Q: I have a Lionel no. 1033, 90-watt transformer that works fine. However, after abut 10 minutes of operation, any locomotive begins to slow considerably, eventually stopping altogether. The engine is okay, and I’ve used other transformers with it. Any idea what’s wrong? – S.B. A: The symptions you described lead me to believe your […]
Modeling Topic: DCC & Wiring
MRC Prodigy Wireless DCC throttle
MRC Prodigy Wireless DCC throttle A powerful full-duplex wireless throttle is now available for users of Model Rectifier Corp.’s Prodigy Digital Command Control (DCC) system. Part of MRC’s Total Control Radio System (TCRS), this wireless version of the firm’s 28-function Prodigy Advance Squared throttle works with other Prodigy components. The wireless throttle can do anything […]
One-touch Critter control system
Alan Olson Vital statistics One-Touch Critter ControlG-Scale Graphics4118 Clayton Ct.Fort Collins CO 80525Prices: Critter Control, rotary style with built-in button, $69; reed switch, $5; power switch, $5; charging jack, $5Web site: www.GScaleGraphics.net Electronic unit to manually control speed and direction of battery-powered engine; 11-page instruction manual covers basics of track-power-to-battery-power conversion, installation, and operation; basic […]
Getting power to your toy trains
Q: I live in a large space and have an 80-foot loop of Lionel O-27 track running through it. I’m having trouble getting enough power to the train. I need information on wiring methods and wire types and suggestions on how large a transformer I am going to need to get it working properly. – […]
PIKO Spielwaren Ltd wireless DCC system
PIKO Spielwaren Ltd. wireless DCC system PIKO of Germany has introduced an entry-level Digital Command Control (DCC) system that features infrared wireless operation. The Digi 1 system comes with a wireless remote, receiver base station, and two decoders. It’s intended for a model railroader who wants to operate two or three locomotives at a time. […]
How do I find a source for thin metal strip for layout wiring?
Q: I am building a layout and want to do what I’ve seen in postwar dealer displays. Specifically, I’ve seen under the layout board a thin metal strip running the entire length of the layout. To this you would solder the ground contact for every accessory, thus greatly reducing the amount of wiring required. I […]
Model Rectifier Corp. Prodigy Advance Wireless DCC system
Prodigy Advance Digital Command Control Model Rectifier Corp. is adding a wireless throttle to its line of Prodigy Advance Digital Command Control (DCC) products. Model Railroader recently had a chance to operate a pre-production sample of one of the new wireless throttles on both a Prodigy Advance and Prodigy Advance Squared DCC system. The Prodigy […]
DCC Specialties PSX circuit breaker
DCC Specialties PSX circuit breaker Though you’d probably not think of using the word “cool” to describe a circuit breaker, the term definitely applies to the new PSX series of Power Shield Digital Command Control circuit breakers from DCC Specialties. The PSX models have a wealth of new programmable features, such as occupancy detection and […]
System Five-O HO scale DCC uncouplers
System Five-O HO DCC uncouplers AN MR quick look Price: $49.95 for single uncoupler, $69.95 for double uncoupler Manufacturer: System Five-O18165 Manorwood WestClinton Township,MI 48038www.dccuncoupling.com Description: HO scale boxcars equipped with one or two DCC-operated automatic uncoupling mechanisms Comments: Ever wished you could drop any car any place on your layout with the push of […]
Electronics Solutions Ulm’s ECoS digital control system
Electronics Solutions Ulm’s ECoS digital control system With two built-in throttles, a long list of features, an LCD touch screen, and ample possibilities for expansion, Electronic Solutions Ulm’s new ECoS digital control system is the most complete digital single-unit controller we’ve tested. Not only is it capable of sending commands in multiple formats (Digital Command […]
Adding TMCC to a ZW layout
Q: I’ve got an 8- by 12-foot layout that is fairly complete, and I use an old Lionel ZW for track power and a few small transformers on a separate circuit for lights and accessories. Is there an easy way to add Lionel’s TrainMaster Command Control to run new engines in command-control mode? I don’t […]
QSI upgrade chip for Quantum decoders
As model railroading moves deeper into the digital era, manufacturers are offering more opportunities for hobbyists to improve their equipment via software and/or hardware updates. One of the newest update packages is from QSI, manufacturer of the Quantum DC/Digital Command Control (DCC) sound systems found in many new locomotives from Atlas, Broadway Limited, Life-Like, and […]
