I have seen zero reference to DCC++ at any other the other Forums I go to. Can someone give me a "Short" definition of what this is?
I have been trying to follow it, but it's actually all over the web. Anyways, it's a home made DCC system that you can do to save lots of money. The jist of it, is that a guy figured out he could use an Arduino board stacked with a Motor Shield board, and write a program that emulates a DCC controller and booster. Everything can be done for $70 or much less depending on where you get those boards.
Try this for one source... http://1fatgmc.com/RailRoad/DCC/DCC-Index.html Just in the last few days the guys on here have made some big strides making it almost a plug-n-play DCC option. Keep checking back for updates on that, Sumner
I got my Digitrax Zephyr Express for $175.00. Does the DCC++ system require decoders? Can you get sound from a DCC++ system?
The DCC++ system is a substitute for the Digitrax Zephyr Express, which follows the NMRA DCC protocol EXCEPT, it does not support the Digitrax Loconet Bus for extra features like signal reporting and transponding. The Digitrax Zephyr Express therefore is better in that it has more features. DCC++ requires the same decoders and sound decoders that you would need with your Digitrax Zephyr Express.
I suppose if I liked to follow Circuits and solder stuff together, the DCC++ might be fun to do. However for another $100.00 more investment, my zephyr system seems pretty reasonable, to me. I'm really surprised that DCC++ hadn't been discussed at the othe Forum I pay attention to, That is the Model Railroad Forums.
Oh you might of been disappointed as there is really none of that if you don't want to do it , Sumner
Good to know! Seeing how I have had all three issues of Digitrax Zephyr (DCS-50, DCS-51 & DCS-52) it's not very likely I will jump at a DCC++ system. For those of you who want a cheaper DCC system and are interested in this system, I say good luck and have fun!
I got my DCC++ up and running pretty quick. Was an easy build. Instead of jumpers, I just soldered the pair of wires on the bottom side of the board. Using the DR4018 for turnout controls together with the DCC++. Now adding turntable to it.