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Discussion Boards => HO => Topic started by: GRZ on March 04, 2012, 11:46:18 AM

Title: mrc decoder
Post by: GRZ on March 04, 2012, 11:46:18 AM
 Hi, I was given a nos mrc decoder, 1996 version, is it worth my time installing it in a kato loco that I will use on dc & dcc? ive never done this type of instalation be fore, or should buy a new decoder. because the newer one would have better electronics?? ive read how to buld a test track and that im gping to do hopefully this will teach me to understand dcc a little better. thank you for the help.GRZ
Title: Re: mrc decoder
Post by: richg on March 04, 2012, 12:10:02 PM
Since you have never done this before, I would say no. It might be fun just to learn about how to install a decoder though.
I have seen many issues in different MRR forums with the older run of MRC decoders. Some people have had some success with them but they know what they are doing with DCC. MRC did replace the defective ones but I doubt you would have the same response since it is a used decoder. Many have passed there older ones on if they could.
In my older Athearn/Roundhouse steamers that came with MRC sound, I tossed them as have others. They now come with Tsunami on board.
Litchfield Station, an excellent DCC supplier handles on two MRC products. Two speakers.
The latest run of MRC decoders seem to be much improved.

Rich
Title: Re: mrc decoder
Post by: Rangerover1944 on March 04, 2012, 04:03:24 PM
Go for it, like you say it's a beginning and a learning experience. But don't get discouraged if it don't go right. Some people swear by MRC and others swear at them. Jim
Title: Re: mrc decoder
Post by: richg on March 04, 2012, 04:28:11 PM
Quote from: GRZ on March 04, 2012, 03:56:33 PM
thank you Rich for your taking the time to respond to my question, the decoder is new still in package, i was thinking the new ones would be better.can i hurt my loco if i screw up hooking this thing up ?and if i sucseed in doing it correctly ive learned something. Grz

I do not know of any decoder messing up a loco. Only incorrect installs. Much of the time is users burning out an LED because of not putting in a resistor.

Rich
Title: Re: mrc decoder
Post by: Bucksco on March 04, 2012, 05:36:36 PM
Does MRC have an online forum to discuss their products?
Title: Re: mrc decoder
Post by: richg on March 04, 2012, 09:26:21 PM
Quote from: Yardmaster on March 04, 2012, 05:36:36 PM
Does MRC have an online forum to discuss their products?

Two good places to ask.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MRC-DCC/

http://cs.trains.com/TRCCS/forums/744.aspx

Rich