I can't help you on N scale, but there are a few things to keep in mind. How many functions do you want. I know in HO that Lenz makes a decent three function decoder and you can pick it up for around $15 - 20. A four function decoder will from NCE in HO will run about $10 more. If you just want to use headlights then a 3 function will suit you well. It is when you want to use ditch lights or strobes, then it you may want four functions. As for retailers. Tony's has a good website, but when you buy accessories from Tony, keep in mind assembly is required. I bought some power supplies and power shields from him and I was greatly annoyed that I had to go out and buy some project boxes to put them in. Before you do any dealing with a DCC retailer, ask this question. Does the retailer take something defective back from you, (be reasonable on your period of time) or does he tell you to deal with the manufacturer yourself. Also, in case your interested, I have put up a diary of sorts of my trials and tribulations with DCC. Just cut and past the link below my signature. [ 19 March 2002, 03:36: Message edited by: ajy6b ]
I can understand putting the power supply in some type of "project box" because of the high voltage present. However, why did you put the PowerShield (PS) in a project box. The PS is a low voltage device and should have air circulation around it to dissipate heat. There is no more danger from the PS then from your open and exposed railroad track. You don't put your track in a project box. Also, you will find that most DCC devices are not in project boxes and shouldn't be put in them either. All of the Digitrax devices are this way. The DS54 stationary decoders, the PM4 power management devices, the BDL16 detection units all are circuit cards, like the PS, that you mount in the open. Digitrax specifically instructs that these devices need air circulation around them.
You hit the nail on the head about the power supply in the project box. As for the powershield, I drilled plenty of holes in the box for air circulation. The box would also give more protection to the circuit board, in case an errant tool or something fell and hit it.
