what does 2 function vs 3 or 4 function decoder mean? If i'm looking for a drop in unit for some atlas diesels do I need more than 2 functions?
2 function generally means front and rear headlight control only (F0F and F0R). 3 or more functions are used for additional items such as strobes, ditch lights, sound etc. Each function is a separate decoder output lead that can be used to drive a LED or other item.
Geeky: You could get by with a two function decoder which basically is the bare essentials needed to operate a loco using DCC. The more functions a decoder has, the higher the price. Stay cool and run steam....
Geeky, Pretty much have your choice of the following drop in or plug n'play: TCS AMD-1 Digitrax DN163A0 NCE N12A0 Lenz LE063XF I believe that the only one that is 2 function is the Lenz, all are in the same price range. Richard Barter
So the others are how many function? what does a standard Atlas N scale diesel ship with as far as functions are concerned?
Standard N scale Atlas diesel is shipped with the Lenz LE063XF decoder which is a basic 2 funtion decoder. The others listed is more than that.
For the most part, the price of a decoder is only loosly related to the number of functions (The DN163 series, for example, are 6 function). In most cases, higher priced decoders have more advanced internal features (BEMF, lighting effects, consisting options, etc.). The extra function output connections cost next to nothing additional. It's the software performance features that you are paying for.
