dmir
Trainmaster
Posts: 111
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Post by dmir on Apr 26, 2010 12:31:12 GMT -5
What is the difference between the Digitrax PR3 and the LocoBuffer-USB? They both look like Command Station to Computer interface devices with USB connectivity. They are both in the same price range too. Am I missing something??  |
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Post by torikoos on Apr 26, 2010 12:42:06 GMT -5
I don't know, I have not researched those, but if you are looking for a computer to layout DCC interface: to throw the cat amongst the pigeons as they say, have you considered the SPROGII ? See www.sprog-dcc.co.uk/ for the main site, or bbmgroup.home.comcast.net/~bbmgroup/sprog/ if you are US based. (personally, I live in the UK but the US site explains in much more detail what it can and can't do). It was designed as a programmer, but I use mine to run my small layout, using Wi Throttle on an iPod Touch as my wireless throttle. Basically, the SPROGII enables you to go DCC, without buying a DCC system. If you already own a computer, but no DCC this is the cheap way in :-) If you also have an iPhone or iPod Touch, you can then cheaply add a wireless cab to the equation. :-) The basic WiThrottle is a free download from the App store, but the full version is also very cheap! I forgot to mention that you require JMRI software to use it in this way (but that's also free!, and comes with the SPROGII) |
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CIOR
Chairman
Posts: 2,046
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Post by CIOR on Apr 26, 2010 12:42:37 GMT -5
What is the difference between the Digitrax PR3 and the LocoBuffer-USB? They both look like Command Station to Computer interface devices with USB connectivity. They are both in the same price range too. Am I missing something?? I went the route of the LocobufferII, I like it. I had the PR from Digitrax and a buddy bought the latest offering and wasn't very happy with it and has used my LocobufferII over it. Its all in what you want, hopefully someone call tell you the differences, because I'm not 100% sure. |
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Post by ratled on Apr 26, 2010 16:25:30 GMT -5
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dmir
Trainmaster
Posts: 111
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Post by dmir on Apr 27, 2010 8:28:28 GMT -5
I'm just searching for a cheap way to program decoders and possibly run a shelf layout. I know the Zephyr is the most common suggestion for this but Ive heard its rather difficult to program CVs. Money and easy of use are my two main factors in this search.
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Post by torikoos on Apr 27, 2010 9:40:27 GMT -5
I'm just searching for a cheap way to program decoders and possibly run a shelf layout. I know the Zephyr is the most common suggestion for this but Ive heard its rather difficult to program CVs. Money and easy of use are my two main factors in this search. Ease of use is perhaps not the main strength of JMRI, it can be a little daunting but if you have a computer available, then the SPROGII could be the cheapest way of getting into DCC, and as a bonus, it is not some feature stripped DCC system, but you'll straight away are able to go and do things the 'pro' systems can. As said, JMRI may present a bit of a learning curve though, other than that, it's worth looking at. |
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Post by ratled on Apr 27, 2010 11:23:19 GMT -5
I Have the Zephyr and the Loco Buffer II. You really can't get easier than that. At $140'ish for the Zephyr and what, $65 for the loco buffer II IMHO I don't think you'll buy easier for cheaper. The other thing I would recommend is spend even a little more and get this model-trains-video.com/volume3.phpHe'll walk you through the whole thing step by step. A warning though, you'll want all 10 videos he has One last thing to consider on the Zephyr - it has blast programing built in for those hard to program sound decoders Steve |
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Post by Raeder on Apr 29, 2010 23:25:43 GMT -5
I've worked with the Locobuffer USB for a few years now, and I like it. It doesn't work with Vista real well, not with mine, and I've heard of other people having the same issue. I think the problem can be fixed, but I haven't had any luck yet. Works great with XP, though. I run mine through a Zephyr and we also use one at the club with a DCS200 and a PowerPax programming booster, and both have worked well.
Kevin
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