OK so I’ve been DCC for at least 15 years or more. I’ve so far used 3 systems... I have a ZTC 511 which is won via Model Rail. That was my entry to DCC. I then went on (for programming) to a Sprog USB interface via Decoder Pro (on the computer) And finally, Dad has the Bachmann Dynamis infra red controller. Now as we are about to commission the new layout with the outdoor section , we were looking to either expand one of the 2 main controllers above, or go for a new system. I quite like the look of the Gaugemaster system... what’s people’s thoughts? How much for a second controller (this is a must for us) although I note GM are listing a new kit available next month that has a WiFi adapter and can use an app on your phone??? What’s the DCC users thoughts here?
I use NCE myself. The power cab and the procab but if you are going outside with it, the 1.5 amp powercab may not be man enough unless you were to add a 5 amp booster. How quickly are you looking to buy your new system ? Could be worth a bit of investigation. Toto
I don’t think it will be before Xmas to be fair. And it’s not going to be that big. And when I say outside, it will be boxed over. I think it goes out 12 ft. So not huge. And yes, that’s my reason for asking around. Pros and cons. I could drive the whole thing off my Sprog interface, which with a free program, £45 for the interface and the use of an iPhone or iPad (which we have) I’d only need to consider a booster. Likely to only be 2 or three trains running at tops anyway. The up and down lines and possibly one shunting the engine shed.
Hi For the last 10 or so years I have used the Gaugemaster systems, express, Advance and Advance2 (squared) never had any issues, still got them all so have loads of handsets when needed, their wireless dongle is available now but at £100 ish I think it's over priced I also use the Sprog3 and DecoderPro on my test track and more indepth programming. The standard Advance and Advance2 supports up to 3.5 amp load and a larger booster is available if needed Walk around handsets are quite pricy at around £150 each but I suspect there are brains in the handsets than in the base station, if you need more it's often better to look at the second hand market as you can get an Advance2 with handset for £150 thst way you get your handset and a backup base station. Paul
One of the advantages of the NCE is simpler controllers (throttles) that are cheaper, can be added. CAB06 or CAB04/CAB05 second hand
Perhaps now would be a good time for you to look at our " all up for grabs and coming soon " thread in the Forum sponsors section.there may just be something of interest in there.
Like Toto I'm an NCE user, but also have the bits on the todo list to make the MERG Command station, handset and 2 power boosters - which I should also be able to connect to the PowerCab. My best suggestion would be to attend some of the big shows that have DCC specialists among the Retailers, and get a feel of the handsets, it's easy to compare the spec's but the ergonomics needs to be a tactile experience. For example can you operate the controller one handed - try uncoupling a three link coupling with two hands operating the controller. Why do I like the NCE system (watch out danger of a religious war), 1. I can operate it one handed with either hand 2. Really simple to use, with all features available on the entry level to the full pro version. 3. Expandable, with no redundant parts, so you are not having to trade items in to upgrade to the next level 4. Toto has an NCE system as well - means we pool equipment for exhibitions etc. 5. Integrates really well with JMRI DecoderPro, PanelPro etc. - including WiThrottle / Engine driver to allow Mobile phones and tablets to act as mimic panels and throttles 6. Has the ability to program Macro's even in the PowerCab - simple things like route setting, or more complex things like operating level crossing and signals when a train enters a section 7. As mentioned in previous post several engineers cabs (throttles) are available, with more limited features, but smaller and easier for small hands to use. The cabs with rotary knobs eg. Cab06 come in two variations Encoder or Resistance. The Resistance version uses a rotary potentiometer, in normal mode fully anticlockwise the throttle is off, and fully clockwise the throttle is fully open. The throttle can be put into yard mode, where the center position is off, rotating the from center off moves the loco in the same direction, very handy for shunting. The Encoder type has no physical end stop, rotating clockwise opens the throttle, anticlockwise closes the throttle. Downsides with the Powercab (entry system), only supports (ver1.6 upwards) 3 cabs and 3 non cab devices (usb interface, AUI or Minicabs), you cannot move the powercab to another location,as it is throttle, command station and booster in one unit. But this limitation can be overcome by adding a Smartbooster, which increases power output to 5A, but adds no additional devices. As you've used DCC for many years, you'll already be aware of what you want, what your current systems can provide and the difference between the two List what you want the system to do and I'm sure we can say whether it's possible on our own systems. Paul
I have had experience with a few command control systems over time. Currently in town there are 4 different DCC systems in use; NCE, CVP, Digitrax and MERG. One thing to keep in mind is the ability to expand your system as required. While you may think you don't want some facilities, my experience with lots of friends is their desires change very soon after getting into command control. Radio throttles are a common item they didn't think they needed when starting. I have never taken the bait in making a decision for others on the 'best' system for them, just outlining the pluses and minuses as I saw it. After start with considering several systems it usually came down to two options... NCE or Digitrax. Lenz was the third option until it came to possibilities for radio control. They have finally fixed that problem. I can run my outdoor O gauge layout on the Digitrax Zephyr I purchased when they first came out. I do have a 5A booster to run locomotives with large inefficient motors if one should turn up. Nothing I have purchased is redundant, even the now unused IR receiver can be used as a throttle socket if needed. I don't recommend IR! cheers Bob
Hi There Andy In the past I have used Hornby Zero, and Select then I moved to Digitrax which is a great system. But now I use a Z21 I find this has everything I need and is easy to use with the Decoder pro and Panel pro. and of course you can use android and Ipad devices. Be seeing you Bob
All good stuff. DCC is one of these very subjective subjects. One man's food is another man's poison sort of thing. It's always worth while taking your time and where possible as Paul suggested, try and get a hands on experience. I have always given away NCE powercab in Platform1 competitions as it is the only system that I can really speak from experience with and in my opinion, does everything that I want it to. I have been tempted to put other systems up as prizes ( I had though of going Lenz this time around ) but always seem to fall back to my default position of NCE. Get out there and try a few. Just read the user guides and ensure that they are compatible with any interfaces that you think you may want as I think that is where the biggest differences lie. At the end of the day ......... it's your choice. Toto
http://www.sprog-dcc.co.uk/ At one point I had boards 1 and 2, but board 1 was sold to a friend, but after about 15 years I still have the second production Sprog I... he’s now on to version 3. It’s a USB circuit board that allows you to control your DCC loco or layout from the computer. If you have a WiFi network, you can then also use the WiThrottle from an iPhone, iPod or IPad.
Yes, like my current ZTC only does 10 functions... which was OK pre sound when you just had lights, but it’s a bit limiting these days.
“Cough”... we still have a zero1 with 2 or three slaves... one feature of my early ZTC is that it has a Zero1 setting (designed by the same person I think?) But all the zero one was soon stripped out.
all good and sound advice gents.. exhibition season is around the corner. Time for some investigating!
Just to update, we went for the guagemaster prodigy with WiFi... I’m going to start a new thread re this.....
