Byrdie posted:Ponz posted:BOB WALKER posted:I have conventional power also, but one of the advantages of the new electronic control systems is that you can take your locos to a club meeting and run them anywhere. I have demonstrated bluetooth controlled locos using track AC and battery power and have never encountered a problem.
I thought all of this was reverse-compatible? A conventional engine will not run on an advanced layout?
I'm returning to the hobby after a long hiatus so take my answer for what it's worth, but here's my understanding of it - you can run the new "electronic" engines on a conventional layout as they'll respond to the throttle controls. Most often there will be a toggle that needs to be thrown to let the electronics know to operate in conventional mode.
Because the command and control trains ("electronic") operate on trackage with constant voltage applied, i believe it's usually 14V or 18V, and the control decisions are made on board the unit, you can not run a conventional locomotive in this environment because it would only run at one speed - the result of the constant voltage.
I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong.
I guess a good question would be, "How New" ?
I can run a recently required Railking PS1 steam engine conventionally.
Ponz
