What do i need to get started in DCC?

Question

I want to convert my layout (n scale) from DC to DCC, but I cannot seem to find a system that I can be sure will work. What I really want to know is what are the absolute most important things I will need for adding DCC to my layout. In case it helps below are a few stats on my layout:

-N scale
-Wont be running more than 2-3 trains at a time
-mid sized layout, "C" shaped, eash arm is 9  feet long and the back (connecting the arms) is about 8-10 feet. 
-Main line run no more than 80ft total
-I want to spend as little as possible

Please post links to where I can find the stuff you mention, I prefer NCE. and keep in mind I am on a tight budget so nothing too expensive (Ex: over $300CDN). Thanks for your help!

William · Accepted Answer

Zach,
 There are a lot of DCC units on the market. NCE, MRC, Digitrax, LENZ, etc. From what your discribing I would suggest a Digitrax Zephyr. It's very easy to use takes up the same space as your DC controller and you can expand it in the future (add UP5 plugs and extra throttles for other opperators).

 Here's what the Zephyr Offers: 

Reasonable price $199.99

Simple to use controls for running trains.
Large speed control knob and direction switch with brake.
Full numeric key pad.
Easy 2 and 4 digit addressing.
Smooth speed control.

Run multiple trains at once without blocking!
Run up to 10 addresses at the same time on your system.
Run up to 10 throttles at the same time on your system.

Jump Ports for using DC power packs as additional throttles
Use one or two smooth DC power packs as throttles to control DCC equipped locomotives.
Simple, cost effective way to add more throttles to your Zephyr set.
Makes it easy to share the fun of DCC with layout visitors and young operators.
Functions on locos controlled by Jump throttles remain active.

Over 9000 Locomotive Addresses
Use Address 00 to run one or more locos without DCC decoders
Two Digit Addressing is easy to use. (Address 01-127)
Four Digit Addressing-use the number painted on your engines as its address.

2.5 Amps of Power to run multiple trains. 
Booster outputs 12V for safe operation in N and HO scales. 

Function Control
Control 10 functions-F0 through F8. 
Function 2 is a special non-latching key that can be used to sound the horn for as long as the key is held down.
Constant brightness lighting. Headlights can be directional or independently controlled (depending on decoder).

Stationary Decoders, Turnout Control & Turnout Position Reporting
Access to stationary decoder control for turnouts and other devices.
Control 999 stationary decoder addresses.

Consisting
Universal consisting, Digitrax preferred method. ALL locos can be consisted, even analog locos.
Advanced consisting, allows only advanced consist capable mobile decoders.
Basic consisting, program decoders to run on same address.

Decoder Programming
Built in read/write programmer that can read and write all CVs.
Supports Paged programming (Digitrax preferred method). Also supports direct & register mode programming.
Operations mode programming can be used to program decoders on the layout.

Expandability with Digitrax LocoNet
Use Zephyr as a starting point for your Digitrax LocoNet System, then add components.
Use Zephyr as an expansion set with Digitrax equipment you already have installed.
Add Radio or IR via LocoNet. Just plug in a UR90 or UR91 receiver and add IR and/or Radio throttles.

 I've used Digitrax for over 7 years and have had very little problems with it. The support department is the best. You can check it out on your own at www,digitrax.com.
 
Hope this helps.
Will-2ndct

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What do i need to get started in DCC?

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