Herc Driver said:
Does the Advanced get around this problem by assigning the non-dcc diesel a default address? There are a few diesels that I probably won't switch over to dcc, but would still like to run them. Also, what is a CV? I'm still learning the Dcc-lingo and a little slow on all the terms.
There is no way you can "assign the non-dcc diesel a default address". A non-dcc loco does not have a decoder in it, so you cannot "assign" it an address. The only way you can run locos that do NOT have a decdoer in them, is on DC track. There is no other way of doing it.
Do NOT put non-DCC locos on a DCC powered track. Your DC locos work on a varying track voltage of 0 V DC - 12 V DC. (Depending on how fast/slow you want your locos to go). DCC powered track is at a constant voltage of 15 V AC.
Some DCC controllers (not sure which ones) will have a "DC mode", which will supply the varying 12 V DC voltage to the track instead of the constant 15 V AC that DCC uses. However all the functions of your DCC system will not be available, and the controller will function just like an ordinary old DC controller.
DCC equiped locos (with a decoder) can run on DC track (12 V DC) provided they have the appropriate CV turned "on", and they will function as any other DC loco would on a DC track, otherwise they will just sit there and do nothing. You cannot "select" a DCC loco (when running on DC track), and ALL your locos will move according to your controller, as if it were a normal DC powered track.
However, your 12 V DC loco, when put on a DCC powered track that has a constant 15 V AC............. well, I'll let you work out what will happen to your loco if you do that. :cry:
Should you wish to still run your non-dcc locos (no decoder in them), then you will need to retain your exisiting power supply/controller, and unplug your DCC power supply/controller from the track, and plug in your old DC power equipment. Or have a switch, to switch from one to the other. Your DCC locos will function as if they did not have a decoder in them (in DC track) however the opposite is NOT ture. You cannot run locos (without a decoder in them) on DCC powered track. Make sure you remove ALL your DC only locos from the track before switching on your DCC power supply/controller.
Herc Driver said:
a CV is a "Control Variable". These are settings inside the decoder that contain what the decoder will do. e.g. the loco number, or when the headlight should be on/off, what the maximum speed of the loco should be. etc.