Question. Who is running the DT602 series throttles from Digitrax? I am contemplating purchasing one for my installed Digitrax system. I have 2 DT 400 series. A DT400R and a DT402D, plus a couple of UTR throttles. My DT400R has bit the dust and I may have it converted to a DT402D. Note: Digitrax no longer repairs radio throttles so when my DT402D has issues, it can't be converted and there you have it. While I don't mind paying money for a good throttle, I don't want to waste money either. So I am curious as to what people have noticed about the DT602 series other than its better shape and revised screen? Also, Digitrax states it operates on compatible LocoNet systems with no further discussion. So I logically assume that means on an operating Digitrax LocoNet system. So, who here uses the new DT602's and what has been your experience??? Thanks.
I have 2 ea of the 602D's and I like them, now. I had moved up form the 400 series throttles and I was very familiar with their use as I used them for many years. When I got the 602D; I was not too happy as a lot of what I learned from the 400 series was all different. I have to laugh at myself because my biggest hurdle was to consist locos with the 602D. I can't tell you how many times I would have to whip out the 602D manual to figure it out!!! In all fairness; it is very, very easy to build consists. The button are large and easy to deal with. The screen is good although I hate that it turns off as quick as it does. (you can adjust but you can't leave the screen on long as it really wears down the battery) The 400 series; I never had an issue with battery power or the screen shutting down. You just have to get used to it. I got the digitrax battery packs that I really like as you just plug in the throttle to re-charge vs. taking the batteries out of the throttle and then re-charge. My biggest gripe is that the battery usage meter always shows full charge and the only way to know that the battery is ready to crap out is to see that the screen starts to flicker and gradually gets dimmer. You then have to "quickly" throttle down and release your locos or plug in the throttle to do the same thing otherwise you are going to have some out of control locos until you get to another throttle to steal and control those locos. The 602D throttle and digitrax battery pack lasts a very long time. I am testing a ESU CabControl system and I can use the throttle with their system as I can access loconet; I haven't done it yet as I'm still trying to determine if I am going to use the CabControl system. Sorry for the long winded answer. Short answer; much better than the 400 series but you have to forget what you learned about the 400 series. Brian
Thanks! I finally broke down and did order the 602D. It came last Friday and I got it a UR93 hooked up Sunday and started using it. Your answer was spot-on. When I first started using it, I immediately thought this stinks, and I was convinced I'd be returning it. But the more I used it, the more I liked it. I found (like many Digitrax products), the manual is somewhat "cryptic" on certain things. Such as in this case, it tells you how to set dimming and on/off times for the display, but doesn't tell you how long each setting lasts. I did go the Digitrax web site and they have expanded tech articles that go into more detail. So I set my display for the longest setting which is 45 seconds. I also really like the track power on/track power off. A vast improvement over the old 400series. The on/off controlling battery power is also a great improvement. My only real complaint is the case is too thick. Doesn't fit in my throttle pockets. So now I am looking for throttle pockets that are deep enough AND will cover the screw holes of old ones should I replace them in the same spot. I don't want to be patching, sanding, and repainting the fascia. Those holes will show up no matter what. Like any throttle by any manufacturer, it is not perfect but it is a vast improvement over the 400's.
