(Sigh) Gary, we're so right. It's sometimes a drag being such a genius, isn't it?
:-) Again, my comments weren't designed to be negative, just personal observations for what I want my future S scale layout to do once it's operational. Of course, seeing as it's taken a "few" years to accomplish what little I have accomplished on my S scale layout... I figure by the time its actually to a point that it can be "operated"... shucks, there may be some form of onboard neutronic-plasmatic power/decoding available. Hmmm. Andre Ming ----- Original Message ----- From: grchud To: [email protected] Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2012 5:10 PM Subject: {S-Scale List} Re: Radio control DCC >Andre Ming writes: Don't know if I'd be interested for a couple of reasons: * How to fit all the components (sound, speaker, DCC decoder, R/C decoder, LiPo batteries) into an S scale diesel switch engine? * How long will the thing run on a charge and how long to recharge? One of the deal breakers for me and electric R/C airplanes was the recharging thing. Play a little while, recharge, play a little while, recharge. Seems the batteries would run down when you're having the most fun. That part of it: No thanks. >Andre Ming Andre, You are so right! Unless you’ve dealt with electric R/C airplanes, it may be hard to visualize a six to eight minute run with the size batteries we can tolerate in S and smaller. Yes, a larger battery can be put in another car, but then you always need that other car attached. Yes, you can run it off on a siding for recharge, but what does that say about operating mainline with long trains? RC is certainly do able, but it all depends on how you want to operate. For straight DCC, you need bus routing, but you still need some for rechargeable sidings. As far as dirty track is concerned, what does it take to keep the track clean on a small layout; which is what the RC system is really suited for? Furthermore, ‘Stay Alive’ circuits clearly reduce, if not eliminate, the dirty track problems! So, if you don’t want to compromise for what amounts to a battery limitation, DCC still, in my opinion, is the best way to go! Don’t get me wrong, I’m not putting down NWSL’s RC system. I like RC.....I’ve flown RC airplanes for over 30 years. NWSL is to be commended for pioneering RC technology for model railroading! As I stated above, for the smaller size gauges/scales, the battery thing is the big limiting factor, just like trying to install sound quality speakers smaller locomotives. As far as Flyer AC powered S trains, one of the frequent pro arguments is that they can run for hours! Not on batteries, not with their high draw AC motors! One day, with improved technology, small batteries may be able to hold a charge longer; along with motors and sound systems drawing less current. But, we’re not there yet. I noticed that the RC system uses Lithium Polymer batteries. If you’ve dealt with those batteries in the past, you know manufacturers CAUTION about overcharging, leaving unattended during charge, and risk of fire if misused. I’ve seen them catch on fire.....not a pretty sight of the remaining model. You CAN NOT just throw any old charger on them! Charging is very critical! It is highly recommended you remove the battery from the model while charging. This is particularly true with the high rate chargers available for getting a quick charge. Just some food for thought.....not intended to stir a hornet’s nest! My final question......How long can that locomotive remain in the recharge siding without earning some revenue? Gary Chudzinski
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