DIY Network

Power and DCC: Converting to Digital Command Control Learn how to convert a standard DC-current to DCC. From "Workin' On the Railroad" episode DWRR-106L

Host Chris Chianelli and guest David Popp explain how to convert a standard DC-current layout to an upgraded Digital Command Control (DCC) layout.

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Figure A

Materials Needed for Construction--

DCC decoders for locomotives
starter set DCC controller
jewelers Phillip-head screwdriver
tethered throttle for extra controller for power pack

Products--

Bachmann DCC starter set
NCE DCC starter set
digitrax Zephry starter set (figure A)
Athearn DCC -- equipped locomotives

Note: the Digitrax Zephry starter set is basically the brains of the DCC, where all the signals and commands come from. This system is expandable.

	Figure B
	Figure C

1. Choose the appropriate DCC decoder and install in each locomotive (usually this is a simple plug-in installation).

2. Take the lead wires from an existing DC layout and remove them from the present controller and attach to a standard DC power pack (figure B).

3. Take the two wires and hook up to the rail lines (figure C)--no soldering necessary.

4. The Zephry plugs in with a regular wall wart.

5. Follow instruction manual for operation steps.

Note: David says it's easy to add another operator--simply take a tethered throttle and plug into the back of the command station. (It looks much like a phone jack.)

RESOURCES :

Magazines and Books on Railroading
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.modelrailroaderbooks.com

DCC Systems
Digitrax, Inc.
Website: www.digitrax.com

Trains and Accessories in HO
Athearn
Website: www.athearn.com

Trains and Accessories (All Scales)
Bachmann Industries, Inc.
Website: www.bachmanntrains.com

DCC Systems
NCE Corp.
Website: www.ncedcc.com

Trains, Accessories and Scenic Materials
Life-Like Products
Website: www.lifelikeproducts.com

Model Train Control Systems (All Scales)
Model Rectifier Corp.
Website: www.modelrectifier.com

Sound Generators for Layouts
Miller Models
Website: www.millermodels.com

N and Z Scale Trains
Micro-Trains Line Co.
Website: www.micro-trains.com

Atlas Model Railroad Co, Inc.
378 Florence Ave.
Hillside, NJ 07205
Phone: 908-687-0880

GUESTS :

David Popp
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.kalmbach.com