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DCC (Digital Command Control)
Although DCC is only utilised on one of the two club layouts a number of members have their own DCC systems. To date these number 8 Digitrax, 1 Lenz and 1 Roco Locomouse systems. The N gauge layout is wired to allow for DCC and DC (but predominantly DCC), whilst the current HO layout, mostly comprised of members modules, is pressed into service for DCC running onoccasion by substitution of a DCC booster/command station for the DC controllers.
Utilisation of the primarily DC layout for DCC will no doubt increase as more members take an active interest in Command Control. Ensuring a seamless transistion requires thorough observation of some basic precautions, mainly ensuring all section switches are set to 'on' and the DC controllers (homebuilt) are fully disconnected. Otherwise the temporary change is extremely simple and painless.
The DCC running nights are supplemented by fairly regular practical and theory presentations that include simple to complicated decoder installations, as well as the various methods used for programming.
One of the latest developments in DCC is the use of computers to control & program decoders and layouts. Various interfaces have been developed to connect computers to the digital systems & layouts. Digitrax has the MS-100 interface, which is one of the most popular, but has some limitations. Due to this, an enterprising DCC user decided to design his own interface. The result is the LocoBuffer, designed by John Jabour. This offers a more stable and flexible interface between a computer and a digital system compared to other offerings currently available..
 interior of locobuffer box view larger image |
Illustrated is the interface made from a kit of parts and built into a box that happened to be available. (but is too large!) The interface has external connections to the LocoNet, PC (25 way D type serial) and power (7 -15v AC or DC). Onboard LED's have been extended onto the box so that indications of power and data are easily seen. Two LocoBuffers are currently employed by members (Webmaster and Chairman!) to very good effect with possibly more in the pipeline as the benefits of this interface are made known to members at every available opportunity! |
 exterior of locobuffer view larger image |
To be able to use these interfaces, special software is required on the computer. There are many of these available, some free, some not. The disadvantage of these is that most of written specifically for Microsoft Windows, yet many DCC users are using Apple Mac, Linux or OS2 machines.
An excellent freeware software package known as DecoderPro is being used to read and write values to the decoder via the LocoBuffer interface and a DCC command station.
DecoderPro is capable of running on different computer platforms i.e. Windows, Linux, Mac by running within a JAVA software shell allowing the programming software to be transparent to the operating system platform.
Continually being updated, DecoderPro maintains a database of all current decoders giving the user the option of allowing the program to identify the particular decoder being programmed.
Other features allow the user to maintain a roster of locos within the program whilst also allowing the creation of virtual throttles, CTC panels and also basic control of a layout. More features are in
the pipeline making this an extremely versatile and exciting piece of software.However, there are too many features to list here, so have a look at http://jmri.sourceforge.net/ for full details and screenshots. Another excellent site, with details on DecoderPro and LocoBuffer (as well as other DCC info), have a look at the Litchfield Station website.
© Copyright 2000 - 2008 Seaboard Southern Compiled & maintained
by Peter Borcherds
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