NCE / Digitrax, WHY?

Tim Holmes Mar 17, 2018

  1. RBrodzinsky

    RBrodzinsky November 18, 2022 Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter In Memoriam

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    Tim - the NCE mini panel is similar to the routes which can be programmed into the Digitrax DS64.

    As for computers, even if you don't plan on computer control of the layout, think long and hard about programming the decoders in your DCC locos. DecoderPro is a MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH better way to program than trying to use any hand-held throttle. DP is independent of NCE vs Digitrax discussion.
     
  2. jdcolombo

    jdcolombo TrainBoard Member

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    Agree with Rick 100%. Once you have more than one DCC-equipped loco, Decoder Pro is really a necessity unless you want to drive yourself completely crazy learning how each different decoder implements things like speed curves, lighting effects, etc., etc. Just get it, learn it, and be happy.

    John C.
     
  3. Kitbash

    Kitbash TrainBoard Supporter

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    Go w/ NCE.

    Hint: Digitrax customer service stinks. I would sell my Digitrax system at the right price if I could.

    Go w/ NCE.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Apr 12, 2018
  4. DCESharkman

    DCESharkman TrainBoard Member

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    Well I will enter the fray with a few other possibilities

    The ESU Command System is about as easy as it goes.

    Lenz makes a pretty good controller as does Zimo.

    What do they have in common? All made in Europe, Lenz in Austria and the other two in Germany.

    They offer more features and capability than either Digitrax or NCE.

    Personally, I have used Digitrax since 2004 and have never had any issues. I am moving away from Digitrax simply because my layout has outgrown it's capabilities.

    I selected the ESU ECOS system and have never been happier. It is a tad more expensive, but the interface and the capabilities are worth a look.

    I have nothing I can say against NCE either. I have never used their system. I see where others are very happy with it and I think that is fine.

    The point is there are several players, and it is at least worth a look at the wider field. Zimo is about the most expensive.

    But another thing to think about is what kinds of decoders you are going to run. And while decoders run on all systems, they tend to run better on the home system. I have ran ESU locomotives on my Digitrax System and was extremely happy. But when I started running the ESU locomotives on the ESU system, they really came alive!

    Just a few things to think about to help you make the best decision.
     
    Rocket Jones likes this.
  5. drken

    drken TrainBoard Member

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    I have no experience with the European brands, so I can't comment on them, but I'm building my second layout using a Digitrax Zephyr Xtra (I like the big dial for a throttle). My first layout was a small layout that was supposed to be DCC, but I decided against it as no matter which brand I bought, it involved more complicated wiring and higher cost for the privilege of more work to throw a switch less reliably than an old fashioned DC setup along with running more than one train, which I didn't want to do that badly. The only reason I'm using DCC on my new layout is because of JMRI. DCC was designed to be programed using a train throttle (keypad) requiring the use of bitflags to program a consist. It's basically a step above punchcards. JMRI (and other programs, I assume) make it useable. Plus, when I hook up a turnout or block detector (Loconet or otherwise) it shows up in the turnout or sensor table ready to go. Signaling seems to be much more complicated to set up, but I'll figure that out soon.

    One thing I do have to mention about Digitrax is while they have great modules for block detection, signaling, transponding, etc. if you get the BDL-168 block detector or SE8 signaling module, you'll have get one of the breakout boards from Accu-lites as they contain the electrical connectors Digitrax should have used in the first place and cost $35/ea. The new block-detector/transponder/power manager has the proper electrical terminals, so they are learning. ;).
     
  6. MarkInLA

    MarkInLA Permanently dispatched

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    WARNING about the NCE speed wheel: I love my NCE PowerCab. But I wasn't aware of one thing until it happened: Pressing down on the center speed wheel too much can cause the axle and component on it, inside, to fail, which in turn leaves only the buttons next to it to accelerate and decelerate. They did send me a new wheel, free. But I am currently inactive in the hobby due to having to relocate 2 times over 2 years and have't installed it yet. I believe the main reason we break it is from the times when we're panicking to avoid a disaster of some sort, spinning the wheel downward, fast and hard, instead of hitting the red panic button (the abrupt stop too unrealistic looking [doh] !!). I.E. We, unknowingly, are pushing inward on the axle, which ruins it..So do be aware of this and it won't happen to you. Other than this weak spot in design (or in my brain), I find everything else about NCE to be the ticket to ride.
     

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