I want to get some trains up and running on my layout, but don't have the cash right now for a DCC system. Can I get an "old-fashioned" DC power-pack and use it like that for a little while, and then use it in a DCC system later on? Or would I be better off to just sell it later on and go with a complete DCC package, like the Atlas Master DCC system? D6
yeah, you can, but... Most power packs won't deliver the current you'll want later when you use it as a power supply for DCC. Not sure about the Atlas system, Digitrax is capable of 5 amps, 8 if you want it. So, buy an inexpensive pack to use for now, use it for test purposes later or to power some accessories. Gary
Most power packs do not have the amperage to drive most DCC systems. I think a power pack can be used to drive the MRC system since it only puts out 2.5 amps. What kind of functions do you want from your DCC system? If you don't need/want all the "bells and whistles" the Atlas system is great. Drew NCE Powerhouse Pro DCC user
Power packs were designed to run trains in "blocks." In essence, each block was its own layout electrically speaking. So a power pack only had to have enough juice to power a couple of locomotives (in case they were in a consist). So the answer is "yes" you can use a traditional power pack, but don't be surprised if it doesn't handle more than two engines well. I would say that if money is an issue, get the DCC system, use your power pack, knowing that latter you will have to replace it. But at least you will be able to have fun with a couple of trains at first. I'm in N scale, so the Digitrax 5 amps is more than enough as I know on our layout the most trains running at one time will be four. When you buy your ultimate power pack, count the number of trains running at one time (the maximuum) then add the number of engines to each consist. In four trains running with a consist of two engines, then 8 engines could be running at one time, so the power must be able to handle this. As to your present power pack, assuming it isn't one of those cheapies that comes with a train set, and instead is something like the MRC's... go for it, but realize it is a temporary measure until your finances catch up with your dreams...lol!
<blockquote>quote:</font><hr>Originally posted by rsn48: As to your present power pack, assuming it isn't one of those cheapies that comes with a train set, and instead is something like the MRC's... go for it, but realize it is a temporary measure until your finances catch up with your dreams...lol!<hr></blockquote> Actually, I don't have any power pack yet. I'm going to buy a low-end MRC DC pack and use it until I have the money for DCC. I won't wire in blocks because I know I'll get DCC sooner or later, so I'll only be running 1 train at a time. But that's fine, cause that 1 more than I can run now! Thanks for the help. D6
I have bought excellent used MRC's at one third of their original costs... do this if you can so that when you spell off your MRC to a new DCC system (or used one too), then you won't feel you have wasted your money.
