From my first glance of this system, it appears to be a VERY basic DCC system with not many features. The power supply system is only 3 amps which is not very large at all. It also appears that they are only offering one decoder for the time being. That being said, I think this is still a good product because it is relatively inexpensive, easy to use (from what I can tell) and easy to setup. This type of product will attract more people to the DCC world espealliy new people to the hobby. This will translate into more DCC products at a lower cost. But enough from me, what do you all think? Matt
I have only seen it in the mag pictures so far. It does look sort of basic, but it says its able to have 99 loco and ass. addresses so... If it is a bit more flexible than the MRC it will probably be OK.( need to be able to use more than 1 handheld) It looks like you can address functions 1-3 at least . I guess we will have to waite to see a review in one of the mags to know what it really does..Mike ------------------ Its only Money !!
I didn't see anything in the manual on consisting, in fact it looks like you can't do any multi-unit trains unless you give them all the same address, and then its headlights on for all of the units. For $70 more we can get a more substantial system. Sorry Atlas, I was waiting to see what you'd put out, but right now I think I'm ready to cut the check for a Digitrax. Ed Harrison
Word on some of the lists is that this is a relabeled Lenz unit. Does anyone recognize it? Does it accept Lenz hand-held remotes? Ed Harrison
I just got my MR in the mail and there was an add in the front cover for the Altas Master DCC. From what I could tell from the add and the website. This looks like a decent introduction into DCC. It doesn't have all the features of the Lenz, or Digitrax but at least enough to allow you to get the feel of what DCC can do you and your layout. My biggest problem is the initial expense of the Command station/booster for the other systems. The ad says it meets NMRA standards and RPs. So you can upgrade to a more powerful system when you need to without having to reinvest in new decoders for your motive power. For me it might be my "get your feet wet" exposure to DCC. Paul
Ed, from the documentation I read at their website. (User's Manual available in Adobe acrobat format) I wouldn't be surprised if it isn't a relabeled version of Lenz. I didn't compare features to the Lenz offerings so I can't tell you how they meet up. But my guess is lenz paired down one of their offerings for atlas to use and relabel. I've been sold on Digitrax from what I have been reading. Currently my funds aren't available to purchase a Digitrax system. Paul
I actually use the Digitrax Chief and LOVE all of it's features. Like myself and others said, this appears to be a very easy system to setup and use for the person who does not want to get in deep with DCC.
What about those GP38s with the 'dual-mode' decoders? Gee if Atlas wants to put in a decoder can't they do one with a few more features? I was under the impression that the DCC system was a Lenz designed product... I just checked out Atlas' site and the decoders do support extended addressing. I didn't think they did this. Here's the specs on em- Some technical specifications: 14, 28 or 128 speed step selectable Two function outputs with a current rating of 200 mA that can be configured for either directional lighting, or lights and Function 1 Extra function can be used to dim headlights (Rule 17) Support for Advanced Consist Control and Extended Addressing Full support for operations mode programming (long and short) and full support for all forms of programming as described in NMRA RP-9.2.3 Functions which can be programmed to match the requirements of each individual locomotive (ie., ditch lights or other special effects) Provides 1 Amp continuous motor current Size: 2.88 "l x 0.68"w x 0.26"h [This message has been edited by tunnel88 (edited 01 August 2000).]
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by pmconaway: I wouldn't be surprised if it isn't a relabeled version of Lenz. Paul<HR></BLOCKQUOTE> On the N scale list at egroups, Tony Rogers wrote: <BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Here in Europe it is sold as the Lenz Digital Compact system and sells here in the UK for £65-£70 (or slightly under $100). It will control upto 100 locos including one non-dcc fitted, plus 99 accessories. The only difference between the European version and the Atlas version as far as I can see is the colour of the plastic box! This unit is much in demand over here and most UK dealers I have been in touch with can't get enough to meet the demand.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Ed Harrison
Okay, maybe I was premature when I said I'd skip the Atlas Master DCC System (Master may be an overstatement). As I read through the literature and earlier posts, it looks like it will do many of the things I'm looking for, including connect to a walk-around throttle. Since I have less than 30 feet of mainline on my pike, it might be an economical alternative. Ed Harrison
According to the stores, the Atlas Master DCC system won't even be released until Spring 2001! Looks like we won't get any real life tests until summer. Ed Harrison
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by mtaylor: I actually use the Digitrax Chief and LOVE all of it's features. Like myself and others said, this appears to be a very easy system to setup and use for the person who does not want to get in deep with DCC.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Those are exactly the comments I would make!! I love the feutures I get with my Chief, but if I wasn't wanting to get into learning the black magic of Digitrax the Atlass system looks OKAY. There are 2 things that I seem not like about it. -One decoder, are you joking? More will have to come out! Can u use Digitrax decoders? Lenz? -MRC looks like a better value in my eyes. But that is my opion only. Well, Happy Railroading!! Dane N. ------------------ BC Rail King BCRailKing@Canada.com InternationalRegion@tamr.org for TAMR info. Dane_Nicholson@tamr.org http://www.tamr.org
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by ten87: Word on some of the lists is that this is a relabeled Lenz unit. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Here is the European version: The link to the page is http://home.t-online.de/home/digital.plus/neu_20.htm Ed Harrison
You have to admit that there is one big plus to this system. It is Atlas' longevity and reputation. A lot of people will by it just for this. Atlas has been around almost as long as dirt. You would have to expect that Atlas would make their upgrades compatible or bridgeable to their older systems as time goes by. I have seen other systems and manufacturers go away. The person who made CTC80 comes to mind. Face it, if you end up sinking close to a $1,000 or more (depending on number of decoders) into a system, then you want a company that is going to be around to support you. The only other DCC manufacturer getting close to Atlas in recognition is Digitrax. MRC has a good reputation for power packs but their system was too simple and not flexible. Hopefully the Atlas system will be better. ------------------ aj y6b
To continue the above, don't forget Lenz invented DCC. ------------------ When in doubt, empty your magazine.
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by ChrisDante: To continue the above, don't forget Lenz invented DCC. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Details Details .......but DigiTrax just sounds so cool
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by mtaylor: and Digitrax makes it work too! Dane N. ------------------ BC Rail King BCRailKing@Canada.com InternationalRegion@tamr.org for TAMR info. Dane_Nicholson@tamr.org http://www.tamr.org "I was DC, and went DCC!"
I sent an email to Lenz asking if I can connect a Lenz LH200 hand held throttle to the Atlas system. The response: <BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Yes you can. The Atlas system supports both X-Bus and XpressNET.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Yea! Ed Harrison
Hi everyone. I am from THE N-SCALE DIVISION, a dealership that specializes in American, European and Japanese N-Scale. We are also VERY BIG on DCC and we have some more information for you on the ATLAS DCC System. Firstly, YES! It is indeed a LENZ system. In Europe, this system is sold under the name LENZ COMPACT. It is a basic system however, it has a surprising amount of features considering it's low cost. No, you can't add a LENZ hand held to it however, you can use it as a stand alone throttle in a larger LENZ system. Due to this, it is very upgradable/expandable. Also, you may want to keep in mind that the LENZ COMPACT/ATLAS DCC system has earned the NMRA DCC CONFORMANCE AWARD which we feel is very important when making purchase decisions regarding DCC equipment. Want more information including our FREE DCC PRIMER that you can print out any time you wish? Please visit our website at: http://www.nscaledivision.com We will be closed for a few days because we are attending the N-SCALE NORTHEAST CONVENTION but our website is always open for you to enjoy.
<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by swissrhb: ...No, you can't add a LENZ hand held to it however, you can use it as a stand alone throttle in a larger LENZ system<HR></BLOCKQUOTE> Well, a week or two ago, I emailed Lenz and asked: "I'm curious as to whether I can connect a Lenz LH200 hand held throttle to the Atlas system?" The reply: "Yes the LH200 will operate on the Commander. However, Atlas also announced that they will be doing a handheld in the coming months." Ed Harrison [This message has been edited by ten87 (edited 10 August 2000).]
