DCC is one of the hobby’s recent developments that can add such a lot to the enjoyment of the running of the trains. Here a Gaugemaster Prodigy system is being used.
TRAIN CONTROL
Controlling trains has never been so much fun in the history of the hobby.
DCC VERSUS DC TRAIN CONTROL
Whilst many railway modellers use DCC (Digital Command Control) to control their trains, there are still many modellers happily operating their trains using the ‘traditional’ DC (Direct Current) system. DC is still very popular with beginners and model railway stalwarts alike.
DC control is commonly known as analogue control to differentiate it from DCC. DC is the conventional track-voltage control system that typically provides between 0V and 12V DC for train speed control and polarity reversal for direction control. There are two components to train control using DC – a transformer and the speed-control equipment. Transformers change the voltage of an AC (alternating current) supply to DC. A transformer is either part of the control unit (an integrated unit), or a separate item either for track and accessory power (for example, point motors). A ‘cut-out’ protective overload device is usually built into the controller. These reset automatically when the cause of the overload is removed.
Some controllers feature ‘inertia’ or ‘momentum’ control. This allows the operator to accelerate a train automatically, as well as allowing it to coast or be braked to a standstill, giving more realistic acceleration and braking. Feedback controllers create a closed loop between the controller and the locomotive that senses the load in the circuit and constantly adjusts the output. This helps to maintain the locomotive at an even speed up and down gradients. Feedback controllers are not suitable for all types of locomotive, so you need to study the locomotive instructions accordingly.
Basic train-set controllers are fine for small layouts, but when you choose to expand a layout it may be best to look towards the specialist manufacturers such as Gaugemaster and All Components (www.allcomponents.co.uk) for your equipment. A quick glance at their websites will reveal that they produce a large number of products that are targeted at specific layouts and scales – for example, they will recommend different controllers depending upon whether the layout is N, OO or O scale. These companies also produce transformers just for accessories, as well as a whole range of other electrical equipment. The Gaugemaster website has a lot of useful general information about both DC controllers and DCC. Go to the left-hand bar on www.gaugemaster.com.
DCC is one of the hobby’s recent developments that can add such a lot to the enjoyment of the running of the trains. Here a Gaugemaster Prodigy system is being used.
Train control is a lot more fun than ever using DCC. DCC systems range from the simple to use to as challenging as you would like. There are starter DCC systems for small layouts that do not cost the earth. DCC control is also available in wireless mode. Some who were reluctant for years to begin using DCC have now tried it and say they would find it difficult to go back to DC operation. Constant bright lighting on the locomotives is just one of the advantages of DCC operation.
Many ready-to-run locomotives are now available as: DCC-ready (these need a decoder to be fitted, but already have a pin connection to take the decoder); DCC-fitted (already fitted with a decoder); or DCC-sound (fitted with decoder, a sound chip and a loudspeaker).
THE PROS AND CONS OF USING DCC
DCC arrived in the model railway hobby back in the 1980s and now most of the mainstream manufacturers produce DCC systems together with locomotives and multiple units being sold already fitted with a decoder and maybe a loudspeaker.
Many modellers have already gone down the DCC route, but some are still sitting on the fence wondering if they should go DCC, while a small number are determined not to change from DC. At model railway shows, visitors watch DCC-fitted locos working on a layout. They hear the apparent opening and closing of the cab doors, the lights go on and off, the sound of the squealing brakes and the build-up of the power. Some think these benefits of DCC are worth the additional cost. Other modellers are happy to carry on as they are with analogue train operation.
The cons The cost element comes to mind initially. How much would it cost to fit a decoder to all the locomotives on a layout? But is that really necessary? DCC sound-fitted locomotives cost nearly twice as much as non-DCC sound-fitted locomotives. Some modellers would prefer to have fewer locomotives in order to have them all sound-fitted, while others would prefer to have more locomotives and not have them all sound-fitted.
Some modellers may feel that they lack confidence about electrical matters, so think that DCC is an unnecessary complication for their layout and they may not have the enthusiasm to spend the time researching DCC and its possibilities. Modellers sometimes look at DCC controllers that have rows of buttons and are put off because it all looks too daunting to learn. DCC instruction manuals look inaccessible to many casual readers and those of us who do like the look of technical handbooks could be put off by the apparent complexity of it all. When potential customers hear about 6-pin, 8-pin and 21-pin plugs they just do not know which is best for their locomotives and fear they never will.
Bachmann DCC-fitted Class 25 locomotive with the headcode lights illuminated.
The pros The benefits of DCC are available to all. It really is not that complicated, can be learnt quite quickly and is certainly fun to use. DCC starter train sets including the DCC system are remarkable value for money and contain everything that you need to get started. Wiring a layout can potentially be easier with DCC. To maintain enthusiasm for the hobby, it is often good to have a new challenge. Why not let DCC be your next challenge?
To run trains with sound, including locomotive sounds, platform announcements, squealing brakes, horns and much more can be a lot of fun. Locomotive lights stay brightly lit rather than fading as a locomotive stops. DCC is definitely one of the most exciting things to happen in model railways for a long time. It has many advantages over traditional DC control and whilst there is an additional cost for each locomotive, many modellers think that the cost is worth it because of the better loco control and additional features.
The future looks bright for DCC developments. Each year new products and innovations arrive on the market and there are an increasing number of sound-fitted locomotives being offered by UK manufacturers. Hornby has introduced its RailMaster system using the Elite DCC system and a PC or laptop. The program provides for any number of locomotives to be given tailored default settings to suit individual models, including slow speed running, cruising speed, direction lights and so on. RailMaster also supports DCC sound locomotives, plus it is simple to program locomotives so that they will follow a series of commands automatically.
Decoders can be programmed to adjust the rates of acceleration and deceleration, the volume of the speakers and much more. None of this is usually necessary, however, because the factory-fitted settings usually work just fine. Whilst a DCC system allows us to operate locomotives and their functions, it also enables us to control other devices on the layout such as points. But you can choose to leave these operated by DC if you prefer.
Lifting the lid on a Bachmann Class 66 DCC Sound loco. The large loudspeaker is seen to the left on the top of the chassis.
DCC sound systems can be purchased separately from a number of companies. They retail at around £100 to include the DCC decoder, the wiring and the loudspeaker.
When a DC locomotive is taken out of the box it usually has a DCC blanking-off plate installed, as can be seen here as the black plastic rectangular piece on top of the chassis.
To install a decoder into the locomotive, remove the blanking plate. On this locomotive there are eight pins to hold the decoder. Increasingly, on OO locomotives there are 21-pin decoders.
If you intend to run a layout frequently, the DCC learning curve will be steep, but it will soon reach a plateau that will make operation quick and easy. DCC is definitely fun to use and adds lots of additional operating features to the hobby. Those who ‘go DCC’ rarely regret it.
SETTING A LIMIT ON THE COST
If you are concerned that the costs of DCC might spiral, set yourself a limit on the number of locomotives you will equip with DCC so as to limit the outlay. Just fit sound into your favourite locomotives. Maybe limit to how much you want to spend on DCC equipment, including decoders. If you have a small layout, one of the basic DCC systems in the starter sets by Bachmann or Hornby might be adequate to get the benefits of DCC. Or if you are about to take the first step of DCC, why not just use it in a goods yard with a few decoder-installed locomotives to keep the initial cost down as you learn how to get the most out of it?
WHAT SYSTEM SHOULD I BUY?
If you are wondering whether to buy a complex or basic DCC system, you may want to ask yourself the following questions:
The more often that you operate your layout and the larger the layout is, the more you should lean towards buying one of the more powerful DCC systems. If the layout is large, you may need a lot of current to the track, so choose a system that has a high number of amps and booster equipment from its power source. The same applies if you want to use DCC to operate point motors and so on.
If you only run your layout occasionally, you might find that you have to get the manual out every time you do use it in order to familiarize yourself once more with how to do it. In that case, it may be best to buy a basic system. Some DCC controllers/throttles/cabs are hand-held, while some are designed for panel mounting. Others provide wireless hand-held controllers. The choice is usually down to what controller you most prefer to use.
Tips for DCC Control
The Bachmann DCC EZ controller is a good starter system. The wiring demonstrated in the picture is basic DCC wiring, which is certainly not complex for a small layout. Larger layouts may require additional powerbus wiring around the layout.
