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Model Railway Electrics -
Digital Command Control (DCC)
What is DCC?
DCC stands for Digital Command Control. What
makes it different for DC control is that with DCC the locos are
controlled directly via an internal control chip instead of
being controlled by the increasing and decreasing of current in
the track. The track is always kept at the same current but also
carries the digital control signals to the chips in the
locomotive which in turn control the operation of the
locomotive.
DCC chips can have more than 2 functions (forward
and backwards). The chips can also control such things as the
directional lights and a sound module.
With DCC there is no need for isolating sections
or for using points to isolate sections of track to isolate a
locomotive for example in sidings. The controller controls the
trains themselves meaning that two trains can run on the same
track. This also means that you can run two trains head on in to
each other.
This ability to run more than one train on each
track opens up some more interesting locomotive operations such
as double heading and banking. You can even run a 125 train with
both locos being controlled by the same controller at the same
time. It also allows you to pack sidings full of locos without
having to have lots of isolating sections with the complex
wiring that is involved.
Each decoder is given a different identity so
that each decoder can be controlled separately. You can if you
want give them the same number if you want them both to be
controlled at the same time.
DCC Controllers
(manufactures descriptions)
Hornby
- DCC Controller 'Select' (R8213)
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"The Hornby Select digital controller is
the perfect way to enter the digital world of model
railways. Each locomotive can be coded with up to 99
levels of acceleration or deceleration speed (inertia).
The LCD display screen of the Select shows the number of
the loco or accessory which has been selected. Power is
through a standard wall mounted transformer which
supplies 1 amp 15V DC power to the track; a larger 4 amp
transformer is available which will provide additional
power to the track for more locomotives to be run at the
same time." |
and 'Elite' (R8214)
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"For those who wish to take their train control to a new
and advanced level, the Hornby Elite is
the ideal companion. Capable of answering the needs of
most railway layouts, this advanced unit with twin
control and wide function LCD screen can carry 255
registered locomotive addresses and the same number of
accessories, plus a USB portal for linking to a personal
computer. Once inputted and assigned, the unit will also
display the names and running numbers of locomotives, as
well as train direction, speed and function indicators.
A clock is also included on the display which can be set
to real time or up to 10x faster. The Elite is supplied
with a 4 amp transformer which is capable of providing
enough power to run approximately eight locomotives at
any one time." |
Bachmann
- EZ Command DCC Controller (Catalogue No. 35-500)
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"E-Z COMMAND allows the operator to
digitally control speed, lighting and direction of
multiple locomotives. Unlike other complicated digital
command control (DCC) systems, E-Z COMMAND provides
simple and straight forward digital operation of your
layout.
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and Dynamis
Dynamis Review
(Click here) |
"E-Z Command Dynamis allows the operator
total freedom by integrating advanced infra red wireless
technology into an affordable and powerful Digital
Command Control System. Using a unique toggle style
joystick both speed and selection of locomotive are
controlled. A backlit LCD screen with graphical
interface and easy to use menu buttons make programming
of CVs and operation of the unit is simplicity itself.
Locomotives can be recalled by either selecting the
locomotives by Name or Number and both 2 and 4 digit
addressing is supported. The 10 function buttons allow
for simple One Touch Operation allowing for different
sounds and lighting to be operated. In addition by
simply selecting A or B bank on the menu button you can
operate decoders which support up to 20 functions." |
Still To Come
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