MiniTrix ICE starter pack (with 9v controller)

QUOTE (tmkun @ 18 Sep 2007, 17:59) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>Hi,

I am a complete newbie to this stuff so I apologize in advance if my question is ridiculous.

I have purchased a MiniTrix ICE-3 starter pack that comes with a very small section of track and a 9v controller. I would like to upgrade this to a full "wall plug-in" type controller with more track. Since I am in Japan, it is easier for me to get stuff from Kato/Tomix. I plan on getting a shinkansen set from Tomix anyways so I was wondering if the N-gauge stuff is standardized to the point where I can use the Tomix stuff to control my MiniTrix loco?

Thanks in advance,
Max

Hi Max!

It´s standardized - you can operate your MTX train with any DC transformer with a max. volatage of 12 volts; this includes Kato/Tomix equipment, as all N scale trains operate on the same tracks and voltages.. I wouldn´t go through the trouble converting the 9V controller - it´s merely an on/off switch afaik, and it sometimes comes handy if you want to test a train, switch or lightbulb (on the mrr layout, that is) and don´t want to fire up the entire layout.

QUOTE (tmkun @ 20 Sep 2007, 23:04) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>hi!

Thank you for your fast response! That is great news as that means I can buy controllers in whatever country I am in. I guess I will go take a look this weekend to see what is available out here.

I guess I just need to make sure I get a digital system. I am not sure if the Tomix stuff I'm looking at is digital or not so I'll have to be careful. Hopefully I can find a shop in Tokyo that carries both Trix and Tomix stuff so I can be sure.

Thanks again!
Max

Max,

your ICE3 is an analogue model. You´d have to install a DCC decoder first to run it on digital equipment. If you run it digitally "out of the box", chances are the ICE´s motor will take damage.

I´d suggest taking the train with you and show it to the salesclerk. Either he´ll install a decoder for you, or recommend some good analogue transformer you can use.

See you!

Tom