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DCC Conversion
Rich asks readers:
“I’m fairly new to model railroading. I am confused about something….My layout is Not set up for DCC. Can I run an engine that has DCC on my layout. How hard is it to up grade to DCC if that is the coming thing? Is that something I should do, all my track is in place and a good bit of scenery,will that be a problem. Thanks for any help.”
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7 Responses to DCC Conversion
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You do not run a D.C.C. engine on a DC layout unless your layout was converted to D.C.C. control. Simplest way would be to replace your D.C. control transformer with a D.C.C. controller/power pack. Then you would be able to run two or more D.C.C. engines on you layout if so desired.
So all i need is a DCC controller/power pack and I can then run DCC engines on my layout. I suppose I could then just use my DC transformers for lights and other power needs that are not hooked into the tracks. If I then also wanted to run DC engines on my layout I could use the DC control transformers to run Non DCC engines. I could switch between the power packs depending on which engines I was running but could not run DCC and DC engines at the same time. Is that correct.
Many modern DCC locos will switch to DC operation automatically on a DC track.
if you are new to layout trains enjoy non dcc while converting to dcc. this conversion is easy IF you have enough feeder wires to convert over to 2 separate continuous running power supply lines connected to a dcc power booster. go on line and look up “how to convert dc to dcc”. u get lots of info. terminology is completely dif dcc from dc so start there. lastly….take your time and save up your $$$. good system, wireless, appox $600.
If you can “read” the CV Values of the decoder in the DCC equipped loco then it is only a matter of changing the values in CV29. To run on an Analogue layout then the value must be “4” at least. I always set my reading to “38” (32 to have a four figure address, 4 to run on analogue and 2 to for 28/128 step mode by adding these together voila 38!) If you know someone who runs a DCC layout then they can set this up in a couple of minutes or some railway model stores who deal with DCC would be happy to help.
My home layout is DCC and our group layout is analogue so I can run anything I want on either layout BUT NOT DCC WITHOUT A DECODER!!
Summer still has not come to England!
You can use your layout as is for restricted DCC operation. However the conversion of your equipment may take a lot of time so you will want to operate DC and DCC. The problem is you cannot operate both at the same time on the same circuit. (Common Track)
A great alternative to allow both operations is the MRC Tech 6 2.0 system. You connect it like a common transformer and just set it in DC or DCC mode when ever you want to operate your trains depending on which system you have selected for todays enjoyment. Good luck and you will so enjoy DCC. See my You Tube Channel for tips on converting DC to DCC. choochoo3985.
I have several HO DCC locos, some with sound, which run perfectly on DC. I think most modern DCC locos are designed to run normally on either DC or DCC, but read the loco manual. They just take about 9 volts to start running. With a reverse flick switch fitted to the DC controller, some of the sound effects can be operated, bells and whistles etc.
DC locos CANNOT run on a (purely) DCC track.
DC locos can be fitted with a DCC decoder.
It is possible to build a wiring system that will switch your layout between DC and DCC controllers.
DCC control equipment is expensive, read up on it thoroughly before deciding to change.
A small basic book to read up on DCC will be very useful, but all infornation can be got from the net, find some DCC forums for specific questions.