digital

Digital Control V. analogue control?

Analogue control is the traditional , connect to the track, plug the power in, turn the controller dial and the train moves. The more you turn the more DC is fed in and the faster the train goes. There are variations like the Aristocraft Train Engineer where the controller dial is a wireless handset but the principle is the same

However most model railways these days can use digital control (DCC; MTS MZT). This is different from analogue systems and means each power unit on the track must have a "digital decoder" fitted. The power supply is AC and the whole track is constantly live from the moment the power is switched on. The controller in this case is used to select the locomotive you want to move before sending it a signal to do so. Each locomotive must have a unique number. The control units can generally be used to change this number plus many other variables to enhance the way it will run.

Only power feed wires are needed on the track. Isolated sections and sidings are no longer needed. (Beware though that return loops still have to be dealt with). All your locomotives can be placed on the track anywhere. If they have lights, smoke or sound fitted all these will work when the engines are not moving and can be activated from your controller.

Sound systems can be used to their full potential with digital.

Digital is now well established for smaller scales, N, H0/00. 0, 0n30 and G scales and catching up fast.

Most systems conform to the North American NMRA (National Model Railroad Association)which you will find on the NMRA web pages

Systems I can supply are by MASSOTH (any scale), LGB (G scale), PIKO - made by Massoth, ROCO/Fleshmann Z21 (any scale) BACHMANN (any scale), Gaugemaster (mainly 00 but with an option for smaller G scale layouts). I also can supply decoders from all these companies plus several others for G scale

ROCO/Fleischmann Z21

A very flexible DCC system using any (and more than one) smartphone or tablet with a free app as the controller.

The Z21 comes with a router to set up a local network for the control system, a Z21 control box and a 2.6 amp transformer. ROCO boosters or a larger transformer can be added as your railway grows. Your controller is any touch screen device, phone, tablet, touch screen laptop. Thes use a free app which can be downloaded from Google or Apple app stores. There is also a free updating app to keep your Z21 running with the latest software from ROCO. Programming is very simple on a programming track or on the main. All your locos can be set up with pictures taken by your device or from a library. Switch and accessory control is set up as overlays of points etc on a diagram or actual photograph of your railway. Different layouts can be held, shared, transferred and accessed (your friends, a club railway or your 00 or n setup). Another advantage of the Z21 is that the output voltage can be changed in seconds so that you could have 12v for 00 or n gauge. This limited voltage might also be useful if you have children running your trains. There is also an option to use cameras on the engines and an interactive cab view on your device where you operate all the appropriate levers and handles Maybe even drive your trains remotely from inside the house - or potentially anywhere in the world with an internet connection!

We have now attached a Massoth 8amp transformer to a Z21 and the whole G Scale Scotland display layout - as seen at Model Rail Scotland - is now run on tablets and phones using the Z21 control box. Many of those who are attached to more traditional control systems are now expressing a liking for and an interest in the Z21 system

- see the Z21 information website -

Z21 XL now available - 6 amps for larger scales

Massoth are a German company who supply a top of the range digital system. The main components are the central station (which includes the transformer), either 12amps or 8amps maximum, a handset with transmitter or wired and a receiver if you need it. Boosters are available.

Massoth also make decoders with and without sound, return loop modules, accessory decoders and convertion units to allow other makes to work with Massoth ones..

Massoth supply a good range of LGB compatible light sets and consumable spare parts.

In the range there are also rail benders and rolling roads

See The MASSOTH web site for more details

LGB MTS system

LGB make the MTS (Multi Train System) control units. This time you have a Central staion, a transformer to power it (maximum 5/6amps), handset and receivers as with Massoth.

PIKO, based on Massoth sytem giving up to 5 Amps - see the PIKO website for more details

Gaugemaster Logo

Gaugemaster is a smaller stystem suitable for trains up to 0n30 and with an option for smaller G lrailways.

BACHMANN DYNAMIS

This is Bachmanns digital control system. You have an infra red (like your TV remote) handset sending signals to acommand station. This will allow you to control up to 9999 addresses. There are 10 function buttons for sound and lighting features on your locos. Point and accessory control will be available.As it comes you will have 2.5amps and 16 volts, suitable for 0n30 (or h0/00) or maybe a very small G layout. For a larger G setup you can add one or more 5amp boosters giving 18volts.

Bachmann now have a more advanced version of the Dymais - the Ultima - using PC technology - see the Ultima web page

The infra red senders and receivers have quite a wide arc and more receivers can be added using the Pro-box.

Point decoder, Pro box, extra receivers also available

BACHMANN E-Z command

The simplest system is the Bachmann E-Z command. This is a wired only 16volt 2amp unit which will run trains up to 0n30. Good value. However using the booster it can be used for G scale trains.