I am new to model trains. I have a 4*8 layout. I purchased a Bachmann DCC system. Unfortunately one of my kids burnt out the system. I want to but a new system that will allow me to grow as layout gets biggers. Any suggestions? Thanks
I would look to see if there are any other systems popular in your area, or with local dealer support, as one guide. I have the Digitrax Zephyr system which is very expandable. It comes as an all-in-one throttle-booster-command station. You can add clean DC packs to the system's two jump-ports to add two more "throttles" and with the Loconet system it's very easy to plug in more components, such as additional throttles, or wire up your own network using six conductor wire and connectors similar to phone wire conductors but wider. If you really expand you can add a booster to the Zephyr system or you can turn the Zephyr into a booster and run off a larger command station. Other systems with a strong user base and a lot of options for expandability are NCE and Lenz. Each system has its detractors and adherents. Really, it gets down to what you like to use. The rest of it is mostly a Ford versus Chevy kind of debate. Welcome to TrainBoard! Adam
+1 on the Zephyr. I've been using one for the past 5 years. Initially it was just the Zephyr. Then someone gave me a simply throttle (UT-1) and I had that dedicated to the yard switcher, plugged into the Z. Then a few years later I picked up a DT-400 throttle at a good price, also plugged into the Z. So the combo allows three people to operate 4 trains. I can expand it still further if need be.
Having operated on and/or observed operations on several layouts have found the NCE system the easiest to use AND learn. So it would a good thing for you and any other new comer to DCC to visit as many home & club layouts as possible.
If you have a chance to try before you buy then it's well worth it. I have a Digitrax Super Empire Builder system which I'm very pleased with but I didn't have the opportunity to experiment in advance. One aspect I hadn't appreciated before I got into DCC was how important it is to have a reasonably straightforward way to program CVs in loco decoders. This is certainly possible through the throttle I have but it's a laborious process (at least I think so). Initially when I was only worrying about setting the CV for the loco ID this didn't seem to be much of a hassle but as soon as I wanted to delve into more detailed work it became a bit cumbersome. Fortunately there are some execellent software tools like Decoder Pro which allow you to program CVs from your computer, with a suitable interface to your DCC system (another relatively cheap investment) Not sure how well other systems support CV programming through the throttle/base unit only but if I'd known of a system with more straightforward support I might have given it a closer look. Having said that I'm now hooked on decoder pro!
I must second this statement; I have the Powercab and it was quite user friendly especially for a beginner like myself with DCC. I also have a Lenz 90 and found the NCE Powercab to be much easier to operate and program. And for the same money that you pay for the Lenz you can even have the same power capability fir the NCE with a Smart Booster. Either system 5A or better for around $240; and actually the NCE will have 7A of power where the Lenz will only have 5A. But as I've read on here before and tend to agree check with a (the) local club that you might frequent and see what they are using, because they are a good spot to help learn this thing called DCC with locally. And couldn't hurt to use the same brand equipment that they do to aid in that learning curve.
Back when I worked my way through college at a hobby shop, I got to use the first MRC DCC pack......the HO modular club bought one, and I think they still use it today. That system was unfriendly to say the least. Then I started writing reviews for Model Retailer, and got my hands on the Atlas Commander system. It was a great entry level system, but a bit limited. Of course, that system is gone....although I still have mine and use it. I've spent the most time using the NCE system, and it's still my favorite. I found it easy to use, and there's some great user sites that will help you through things. It's still my favorite for ease of use, and the learning curve. MiNi Modutrak and the Lake County Model Railroad Club (both of which I partake in) use Digitrax, so I've bitten the bullet and bought a throttle this week. I don't have anything bad to say about Digitrax, I just find it a bit more complex than NCE. Then again, I don't have as much time under the hood on it, so I may speak differently in a few months. The best thing to do is go out and see if you can test systems at clubs, etc. Ask questions, and get more opinions that way. In the end, it's what you feel the most comfortable spending and using.
Hi Marti091, and welcome to TrainBoard. I have a Digitrax Zephyr on my small layout, and I'm very satisfied. However, I suggest that you check out tonystrains.com for the best info on different dcc syatems.
Kind of an old age question... Really depends on your needs, wants and likes and dislikes. Best thing is if there is a place where you can try out the various systems -- like a club or something. Absent of that there are a lot of good suggestions in this thread. I use the Digitrax Zephyr. I'm used to it now but had I researched this more at the time I probably would have gone with the NCE PowerCab for shear easy of use and operation. Nothing wrong with the Digitrax system and like I said once I got used to it it gets the job done.
If I might inquire, What caused the Bachmann system to burn up? Short circuits or overloading should have shut it down before damage was caused. Wouldn't want the same to happen with a more expensive system. Martin Myers
Both NCE and Digitrax have strong followings in my area. Best of all, fans of each talk very respectfully about the other systems. To my mind this means that you won't go far wrong with either system. I chose NCE because I like the throttles, and I did have the chance to try both systems on layouts in my area. As others have mentioned there is serious value in having a system that your friends also have, for troubleshooting help, for operating sessions, etc. If it comes down to a coin toss between NCE and Digitrax that's probably a good way to decide. Good luck and have fun!
The Power Cab with a Smart Booster(the newer SB3a) would be 5 amps, not 7 amps, because the 5 amps of the Smart Booster replaces the 2 amps of the Power Cab instead of adding to it.
That is correct. The SB3 becomes the command station utilizing its own power supply enabling the Powercab to move from panel to panel and expanding the recall stack to 6. One great feature of the Powercab is the fact that you will be able to use the power panel at the work bench with great effect for programming and unlocking fussy decoders. I like the NCE because of the simple menu driven tasks. I live by the KISS method and NCE fits that bill for me. Look up the user guides and manuals and check out stuff like MU'ing and momentum adjustments on the fly. Check out the NCE menus and try to find similar functions on the other systems with the same simple access. Although the Powercab's 1.7 amp(max 2amps) rating seems low I have ran 7 n scale non sound locos with no shut down for as long as an hour. If you add sound units this will of coarse vary. Don't get me wrong each system has their strengths and this was my conclusion. I have run some Digitrax layouts and I get frustrated mainly because I am not familiar with it, but some of the owners have laminated quick reference guides to carry around with you. With NCE you can have the throttle in one hand and a drink in the other while operating. Can you tell I am a bit bias.:mbiggrin: Lots to consider for you, but you will likely be happy with NCE, Digitrax, Lenz, or even MRC. Just make a decision and get it going man. You may go crazy otherwise. Theres a learning curve with every system.
PS, If you live in Southern California you are welcome to come over and try out my NCE Powercab with SB3 on my SP layout.
I recommend the Digitrax Zephyr, but I'm biased. I'm using a Zephyr on a 8x10 layout and find it easy to use and it was a snap to learn how to use it.
I have both the zephyr and the power cab they both work very well I like the power cab better because it is easier to use.
I don’t have a DCC system, but I’ve been thinking a lot of buying one. I’ve had the Zephyr on my wish list for a while now. I recently meet someone who liked the NCE Power Cab and he brought up something I didn’t think of before and that was the size of the Zephyr. I have a small layout and I don’t really have room for it sit on top of my layout. I could use that space for something else. I like the idea of tucking away the main unit somewhere out of the way and just having that little hand held unit out. I’ve also searched a lot of other forums and it seem to be a tie between NCE and Digitrax. So for me, I think I might buy the NEC.
I have a MRC Prodigy Advance Sq. It has all the amenities. And, it is very easy to use. I have had 4 locos running simultaenously with no real problems. Easy CV readback, yard, advance consist, and sound capable. The tether is somwhat limiting; but I usually run by myself at slow speeds. Im looking into an extension for the tether if available.
I love my NCE! Especially since I converted to their upgraded wireless cabs. Otto Happily modeling Cajon Pass in N scale circa 1950, with NCE DDC and sound
