N
nachoman
I'm building a new layout of 4'x8' proportions, and for this one I am considering switching over to dcc. It's going to be a combo HO and HOn3, and include some dual-gauge trackage. While I am familiar with DCC basics, and should have no problems installing decoders, I am unfamilar with many of the features - especially knowing what i need or don't need. I worry that I will buy something then later learn about a feature that would be handy but my sytem doesn't have.
The main reasons I am considering DCC are:
1) to simplify wiring, especially dual gauge. Even on a 4x8, wiring toggle switches and keeping the blocks organized is tedious.
2) to allow others with DCC locos to run on my layout, and to allow me to run my DCC locos on other's layouts.
Features I really have no interest in:
1) Sound. While sometimes sound is cool, it is also sometimes annoying and can sound hokey. I don't want the unnecissary expense.
2) Enormous amounts of functions/lighting effects. My era is 1915-1920, and things like ditch lights and flashing beacons have not been invented yet.
Features I may be interested in:
1) contolling turnouts and other accessories (turntable). I was planning on using simple caboose industries ground throws, but I am open to the idea of DCC controlled turnouts or a turntable.
2) Walk-around capability. I plan on having 2 areas of switching on my layout, and uncouple my cars manually. Walk-around control is a BIG plus.
So, that's basically what I am looking for. The layout will be set up so that two trains can be run at the same time, and more than likely I would have one train running around a loop while another is doing switching duties on the narrow gauge branch. I really can't see ever having more than 3 locomotives moving at one time.
So, what am I looking for here? What system is best for me?
Kevin
The main reasons I am considering DCC are:
1) to simplify wiring, especially dual gauge. Even on a 4x8, wiring toggle switches and keeping the blocks organized is tedious.
2) to allow others with DCC locos to run on my layout, and to allow me to run my DCC locos on other's layouts.
Features I really have no interest in:
1) Sound. While sometimes sound is cool, it is also sometimes annoying and can sound hokey. I don't want the unnecissary expense.
2) Enormous amounts of functions/lighting effects. My era is 1915-1920, and things like ditch lights and flashing beacons have not been invented yet.
Features I may be interested in:
1) contolling turnouts and other accessories (turntable). I was planning on using simple caboose industries ground throws, but I am open to the idea of DCC controlled turnouts or a turntable.
2) Walk-around capability. I plan on having 2 areas of switching on my layout, and uncouple my cars manually. Walk-around control is a BIG plus.
So, that's basically what I am looking for. The layout will be set up so that two trains can be run at the same time, and more than likely I would have one train running around a loop while another is doing switching duties on the narrow gauge branch. I really can't see ever having more than 3 locomotives moving at one time.
So, what am I looking for here? What system is best for me?
Kevin