My mom gave that to me for Xmas about 20 years ago. I recently had to replace the battery charger and I need to order another battery, which are now getting hard to find but it still does the job.
Thank you for the incredible wealth of knowledge you share. I have learned so much. Now I gotta break out the tools and get going on first layout. Your sincere evaluations are based on your experience rather than commercial incentives. Thank you
Nice and simple video, thanks. I upgraded to the SB5 a few years ago. I also use the Wifitrax module linked to my system, it creates its own wifi network and allows you to use Engine Driver on android or WiThrottle on a I-pad or phone etc. Very useful if you have sound locos, you can use a rota to list all you locos and functions on a touch screen.
Please let me know what you think of that setup now... I think a wifitrax panel is one ofnthe last upgrades for me to get as far as DCC, that and a few circuit breakers... I have no plans to use JMRI or a computer in the layout, I'll save the PcP for a programming track, or....
Hi Larry and greetings from the UK. I came across your channel the other day and have subscribed. Just want to say thanks for the wealth of information you’re giving. I am about to start building a layout using the NCE POWER CAB after several failed attempts to get started and your clear and helpful advice is very much appreciated. I am now working my way through your videos. Thanks again and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Keith
Dear Larry, great explanatory video! The only thing I would like to comment on, on the diverse connection locations of the NCE SB5, is the fact that they’re all front plugged. Hence, the wires from the throttle port still have to circumvent the fascia in the installation example you’ve shown. I’m aware most people will install the booster on a more central location, where the wiring wouldn’t matter as much. However, in my humble opinion it would make a lot of difference when such a component would also be available in a fascia mounted version, for which the wire sockets are mounted at the back-end of the appliance. Not that it is such a big issue. But maybe something for NCE to think about. Cheerio
It makes the most sense to me to mount the SB5 put of sight, and have it wired to fascia panels for cabs to connect to... the other socket could go to radio base station, a wifitrax board, etc... or to send wiring in 2 directions for fascia panels...
Larry I have had a PB5 Booster for some time sitting uninstalled and finally getting around to install it but can't find a video specifically for the PB5 booster. Everything Im seeing is for the SB5.
Hi Lary. Perhaps in a future video you could cover the connection of the additional UTP panel and a second throttle/cab? I use a PowerCab and am soon going to upgrade to the SB5, so these topics are very helpful indeed. Thank you
It’s just like installing the one I showed in the video. Just daisy them them around the layout.If you go back to video #151 I show how to connect the wires under the layout and mention adding the additional UTPs.
Great video, I am thinking of going from DC to DCC, someone gave me an NCE power cab and on a test track hook up, the track voltage reads 13.8 AC volts, shouldn’t it be DC voltage?
No, DCC is neither AC nor DC it is its own thing but most folks think of it as a AC since the current alternates between the rails. Your reading of 13.8 volts AC is actually pretty close. Track voltage should be about 1/2 V less than the input voltage printed on the power supply. Mine says 13.8V so my track voltage should be 13.3V. Because of the high frequency of DCC power an AC meter reading is only an approximation, a true RMS meter would be required for a correct reading. Tony’s Trains sells a RRAmpmeter designed specifically for DCC readings but unless you are determined to be spot on then just use the meter you have.
Hi Larry. After some help. I am using the Cobalt ADS Solenoid controller with the DCD-SDC 3 wire accessory adapte😂r to control my Kato unit rack points, the instructions with the 3 wire adapter mention adjusting the throw time of the decoder output, do you how this is done please? Thanks
Is the 3 wire adapter a Kato product or DCCconcepts, I can’t find it and the Cobalt DCD-ADS manual doesn’t say anything about this. If you are in the Uk I suggest giving tech support in Settle a ring tomorrow.
I've been having problems with my sb5, it powers up but wont run trains properly. The locomotives will start up with sound and some lights but won't run. I've reset the system a few times but still runs badly. Got any advice?
Larry, another excellent and informative video. I am getting ready to get my first DCC System (small N scale rr) and am hoping you could give me some insight into the ESU System. This NCE system seems nice but after upgrading looks like I may as well go ahead and purchase a “higher” end system be it NCE, ESU or Digitrax.
If you can afford to dive in with a high end system, then jump in and enjoy the bath. However because if the cost I suggest finding someone with the system p(s) you are considering and get an on invite to operate on their layout. While command stations and boosters all do the same thing they may hVe their own idiosyncrasies which may not make any sense to you. Also throttles can be very user friendly/unfriendly to different folks. So it is important to get a feel for how they work since that is what you will be holding much of the time. Finally go to the manufacturer’s websites and download the manuals. This will allow you to decide (1) whether they are too technical for your tastes abilities, (2) offer what you think you need, and (3) decide whether they can actually offer a reliable supply of products. This may be a real concern for example if all their products are made in China or elsewhere and parts/equipment may not be readily avaialble except when a container load arrives. Finally, if it should need repairs where will you have to send it-overseas?
Larry, I'm a bit confused. I presently have a P.owercab system, but I'm building a larger layout. It is U shaped, 8 feet X 4 ft.long at the bottom 0f the U and 32 ft. X 4 ft long on each sides. Because of the distances how many boosters would you recommend? .
It is not based on the distance of the runs but instead is determined by the load. The load is determined by the number of locos and how many amps they draw plus any devices that are powered off the DCC bus. So find out how much each loco pulls on average and add that up and you’ll know whether your PowerCab can handle the load alone or needs an additional booster. Look at my video on Power Management. If you need more power you have a couple of options: (1) buy a SB5 smart booster or (2) consider the new Aegis system from DCCconcepts. You can see my review on the MR website posted a couoke of days go at www.trains.com/mrr/news-reviews/reviews/staff-reviews/mr-exclusive-dccconcepts-aegis-upgrade-for-nce-powercab/ . Iron Planet Hobbies will be the US vendor and of course you can order direct from DCCconcepts. Given your length of run on each side I would put the command station/ booster in the middle of the 8’ section withn the bus running out in each direction. That will keep your total length down to about 36’ on each side which is a bit over the recommended 30’ so you may need to add snubbers on each end of the bus.
Larry, I have an L-shaped N scale layout that is 11 x 12 feet x 25" avg depth but it has 236 feet of track on it. The bus wire is less than 20' with 55 Kato unijoiner feeders (cut off less than the 35" lengths)! I am using a NCE power cab and run up to 7 and 8 locos at one time and i do not notice any issues. Should i be using a smart booster woth 236 feet of Kato Unitrack though?? Thanks
@TheDCCGuy all I noticed yesterday was having to give more throttle input when I actually had 11 locos running at the same time! But nothing g acted up and the NCE power cab was o ly showing 1.1 amps
@TheDCCGuy my bus wire is 16 gauge and only 18' long. All the Kato feeders are 24 gauge but I cut almost all of them at least in half so they are 12 to 18" long.
Hi Larry.. at the moment I’m building a layout ( N gauge) with a total bus length of 45 feet. If ( and when) I add the NCE booster to my Power Cab, will 32/0.2mm cable ( rated 6amp) be suitable for this length? Or should I use a larger cable size. At no time will the layout run ( when the booster is incorporated) a maximum 6-8 locos at once . Probably be 3 sets of 2 used in a consist and 2 solo locos when I incorporate the booster... It’s just making sure that an adequate cable is in place... Any advice ( if you can) appreciated...as always. Thanks Larry....... Regards Colin
That wire is approximately 17 awg so would be OK for N scale. However I recommend you keep your runs to under 30’ and if possible go to a slightly heavier wire unless you have already bought it. Often a simple rearrangement of your wiring scheme or using a star pattern can result in shorter individual runs.
Thanks Larry.. that’s interesting and I was thinking the same. The total is around 45 feet..and the control is in the middle so it will be a star extended evenly 3 or 4 directions. So the runs would be 12 to 15 feet each.. Thank you for your reply .. that’s very helpful.
Hi Larry.. apologies. Following on from my earlier message to you... What would you recommend on next size up from 32/0.2mm? As I’m still designing the layout this may be a good time to purchase a slightly heavier cable as you suggested . Is there such a thing as ‘ overkill’ and would this be detrimental if say I used a 1.5 or 2.5mm flex. Just thinking ahead with possible expansion in mind and the booster. Again thanks for any advice.... Colin
I usually recommend 16awg for N scale so since yours is 17awg it should do fine. I have even seen 18awg used. I was more concerned about your runs being over 30’.
Hi Larry.. I use (at the moment) the NCE Power Cab ( 12 months old) as my sole controller . I find it easy to use.. but have noticed when setting up a Consist , the rear loco always comes up as the lead after programming both into the unit. This doesn’t really matter as the locos are twinned front and rear of the train but wondered if this is something that is easy to fix. ?? Your channel is like a reference library .. absolutely brilliant. I’ve learnt a lot from your videos since coming back into the hobby. Thank you.. regards Colin
Hi Larry... you asked me to remind you about the NCE Power Cab consist glitch that I have on the controller. To recap I always get the trailing ( 2nd) loco come up as the lead on the display. If you can advise great.. but no problem if you can’t ... always appreciative of your feedback and replies....Colin
I tried it and the correct loco came up as the lead. So I can’t understand what is happening with your system. If using ad an ed consists try reversing the locos as explained on or about page 30 in the manual.
Thanks Larry, yes I’ll try that. It is weird as I’ve got three consists at the moment and it’s been the same every time that I’ve programmed them.., as I said it’s no big deal at the moment as my layout ( still in the build stage) is a modern Terminus with a reverse so trains come and go into the terminus so the trailing loco is at times the ‘ lead ‘.. That said there are others to be done so I’ll delve a little deeper into the manual. I’ll let you know.. Thank you again for your time . Colin
How many Cab Bus Fascia Panels jacks can you daisy chain? Without WiFi throttles and a large room, can you daisy chain multiple cab fascia panels jacks?
I don’t know whether there actually is a limit but I do know that if you use more than a handful you do need to provide additional power for the throttles, using the jack on the back of the panel.
Yours apparently is the old UTP designed for use with the 6 conductor flat cables. The current version is the UTP-CAT5 which uses the Category 5 cables for the cab network bus.
I own a Power cab and just bought the SB5 booster. Is there any problem if I keep the RJ-12 6 pins cables installed on my layout or I must change for the RJ-11 4 pins cables? Thanks!
I’m lost with what direction to go. I like the power cab but then that’s switching to DCC? I have a few DCC and few more dc atlas and athearn. Also i got a Marklin 1982 display board with a few engines but that’s an entirely new works for me
It is a major commitment to convert to DCC but offers many advantages over DC once you want to run more than one train at a time. Check out the Blunami videos I did recently, they offer the ability to get the power and features of DCC while using DC power.
@@TheDCCGuy hey i have a quick question unrelated to this if you or anyone can answer. I bought a Walthers HO UPS engine that’s missing the motor and front trucks for five dollars. I tried ordering trucks on eBay but the wrong size showed up and i can’t find a product page on this engine. Where do i find parts to fit? Sorry for how vague this is lol currently hunting parts and remembered you
Is there any type of unwritten rule that # AWG bus wires can accommodate a certain footage of HO track? Is there ever a scenario where 12 AWG would be the right choice? Thanks!
The only products I know of are made by RRCirKits so it really has not even gotten much of a start. Generally modelers are waiting to see what it can do and what kinds of products will be made, while manufacturers are waiting for modelers to ask for products. Since demand typically drives production there really is no driving force for LCC as long as modelers are happy with what they already have. So I tend to agree it is a solution in search of a problem.
That is a balancing game in itself. Basically though you count how many locos you will be operating at the same time and then assign a amperage value for each based on how much current their motor draws. This is subjective unless you have measured the stall current values although Model Railroader provides measurements for each model in their product reviews. If you don’t know then assume 0.5 amps for new HO locos, and 0.75-1 amp for older models with open frame or non-kew wound motors. For N scale you can cut that in half. Don’t forget any lights in your passenger cars or cabooses, and accessories and switch machines if they are powered off the DCC bus. Add that all up and it will tell you how many amps you need. If you go over 5 amps then you will need a second booster and so on. There are ways to get more out of your boosters and I discussed that in my videos 112 & 113. on boosters and power management.
Good Morning Larry, Have you ever done a video on upgrading the firmware on a Power Cab controller? Is it easy to do or should I send it to NCE? Thanks. Take care. Bill
I am not aware of a way to lock a PowerCab so you may have cooked it. It likely will,need to be sent back to NCE for repair or at least diagnosis. Contact them at their tech support number or address.
Yes, but since you have access to 5 amps in each district and assuming your trains are more or less evenly distributed in both then you in effect have access to a total of 10 amps of power.
@@robertheroux2402 The way I'm looking at it is....... say district 1 can handle four HO locomotives that will require 5 amps. The same with four locomotives in district 2. The eight locomotives all running at the same time require 10 amps, if the power requirement of each is added together. That's what I figure Larry means by " access to a total of 10 amps of power". Each (isolated) district still remains at 5 amps, but twice as many locomotives can be running on the layout, with the addition of the DB5.
@@robertheroux2402 I agree, it would be running at 5 amps. Separate isolated track booster districts for each additional booster. 13.8 volts and 5 amps max. Same DCC data-link covering them all.
Yo lo tuve y se descompone muy rápido, deben tener cuidado no haber corto circuito porque se protegerá y no volverá a funcionar y me quedé sin control para mis máquinas :(
@@TheDCCGuy lo habia comprado usado, alrededor de 30 dolares, la pantalla principal solo marca la version 1.3 CAB 02 , de ahi ya no se actualiza, se quedo congelado.
Hey Larry long time watcher first time commenter but I believe nce has two types of controllers one being a power cab and the other being the pro cab is there anyway I could talk you into doing a quick video on differences between the two as far as functions go
From what I have read about them the PowerCab and ProCab are essentially the same and once upgraded the PowerCab can be used as a ProCab. At least that’s what the manual and online material suggest. All the same functions are supported and programming seems the same. Any differences such as number of consists, locos, etc. are likely due to the differing capabilities of the various command stations.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Even 2 years later ... this video is still extremely helpful... thank you
At 20:00 - haven't seen one of those B&D screwdrivers in 20 years, I had a couple plus a 1/4" ratchet! Great video. Cheers
My mom gave that to me for Xmas about 20 years ago. I recently had to replace the battery charger and I need to order another battery, which are now getting hard to find but it still does the job.
i have one also great for tight lite work
Thanks for the great explanation Larry. I will go back and watch your other NCE videos.
Thank you for the incredible wealth of knowledge you share. I have learned so much. Now I gotta break out the tools and get going on first layout. Your sincere evaluations are based on your experience rather than commercial incentives. Thank you
hello larry it's is randy and i like yours video is cool thanks friends randy
Nice and simple video, thanks. I upgraded to the SB5 a few years ago. I also use the Wifitrax module linked to my system, it creates its own wifi network and allows you to use Engine Driver on android or WiThrottle on a I-pad or phone etc. Very useful if you have sound locos, you can use a rota to list all you locos and functions on a touch screen.
Please let me know what you think of that setup now... I think a wifitrax panel is one ofnthe last upgrades for me to get as far as DCC, that and a few circuit breakers...
I have no plans to use JMRI or a computer in the layout, I'll save the PcP for a programming track, or....
Hi Larry and greetings from the UK.
I came across your channel the other day and have subscribed.
Just want to say thanks for the wealth of information you’re giving. I am about to start building a layout using the NCE POWER CAB after several failed attempts to get started and your clear and helpful advice is very much appreciated.
I am now working my way through your videos.
Thanks again and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.
Keith
Welcome to the channel. If you run into any questions feel free to add a comment as I try to address all I get-Larry
@@TheDCCGuy Thanks Larry. Very much appreciated. Keith
Dear Larry, great explanatory video! The only thing I would like to comment on, on the diverse connection locations of the NCE SB5, is the fact that they’re all front plugged. Hence, the wires from the throttle port still have to circumvent the fascia in the installation example you’ve shown. I’m aware most people will install the booster on a more central location, where the wiring wouldn’t matter as much. However, in my humble opinion it would make a lot of difference when such a component would also be available in a fascia mounted version, for which the wire sockets are mounted at the back-end of the appliance. Not that it is such a big issue. But maybe something for NCE to think about. Cheerio
It makes the most sense to me to mount the SB5 put of sight, and have it wired to fascia panels for cabs to connect to... the other socket could go to radio base station, a wifitrax board, etc... or to send wiring in 2 directions for fascia panels...
Great video Larry
Thanks Larry, although I‘m a Digitrax, user another great crafted Video. Thanks keep safe.
NCE makes a great system.
Very helpful video - been considering an upgrade of power - this makes it seem far less daunting
Larry I have had a PB5 Booster for some time sitting uninstalled and finally getting around to install it but can't find a video specifically for the PB5 booster. Everything Im seeing is for the SB5.
You can download an instruction sheet from the NCE website. It is pretty straightforward to then install as long as you follow their instructions.
Hi Lary. Perhaps in a future video you could cover the connection of the additional UTP panel and a second throttle/cab? I use a PowerCab and am soon going to upgrade to the SB5, so these topics are very helpful indeed. Thank you
It’s just like installing the one I showed in the video. Just daisy them them around the layout.If you go back to video #151 I show how to connect the wires under the layout and mention adding the additional UTPs.
@@TheDCCGuy Thanks. #151 did help.
Great video, I am thinking of going from DC to DCC, someone gave me an NCE power cab and on a test track hook up, the track voltage reads 13.8 AC volts, shouldn’t it be DC voltage?
No, DCC is neither AC nor DC it is its own thing but most folks think of it as a AC since the current alternates between the rails. Your reading of 13.8 volts AC is actually pretty close. Track voltage should be about 1/2 V less than the input voltage printed on the power supply. Mine says 13.8V so my track voltage should be 13.3V. Because of the high frequency of DCC power an AC meter reading is only an approximation, a true RMS meter would be required for a correct reading. Tony’s Trains sells a RRAmpmeter designed specifically for DCC readings but unless you are determined to be spot on then just use the meter you have.
@ thank you
Hi Larry.
After some help. I am using the Cobalt ADS Solenoid controller with the DCD-SDC 3 wire accessory adapte😂r to control my Kato unit rack points, the instructions with the 3 wire adapter mention adjusting the throw time of the decoder output, do you how this is done please?
Thanks
Is the 3 wire adapter a Kato product or DCCconcepts, I can’t find it and the Cobalt DCD-ADS manual doesn’t say anything about this. If you are in the Uk I suggest giving tech support in Settle a ring tomorrow.
I've been having problems with my sb5, it powers up but wont run trains properly. The locomotives will start up with sound and some lights but won't run. I've reset the system a few times but still runs badly. Got any advice?
Arduino and motor shield on 5amp supply 60 bux all in . JMRI or webthrottle with DCC ++ EX
Larry, another excellent and informative video. I am getting ready to get my first DCC System (small N scale rr) and am hoping you could give me some insight into the ESU System. This NCE system seems nice but after upgrading looks like I may as well go ahead and purchase a “higher” end system be it NCE, ESU or Digitrax.
If you can afford to dive in with a high end system, then jump in and enjoy the bath. However because if the cost I suggest finding someone with the system p(s) you are considering and get an on invite to operate on their layout. While command stations and boosters all do the same thing they may hVe their own idiosyncrasies which may not make any sense to you. Also throttles can be very user friendly/unfriendly to different folks. So it is important to get a feel for how they work since that is what you will be holding much of the time. Finally go to the manufacturer’s websites and download the manuals. This will allow you to decide (1) whether they are too technical for your tastes abilities, (2) offer what you think you need, and (3) decide whether they can actually offer a reliable supply of products. This may be a real concern for example if all their products are made in China or elsewhere and parts/equipment may not be readily avaialble except when a container load arrives. Finally, if it should need repairs where will you have to send it-overseas?
Larry, I'm a bit confused. I presently have a P.owercab system, but I'm building a larger layout. It is U shaped, 8 feet X 4 ft.long at the bottom 0f the U and 32 ft. X 4 ft long on each sides. Because of the distances how many boosters would you recommend? .
It is not based on the distance of the runs but instead is determined by the load. The load is determined by the number of locos and how many amps they draw plus any devices that are powered off the DCC bus. So find out how much each loco pulls on average and add that up and you’ll know whether your PowerCab can handle the load alone or needs an additional booster. Look at my video on Power Management. If you need more power you have a couple of options: (1) buy a SB5 smart booster or (2) consider the new Aegis system from DCCconcepts. You can see my review on the MR website posted a couoke of days go at www.trains.com/mrr/news-reviews/reviews/staff-reviews/mr-exclusive-dccconcepts-aegis-upgrade-for-nce-powercab/ . Iron Planet Hobbies will be the US vendor and of course you can order direct from DCCconcepts.
Given your length of run on each side I would put the command station/ booster in the middle of the 8’ section withn the bus running out in each direction. That will keep your total length down to about 36’ on each side which is a bit over the recommended 30’ so you may need to add snubbers on each end of the bus.
Informative video 👍👍👍👍
Larry, I have an L-shaped N scale layout that is 11 x 12 feet x 25" avg depth but it has 236 feet of track on it. The bus wire is less than 20' with 55 Kato unijoiner feeders (cut off less than the 35" lengths)! I am using a NCE power cab and run up to 7 and 8 locos at one time and i do not notice any issues.
Should i be using a smart booster woth 236 feet of Kato Unitrack though?? Thanks
If what you have does the job without problems then stick with it until something does go awry.
@TheDCCGuy all I noticed yesterday was having to give more throttle input when I actually had 11 locos running at the same time! But nothing g acted up and the NCE power cab was o ly showing 1.1 amps
What size is the wire? Smaller wire means more resistance and lower voltages at the track.
@TheDCCGuy my bus wire is 16 gauge and only 18' long. All the Kato feeders are 24 gauge but I cut almost all of them at least in half so they are 12 to 18" long.
Hi Larry.. at the moment I’m building a layout ( N gauge) with a total bus length of 45 feet. If ( and when) I add the NCE booster to my Power Cab, will 32/0.2mm cable ( rated 6amp) be suitable for this length? Or should I use a larger cable size. At no time will the layout run ( when the booster is incorporated) a maximum 6-8 locos at once . Probably be 3 sets of 2 used in a consist and 2 solo locos when I incorporate the booster... It’s just making sure that an adequate cable is in place... Any advice ( if you can) appreciated...as always. Thanks Larry....... Regards Colin
That wire is approximately 17 awg so would be OK for N scale. However I recommend you keep your runs to under 30’ and if possible go to a slightly heavier wire unless you have already bought it. Often a simple rearrangement of your wiring scheme or using a star pattern can result in shorter individual runs.
Thanks Larry.. that’s interesting and I was thinking the same. The total is around 45 feet..and the control is in the middle so it will be a star extended evenly 3 or 4 directions. So the runs would be 12 to 15 feet each.. Thank you for your reply .. that’s very helpful.
Hi Larry.. apologies. Following on from my earlier message to you... What would you recommend on next size up from 32/0.2mm? As I’m still designing the layout this may be a good time to purchase a slightly heavier cable as you suggested . Is there such a thing as ‘ overkill’ and would this be detrimental if say I used a 1.5 or 2.5mm flex. Just thinking ahead with possible expansion in mind and the booster. Again thanks for any advice.... Colin
I usually recommend 16awg for N scale so since yours is 17awg it should do fine. I have even seen 18awg used. I was more concerned about your runs being over 30’.
Thanks Larry...
Hi Larry.. I use (at the moment) the NCE Power Cab ( 12 months old) as my sole controller .
I find it easy to use.. but have noticed when setting up a Consist , the rear loco always comes up as the lead after programming both into the unit. This doesn’t really matter as the locos are twinned front and rear of the train but wondered if this is something that is easy to fix. ??
Your channel is like a reference library .. absolutely brilliant. I’ve learnt a lot from your videos since coming back into the hobby. Thank you.. regards Colin
Let me check that tomorrow and get back to you. If I forget please remind me in a few days-Larry
Will do.. thanks Larry..
Hi Larry... you asked me to remind you about the NCE Power Cab consist glitch that I have on the controller. To recap I always get the trailing ( 2nd) loco come up as the lead on the display. If you can advise great.. but no problem if you can’t ... always appreciative of your feedback and replies....Colin
I tried it and the correct loco came up as the lead. So I can’t understand what is happening with your system. If using ad an ed consists try reversing the locos as explained on or about page 30 in the manual.
Thanks Larry, yes I’ll try that. It is weird as I’ve got three consists at the moment and it’s been the same every time that I’ve programmed them.., as I said it’s no big deal at the moment as my layout ( still in the build stage) is a modern Terminus with a reverse so trains come and go into the terminus so the trailing loco is at times the ‘ lead ‘.. That said there are others to be done so I’ll delve a little deeper into the manual. I’ll let you know.. Thank you again for your time . Colin
How many Cab Bus Fascia Panels jacks can you daisy chain? Without WiFi throttles and a large room, can you daisy chain multiple cab fascia panels jacks?
I don’t know whether there actually is a limit but I do know that if you use more than a handful you do need to provide additional power for the throttles, using the jack on the back of the panel.
@@TheDCCGuy thank you, I’ll try that
Hi Larry is the UTP panel you have shown a new release as the ones I have only have 4 RJ12 connectors and was the LED already wired up cheers
Yours apparently is the old UTP designed for use with the 6 conductor flat cables. The current version is the UTP-CAT5 which uses the Category 5 cables for the cab network bus.
I own a Power cab and just bought the SB5 booster. Is there any problem if I keep the RJ-12 6 pins cables installed on my layout or I must change for the RJ-11 4 pins cables? Thanks!
I’m lost with what direction to go. I like the power cab but then that’s switching to DCC? I have a few DCC and few more dc atlas and athearn. Also i got a Marklin 1982 display board with a few engines but that’s an entirely new works for me
It is a major commitment to convert to DCC but offers many advantages over DC once you want to run more than one train at a time. Check out the Blunami videos I did recently, they offer the ability to get the power and features of DCC while using DC power.
@@TheDCCGuy hey i have a quick question unrelated to this if you or anyone can answer. I bought a Walthers HO UPS engine that’s missing the motor and front trucks for five dollars. I tried ordering trucks on eBay but the wrong size showed up and i can’t find a product page on this engine. Where do i find parts to fit? Sorry for how vague this is lol currently hunting parts and remembered you
I’d call Walthers customer support. They may have parts but even if they don’t they should be able to tell you the correct part you need.
What AWG gauge do you recommend for the bus wires using the NCE SB5 Smart Booster? Thanks!
I use 14 ga for all my bus runs. See my videos on wiring for more specifics.
Is there any type of unwritten rule that # AWG bus wires can accommodate a certain footage of HO track? Is there ever a scenario where 12 AWG would be the right choice? Thanks!
It is best to keep your runs under 30’ as I explain in my wiring videos. Long runs, higher amperages, require bigger wire.
Do you have a video on your thoughts on LCC? Because you have been using DCC for a long time, I would be interested in your perspective. Thanks
The only products I know of are made by RRCirKits so it really has not even gotten much of a start. Generally modelers are waiting to see what it can do and what kinds of products will be made, while manufacturers are waiting for modelers to ask for products. Since demand typically drives production there really is no driving force for LCC as long as modelers are happy with what they already have. So I tend to agree it is a solution in search of a problem.
@@TheDCCGuy Exactly this, "solution in search of a problem"
How do I know what size booster I need for my layout? Is there a general rule of thumb for size and what amp output I need?
That is a balancing game in itself. Basically though you count how many locos you will be operating at the same time and then assign a amperage value for each based on how much current their motor draws. This is subjective unless you have measured the stall current values although Model Railroader provides measurements for each model in their product reviews. If you don’t know then assume 0.5 amps for new HO locos, and 0.75-1 amp for older models with open frame or non-kew wound motors. For N scale you can cut that in half. Don’t forget any lights in your passenger cars or cabooses, and accessories and switch machines if they are powered off the DCC bus. Add that all up and it will tell you how many amps you need. If you go over 5 amps then you will need a second booster and so on. There are ways to get more out of your boosters and I discussed that in my videos 112 & 113. on boosters and power management.
Good Morning Larry, Have you ever done a video on upgrading the firmware on a Power Cab controller? Is it easy to do or should I send it to NCE? Thanks. Take care. Bill
I have never done that so cannot comment. However if you call Ed Wilson at NCE tech support I am sure he can give you an answer.
Ayuda, mi powercab esta bloqueada, como se puede desbloquear? Tal vez fue oor un corto en la via y se bloqueo
I am not aware of a way to lock a PowerCab so you may have cooked it. It likely will,need to be sent back to NCE for repair or at least diagnosis. Contact them at their tech support number or address.
Larry, if you add a dumb booster, you will still have 5 amps of power to the layout, not 10 amps. You would have two power districts with 5 amps each.
Yes, but since you have access to 5 amps in each district and assuming your trains are more or less evenly distributed in both then you in effect have access to a total of 10 amps of power.
Larry, not really. In electronics, amperage does not work that way.
@@robertheroux2402 The way I'm looking at it is....... say district 1 can handle four HO locomotives that will require 5 amps. The same with four locomotives in district 2. The eight locomotives all running at the same time require 10 amps, if the power requirement of each is added together. That's what I figure Larry means by " access to a total of 10 amps of power". Each (isolated) district still remains at 5 amps, but twice as many locomotives can be running on the layout, with the addition of the DB5.
@@larryadamson6686 I can see that. But still the entire system is running 5 Amps.
@@robertheroux2402 I agree, it would be running at 5 amps. Separate isolated track booster districts for each additional booster. 13.8 volts and 5 amps max. Same DCC data-link covering them all.
Yo lo tuve y se descompone muy rápido, deben tener cuidado no haber corto circuito porque se protegerá y no volverá a funcionar y me quedé sin control para mis máquinas :(
Mine has been working fine since I made this video so you mist have had a defective unit. Did you send it back for warranty repair?
@@TheDCCGuy lo habia comprado usado, alrededor de 30 dolares, la pantalla principal solo marca la version 1.3 CAB 02 , de ahi ya no se actualiza, se quedo congelado.
Hey Larry long time watcher first time commenter but I believe nce has two types of controllers one being a power cab and the other being the pro cab is there anyway I could talk you into doing a quick video on differences between the two as far as functions go
From what I have read about them the PowerCab and ProCab are essentially the same and once upgraded the PowerCab can be used as a ProCab. At least that’s what the manual and online material suggest. All the same functions are supported and programming seems the same. Any differences such as number of consists, locos, etc. are likely due to the differing capabilities of the various command stations.
Smart booster is a pro system basically but nce pricing these days is crazy.
it is under the tree
First
Are you farmer Dave from Hollis