I am novice building my first major lay out. I am using Kato Unitrack Woodland Scenics, all my locos are DCC already) My requirements are pretty minimal... control of 4-6 locos max, 5 or 6 turnouts, etc. # 1. Can all of the tracks be wired for the same direction and program the locos to go in different directions or do I need one set of tracks running one direction (dog bone) and another running the other dirction (2nd dog bone) controlled by second controller. #2. Are the Kato Turnouts pluged into track on my controller or are they placed on a seperate transformer that supplies accessories. Thanks,
Same position here... building the Scenic Ridge with Kato Unitrack and running DCC. I am still waiting on some pieces to build the entire layout but I have made a little loop that I will use for a programming track just to get my feet wet. I went with a Lenz 100 set as I am convinced I am in this for life. I bought the accessories controller to control my turnouts. Others can answer your wiring questions better than me. Do your locos have decoders installed or are they just DCC ready? Most of mine came with decoders, I have a few that are DCC ready and I have the decoders but I havent installed them yet. It doesnt seem too difficult but seems easy to screw up if you are not careful. ash =o)
You can use a small 12 volt auxillary transformer to power your Kato turnouts. You can run your loco's in different directions on the same track. Stay cool and run steam.....
I am buying with Decoders already installed. I would be afraid to do it myself. I only have two locmotives. I have considered the Lenz 90 or 100 from what I have read. Now I am just using a entrance level EZ contoller from Bachman. Like you I have not finished my complete track but have made one dogbone loop and have tested my trains. Looks like I am in it for life also. My wife says it is black hole. I say it is a gift that keeps on giving.
The Lenz 90 or 100 systems are excellent choices. I use the Lenz 100 system on the JJJ&E. You should try to install Digitrax DN 163A0 decoders in Atlas diesels. It is a fairly easy installation. Stay cool and run steam.....
