Customer Reviews

The DCC Guide: How to Select and Use Your Command Control System

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The DCC Guide by Don Fiehmann is an outstanding publication for anyone new to DCC! The author presents a very comprehensive approach to the subject and is accompanied with excellent graphics. I have purchased various publications on the subject, but The DCC Guide is truly the best guide for the non technical model railroader.

If you are thinking of using DCC for your model railroad, this book will answer just about any question you may have regarding DCC. Buy it and read it before you buy a system. If you already have a system, this book will explain how to use your system to it's full potential, or guide you as to where to get answers.

Certainly helped me choose which equipment to buy. Well worthwhile buying, especially for a beginner.

My old train layout was done in DC. I kept hearing about the DCC setup but didn't know how to proceed. I now have the opportunity to start from scratch with a new layout so needed to find out how to go about a DCC layout. Looked at a few resources but none of them really answered my questions. Then along comes 'The DCC Guide'. Great book for not only the DCC novice, but I will be able to used it for a long time. Great book!!

this is a great book to use as an introduction to DCC (digital Command Control). It compares the various systems and their features. It also shows typical decoder installations. A must for those entering the world of DCC

First, let me say I think this is one of the best books on the subject.
But I have two minor quibbles...

In chapter six "Layout Wiring" there's only a brief 3 short pararaphs mentioning the two different ways to wire a layout, 2 rail, and common ground. There are no diagrams, or photographs to illustrate these 2 different methods(surprising, since that is Kalmbach publishing's strength)
Apparently, this book is intended for modelers who have operated DC layouts and know how to wire using the two different methods. Still, it would be useful to show any adaptions that might have to be made for DCC.


Secondly, Chart "J" on p 44 is incorrect. The voltage drop for 10 gauge wire is incorrect, (20 gauge wire and 10 gauge wire both lose 1/2 volt in 50 ft? I dont' think so....) Also, the 8 gauge wire listing under 5 amps in the same chart is incorrect. Better editing would have caught these errors and omissions.
So I'm going with 4 stars instead of 5.

Readers may want to look at Mike Polsgrove's "DCC Projects and Applications" also published by Kalmbach.

This guide to DCC provides informative data on how DCC works. It is a good tool when looking a DCC systems for your model railroad.

A great guide to help you figure out what type of DCC system would be best for your layout. It reviews different controller types and gives incite into making an informed decision of which will best for your particular layout. I found it very helpful.

This is a good overview of DCC, its origins, and capabilities. Unfortunately it's a bit dated (published in 2007), as the technology is constantly evolving. However, I'd still recommend it to someone who is unfamiliar with the subject and wants a thorough introduction.

was as decribed, ship when paid for, arrived in great condtion, and was helpful in picking out a DCC system and supplies.