When you look at installing a DCC (Digital Command Control) system, there are typically two scenarios which exist. Firstly, you might be designing a brand new train layout, so can plan the layout design and operation before you put down any track.  The other scenario is you could be converting your existing layout from DC to DCC.

For most railroad modelers, the first stage in the process is deciding which DCC system is right for their layout.

However, equipment control features shouldn’t be the only consideration. DCC systems typically operate in the same way, in that they send command instructions and power to the decoders via the track rails. That one important concept will decide how efficiently the DCC layout, in fact, ANY train layout, performs.

How to Wire Power Districts

DCC power stations will typically provide up to about 5 amperes of current to operate locomotives, with each one needing from (for HO-scale) between a half an amp and one amp. Read complete article and see full size wiring diagrams…