Returning to 00

Hi Richard & welcome to MRF.

Nice to see another "returnee" to the hobby.

Have a look through the DCC section to get an idea of what is about - everyone has their own favourites regarding DCC controllers & decoders. From what you have said you will be better off not going for an entry level set.

If possible, have a "hands on" play with as many systems as you can to help you make up your mind. IMHO the first choice would be to decide if you want a "desk" type unit such as the ESU ECoS or a hand held such as the GM Prodigy. Try & envisage how many functions you are likely to need in the future (beware - sound gets addictive !) & so on.

Another thing to consider if after sales service & how important to you that is - local or distance.

Enjoy your hobby & MRF - don't hold back on any other questions - someone here usually knows the answer !

QUOTE (Rick @ 19 Jul 2008, 07:32) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>Thanks for the welcome, Ive had a look through the dcc section and searched the net, but there is a lot of info to take in, still i couldnt see anything referring to a controller for reversing the trains automatically on a terminus to terminus layout. I know that gaugemaster do one for dc, but would this be dcc compatible?
This is referred to as a "shuttle" feature and as John said there are a few options out there. The ESU ECoS has an inbuilt shuttle feature which controls eight shuttle lines. You will have to instal S88 occupancy detectors on your track. You can determine the stop over time.

There is a lot of info to read and take in. I would suggest reading manual's for systems and modules so that you have a better understanding of what the limitations of any given product are. Please ask questions when you need to know more.

QUOTE Will dcc ready engines still run on analogue control?

Two points to make here:-

1) DCC Ready means there is a decoder socket installed in the locomotive "Ready" to accept the appropriate plug of a DCC decoder. i.e. the loco is still analogue only, you have to buy a decoder. It you don't want the bother of dismantling the loco to fit the decoder (not an easy job on some steam locos), then you need to buy "DCC On Board" of "DCC Fitted" and accept whatever decoder the manufacturer has put in. For non sound locos most people prefer to choose their own decoder. The sound decoders are almost always a decent high end device and don't need replacing.

2) Locomotives equipped with a DCC Decoder will run under analogue control with no ill effects. You should be aware that the decoders have the facility to switch off operation on analogue control but they ship from the factory with analogue enabled so it only need concern you if you to buy a DCC fitted locomotive second hand. The previous owner may have switched off the analogue capability.

As to choice of decoder, how long have you got? A thread like that could run and run......

David

Hi Rick,

Yes the ECOS works with any NRMA compliant decoder.

I would just be a bit wary with some of the early Hornby decoders.

If you go for the sound decoder Loksound are made by ESU who make the ECOS.

Cheers

John