QUOTE (dbclass50 @ 5 Mar 2008, 08:35)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>RC is fine for live steam/diesel, but surely DCC is the way for electrically powered models.
This may be true to some extent for proprietary G scale RTR, such as LGB etc. However, many British outline Gauge 1 models are kit or scratchbuilt, and battery powered R/C control is seen as a convenient alternative.
QUOTE DCC will not work well with live steam as live steam & clean track are not usually seen at the same time
Not only that, but most live steam locos have solid (i.e. uninsulated) axles and wheelsets, so would short out any 2-rail control system.
From experience, Gauge 1 enthusiasts like to visit each others layouts. Some are dominated by live steam, whereas others prefer electric. Most like to be able to accommodate both for visitors, ideally at the same time. Battery electric operation is an easy solution to this, though of course it has issues of its own, such as the recharging required.