Powerpacks

A couple of questions.....

1. Size of layout to start?
2. Ultimately how big will the layout be?
3. Running how many trains at once?
4. Running command control or conventional?

Since you will eventually expand your layout, a 10 amp system.

For DC:

•MRC Control Master  20. Has a removable throttle that can be connected to the unit or a throttle bus that's connected to the unit.

•Crest 10 amp. Can add a wireless remote system.

•there are others I cannot name. perhaps other will.

If you  decide on DCC:

NCE Power Pro 10. Bus power from a Lionel 10 amp brick or similar.

Before I went to DCC, I used GML throttles.   They make one specifically for O scale.  It is rated 6 amps, and it will hold 12 volts as the amperage increases all the way to 6 amps.   Most throttles degrade the voltage as the amperage increases.

I had 4 of these on my layout, for 4 cab control.   Realistically one throttle or cab usually only runs one loco at a time.   

The GMLs have tethered handheld throttles with memory so if you unplug them, the throttle setting stays (the train keeps running), until you plug it in and change it.   They also have emergency stop buttons on the throttle main panel.   They come with a 5 year warranty too.

http://www.thegmlenterprises.co,

Agree with Jim.

GLM is a great power source.

Actually I am running 4 amps GLM in my 4'x 13' small layout without any problem.

My pittman motors in a curve dragging 13 brass car reach in the most 1.1 Amp.

Another point is because is modulating pulse some powers source make the motor hum at low voltages, GLM doesn't motors are quite quiet and cold.

Andre.

Adding to this thread regarding power pack selection for DCC, I've run my single loco with a 4amp GML and I loved it and it worked fine with 1-1.2 A current draw.  I'm in th amidst of planning to build the 2R layout and using NCE DCC.

I've looked at the schematics for wiring a layout for both conventional DC and DCC.  Mine would not be that difficult to do, but wonder how many folks actually have done it and is it worth having both conventional and DCC?

Secondly, the NCE website has me confused.  At most, I'll run two engines simultaneously - all will be remotor'ed with low draw motors, little to no psgr equipment so no lights to worry about.  Benchwork is 24 x 28 around the room - so, would I be better off with a 10A NCE system, or create two power districts (I think that's what they are called in 2R DCC) and use two 5A systems?

Thanks...gregg

Gregg,

your layout should have a power bus running it's entire length, with track feeds every 40" or so. If you have two 'blocks' or districts, then you'd have 2 NCE (signal) boosters, not two 5 amp systems.