What dcc unit would you buy
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So I would NOT buy the DR5000 now, since, as you’ve mentioned, the company that makes it is out of business. I’d buy the YaMoRC command center (for example like iron planet has). The yamorc is the spiritual follow on to the DR5000 and was designed by the same guy who made the DR5000. Since Digikeijs is gone, I’d buy the yamorc since that company is around still and it’s just a better DR5000.
I have a YaMoRc upgrade to the DR5000 but. It yet installed so my DR5000 is still working just fine. I need a few minutes to figure out putting the upgrade in.
To the OP: your trains will run on any DCC system. You may buy X and your friend may buy Y and the local club has Z. And your locomotives will work at home with your X. You bring your locomotives to your friend and they’ll work on his Y. And then you go to the club and you can use their Z system to drive the trains.
My upgrade is sitting on my desk. When I get a moment I want to install it. One thing it gives me, which I am interested in, is multi-protocol active at all times. I'm developing my own iPhone/iPad/macOS throttle and loco library app (and eventually control app for automated running etc) and am aiming to support multiple protocols, so having the DR5000 with the upgrade will allow me to easily switch protocols. Right now my app is in development and only supports Z21 mode. I have a Digitrax wifi module that supports WiThrottle plugged in so I can use WiThrottle and Z21 based apps.
I got my DR5000 in February 2018 and paid 117,61 euro directly from Modellbahn Shop Lippe. Total shipping was 27.50 euro but I had an additional 145-147 euro worth of product... so maybe the DR5000 share of shipping was 12 euro or something. So about $135 at the time plus about $15 in shipping... It came with a Euro power supply. I think the input was 100V-240V and I just needed to swap the cable. But I need to check.
I've also bought a bunch of Digikeijs modules like RC detectors, switch decoders, and a booster and other stuff and this YaMoRC upgrade from Iron Planet. I have two of the Roco LANmaus wireless controllers -- one from Lippe for about 76 euros at the time and one from a place in the US. I think it was in New Jersey.
I eventually plan on getting some additional command stations to test my software with but I've been thoroughly happy with the DR5000. I started with an NCE PowerCab but could not for the life of me get it working with the NCE USB adapter and JMRI and the I started looking at decoders from D&H, Zimo, etc and learned about Railcom so I ditched the NCE PowerCab and have the DR5000, and mostly D&H and Zimo decoders, a few ESU, and with TCS for the light board level replacements for KATO (N) locomotives...
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chadbag
Well-Known Member
I’d buy something that supports Loconet and also Railcom. Z21 for example. (That’s not what I have but it’s popular). The new TCS stuff? (Again not what I have)*.
Railcom is the standard for the equivalent to transponding that is supported by a lot of decoder vendors and Loconet, while Digitrax owned, is supported by a lot of vendors for their stuff to communicate with others.
* I have a Digikeijs DR5000 with the YaMoRC YD7001 board update. And Z21 wireless lanmaus controllers. Plus phone based throttles.
Railcom is the standard for the equivalent to transponding that is supported by a lot of decoder vendors and Loconet, while Digitrax owned, is supported by a lot of vendors for their stuff to communicate with others.
* I have a Digikeijs DR5000 with the YaMoRC YD7001 board update. And Z21 wireless lanmaus controllers. Plus phone based throttles.
The advice I'll give you is the advice I nearly always give:
Whatever system you get, make sure it is something your local hobby shop and local fellow model railroaders use and are familiar with.
The two manufacturers that seem to be most common and user-friendly are Digitrax and NCE. I've used both, and can tell you the NCE models are generally easier to use out of the box, and Digitrax has better compatibility with their older equipment, so it's easier to upgrade if you end up needing to.
Whatever system you get, make sure it is something your local hobby shop and local fellow model railroaders use and are familiar with.
The two manufacturers that seem to be most common and user-friendly are Digitrax and NCE. I've used both, and can tell you the NCE models are generally easier to use out of the box, and Digitrax has better compatibility with their older equipment, so it's easier to upgrade if you end up needing to.
J.Albert
Well-Known Member
The OP asked:
"What new dcc handheld would you buy? Most of my engines now are the newer types from scale trains, Athearn genesis and a few Atlas and some older units. All with the companies dcc installed."
I'd buy THIS:
(sorry for the long link)
That's a very good price on a ready-to-go hardware controller that works with all kinds of things.
This isn't something you "hold in your hand".
You mount it to the side of the railroad, then control things with a smartphone or tablet.
It can also work with handheld controllers such as the Roco "minimaus".
It can run the Roco z21 app (free if you run only one engine at a time, if you want to control 2 or more at once, I think it costs $18. Worth it.)
Digikeijs is now out-of-business, but the products still work. I just used my own DR5000 this morning.
It can also be upgraded to a YamoRC controller by installing this:
ironplanethobbies.com
These are easy to get up and running, although you do need a PC running Windows or a Mac running Windows emulation software to originally set it them up.
Once set up, all you need is the Android or iOS device to control them.
The OP also commented:
"I just want something that can control the engines I have. The items that you mentioned, I have never heard of. I have been in this hobby since 1970, no need for the stuff you mentioned."
Any dcc hardware controller should run the stuff you have.
OF COURSE you may never have "heard of" this stuff.
But there's always the chance to learn something new.
I was away from model trains for 40 years while I ran "the big engines".
My knowledge of dcc was ZERO when I decided to build a small layout back in 2018.
But I did my research, and when I saw how the Roco z21 software worked, I knew from that moment it was "the way to go".
Pick up your phone RIGHT NOW and go to the App Store or google play and enter "roco z21" in the search tab.
You can download the software for free and see how it works.
You CAN'T DO THAT with Digitrax, NCE, TCS, etc.
"What new dcc handheld would you buy? Most of my engines now are the newer types from scale trains, Athearn genesis and a few Atlas and some older units. All with the companies dcc installed."
I'd buy THIS:
DIGIKEIJS 'MULTI' GAUGE DR5000 DIGICENTRAL DCC MULTI-BUS CENTRAL COMMAND STATION | eBay
Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for DIGIKEIJS 'MULTI' GAUGE DR5000 DIGICENTRAL DCC MULTI-BUS CENTRAL COMMAND STATION at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!
www.ebay.com
That's a very good price on a ready-to-go hardware controller that works with all kinds of things.
This isn't something you "hold in your hand".
You mount it to the side of the railroad, then control things with a smartphone or tablet.
It can also work with handheld controllers such as the Roco "minimaus".
It can run the Roco z21 app (free if you run only one engine at a time, if you want to control 2 or more at once, I think it costs $18. Worth it.)
Digikeijs is now out-of-business, but the products still work. I just used my own DR5000 this morning.
It can also be upgraded to a YamoRC controller by installing this:
YaMoRC ~ WiFi / LAN Module To Replace A Digikeijs DR5000`s RM04 ~ YD9401
ironplanethobbies.com
These are easy to get up and running, although you do need a PC running Windows or a Mac running Windows emulation software to originally set it them up.
Once set up, all you need is the Android or iOS device to control them.
The OP also commented:
"I just want something that can control the engines I have. The items that you mentioned, I have never heard of. I have been in this hobby since 1970, no need for the stuff you mentioned."
Any dcc hardware controller should run the stuff you have.
OF COURSE you may never have "heard of" this stuff.
But there's always the chance to learn something new.
I was away from model trains for 40 years while I ran "the big engines".
My knowledge of dcc was ZERO when I decided to build a small layout back in 2018.
But I did my research, and when I saw how the Roco z21 software worked, I knew from that moment it was "the way to go".
Pick up your phone RIGHT NOW and go to the App Store or google play and enter "roco z21" in the search tab.
You can download the software for free and see how it works.
You CAN'T DO THAT with Digitrax, NCE, TCS, etc.
migalyto
Well-Known Member
Another NCE user here.
I purchased the Powercab system for my N scale layout. It was super simple to use, reasonably priced, and very upgradable. I was up and running with basic DCC in about 20 minutes.
When I made the switch to Ho scale and built a much larger layout, I bought the SB5 booster, Powerpro wireless throttle and the base station and went fully wireless. The plus is I now have the Powercab hook to my programming track or at my workbench.
I was in the same boat when I wanted to go DCC. There is a lot of information to sift through. I finally had to flip a coin. This is one of those Ford VS Chevy questions where you will get a ton of opinions but in the end pick a system that fits your needs/budget.
I purchased the Powercab system for my N scale layout. It was super simple to use, reasonably priced, and very upgradable. I was up and running with basic DCC in about 20 minutes.
When I made the switch to Ho scale and built a much larger layout, I bought the SB5 booster, Powerpro wireless throttle and the base station and went fully wireless. The plus is I now have the Powercab hook to my programming track or at my workbench.
I was in the same boat when I wanted to go DCC. There is a lot of information to sift through. I finally had to flip a coin. This is one of those Ford VS Chevy questions where you will get a ton of opinions but in the end pick a system that fits your needs/budget.
Thanks guys for your suggestions and thoughts on what I should buy to get started again in running my trains. At my age also and not being very tech savvy is why I asked.
A friend called me last night and said he was bring over his NCE set up today and let me tell you something it was great. . He let me set up myself after reading the instructions, I had a train running in about 15-20 minutes. My other models were all set up. I ran trains for another hour using and getting use to the handheld. I then packed it up and my buddy took it back home.
I couldn't believe how easy it was to set up and get everything working in such a short time. Like I am much older then most here and basically not being tech savvy had me thinking I would be running dc for the rest of my life but the NCE set up changed my mind.
Btw I did go online and ordered the NCE set up, I'm sold.
A friend called me last night and said he was bring over his NCE set up today and let me tell you something it was great. . He let me set up myself after reading the instructions, I had a train running in about 15-20 minutes. My other models were all set up. I ran trains for another hour using and getting use to the handheld. I then packed it up and my buddy took it back home.
I couldn't believe how easy it was to set up and get everything working in such a short time. Like I am much older then most here and basically not being tech savvy had me thinking I would be running dc for the rest of my life but the NCE set up changed my mind.
Btw I did go online and ordered the NCE set up, I'm sold.
RhB Michael
RhB Lokführer
I started with NCE too. It was easy and fast to set up. I was running my first train in the same time you were.
My layout and equipment have since outgrown the NCE Powercab and I have switched to a more appropriate system for my layout.
My layout and equipment have since outgrown the NCE Powercab and I have switched to a more appropriate system for my layout.
chadbag
Well-Known Member
You’ve asked for controllers for your trains. I answered. If you’ve already made up your mind, that’s fine. But you do need the stuff I mentioned or the equivalent. That’s why I mentioned it. It answers your question.
Digikeijs is now out-of-business, but the products still work. I just used my own DR5000 this morning.
It can also be upgraded to a YamoRC controller by installing this:
YaMoRC ~ WiFi / LAN Module To Replace A Digikeijs DR5000`s RM04 ~ YD9401
So I would NOT buy the DR5000 now, since, as you’ve mentioned, the company that makes it is out of business. I’d buy the YaMoRC command center (for example like iron planet has). The yamorc is the spiritual follow on to the DR5000 and was designed by the same guy who made the DR5000. Since Digikeijs is gone, I’d buy the yamorc since that company is around still and it’s just a better DR5000.
I have a YaMoRc upgrade to the DR5000 but. It yet installed so my DR5000 is still working just fine. I need a few minutes to figure out putting the upgrade in.
To the OP: your trains will run on any DCC system. You may buy X and your friend may buy Y and the local club has Z. And your locomotives will work at home with your X. You bring your locomotives to your friend and they’ll work on his Y. And then you go to the club and you can use their Z system to drive the trains.
chadbag
Well-Known Member
My understanding is that with the YaMoRc upgrade you use a browser to config. not special software like the DR5000.
chadbag
Well-Known Member
Most any of the controllers just work. At least in a basic function. You don’t need fancy software downloads.
Jim at BSME
Member
When you say switched, did you change to another manufacture, or just add the NCE SB5 smart booster or Powerhouse system? That is one of the nice things about the NCE starter system. The Powercab can be just a throttle with the additional components from NCE.
RhB Michael
RhB Lokführer
For the cost of upgrading the NCE to my needs, the ESU came in about $50 more. A brand change to ESU also involved the ESU, Zimo, and D&H decoders in my locomotives that all use Railcom +. NCE does not have that capability. In addition, I was not happy with the page shuffling that has to be performed to access functions over F10 and then again at F20. I was also not happy with having a menu selection of only six locomotives at a time, nor the limitation of not being able to program CVs on the fly, on the main with other locomotives present.
The display is primitive with a minimum of useful information, and the speed wheel encoder is a weak point, sometimes (as in my case) failing, out of warranty of course.
The display is primitive with a minimum of useful information, and the speed wheel encoder is a weak point, sometimes (as in my case) failing, out of warranty of course.
I will use the NCE system for the rest of my life, no need to upgrade in the future because my layout will never increase in size or complexity. I have had my time building a large layout with just dc. I still find dc only very interesting on a larger layout.
The increase in technology in ho and N scale is just incredible, never thought I would get to see what ho and N scale has become. The detail on both scales was only a dream back in the 60's when I first started. The detail in today's models is a god send beings I can't do it anymore, now I just buy it already done by our manufacturers. I cannot imagine what our hobby will be in the future! Hopefully the mfgs will keep innovating and bring us some of the best trains ever.
Always help those in need in any way you can. Give your older trains away to those who would like to get into the hobby but may not have the resources to do it. I have givin away hundreds of locomotives and cars to kids and adults. Kids today need adults in their lives and so few really do, lets help them along.
The increase in technology in ho and N scale is just incredible, never thought I would get to see what ho and N scale has become. The detail on both scales was only a dream back in the 60's when I first started. The detail in today's models is a god send beings I can't do it anymore, now I just buy it already done by our manufacturers. I cannot imagine what our hobby will be in the future! Hopefully the mfgs will keep innovating and bring us some of the best trains ever.
Always help those in need in any way you can. Give your older trains away to those who would like to get into the hobby but may not have the resources to do it. I have givin away hundreds of locomotives and cars to kids and adults. Kids today need adults in their lives and so few really do, lets help them along.
J.Albert
Well-Known Member
Chad:
"My understanding is that with the YaMoRc upgrade you use a browser to config. not special software like the DR5000."
From the online videos I've watched, one STILL needs a PC (or a Mac using Windows emulation) to get the YD9401 upgrade up-and-running.
Once that's done, THEN one no longer needs a computer to configure the settings. It can be done from a phone, tablet, ANYTHING that has a web browser on it.
I haven't ordered the upgrade yet because my own DR5000 still runs fine.
The Samsung tablet I use to control it, however, is getting so old that it can no longer be updated with newer versions of Android. Still works, however.
I bought my DR5000 used on ebay for $108. Can't beat that.
There's a used one for sale now on ebay for about $145, comes with everything. Still a pretty good price.
For some reason guys in the USA are downright afraid of these things (z21, Digikeijs, YaMoRC).
Won't even consider them.
I've repeatedly suggested the z21 app's "try before you commit" policy -- one can download the software app and try it out, for free. But I wonder how many have actually given it a try...?
"My understanding is that with the YaMoRc upgrade you use a browser to config. not special software like the DR5000."
From the online videos I've watched, one STILL needs a PC (or a Mac using Windows emulation) to get the YD9401 upgrade up-and-running.
Once that's done, THEN one no longer needs a computer to configure the settings. It can be done from a phone, tablet, ANYTHING that has a web browser on it.
I haven't ordered the upgrade yet because my own DR5000 still runs fine.
The Samsung tablet I use to control it, however, is getting so old that it can no longer be updated with newer versions of Android. Still works, however.
I bought my DR5000 used on ebay for $108. Can't beat that.
There's a used one for sale now on ebay for about $145, comes with everything. Still a pretty good price.
For some reason guys in the USA are downright afraid of these things (z21, Digikeijs, YaMoRC).
Won't even consider them.
I've repeatedly suggested the z21 app's "try before you commit" policy -- one can download the software app and try it out, for free. But I wonder how many have actually given it a try...?
chadbag
Well-Known Member
My upgrade is sitting on my desk. When I get a moment I want to install it. One thing it gives me, which I am interested in, is multi-protocol active at all times. I'm developing my own iPhone/iPad/macOS throttle and loco library app (and eventually control app for automated running etc) and am aiming to support multiple protocols, so having the DR5000 with the upgrade will allow me to easily switch protocols. Right now my app is in development and only supports Z21 mode. I have a Digitrax wifi module that supports WiThrottle plugged in so I can use WiThrottle and Z21 based apps.
I got my DR5000 in February 2018 and paid 117,61 euro directly from Modellbahn Shop Lippe. Total shipping was 27.50 euro but I had an additional 145-147 euro worth of product... so maybe the DR5000 share of shipping was 12 euro or something. So about $135 at the time plus about $15 in shipping... It came with a Euro power supply. I think the input was 100V-240V and I just needed to swap the cable. But I need to check.
I've also bought a bunch of Digikeijs modules like RC detectors, switch decoders, and a booster and other stuff and this YaMoRC upgrade from Iron Planet. I have two of the Roco LANmaus wireless controllers -- one from Lippe for about 76 euros at the time and one from a place in the US. I think it was in New Jersey.
I eventually plan on getting some additional command stations to test my software with but I've been thoroughly happy with the DR5000. I started with an NCE PowerCab but could not for the life of me get it working with the NCE USB adapter and JMRI and the I started looking at decoders from D&H, Zimo, etc and learned about Railcom so I ditched the NCE PowerCab and have the DR5000, and mostly D&H and Zimo decoders, a few ESU, and with TCS for the light board level replacements for KATO (N) locomotives...
Last edited:
kjd
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