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Post by BEDT26 on Apr 28, 2025 7:37:48 GMT -8
Greetings gentlemen.
OK I would like if any one could help me with wiring my 4x8 layout. I want to be able to run both DC and DCC on my layout.
I'm not too big on wiring so if you can help me with this matter I'll appreciate it.
Thanks in advance.
PS I have an NCE POWER CAB dcc system.
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Post by edwardsutorik on Apr 28, 2025 16:15:10 GMT -8
You basically wire your layout for DC. Then you piggyback the DCC onto it.
If you wire it to have two cabs, which is pretty common, the simple thing to do when you want to run DCC is to substitute the DCC cab for one of the regular power supplies.
I did exactly that, though I ended up using only one DC cab, and one DCC cab.
It's important to know that you REALLY only want one or the other type connected to the layout at once. There are various ways that that can be done, starting with "trying not to make a mistake" all the way to "having a relay that won't allow it".
Still, I strongly recommend designing your layout wiring for DC first. Then the DCC is sorta somewhat slightly straightforward.
Ed
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Post by edwardsutorik on Apr 30, 2025 5:46:47 GMT -8
Thinkin' on thi some more:
IF you only want to run one engine/train at a time on your layout, something not unexpected with a 4x8, you can "just run two wires to it". Then hook up either your power pack or your DCC command center.
You can start out with clip leads until you think it's a PITA, then go to some sort of toggle switch and permanent wiring.
Note that the limitation to one engine/train is ONLY for DC operation.
Ed
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Post by jonklein611 on Apr 30, 2025 5:52:53 GMT -8
I was thinking the same thing Ed. You can wire up the whole layout with feeders and whatnot, have it feed back to a main bus and then just have a socket connection or switch to flip between DC and DCC.
Additional food for thought, most DCC systems can run a single DC loco by using address 00, so you may not even need the DC power pack.
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