Hi Ed --
I am looking at it from a different point of view. It would be a major
expense to outfit roughly 50 pieces of motive power with decoders,
especially of the sound making variety (not that many will be so equipped –
they just get to be too noisy when the trains already produce a lot of noise
from the wheels rolling on rails). Right now, everything runs really well
on straight DC from PFM/PBL systems, though I am not piping sound through
the rails (too much static – the BIG advantage to onboard DCC sound).
There are only a few engines that would roam over multiple electrical blocks
that are now (due to laziness and a dislike of wiring) essentially dedicated
to a particular power supply. As an interim solution to current operating
limitations, the S-CAB would be a relatively quick and less expensive
solution compared to a full blast conversion to DCC locos. Until more
scenery is done so I can have power distribution panels (scenery profiles),
my wiring is VERY basic -- I use high tech alligator clips from power to
buss wiring! A couple of S-CAB locos would also allow me to add DCC at a
more measured pace as time and dollars allow. I already have the system-
NCE- ready to go as soon as the railroad is ready to hook it up.
Anyhow, I intend to look closely at Peter’s installations at the convention
in Scranton, primarily to see just how much space the electronics and
battery take up. If they can easily be stuffed into a small USRA style
tender, I just might give them a go.
Have fun!
Bill Winans
----------------------------------
One place where these new-fangled battery-powered systems will really shine
is outdoor layouts where dirty track and constant cleaning is a real
headache. I can see where battery power might well be the best choice in
that kind of environment.
Perhaps dusty attics, grungy garages and dirty basements are other ideal
locations for a control system that does not require clean track.
Ed Loizeaux
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