Prodigy Advance DCC Power Output

Posted September 23, 2004.
Last updated October 6, 2004.
September 29 - MRC Reverses Its Offer ...

MRC Prodigy Advance shipped derated to 2.5 Amps!

The new Prodigy Advance from MRC has been advertised stating a 3.5 Amp DCC track output and that's what we expected. We tested one of the new production units today and the DCC output was only 2.5 Amps. We initially traced this reduced performance to the power supply that comes with the system. This wall type transformer is only rated at 2.5 Amps!

We called MRC for an explanation and they indicated that the DCC unit was derated to work with the furnished power supply, the 2.5 Amps being suitable for the average user. Furthermore, they stated the DCC unit would actually comfortably support 3.5 Amps. To utilize 3.5 A capability, use MF615PDGY DCC power supply.

1) Return unit to MRC for $15.00 software mod to have DCC power raised to 5 Amps. This must be done first, in order to do 2) below
2) Purchase a separate DCC power supply that is rated at 5 Amps.
3) Install a special power connector to the 5 Amp power supply to mate with the socket in the MRC unit. You can use the plug that comes with the Prodigy Advance 2.5 Amp power supply.

When we asked MRC why the unit is not supplied with the advertised power output, they stated, "we decided to provide a power supply with the system at no extra cost so users could start using it without having to hunt up a power supply. Most DCC systems are sold w/o the power supply. If they need more power there are reasonable and affordable options."

I believe MRC has made a mistake, but there are simple, inexpensive solutions that Tony's is implementing:

1) Tony's is returning all the Prodigy Advance we have in stock for upgrade to 5 Amps. We expect to be re-stocked by Wednesday, September 29, 2004. All our future stock will be 5 Amps!
2) We are also selling the Magna Force DCC Power Supply incorporating the MRC compatible plug at no extra cost - MF615-PDGY.

The Bottom Line

1) If 2.5 Amps, 4 average HO locomotives is all you will run, then do nothing, you are all set.
2) If you want more power then get the Magna Force MF615-PDGY.
3) If your system was shipped yesterday (September 22, 2004) you can return to MRC for upgrade and get power supply from us. Include your return address info and indicate you want 5 Amp upgrade. Include your payment for $15.00.

Model Rectifier Corp
Prodigy Upgrade
80 Newfield Ave
Edison, NJ 08837
732-225-2100

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