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DCC Beginner
Phil has a question that has already been covered on this blog (see search box). If you have some further suggestions for Phil you can use the Comments link below:
“I don’t know what DCC is apart from it is some kind of automatic controller which allows trains to run on same track indepently. What would be the jump for me to go from standard DC control to DCC and what would be the main benifits to a low level model train user?”
Phil, DCC stands for digital command control. A constant voltage is applied to the entire track and locomotives are fitted with digital receivers. These ignore the track voltage until the digital command control sends a signal to the locomotives unique address. The locomotive will then respond to the commands. As each loco has it’s own unique address, it means more than one loco can be operated on the same track.
Phil, I would strongly suggest you read my Model Train Help ebook as DCC is fully covered step by step. I explain the advantages and disadvantages of DCC as well as warn what to watch out for. If you are new to DCC then this would be a helpful starting point.
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“What would be the jump for me to go from standard DC control to DCC and what would be the main benefits to a low level model train user?”
The jump would be getting the control system and equipping your locos with decoders. This initial cost scares some folks off, the control systems run in the hundreds of dollars and the decoders are 20 bucks or so per locomotive, not including installation. Some locos now come with decoders installed.
The advantages are that you run several trains without the hassle of flipping block switches, operations on turning loops are trouble free, and if you run multi-unit diesels it’s easier to make them all run at the same speed for the same throttle setting.
If you are a solo operator that only runs one train at a time, there may not be enough advantage to justify the cost.