Can anyone tell me pros and cons of the Atlas Commander DCC setup. I like the looks of it and it seems affordable but I have been told by several folks that I should stay away from it and go either NCE or Digitrax. Thanks, Russ Gordon
I know we have discussed this at length on this board. You might want to try searching the forum for previous discussions we have had. If you have not played with your profile, you are only viewing the last 30 days worth of topics. In short, the Atlas system is an introductory system, aimed at the beginner, and is somewhat scaleable. It is built by Lenz. Digitrax is the most scaleable, offering two beginner sets, a mid-range set, and a full-feature set. NCE is solely a full-featured set. You will find Atlas and the low end Digitrax systems comparable in features and price. NCE and the high-end Digitrax are similar in these areas as well. So in reality, you have to think: What do I need now, will I need more (future expansion), and what can I afford now? I suggest you see if you can try different systems to see what you like. Best advice out there.
The new entry level Zephyr from Digitrax is really a full scale system, but simplified, with a unique option to use dc power packs with it (non-pulse power). It will do almost everything the Chief will do and it comes with its own booster (power) but at 2.5 amps. Some are buying it to use in the large yard area. So if you start with the Zephyr, you can expand latter with Digitrax hand helds, and pension the Zephyr off to a yard (it still acts as your command station - brains).
Good gouge, is only having 2.5 amps an issue or not really? Can you not connect hand helds to the Zephyr at all or do you need to have some sort of adapter/interface in order to do it? Also looking back in history for similar discussions, haven't found them yet but still looking. Thanks
Since the Zephyr is relatively new, there hasn't been as much discussion on it. Only having 2.5 amps could be an issue in larger scales or if you have many older locomotives. The Zephyr looks more like a classical powerpack than most current DCC systems. However, it is fully expandable with the Digitrax line (one of the two starter sets I noted) as Rick is noting by pointing out you could move it to a yard at a later time using it as a booster and throttle. Digitrax has made improvements to this setup as well, adding full function control, 4 digit addressing, and advanced consisting - previously not found in their old starter set (the Genesis I believe). And not a bad value at $160 from retailers. It does still have limited capacity (10 throttles and 2.5 amps of current) and does not have Radio or IR ability, which can be added to the NCE or Super Chief sets.
I have the Atlas system. Here are the criteria that I used in making my decison. 1. My son and I will be the only operators. 2. My layout is limited to 6'x14' no expansion. 3. The number of trains that could be ran at one time. (Three train consist of two engines keep me and my son busy) 4. Cost I have had six engines running at one time, they did slow down but it kept me from running them at mach speed. Atlas has as an option a wired hand control, but what I chose to use was the Lenz XPA and a cordless phone. In fact I plan to add another XPA and phone to this. You can add the XPA and the phone of your choice cheaper than a wireless throttle from Digitrax, NCE. If you want to expand your system in the future it can be used with any Lenz system.
Harron, I have to correct you on one point. The Digitrax Zephyr, like all Digitrax starter sets, fully supports Radio and IR. To add either capability to any of the systems only requires plugging in a receiver to the LocoNet along with a wall-wart power supply that comes with it. Of course, you will also need appropriate throttles. David
Correct on that point, kind of a mis-wording on my part. What I was implying is that the Super Chief and NCE's Powerhouse Pro are marketed and are frequently packaged with the Radio/IR interfaces. Most users at the low-end are not immediately interested in these features. Digitrax has everybody beat on the upgradeability and compatability of their systems, so a beginner can take his setup from a 4x8 to a basement empire with only a few changes.
I bought a Atlas system last year and I have had NO problems with it what so ever. It has worked like a charm. The only thing I don't like about it is that the hand controllers are way too high in price. Once they come down in price(if they ever do), I think I might get one. Matt
Don't buy the hand Commander get the Lenz XPA and a ccordless phone. Why mess with a corded throttle when you can have wireless for less. I have one and it works great. I am thinking about adding a second one.
Sorry for my ignorance but could you explain the hook-up to the Atlas Commander. The XPA is hooked to the Commander? And you can use your cordless home phone? I am interested in DCC and I am trying the get educated on the possibilities. My big leap into DCC is primarily driven by my intent to add sound decoders (Soundtraxx) to all my locomotives. Is there a place where I can download and read the best info?
I have the Atlas System. it is flawless in oeration, altho consisting takes a little longer than I'd like. Lenz builds it, it is quality stuff. however, it is only scaleable to a certain point, so it's not suitable if you think you'll some day have a basement empire. It looks much like and feels much like the Lenz set, and I very much like the simplistic way it works. If you are running a relatively small layout, it's a good system, as you can buy just the console unit, hook it to your old MRC pack for power, and away you go. But if you want a handheld throttl, you have to shell out a good amount of cash, making the price of the Master DCC system comparable to the Lenz beginner set. My advice? If you want a bargain entry DCC that isn't wierd, tacky, or low quality, get the Atlas system. But if you want to expand beyond that, (or want handheld throtles,) skip it, and buy the Lenz set -- it's what I would do if I had to do it over again.
The XPA plugs into the express net port on the back of the Commander then you plug your cordless phone into the XPA. Installation is a snap. To control the engine you just press the buttons on the phone. The directions provided are very clear and after a short time you will have the function keys memorized. This is a very good product and easy to use. I have just about quit using the Commander to control trains. [ 02. February 2003, 05:05: Message edited by: TC ]
Has anybody know how the Atlas DCC compares to the MRC Prodigy system? They both seem to be good systems and offer expandtion capability.
I was so close to getting the prodigy system and someone steered me away... Why?? They said that you can only use MRC's decoders with the system and at the time they hadn't been released yet. This may be a fib but that's what I heard before I bought my Atlas system. How much does the XPA cost?? Thanks Matt
All major systems are NMRA compatible, including MRC so you can run decoders that will work with that system. MRC 2000 only can work two functions, so if your needs are greater than that, then don't get. Atlas has more expandibiliby than prodigy. In fact, I'm not sure the Prodigy is expandible, unless MRC comes out with something else higher end. I could be wrong on this, but I don't think so.
I found the XPA on Walthers website... it seems relatively cheap compared to what I thought it would be. Maybe I'll pick one up at the next show which is on the 15th in Madison. Below is the link to the Walther's product description. http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/428-XPA Matt
