Oh yea !!!!:thumbs_up::thumbs_up::thumbs_up: This is some slick stuff I tell ya !!!! For those still contemplating...go for it !!! You can pick up used command stations at a decent price. The skill to install decoders isnt that hard. My first install went great...my second went up in flames. I still dont think I would go back to straight DC though.....JMO. .
Just the decoder (I hope)...a smell I dont want to repeat either...*yuck* Luckily its TCS...should be able to get a replacement FREE * Lesson #1: If its not working 100% on the program track...DONT put it on the MAIN track...ooooopppssss:tb-wacky: .
Rule #1 in DCC: NEVER let the magic smoke out... ahhah Welcome to the 21st century. I took the jump on a whim a year ago, and hadn't looked back... I love it..
I know how you feel. DC just can't cut it. DCC install rule. Isolate Isolate Isolate the track pickup from the DC motor block. A lot of time we focus on the brushes but it is the whole block that has to be isolated. Your first test should be a continuity test or lack of. You should measure a open from the track to the motor block (on both sides of the block). Do this before you apply power. Inobu
Hi George, Welcome to DCC!:thumbs_up: I've toasted a few decoders in the beginning also:thumbs_down: Gary
Do you have a multimeter? You can check the orange and grey wires to make sure they don't have continuity to the frame. The odor is something hopefully you don't get used to.. Mark
Hi George. Welcome to the DCC world. And don't feel bad - everyone smokes a decoder or two; I've installed over 80 decoders in various diesels and steam, but just this past week blew up a TSU-750 trying to wire it to my Cab Forward. C'est la vie, as the French say (although "merde" was my first reaction). That's one nice thing about the decoder manufacturers. I think virtually all of them have at least a 90-day "even if you fry it we replace it" warranty. Now it's time to install some SOUND! John C.
Thnxs all. I will check for shorts with my multimeter. The Academy Awards are on (yawn)...so have plenty of time to play around... ;-) I am like a kid in a candy store right now. A kid with a new toy. Oppppssssss...shouldnt say TOY on a train forum huh ? LOL. .
Sound? I dont think so. :tb-rolleyes: I wouldnt be able to hear it over the 80' rock and roll I have blaring over the stereo !!! :tb-tongue: Besides...sound would just get in the way of hearing any 'problems' out there on the rails... :tb-wink: .
Congratulations George! :thumbs_up: I just did my 1st decoder install today as well. I still don’t have my DCC in full operation yet, because my power supply was DOA.
DCC is what brought me back to the hobby. It's amazing what can be done with it. I like the sound too.
decoders are no big deal .just keep u a current reciept and all is good.i average sending back a least 3 per month lol.enjoy your dcc
Always good to see another convert. I cook so many decoders I have to disconnect the smoke detectors, but as someone said most manufacturers have good warranties, I've even had Soundtraxx replace a Tsunami.
I'm smiling because I said the same thing until I bought one myself. Just adds to the fun hearing the diesel crank over or shut down when dispatched. Just a matter of time. Inobu
Alright George!!! Glad you converted! Now get some decoders installed and lets see 4 trains running on your layout! Mike
Atlas Commander with the Generator http://www.blwnscale.com/Atlas%20DCC.htm Yes..its entry level...but hey...it works fine for now:tb-wink: .
