What DCC system could be used for G scale? I have been looking at the MRC system but em wondering what would handle G scale and what is the best system?
I had the opportunity to visit an outdoor railroad during the NMRA convention in Portland in 1994. I believe they used the LocoLinc radio-control system by Keithco. You can find more information about it here: LocoLinc They had been using the system for a few years, and it seemed to work well. It's not DCC, but it might work better for large scale trains. I don't think the railroad is there any longer. I believe the owner moved to a new home in the area, and the railroad was also moved. Pat
As an avid N scaler, I might not know much about G scale. I think that G scale is fortunate to have the capability that everyone else wants to have. G scale puts the power (those big power tool batteries) and the receiver in the engine itself. They use a radio controlled throttle to control the speed of each engine directly. This means that they do not have to use the rails to send a signal like DCC does. So, no clean track, just operate like the prototype! Best of all worlds.
I'd think the main issues are power and, if outdoor, keeping the track clean enough. You may need decoders up to 5 Amp, though small locos like 0-4-0 Porters may only pull a half Amp. Large scale stuff often has a lot of accessories (lights, sound, smoke) that up the current drain too; your booster(s) have to be able to support the power. As with other scales you need to estimate what kind of trains you will run to get an idea of the power needs. If small stuff only a 5A would probably do fine, but for larger ones you'll need to think 10A. Dirty track can cause havoc with DCC. Although LS is generally pretty good for pickup I'm not sure how it will cope with DCC. LGB do their own system, but I think it may not be NMRA compatible (and possibly more child targetted) so could be limiting. NCE do a 10A version of PHPro for LS.
Look into ZIMO. It handles any gauge from N to G. Delivers 16 Amps or more, plus ZIMO command stations and decoders work with the LGB pulse chain commands, in case you use LGB rolling stock. Regards, Art Zimo Agency of North America http://www.mrsonline.net/
Digitrax makes three decoders for large scale. Maybe a little pricey but they work for the outside setup I have. Carl http://www.digitrax.com/prd_mobdec_dg383ar.php http://www.digitrax.com/prd_mobdec_dg583ar.php http://www.digitrax.com/prd_mobdec_dg583s.php
