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Using Two DCC Systems On Same Layout?
Jonathon would like to hear from anyone with DCC experience and asks:
“Can I use 2 different dcc systems on my HO layout? What I mean is; Can I use Bachmann DCC with Digitrax for example? Also, can I use 2 of the same DCC systems on my layout – for example, 2 Digtitrax systems?
Add your suggestions if you can assist Jonathon.
2 Responses to Using Two DCC Systems On Same Layout?
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Jonathon, As of right now if you have digitrax to power your layout the controllers are also digitrax. If your buddy has NCE , his controllers are NCE. Unless they have made some changes recently you cannot use NCE Controllers on a Digitrax System. I believe this is also the same for any other DCC System. But if you have digitrax chips in your engine you can run on his layout using the NCE system. Not a Problem. Doesn’t matter which chip you put into your engine. Your buddy can do the same and bring his engines to your layout. BUT……Youe want to dispatch your engines from his system before you leave and same when your buddy leaves yours. The reason is It leaves those engines in the person’s DCC System memory and clogs the system. Also if you have a consist made on one layout the other system will not recognize it and you have engines that will not move when you get home. Break the consists and dispatch the engines before taking them home. from Newman
Why would you want to use two different DCC systems? and on the same train layout? That is doubling your money in the layout. The decoders in the locomotives will operate no matter which one you use. Choose the one system with the features you like and sell the other DCC system and purchase something you really want. “That is just my two cents”.
Don J CARY, NC USA