Just curious as to what DCC system folks are using out there. Be sure to vote for more than one if a club system and home system are different. [ 19 March 2002, 22:50: Message edited by: Harron ]
I chose the Digitrax Empire builder as it was affordable and can use the UR90 infrared receiver. I have one receiver now and it works like a charm but may need another receiver because of the size of my layout and the scenery blocks the direct line in places. I was able to upgrade to the DT400 throttle. The reason is it is much simpler to use because it has a keypad so data entry is a snap. I didnt go for the super chief as I dont plan to hook up my system toa PC and don't plan on using switch machine decoders and such. Why did I go for the infrared receiver rather than radio? Radio has its benefits but the added cost is prohitive and every throttle has to have a card installed where as the dt400 and some other Digitrax throttles come infrared ready. All this because my layout is designed for walk around and I have had enough of dragging cable and unplugging then plugging in again elsewhere. I still have to plug in though to change locos but thats OK especially when the DT400 and some others can handle two locomotives as there are two controllers built into one throttle.
I voted for the super chief but actually have the older version, not on the list. To clear up an apparent miscoception on Robins part, (that you need to interface with a PC with the chief) I bought the chief over the empire builder (then it was a big boy, I believe) because I am not a computer guy, and the chief's programming abilities are greater than the empire builders, allowing programming on a programming track while not interrupting layout operation. I have never had any problem programming decoders with my throttle. I also would not want to interface with a PC, and only use DCC to control loco functions, not turnouts. I figure real life engineers cannot throw turnouts from their cab, why should I? I also use IR, originally due to cost compared to radio. I have three throttles, two DT100s and one DT300. Yes, learning curve for DT100 is harder than NCE, but like anything else, it is easy once you know it. DT300 makes 4 digit address selection easier. I am holding off on a DT400, hoping Digitrax will come out with duplex radio, I might run both radio and IR then. I would like to be able to select locos without plugging in. Gary
Just so you guys know, I didn't put the old systems up because they are basically the same, just renamed. Hence the reason I put the system type next to it. If you have an older system, you would be correct in voting for the same level system like you two have done already.
I have Atlas, and love it. It's a bit more limited than Digitrax, but the entry cost is lower, allowing me to get up and running a year or two sooner and still have $ left to buy trains! If I had the $ to get the full system I plan (booster, power supply, two handhelds) up front, I'd likelyu have used Digitrax. However, I like the Atlas so far....
voted for the Digitrax Chief II. I started with a Digitrax Bigboy System and switched to the Chief II last year. What an improvement !
