New SystemOne NMRA-DCC compatible decoders 

[SystemOne catalogue]

Don Wangrow, president of Wangrow Electronics, Inc., announced at the WISE Division Trainfest '97 that they were going to continue with the development of other new SYSTEM ONE NMRA-DCC compatible decoders by showing off prototypes of the next three HO "Easy-to-install" PC replacement boards that are similar in nature to the 1 Amp - 4 function output decoder (DH-104) that is presently being shipped to hobby shops.

These decoders have all the advanced features SYSTEM ONE decoders are noted for such as:

• Three addresses
  • SHORT - to be compatible with the entry level systems
  • LONG - to be able to use the full four digits on your loco's number board as the decoder address
  • CONSIST - to be able to assign a consist address that is the same as the train number as long as it is between 1 and 127.
• Ability to reprogram all of the following configurations while the loco is in operation: Acceleration, deceleration, starting voltage, speed step mode (14,28,128). Use of standard or alternate speed table, change between long and short address.
• Ability to change individual speed steps of a decoder to truly have different locomotives operate at the same speed.
• Ability to operate on conventional DC.

The first that will be built and shipped is the DH-157A, 1.5 Amp 7 function decoder. It is designed to fit all Athern locomotive except the DD-40. An ingenious mounting detail holds it to the motor top. The decoder is 9" long and is meant to be "cut-to-fit" in each installation. The length provides the hobbyist with a mounting platform for his lighting features. This is the first decoder that the manufacturer is telling you to cut-to-length.

The second to be shipped is the DH-103S, 1 Amp 3 function decoder. It is designed to fit the Atlas S-1, S-3, S-4 and F locomotives with the Roco chassis. We have found so far that it also fits the Walthers XXX. This is a true "decoder-to-replace-the-PC-board", like the DH-104.

The third to be shipped will be the DH-154E, 1 Amp 4 function decoder. It is designed to fit all Life-Like E-units and their new PA. Now with all of the older ones that do not have a DCC plug you can replace the PC board. The dual element Mars light is supported. this also is a true "decoder-to-replace-the-PC-board", like the DH-104. As we identify other groups of locos that can be served by a single decoder design we will provide an installation that is easy. No pricing information available at this time.

We welcome comments or suggestions from readers; please write or call.