Are these DCC-compatible?

[ScooterTheGreat]

Hello all,

 

I'm just getting started with my model railroad and I haven't really started converting to DCC but are any of these DCC-compatible?

 

1. Kato DD13 Early Production, code 7012-1 http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10219132 (this is the only one I own now, the rest I plan on buying later)

 

2. Kato Series 115-300 Yokosuka colour 10-1271 http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10311207

3. Tomix JNR EF66 Early Type http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10044848

 

I don't expect anyone to know, but info would be nice:

 

4. Tomix JNR 381-0 Standard Set http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10336054

 

Thanks

Scooter

[Ochanomizu]

Hello Mr Scooter,

 

Please allow me to provide limited assistance with your decoder inquiry.

 

1. The correct decoder for Kato 7012-1 is NGDCC DE29x2_K13.  Please translate website.  Yes, you can order direct from manufacturer.  Please use email.

 

2. Kato 10-1271 may be DCC friendly.  Kato website makes no comment.  Please check underside of cab car for small removable panel, into which Kato FL12 decoder may be fitted.  My colleague has this model and may respond this evening.

 

3. Tomix models can usually be converted.  Tomix EF66 2164 is an old model.  It will require isolation of supply and minor milling of body.  Other member may have tired.  I have not.  I suggest Digitrax DZ126.

 

4. Tomix 92895 will be similar process to above.  You will require one decoder for each cab car and one for the motor car.  I recommend setting all three decoders to the same address.  If you want automatic headlight depending on direction then I suggest 3 x DZ126.  If you are happy to use function control to turn lights on and off then I suggest 1 x DZ126 for motor car and 2 x TF4 for cab cars. In the second scenario you must use function buttons to turn lights on and off.

 

There are many good manufacturers.  I only suggest Digitrax because they manufacture the Kato EM13, FL12, and FR11 decoders for Kato.  Digitrax offers a feature called Transponding.  Please see their website for details.  If you do not require Transponding then there is no requirement to use Digitrax.  The Kato decoders work fine with other brands such as Lenz.

[E6系]

Hello Mr Scooter,

 

This evening I have spoken with my colleague, Mr Ochanomizu.  I can confirm that Kato 10-1271 is DCC Friendly.  You will require 1 x EM13 for the motor car and 2 x FL12, one for each cab car.  If you refer to the inside left page of the product brochure you will see the reference half way down on the left.  There is a link to the Kato website where you can see demonstration of installation.  You will also find several videos on Youtube by searching "Kato EM13" or "Kato FL12".

 

I wish you good luck.  Installation is relatively easy.

[ScooterTheGreat]

Hello gentlemen,

Thank you. This is very helpful and will help the progression of my model railroad. I am only getting started with DCC, so mistakes will be made, but I am sure I will get there in the end.