I decided to trash my Digitrax system after it wouldn't stop malfunctioning and I didn't want to deal with trying to get it to work anymore. So, I decided to go with the low priced MRC prodigy express. I figured I wouldn't need more than that. Here's the thing, I just think I bought a DCC system that doesn't control switches. I guess I assumed all DCC systems would support such a basic function, but the accessory decoder section of the manuel is listed "Prodigy Advance Cab only". Do I have to return this for something that meets my more "advanced" needs, or am I missing something basic here?
Answer in the below link. Look at the bottom paragraph. http://www.tonystrains.com/technews/mrc-prodigye-review.htm Rich
The express is a cripple system, you will soon realize you made a bad decision. Get as soon as possible an advance cab to at least have a decent DCC system.
I dissagree. While the express does have limited features compared to the advanced, it has performed exceptionally on many of my layouts over the past several years. It is a very decent system for someone who doesn't want to shell out a lot more cash for many features that may never get used on a small-medium sized layout. As for turnout control, the easy answer is no, not directly. However I believe there are certain turnout decoders which enable systems like the express to read a turnout address just like a loco, and throw the turnout using the direction controls.
Thanks, that's what I figured. It looked like a great deal because I'm not going to need a lot of power and I've been trying to simplify my layout plans wherever possible. I guess Einstein was right, Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler. If it had the ability to operate turnouts it would be a great deal. Now I've got to return it and get a slightly better system.
Some other very useful features the Express is lacking. No CV readback on the programming track. It is a must have to me. Will not support running back to back locos in a consist. I don't think it is a feature that may never get used. Sure there are work around to that flaw, but others DCC systems have a built in way to handle this much needed option. Does not support Universal consisting/Old style consisting. A much needed feature especially when running helper consists. My opinion is the Prodigy Advance is a much more viable option.
A few months ago, I talked to Frank who is a tech at MRC and here is what he said about the upgrade path for the Prodigy Express. 1) All the newer Prodigy Express systems come with the Advanced A2 software. MRC has instructions to check to see if you have the latest software. The only thing is that you will need an Advance Squared handheld to check the software version number of an Express. If you don't have the latest V3 software, you can send your Express system to MRC to upgrade the software. This is done for a small fee so be sure to contact MRC before sending in your Express system. 2) The Prodigy Express system power can be upgraded from 1.6 amps to 2.5 amps by purchasing the Advanced Squared power supply which is part #1504. 3) You get all the additional features of the Advanced Squared (including controlling DCC turnouts) by purchasing the Advance Squared Handheld. You can still use the Prodigy Express Handheld as an extra throttle by purchasing either the #1501 extension plate or the #AD493 Y Harness. Best regards, Brian
I've decided to go with NCE's entry level Power Cab. The MRC Prodigy Express might be a good idea for people who want to run their trains with DCC but don't want to rewire all their switches. But for somebody building a new layout from scratch, it's not a viable choice.
NCE Power Cab Decent choice. I have one but only because our club has the NCE 5 amp power Cab. I can take the hand piece, Cab, to the club for running my DCC locos. You can add the SB3a for 5 amps plus NCE has a lot of accessories. Hope you got it for a good price. I buy most of my DCC stuff from Litchfield Station who have free shipping over $75.99 and very good support. Below is a useful DCC link I give to a lot of people. Look at all the links. http://www.mrdccu.com/ Rich
One more vote for a good choice. Being an entry level DCC system, the Power Cab has some limitations. It is only 1.7 amps., will support only 2 cabs total (including computer interface an minipanel), the cab can't be unplugged to move it around, limit Old Style consisting to only 1 and for a maximum of 2 locos. On the other hand the upgrade path is good. Adding a SB3a will boost amps to a maximum of 5 and will increase the maximum cabs to 4 (including computer interface and minipanel). The computer interface is compatible with JMRI and a decent radio system is available. The Power Cab has CV read back capability and can read sound decoders without the need of a booster. I own a Power Cab since 2008 and a Zephyr since 2001. While I prefer the Zephyr it is not because it is a better system but because it is more powerful. More amps, more cabs, no restriction on Old style consisting.
