandable, has a computer interface (although I have not used it personally, I have witnessed it at a friend's...), and the Zephyr (my home system) will run around 5 engines simultaneously. Of course, you will likely need a throttle for each engine, which will add to the cost. Check the Tony's trains link above. It's full of good information. Andrew
