Don't know about the rest of the O Gaugers but I've lost the plot. there is a lot of conflicting info out there about which DCC control systems can cope with O gauge. I currently run both an NCE Power Pro and an NCE power Cab for my OO gauge layouts. However, when you look at NCE's web site they tell you they are not to be used for O gauge. I'm not clear if that means even with the addition of a 5 Amp booster or not. They seem to bang their gums about the PH 10 system which is their " Power House " 10 amp rated system with the proviso that you use a suitable circuit breaker. I have a 5 Amp booster for my Power pro system so that may suffice. What is everyone else using ?????? I'd rather go with something that is intended for the job rather than operating something else " at risk " or " modifying ". Some of the O gauge loco's for example the Ixion Fowler and Hudswell Clarke seem to be at home with the power Cab but not my Heljan class 25. I would like a system that could cope with say three heavier O gauge models. I am currently taking direction from Paul to work out the stall current for the loco's but until I get something that will provide enough juice to do this for the class 25, I'd like to hear what others are using to control the same type f loco ....... the bigger Heljan brutes Come on O Gaugers .......... show me what you've got. cheers Toto
I can,t comment on what other O gaugers use but I know Paul Chetter uses NCE products and he fits Digitrains Zimo chips in all manner of sizes of locos from tiny Hornby 0-4-0s to twin motored O scale Heljan loco,s and he demo,s them at show,s without problem,s so maybe asking his advice would be the way to go. Cheers, Pete.
Hi Toto, LSD will quite happily run 4 of the smaller RTR locos plus one heavier kit built on the basic NCE System, But I have noticed that the heavier brass locomotives need a bit more power when running with others. Recently as mentioned in my thread my 5amp system gave up and went back to the US for repairs,I then re connected the basic NCE system and all ran as normal no problems but I think with the larger Heljan models (twin motors as well) you will need to upgrade to a 5amp booster (SB5) this will require its own 5amp power supply as well, but you will be able to re use the original hand set and the curly cord. Most people leave the basic system set up as a programming / test track so nothing wasted. What size bus wire and droppers have you used? Have you installed droppers to all the track work section yet (don't rely on fish plates for power transfer) This will effect the DCC signal. KIM
Tom, A wee bit of investigation on your part now, as you have bit the bullet and bought the SB5, connect your Rampmeter into the circuit and measure the load of each loco, and keep a record of it, This will help for future planning, and will also point to potential weaf issues in the future. Paul
A lot of systems say they are not suitable for O gauge but I think that's based on the older motors being used! Most up to date motors in O gauge have a low current draw so will be fine with these controllers. I've used the gauge master prodigy with no issues and had multiple sound locos. I'm going to buy the new NCE system as it will do both Ranelagh bridge and my American HO layout: I might add the booster eventually but not straight away. I'd be more inclined to add the wire less feature first: It's the same with decoders the XL is always recommend for 7mm but it's not the case most locos will happily run on the standard '4mm" decoders. The XL is for twin motors really like the Heljan diesels. I've put a £10 chip in my castle and it's taken 12 coaches around Pete Watermans layout with no issues.
Many thanks Steve. Paul had said the same thing re the O gauge models being less heavy on the juice as what they used to be. At least now I have the confidence that the NCE system will handle my Heljan. Especially with the PB5 attached to it. I'll go down the road of an XL for the Class 25 and fit standard 4mm decoders to my Fowlers and Hudswell Clarke. I'm sure I have 8 pin with stay alive from XEN which should do the smaller loco's. I'll check that they are 8 pin and not 6. Cheers Toto
A quick search on the tinternet, and your Ixion Hudswell should be an 8 pin decoder, so try the Xen. Tempted to get my Loksound 3.5 chip thats fitted to my Hornby 08 reblown for the Dapol O gauge terrier, which would then let me put a new chip + sugar cube speakers into the 08. Sorry Tom - I digress, not like me Paul
Go for it. Get that terrier barking. I'll rake out me decoders tomorrow night when I get in. I know where they are ......... That's a first. shouldn't take long to fit them. Plug and play with loads of room. Cheers Toto.
Toto the Hudsy is a easy fit 8 pin plug in the saddle tank place a bit of tape around the tips of a pair of long nose pliers (to protect the paint and ease out the hand rails from the tank Remove the tank filler flap remove the screw and then you can easy off the tank. You will find a standard 8pin plug in the tank plug and play Here's one I have in pieces ready for some modifications it's missing the 8 pin plug board, I have remove it, as this one is getting sound etc Attached files
