Hello,
I'm starting a layout and am planing to have an inside track and outside track. Wanted to make sure that I purchase the correct crossovers to have my trains go from outside/inside tracks and inside/outside tracks. I will need 1 left crossover and 1 right crossover for the other side? #44138 Right, & #44137 Left Please advise. My understanding is that these EZ command switches will work using DCC only.
Thanks in advance.
bd-
Yes, you'll need two crossovers to be able to move both ways between your inner and outer tracks. And, yes, DCC turnouts and crossovers work only with a DCC controller. However, you can also purchase non-DCC remote turnouts which are operated with electrical switches on your control panel or the layout fascia. This allows for remote, central control but does not permit operation from a handheld throttle from anywhere near your layout.
I don't know the exact percentages but it seems to me that more modelers use non-DCC remote turnouts than DCC turnouts. Both control systems work well. DCC may be a little more convenient but it's also a little more expensive. There's also the possibility of a hybrid system which uses both DCC and non-DCC controls. The usual way to do that is to have DCC-controlled mainline, through track turnouts and sidings and yards controlled "locally" with either remote, non-DCC turnouts or some of each.
-- D