The Digitrax Big Book of DCC

Very informative for all doc users

Very informative book on the subject of DCC model railroading.

This book can be looked at as a gigantic advertisement for Digitrax digital command and control equipment. That is what it is but it is also much, much more. It is also a thorough introduction to a subject which intimidates many model railroaders. Most of what is presented is independent of manufacturer. Digitrax plugs their own equipment but they also point out that most of the information applies to their competitors as well. Where things are not so universal, this is clearly pointed out.The book explains not only what DCC is but also explains how to most effectively use it. Sections are presented on planning and construction. The use of DCC is examined for the control of locomotives and also for the control of stationary devices. The ways that it can be used for reporting and signaling are thoroughly examined. Indeed, one of the more difficult things about the book is that it is so thorough that the information seems to blend together sometimes since I don't have any real working examples to experiment with. Still, this will be a useful reference for a long time to come.This book is out of print. That makes me wonder if a newer edition is on the way. I hope so.

The shipping was fast, the only niggling bummer was the way USPS wadded it up to fit in my mailbox.

It is a bit dated and tends to focus on Digitrax products (many that are obsolete) but the theory is solid and well written with good examples. Some of the material is very deep and targeted at an advanced user but the reader can ignore a lot of that and go as deep or shallow as desired while still getting what is needed to learn about DCC.

This is a complete manual taking on the sometimes overly complex issues when setting up your DCC system on a layout! It goes step by step explaining what DCC is, what it does and how it does it. Along with all of this it gives some very nice examples and diagrams. It certainly is a big help in deciding what equipment you need or can do without. With this book and your knowledge and experimentation you will be able to make your dream layout work perfectly!

DCC is all new to me, so this was a good intro, I have no regrets. But the material is dated and covers DCC components that are no longer sold or supported. Also, many parts of the book are available for free on the Digitrax website. I was hoping for more insight into the indecipherable instructions Digitrax provides, but you won't find it here.

I am new to DCC. This book explains how DCC control works in great detail. The price is good and I would recommend it to anyone that is new to DCC control or even those that are long time users. With the use of this information, my change over from DC to DCC is well under way. Thanks Digitrax and Amazon.