My power pack failed the other day and I was considering DCC to replace it. Where can I get some basic information regarding DCC? (what features to look for, price) I model in N scale and have 5 locomotives. Thanks.
May not be feasible with only five locos, but not a bad idea to look into a basic entry-level system like the Atlas one. For a good internet dealer with lots of info, go to http://www.tonystrains.com - he's got a lot of stuff and some good reviews of systems. Entry level you are looking around $120 for the system, plus $20 for each decoder.
I have bought all my DCC equipment from Tony's, and he is very helpful. However, to get some basic knowledge, check out www.loystoys.com Also, any layout that can have more than one loco running at the same time is a good candidate for DCC. You can also check www.digitrax.com and be sure to check their links, there is one to a page by Don Crano which is very informative. Before deciding on a system, it would be a good idea to check all the manufacturers web pages. Gary
My DCC system from Lenz was a bit expensive at first but its been nothing short of excellent. I model in N-scale and one of the big issues that I needed resolved before starting my new layout was control. I have operated with clubs, groups, at shows and alone and wanted something to overcome the myrad of switches and control boards needed for block control. DCC fit the bill and there were lots of options for N scale. I now operate with one HO group and they are about to start operating N on my layout. We all use Lenz systems and simply bring our handhelds with us when we visit. One key thing is that we operate the engines, not the track. There is no need to select power controls and switches to move anywhere on the layouts. It's simply the easiest way to run a railroad!
You mentioned you had five engines. This is a good start. The more engines you have, the more depressing it is to have to decode them all. So the fewer the engines you have to start with the better. Just ask the guys who own over 100 engines. Most think the initial system is the most costly, but in the long run it is the decoders. Here is a starter system suggestion to get you up and running: a basic system... Digitrax, MRC, Atlas .....two throttles .....at least two engines decoded Ignore cabs (throttles) that can handle more than one engine (by that I mean two or more speed controls on the same cab {throttle}). You want at least two throttles so that a friend can run a train and bring the layout to life. The friend can not share the same cab (throttle) with you so they need their own seperate jobby. Of course, if money is no issue, then look at more complex systems.
I believe you are making a good decision by going DCC. I bought a North Coast Engineering System myself and I am in the process of installing it on my new layout. Time seems to be my major obstacle right now. Anyway, you are lucky you only have 5 locomotives to convert. As someone else said, the fewer locos you have the less painful to convert. There are some good systems out there. What you have to do is decide how big your layout is going to be and how many operators are you going to have at one time. The things you have to look for when you buy a system are: the amount of good documentation the product support from the dealer and the manufacturer how many operators you plan to have the ease of use of a system. If you get a chance ask your dealer if you can contact someone who has recently bought a system. Or ask at a local club. Then see if you can go tryout a system. Some dealers may have multiple systems set up in the store so you can test. Any way ask around, test some out. It is your choice. I don't know what type of layout you have, but if you have a turntable or reverse loop, you will need to work around these when you set-up. You can buy a "Power Shield with Reverse" from Tony's Train exchange for about$40 to take care of it. Anyway, I may be jumping the gun. You just have to do some research, and go with the most current information you can find. There are new products in DCC out there and their is different view points. If I were you, and if you don't have a reverse loop or turntable, then go with a basic starter system that can be easily and cheaply upgraded. I wouldn't recommend the basic MRC system since it is really basic, and limited. However, the MRC system is supposed to be easy to use. One other caveat. If you buy something blind on the phone or internet, be careful. One point is the power supply from Tony's Train Exchange. This power supply should be put in a metal utility box. You can get one from Radio Shack for about $5-10. If you buy a power shield from Tony's the same condition applies. Basically the Power Shield is a large circuit board. I hope I haven't scared you. DCC can be an intimidating topic, but once you have run trains on DCC, you won't want to run them any other way. Enjoy, have fun and don't be intimidated.
