Bachman EZ Command - Share your thoughts, please

First, if you haven't already heard, don't go to the Bachmann site right now unless you have some good anti-virus software.

With that out of the way, I am investigating the expense of making the switch to DCC. I like the simplicity that the Bachmann EZ Command system seems to offer. I had a Bachmann analog power pack/controller in the past (until my daughter knocked it off of the layout and it landed on concrete). I'm not going to buy anything anytime soon but I would like to get some other opinions about EZ command...pros and cons? I can tell you that cost is probably my most important factor. Also, I would like some pros and cons about other systems like NCE power cab and Digitraz Zepher. I plan on watching some youtube videos about each system soon. Please share your thoughts and thank you in advance. It may help you to know that I would like to be able to run 3-6 locos at a time on 3 tracks. Some of my sentimental locos from my childhood are not really suited for DCC. EZ Command includes an analog option but warns about prolonged use of DC locomotives. - Brandon

 

I really do not know about other systems. I would say to go the extra dollar on the system. I have the small NCE power cab, but my layout is small. I have not had any issues with running 5 engines with DCC. I would say NCE is Great.
William Jackson

 

Would highly recomend going with another system besides the Bachmann EZ Command. it is limited to setting engine # and direction. If you want to change any other CV's you'll have to take the engine to another system.

Both Digitrax and NCE make good systems, that also allow for expansion and the ability to use JMRI to help with setting up decoders. JMRI is not required to change CV's with these systems, but it is real handy!

JMRI is a free program that makes changing decoder settings fairly simple, plus keeping a record of the settings if you need to reset the decoder. Both systems will require additional componets to interface with your computer and running the JMRI program.

For the price, either NCE and Digitrax would be a better value in the long run due to ability to expand your system if needed.

 

Thanks everyone. Not what I was hoping to hear due to price but I got the info I needed which was also what I had anticipated. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Can someone describe the steps (proceedure) involved in installing a NCE power cab system on a pre-existing DC layout? - no "power districts" involved.

I was about to buy some plastic rail joiners and create some power districts but that was before I realized I could go to DCC for a lot less than I thought. I hate the idea of not being able to run some of my older, sentimental, DC, truck mounted motor type diesels, and some of my analog steam engines on a DCC system. I have 2 tracks and soon, a long thru siding of the 2nd track will be a complete and independent, 3rd DC track outside the 2nd one. If need be, I could leave the smallest track (a simple oval with no turnouts) as a DC track for running my analog units without risking burning up their motors.

 

For now I only have wires soldered in one place from the power pack (that senario on each track) but I plan to improve with the "bus" system to eliminate some "hesitation" spots. It's good to know I could go back and forth from DC to DCC fairly easily. Seems like I could possibly have a DCC system and a DC system going into a toggle switch to switch back and forth between systems. Thanks for the earlier reply.

 

I know I'm a little late with this, but I'll throw in my 2c.

I'll echo Richard, Don't get EZ command. It lacks the ability to program and decoders do mess up sometimes and need a reset.
NCE and digitrax are both great, but my opinion: go with NCE. It's walk around from the start and it's easier to understand (has a better screen) when programing. I have a couple videos on programing using the power cab and I know there's some videos out there on the zephyr as well.

Ethan

 

Thanks for asking these questions, and thanks to those answering... these bite size lessons are excellent. I am relieved to know that I can use both my factory DCC prepped locos as well as my older DC equipped ones without too much difficulty.

 

Perhaps Keith or someone could elaborate on this, but if Craig wants to switch back and forth, shouldn't the DPDT be center off? Don't want to get even momentary connections between them?

 

Keith is more of an expert on this than I am, but a DPDT should be on-off-on configuration.

I have no idea what would happen if you crossed power from a DCC system with a DC power pack.

Ethan

 

Actually a dc loco on a dcc track will just set there and buzz with the lights on, not take off.

What i was talking about is what if you had power from both sources connected to the same circuit?

 

Sorry, in my case I plan on switching over to dcc. I appreciated the instructions for wiring up older, non-dcc prepped units.

 

[I have no idea what would happen if you crossed power from a DCC system with a DC power pack.

Ethan[/QUOTE]

With a Digitrax system it will go into its short circuit routine. I used light switches to connect DC and DCC to a previous layout. Nice and big, easy to see. It has taken a long time but everything I have has been converted or neutered.

STAY AWAY from the EZ-Command. Any other system is the way to go

Howard at MP 195

 

NCE or Digitrax Zephyer. Do not have the DC Powerpack hooked to your layout when you have a DCC system attached to it. Not even with a center off toggle. You will be sorry at some point. Once you go DCC you will never regret that decision.
Bob Wintle MMR419

 

If you are going to convert to DCC (and you will be glad you did), I do not recommend moosing around with a Bachmann or other off-the-market system. Please choose Digitrax, NCE or other quality system, as they are readily expandable and will serve you better in the future.

GS