DC/DCC Atlas track question

This is the perfect time to consider using battery wireless control. You can double purpose your loop. Any battery converted loco is completely independent and can run or chase after any of your track powered train. Imagine all the same controls and sound without any programming or complex wiring. Run times can be from 2-6 hours between charges.   If you would like to learn more , please contact me at my web site. 

Don Sweet

www.rcsofne.com

atlas 0 is independent of the outer loop, however switches may be a problem, i have run mth 2/3 rail on loops with no switches dcc and dcs    both using two and three rail modes

Atlas basic 3-rail track sections (and flex) are fully isolated -- i.e., the running rails are insulated from each other as well as insulated from the center rail. So you can use them for either 2-rail or 3-rail operation (as I've done on my work bench). By the way, MTH ScaleTrax is also insulated this way.

The exceptions are Atlas 3-rail turnouts and the Atlas Terminal Straight where there is some "through wiring" and some connections between the running rails. The ScaleTrax turnouts I have are fully insulated.

My recollection on the LokSound DCC decoder is that it will operate in conventional DC.

Thanks gentleman. My initial look into it made me think it would work. I appreciate the real experience and feedback.

It will be a simple Atlas O-90 independent loop.

 Thanks for the heads up on the terminal sections. I will wire separate independent power points for each 2R and 3R mode. Or perhaps an "interchangeable" power section I can remove and switch out depending on mode.

Matt, do you happen to have a picture of how you're powering your test track to change between the two? I would be interested to see it if you think it would be helpful.....

What you are suggesting will work as long as the rails are insulated as Matt said. However, I just checked the ESU Loksound website. I specifically looked the Loksound Select, which is designed for O scale, and yes it will work in conventional DC but you will only get engine sounds. You will not be able to blow the horn or bell or any of the function buttons. ESU recommends using their decoders under DCC. 

Unfortunately, larger DCC systems are kind of expensive but you might be able to use your  ZW-L to power it. If you are only going to run one locomotive you can probably get away with a cheaper HO DCC System. 

Hello WITZ 41, I don't have a layout up but I do have a loop of Atlas 3 rail track.  It's about 12' x 20' and NO switches.  I have a mix of 2 rail and 3 rail engines and cars.  I use an MTH Z-4000 to control both the Ac and DC.  I use the left side in the original AC mode to control the 3 rail trains.  I use the right side to control the DC trains.  I connected a bridge rectifier to change the AC output to DC and  added a toggle switch to control the direction.  It works great.

Rick

great glad it works well