DCC and Decoders for dummies

[RJP]

I'm pretty new to this whole dcc thing. I get how the decoder is installed in the locomotives and have successfully gotten them programmed and up and running together. I next want to connect switches and other accessories to my Power Cab controller and understand that they also need decoders... and this is where I'm stuck. Perhaps I need a "decoder for dummies" tutorial or someone with a lot of patience to walk me thru this maze. Does each switch or building require a decoder? Is there one that handles all the accessories? Is there an article or product out there that someone might suggest? I'n happy for any help!   

RJP

[Rangerover1944]

There are so many decoders for different applications try this google search as I just did for thousands of listings.

stationary decoders model railroad

[Nathan]

Have you taken the time to look at the manufactures web sites?  NCE has the manuals for their decoders available for reading from the page on that decoder.  They have very good manuals.  Most other DCC manufactures have their manuals listed as part of the web page for the decoders.

[richg]

If you want to do this correctly, do some research as already mentioned. We have very little idea of you electrical and soldering capabilities.
What you want will require a lot of hand holding. There is no one Best book as DCC is rapidly changing. Books printed maybe four years ago are out of date for many reasons.
Below are some links to look though.
There are Many, Many variables when it comes to DCC. Some links will mention sound which you can ignore until you are ready.

http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn2/DCC.htm
http://www.mrdccu.com/curriculum/

This barely scratches the surface.

Rich

[Rangerover1944]

RJP-Here's the most condensed, complete, and informative for beginners and guru's  and yes it's especially for Dummy's! Me included! Jim

Just click on the red heading titles!

http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn2/DCC.htm

[richg]

RJP-Here's the most condensed, complete, and informative for beginners and guru's  and yes it's especially for Dummy's! Me included! Jim

Just click on the red heading titles!

http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn2/DCC.htm

That site and others have many ideas so don't let that discouraged you. Take one section at a time. There is quite a learning curve to DCC.

Rich