I have a small layout (5 by 8 L configuration) that I've been working on several years. It has the standard 2 cab block control which works very well. Trains run flawlessly, no problems at all. But it seems to me that the hobby as a whole is inevitably going towards DCC. My question is how difficult would it be to add DCC but still keep the block control in place so that I could revert back and forth at will? Would having the block gaps create problems with DCC? I'm not ready to make the changeover completely yet, or anytime soon, but would like to be able to upgrade at some point, while keeping my good 'ol reliable block system in place for when I want to run my fleet of un-decoder equipped locos. Is this even possible?
It is possible - I run my small layout in that fashion. What I did was select a block (#2 for my layout) and install a DPDT switch. This switch switches between the DC power Pack and the DCC output. To run DC - I put the switch in "DC" and run as always with the two power packs. To run DCC - I put the switch in "DCC" and set all blocks on the layout to block 2. Now the entire layout is run by DCC. I run DCC most of the time, but every so often I want to run older equipment. I usually forget about having all the blocks set the same and do a "Gomez" before setting the blocks correctly.
I think there is some good news in your procrastination. Where you might enjoy DCC is with sound and I think the new cheapy Bachman EZ DCC or something like that is suppose to run sound. (Yes I just checked the add in the December issue of MR on page 17, it runs sound). The negative of the EZ system is that it runs 10 engines only, but I suspect there must be an easy way to program the engine to button like the MRC Command 2000 (its not important that you really understand what I just said, but don't get the MRC 2000 - old technology). Here is what the add says: - affordable DCC - controls speed, direction. lighting and sound - 1 amp (not much but for small layout that might be okay, maximum of three engines maybe) - plug and play compatible - simple programming on the main (this is actually a negative they've turned into a positive) - conforms to NMRA standards It shows an MRSP of $140 which means you can get it cheaper I"m sure. I don't know if LoysToys carries it, but LoysToys is one of the most popular net stores in North America and from comments I've read, people are very happy with it. Also go to LoysToys for excellent reading of DCC systems; the site is loaded with great stuff. I looked at your profile and I see you are still relatively a young bunny, so - Yes! - you should consider going DCC as that is the future of the hobby no doubt about it. I re-read your post and if expansion is in the works, then you might seriously consider the Digitrax Zephyr which will give you just about unlimited expansion. People have left sections of their layout DC'd under one throttle when dialling up, then DCC when dialling up for DCC running. All you do for DCC running, is have your blocks set to the same throttle as if running on dc, then hook up your DCC and you are away to the races. You will find once you are running DCC you will want to go back and run DC less and less and less, eventually leaving it behind all together.
I run Digitrax, and bought my whole DCC setup from Tony's Train Exchange. I like the way he does business, and experienced a great first impression of their excellant customer service. I was in the market for DCC, and called in just after hours. An order-taker took my message, assuring me Tony himself would call me back to answer my questions. I was keptical, but Tony called me at home at the time I specified, answered all my questions, I ordered what I needed, and it was at my doorstep that same week.
Thank you so much for the information about using the DPDT switch to toggle between DC and DCC control. That is so much easier than I feared! I may make the leap to DCC much earlier now knowing that! Wow, I've only been on this board a day and I've already learned something that will revolutionize my layout! Awesome!!!
Akers: All you have to do to start with DCC is hook up the two wires from the command station to the rails. I use blocks on the JJJ&E. However I only run DCC. Stay cool and run steam...
