Model Trains And Dcc
- Date: 2008-06-18 - Word Count: 411
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If you are looking at starting out modelling trains, then have a look at DCC as a way of controlling your layout. DCC stands for Digital Command Control and is a much improved way of operating your layout compared to normal 12v DC (direct current) control.
DC control applies current to the track via a controller; more current then the faster the train will run. To change direction the current is reversed. In a normal setup negative polarity is applied to one rail and positive to the other, to change direction they are reversed. Any trains that are on the track that has current applied will move.
DCC has current at a fixed voltage applied to the track at all times. Inside each loco is a small computer chip (decoder) and this is what the controller talks to. Each chip is setup with a unique ID and this can then be dialled up on the controller. Voltage / speed is applied and the chip then controls how much current will then be sent to the motor which in turn then allows the loco to move. Direction is also set from the controller and again the decoder controls this then applies that to the motor.
Now this will allow the modeller to control a number of trains at the same time on the track and have them travel at different speeds and direction (Be aware you will need eyes in the back of your head if you have too many trains running). You can have trains 'parked' on the track and unless you have dialled up that particular chip it will sit quietly waiting for instructions.
DCC also allows you to control the loco lights and if you install a 'sound' chip that too will be controlled. Stationary decoders can be used to control point motors, turntables and other accessories.
The wiring of the layout needs to be no different as long as you follow good rules of isolating points and having plenty of feeds to the track. I good test is the short out the track (anywhere) and the DCC controller should shutdown.
DCC controlled locos can be run on a basic DC track, but you need to activate lights before placing them on the track. DC locos can be run on a DCC layout but most emit a slight humming sound when 'parked'.
There are now many good brands to choose from when looking at DCC, though I do prefer Digitrax.
DC control applies current to the track via a controller; more current then the faster the train will run. To change direction the current is reversed. In a normal setup negative polarity is applied to one rail and positive to the other, to change direction they are reversed. Any trains that are on the track that has current applied will move.
DCC has current at a fixed voltage applied to the track at all times. Inside each loco is a small computer chip (decoder) and this is what the controller talks to. Each chip is setup with a unique ID and this can then be dialled up on the controller. Voltage / speed is applied and the chip then controls how much current will then be sent to the motor which in turn then allows the loco to move. Direction is also set from the controller and again the decoder controls this then applies that to the motor.
Now this will allow the modeller to control a number of trains at the same time on the track and have them travel at different speeds and direction (Be aware you will need eyes in the back of your head if you have too many trains running). You can have trains 'parked' on the track and unless you have dialled up that particular chip it will sit quietly waiting for instructions.
DCC also allows you to control the loco lights and if you install a 'sound' chip that too will be controlled. Stationary decoders can be used to control point motors, turntables and other accessories.
The wiring of the layout needs to be no different as long as you follow good rules of isolating points and having plenty of feeds to the track. I good test is the short out the track (anywhere) and the DCC controller should shutdown.
DCC controlled locos can be run on a basic DC track, but you need to activate lights before placing them on the track. DC locos can be run on a DCC layout but most emit a slight humming sound when 'parked'.
There are now many good brands to choose from when looking at DCC, though I do prefer Digitrax.
Related Tags: model trains, new zealand, dcc
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