Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!

background buildings model trains

DCC Conversion

Jay wants to convert to DCC and asks others in the hobby for advice:

“I have 10 trains 4 are O scale and 6 HO scale.  What do I need to do to switch them to DCC.  I have no computer skills.”

2 Responses to DCC Conversion

  • Mike says:

    Hi Jay. It’s not computer skills you need it’s soldering skills. If the locks are not dcc you will have to convert them. It’s not as hard as one thinks, when you buy a decoder it comes with some instructions, but more can be found on the Internet. As for your track it should be ok, you might encounter some problems with turnouts such as loosing power at the frog. And as for the throttle its very easy to program just follow the instructions and you’ll be fine. I run digitrax and there instructions are wonderfull.

  • ChooChooMusic says:

    Hi Jay,
    Let’s take a giant leap back. DCC (digital command control) is quite easy and you must start with your existing engines first. Any loco must be DCC ready 3 rail O scale operates in AC power while N,HO, On30 and Large scale operate in DC power. All these locos must be converted from analog to a digital decoder applicable to its requirement.

    Next the track…
    If you have a layout all ready fixed in position with insulated blocking system that is with switches to control loco’s, simple open all switches so power current can travel the entire layout. You will not have to disassemble anything. Your DCC controller system can now supply power to the entire layout. (FYI: Typically O gauge is 10 Amps and N,HO, On30 and Large scale are 5 amps continuous power throughout the entire layout.)
    Now all you have to do is connect your DCC controllers power wire to your layout(s) O & HO and begin to play.
    Contact me by email and I can help in greater detail.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Add a photo or image related to your comment (JPEG only)

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION

scale model building stores
scale model building yard freight office
low relief yard railways
scale model building tall background

Download Your Free Catalog

wild west town model

Use Tiny Railroad Micro Controllers

scale model building house

Model Train Help Ebook

Model Railroading Blog Archive

Reader Poll

Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.