EZ Command

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joefryfry

joefryfry
Jan 12, 2006
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www.bluemountainaerialmapping.com
I am thinking about going with DCC on a new layout because I have reverse loops and I like the idea of not having to stop the train. I am not certain of the wiring, but I do wonder about different DCC systems. I am not looking for anything extravagant as far as running a bunch of trains. Would a simple system like Bachmann EZ Command be able to handle what I am talking about, not having to stops trains in a reverse loop to switch the polarity? Thanks in advance.wall1
 
I have been researching the same thing. The Bachmann EZcommand seems quite simle and easy to use. The main drawback I see is that it can only handle adresses for 9 locos. That means, if you have more than 9 locos you run regualrly, it probably isn't for you. If you have 8 locos you run regualrly, and a bunch that only see occasional service, you can reserve the 9th spot for the "visiting" loco, and simply re-assign that address on a need-be basis. I also wonder how "hand-held" their walk-around controller is. It does not look very "hand-held" to me.

Kevin
 
You will need a separate component to handle the reverse loop. This is true of every DCC system I believe. In some cases (e.g. Digitrax), a second unit can be set-up as a reverser. However, that is generally more expensive than simply getting a reversing unit, and is usually only justified for large layouts that require more than one unit anyway.

Andrew
 


I currently own Bachmanns DCC system. I have a reverse loop and bought their $60 reverse loop module. The system is nice but will not allow for additional decoder programing which I currently need to do. I have long cords on my controleer and can walk about 8 feet with it. It is not very large and does work ok as a walkaround (the regular and walk around controllers are the same size). if you have a small layout, it should work fine as long as you have no need to program CVs.​
 
I run a Digitrax Zephyr and Super Empire Builder, I've used an AR1 reversing module $30 and now I use a PM42 $90 which I set up for 2 reverse loops and short circuit protection, I will be using my AR1 for my turntable when I get around to it.
 
I am not trying to be negative here but I have seen a few post here about the bachmann Ez command not being able to change cv's. Is it worth spending $90 on something that cant do the simple things like that or am I missing something? Thanks
 
Kevinkrey said:
I currently own Bachmanns DCC system. I have a reverse loop and bought their $60 reverse loop module. The system is nice but will not allow for additional decoder programing which I currently need to do. I have long cords on my controleer and can walk about 8 feet with it. It is not very large and does work ok as a walkaround (the regular and walk around controllers are the same size). if you have a small layout, it should work fine as long as you have no need to program CVs.​
Click to expand...

Basically, with their reverse loop module and the EX command, I can turn a train without touching it or pushing any buttons other than throwing the turnout switch? That is my main concern. I won't be running more a few trains. Thanks.
 
joefryfry said:
Basically, with their reverse loop module and the EX command, I can turn a train without touching it or pushing any buttons other than throwing the turnout switch? That is my main concern. I won't be running more a few trains. Thanks.
Click to expand...

Nope, just throw the switch, thats it. Pretty nifty I think.
​
 


I do not know much, but to my knowledge, CVs are the individual settings within the decoder. One sets the speed the loco starts at, one sets the acceleration rate, etc. The Bachmann DCC system will not allow you to change these settings. Although changing the settings is rarely if never nessacary, it might be good to have. You can than match decoders for MUing locos. One of my locos was on track durring a short recently, and I know have to reprogram the decoder, my Bachmann DCC will not do this for me.​
 
How hard is it to run a double header using this system? This assuing I am already using locos that run close to the same speed?

Kevin
 
Place all the locos you want on the track in whatever direction you want them. the first loco gets oh say adress 4. The next loco ( lets say its facing backwards) gets programmed to adress 4 in reverse, and the next loco, you guessed it adress 4 in whatever direction it is facing. Its that simple. ( I sound like a spokes person for Bachmann huh?)
 
The EZ Command system is fine for a small layout where you may only have a couple of locomotives to run.

As soon as you want to do anything more advanced, (program CV's, do consists, run reverse loops/wyes, that sort of thing), by the time you add all the extra components in, you're up to the price of a full-fledged DCC system, whether it be MRC, NCE, Digitrax, Lenz, what have you.

Bachmann does have a more advanced DCC system, but it's 300 zorts:

36505.jpg
 
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