What is DCC?

Digital Command Control (DCC) is an exciting new field in model railroading that uses digital computer technology to operate model railroad trains.
What It Does

DCC puts digital control information into the electrical power. I'll call this the DCC signal, although its both power and control information. The DCC signal is put on the model railroad's tracks. Then DCC "mobile decoders" in locomotives on the tracks use the DCC signal to power and control their locomotive's speed, direction, and lights. "Stationary decoders" may also be connected to operate the track's turnouts and other accessories.

 

How It Works?

​

The user operates a throttle or "cab" equipped with a numeric keypad and other control buttons. Information from the throttle is sent to a DCC "command station" which converts it into DCC control information. This DCC control information is then fed to a "booster" which uses it to create the DCC signal and feed it to the tracks.

​

Why It's Modular?

 

The throttle, command station, and booster may be individual electronic components or bundled in multi-function units. DCC's modular design makes it extremely flexible. Large layouts with lots of locomotives will require more power than than one single booster can deliver; and every "engineer" wants his or her own throttle. DCC accommodates these requirements. Its modular design lets model railroaders tailor their DCC system to their own specific needs. Basic DCC starter systems are all-in-one units. If you're buying an all-in-one, make sure that it is expandable or can be integrated with the manufacturer's other, modular components.
 
For more information on basic DCC click here

For even more in depth infromation on DCC BUSS wiring, wiring tunrouts, boosters and an array of other helpful onformaion visit http://www.wiringfordcc.com/wirefordcc_toc.htm