EZ Command Controller & Walk-Around Units

[choochoomusic]

Question#1
I understand the typical use of the Walk-Around and have used it accordingly.
HOWEVER. Is it possible to use multiple Walk-Around units say about 3 units in addition to the EZ Command Controller. Not necessarily to unplug and move them but to be able to leave them stationary as plugged so there can be additional people operating the layout.
ALSO-
Question #2
Bachmanns 4 video's on Youtube   indicate the the EZ Command Controller has the capability of supporting 128 speed steps. If this is available, How is this done?
Thank You
ChooChooMusic

[Doneldon]

chooch-

1. You can use up to four walk arounds. Each must have a port to plug into the system. You can use Bachmann ports or assemble them yourself from phone parts. Although the Bachmann port is expensive, it does have a nice, official-looking face plate. However, unless you are operating only recently-manufactured locomotives without sound and rolling stock without lights (for example, passenger cars), your EZ Command will not have enough power to run four locomotives at the same time. This is a major deficiency of the EZ Command system.

2. You must use a system other than EZ Command to program decoders, including telling a decoder to operate with 128 speed steps. This lack of programming capability is the other shortcoming of the EZ Command.

Because of the low power output and lack of programming, I generally suggest that people look beyond the EZ Command to other more capable DCC systems. That would include Bachmann's Dynamis and entry-level systems from other manufacturers. However, it sounds like you already have your EZ Command and maybe even the walk arounds. And, you want to have four operating cabs. Consequently, another system plus greater power plus three more throttles will require a very large investment and you can expand your system with the EZ Command less expensively. You will need a more powerful booster. Bachmann's is quite pricey and it may have more power than you are likely to need. Consequently, you can probably find a booster from another manufacturer with 2.5 to 3.0 amps output which will both provide sufficient power and save you a little money. You'll still lack programming ability, but that's not something you have to do every day so perhaps you can find a friend or model railroad club where you can program decoders when you need to.

So ... you have an exceptional situation in which, IMHO, sticking with your EZ Command is probably a good idea. You will still need a more powerful booster, walk arounds and extra ports, but purchasing an affordable booster and making your own ports may well save you enough cash to pay for your walk arounds.

Good luck with your system.

                                                -- D

[choochoomusic]

Hey Doneldon,
Thanks for the information.
Yes I understand the the simplicity of the EZ Command System and the purpose of this usage is to introduce beginners to a very simple way to operate a 2 main with yard in DCC.
In a way protecting them from what might be a more complicated technology and wisdom burn-out of other more professional DCC systems.
In anyways: Thanks very much for your kind words, it is very helpful.
ChooCh...