Q: I live in a large space and have an 80-foot loop of Lionel O-27 track running through it. I’m having trouble getting enough power to the train. I need information on wiring methods and wire types and suggestions on how large a transformer I am going to need to get it working properly. – […]
Modeling Topic: DCC & Wiring
PIKO Spielwaren Ltd wireless DCC system
PIKO Spielwaren Ltd. wireless DCC system PIKO of Germany has introduced an entry-level Digital Command Control (DCC) system that features infrared wireless operation. The Digi 1 system comes with a wireless remote, receiver base station, and two decoders. It’s intended for a model railroader who wants to operate two or three locomotives at a time. […]
How do I find a source for thin metal strip for layout wiring?
Q: I am building a layout and want to do what I’ve seen in postwar dealer displays. Specifically, I’ve seen under the layout board a thin metal strip running the entire length of the layout. To this you would solder the ground contact for every accessory, thus greatly reducing the amount of wiring required. I […]
Model Rectifier Corp. Prodigy Advance Wireless DCC system
Prodigy Advance Digital Command Control Model Rectifier Corp. is adding a wireless throttle to its line of Prodigy Advance Digital Command Control (DCC) products. Model Railroader recently had a chance to operate a pre-production sample of one of the new wireless throttles on both a Prodigy Advance and Prodigy Advance Squared DCC system. The Prodigy […]
DCC Specialties PSX circuit breaker
DCC Specialties PSX circuit breaker Though you’d probably not think of using the word “cool” to describe a circuit breaker, the term definitely applies to the new PSX series of Power Shield Digital Command Control circuit breakers from DCC Specialties. The PSX models have a wealth of new programmable features, such as occupancy detection and […]
System Five-O HO scale DCC uncouplers
System Five-O HO DCC uncouplers AN MR quick look Price: $49.95 for single uncoupler, $69.95 for double uncoupler Manufacturer: System Five-O18165 Manorwood WestClinton Township,MI 48038www.dccuncoupling.com Description: HO scale boxcars equipped with one or two DCC-operated automatic uncoupling mechanisms Comments: Ever wished you could drop any car any place on your layout with the push of […]
Electronics Solutions Ulm’s ECoS digital control system
Electronics Solutions Ulm’s ECoS digital control system With two built-in throttles, a long list of features, an LCD touch screen, and ample possibilities for expansion, Electronic Solutions Ulm’s new ECoS digital control system is the most complete digital single-unit controller we’ve tested. Not only is it capable of sending commands in multiple formats (Digital Command […]
Adding TMCC to a ZW layout
Q: I’ve got an 8- by 12-foot layout that is fairly complete, and I use an old Lionel ZW for track power and a few small transformers on a separate circuit for lights and accessories. Is there an easy way to add Lionel’s TrainMaster Command Control to run new engines in command-control mode? I don’t […]
QSI upgrade chip for Quantum decoders
As model railroading moves deeper into the digital era, manufacturers are offering more opportunities for hobbyists to improve their equipment via software and/or hardware updates. One of the newest update packages is from QSI, manufacturer of the Quantum DC/Digital Command Control (DCC) sound systems found in many new locomotives from Atlas, Broadway Limited, Life-Like, and […]
N scale MRC and Aztec sound and DCC system
N MRC and Aztec sound and DCC system The wait is over for N scale modelers who’ve been dreaming of miniature sound decoders for Digital Command Control (DCC) operation. Model Rectifier Corp. (MRC) has teamed up with Aztec Manufacturing to offer a one-two punch for easy installation of a DCC sound decoder in most Atlas […]
SoundTraxx HO Tsunami DCC decoder
SoundTraxx HO Tsunami DCC decoder The Tsunami line of 16-bit DC/DCC sound decoders from SoundTraxx is the latest group of sound systems to join the HO scale market, and it’s a formidable entry. Its very robust set of features includes 22 steam sounds and a full range of motor and other operating controls. The decoder […]
MRC Prodigy Express DCC starter system
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