I am just starting into N scale and do not intend to get into DCC so I was wondering what power pack was best for analog DC operation involving lashups of three or four diesels from Atlas or Intermountain. The two I have read up on some were the Kato and MRC. If you think MRC is best, which model as there are so many. Some packs have pulse which cannot be turned off, is this harmful to some N scale motors. Thanks in advance for your time to respond.
Before i switched to DCC i used the Kato pack and had no trouble with lash ups. The power is smooth and even. But there are many power packs out there that will suit your needs. The new MRC pack will activate all the sounds or atleast most of them in any loco you have sound in. Dave
I've had MRC Throttle Packs for most of my modeling life. Never had a problem with them, and some of mine are 20 years old. As I right this, I have an MRC Railpower 1370 running a train on my UniTrack oval. I bought it 3 or 4 years ago and it's still working. I've never used a Kato throttle, but if they're like their models, I imagine they're pretty good.
Hi! The Pulse Width Modulated throttle from Ken Stapleton is the best for DC operations. HAND HELD THROTTLE PWM is what DCC decoders send to their motors, which is why they work so well!
Thnxs for that link Tony !! :thumbs_up: I just may have to look into that myself...hmmmm :thumbs_up: .
I have two MRC Tech II 1400 packs that I use on my N scale double track Unitrack layout without any issues. I just completed an O scale 2 rail DC "around the office" shelf layout and the Tech II was underpowered, tripping the breaker when running a single Atlas O GP15 with no load. I upgraded to an MRC Tech 3 9500 last week and it's GREAT. The built-in ammeter and voltmeter are nice touches. It handles a full O scale train with two GP15s on point and a dummy MP15DC with no problem, pulling a little over 1 amp. It's variable DC, but also has a fixed DC output should I ever use it for DCC. It also has a fixed AC output for accessories. Link to MRC's website: MRC - DC POWER Series - POWER COMMAND 9500, Item: AG950, TRAIN CONTROLS/DC POWER
Made my power pack decision, thanks Thanks for the responses. After talking to Feather River hobbies in CA and Challenger N Scale in OK, I purchased two MRC 260. They seemed to be the pack of choice among many responders on this and other forums and highly recommended by hobby dealers. Thanks again for your time in responding
There's only one way to know ... CAGE MATCH! Get one of each, hook 'em up positive to negative, and crank 'em up. First one to start smoking loses.:bomb: :rn-laugh:
