A use for older DCC decoders.

by Al Silverstein 16Dec05.

You asked for an opinion and I will be more than happy to give you mine.

I have replaced all of my older N and Z scale decoders with either a DZ123 or DZ143 (depending upon the features needed) hard wired decoder.

There are a couple of features that I found very desirable in the new decoders (i.e. silent operation, switching speed, torque compensation, and transponding).

Now you may ask "What did I do with the old decoders?". That is a good question. Here are a couple of examples of what can be done with old decoders.

I have two turntables. Today each turntable is controlled by a DN140 decoder. The DN140 motor output controls the turntable motor and function outputs control local lighting near the turntable.

I have several buildings with internal lighting. I use several of my old decoders to control those building lights. It saves the need for toggle switches and allows me to turn on/off individual lights as I please.

I have several scenes with automation. One scene includes a walking beam oil pump. I use a decoder to control the motor for the up/down movement of the pump. Using a decoder makes it easier to control the speed of the up/down movement.

I have several passenger cars where the lights are controlled via old DZ121 decoders. Using the DZ121 gives me the features of individual light control for each car and tracking capabilities via Transponding.

I have seen modelers use old decoders for all sorts of layout lighting effects and motor control. You need only use your imagination to create a unique effect.

Al Silverstein

----- Original Message -----

From: "jmbraddock" <jmbraddock@earthlink.net Subject: [Digitrax] Old decoders - are they worth it?

A few years ago, I got a really good deal on a number Digitrax DN121 and DN140 decoders. I'm just now getting around to installing them.

Since then, however, decoder technology has improved with extra functions, lighting effects, back EMF, etc.

Is it worth installing these decoders or should I just write them off and buy new ones? Most of the engines they will go into do not have decoder specific decoders available with the exception of a couple of HO Proto 2000 Sw900/1200 switchers. The layout is basically a flat modular switching layout set in the 1960 (there aren't special lighting effects or ditch lights, etc.).

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Joe