Ponz posted:BlueComet400 posted:Bill, you're not the only one who still likes conventional control and older trains. Most of my trains are prewar tinplate, and I wouldn't consider doing any conversions on them. A few months ago, I decided to add DCS and I love it. Yes, it has its quirks, but so do E-units. What sold me on DCS is that it gives you the ability to run older, conventional trains with a wireless remote control, instead of being tied to a transformer. I currently have 2 DCS-equipped engines, and will likely add more, but prewar trains will always be my primary interest. I saw adding DCS as a way to add flexibility and improve the operation of my older trains, while making the most of the few modern trains in my collection. For relatively short money, you can add DCS to your layout and give it a try. You might be surprised.
John
I sure would like to see an instructional video on how to accomplish adding DCS to a conventional layout - on the cheap.
Ponz
For about $300.00, I bought a brand-new DCS TIU/remote kit, and in a very short time, DCS was up and running on my layout. The TIU developed an issue, but that's what warranties are for. There were also a few glitches with track signal, but after a few wiring modifications, all is well. Compared to the costs of other items in our hobby, I decided $300.00 was short money to see if DCS is for me. I figured if I didn't like it, I could always sell the system to recover some of my money. I also bought a brand-new Z4000, but I was going to do that anyway, so I'm not counting that in my DCS start-up costs. Are there quirks with command operation? You bet. Is it worth it? In my opinion, it is, but I really think someone needs to try it on their own layout.
John
