I haven't gotten it yet, but I will be soon. I'm going to go with the NCE power cab. I'll post my thoughts after I get it. Thanks for asking!
The NCE power cab looks like a good choice. A review would be much appreciated. The handheld capability should make running much more convenient. I always thought that was the drawback to the Zephyr that you did not get walkaround capability out of the box. I choose the MRC Prodigy express for my small layout due to the walkaround capability. The Express does not have as many options as the advanced version and only puts out about 1.5 amps as opposed to the 3 that advanced offers. The MRC stuff is easily expanded to 3 amps output, additional throttles, and an advanced handheld can be used to get full operational options. Let us know if the NCE can be expanded as well. I'm always interested in learning more. Thanks for the "Which DCC?" thread.
ordered! I ordered the power cab today. Should be in early next week and I'll start setting it up. I'll post thoughts and an informal review once I get that done.
I just received my NCE Power Cab, but the Smart Booster is backordered...Now, I have to start installing decoders...I'm going to try a Kato SD-40 first! Also ordered the Lenz "LS-150" stationary decoder for turnouts. My layout is still in a "wooden shell" from moving so it might be a while until it is set up (also, going to go to the National N Scale convention in Denver which will delay set up):thumbs_up:
Chuck: The SD-40 is an easy decoder installation. Have fun with your new system. Stay cool and run steam....
Chuck, The PowerCab is an excellent DCC system.:thumbs_up: I wish for many smooth and easy decoder installs for your future. Good Luck! :shade:
Up and running! Ok, got it. The first thing I did was open the box and drooled. I then yanked (disassembled) the DC throttle and connecting wires from the layout. The hardest part of getting the Power Cab up and running was soldering the new feeder wires to the bus wires.... that was the HARDEST part! That should tell you how easy it was. If you don'r count the very quick glance through the manual (of course I didn't read it), I went from out of the box to running 2 engines in 12-20 minutes. thats it! (that includes the aforementioned soldering). The hardest task, done after I had the system running, was installing a plug n play decoder in an Atlas GP-40. The hard part was getting the little tabs from the motor in the circuit board. Overall I was VERY pleased. I would have done more, but I decided 3 days ago that I don't like the layout I was building. I'm back in the benchwork stage. But I plan to have trains running again (this time on DDC!) by this weekend.
Sometimes we are making DCC too complex, while it can be very simple: attach the feeders to the rails, power on, and start running! Just like I did with my Roco Lokmaus.
VERY true. I do also want to point out that Tony's Trains was VERY helpful. I'm surethere are many other good places as well. But I was very appreciative of their help and time answering my questions.
I've been using Tony's for all of my DCC needs for a very long time now. They're very knowledgeable in regards to DCC and easy to do business with. Stay cool and run steam......
I agree, Tony's is great! I also like Bruce at Litchfield station. http://litchfieldstation.com/lobby/index.htm
