2 DCC controllers

[tracking]

I had one Bachmann DCC controller; I had to push buttons to switch information to 2 locomotives.   If I had two Bachmann DCC controllers both connected to the track and each controller programmed only to one(not the same) locomotive then could I run both trains stop and go at the same time without pushing a button on either controller? A controller for each locomotive without interference or stopping one.
THANk YOU

[Len]

Connecting two DCC controllers to the same track is not a good idea. Unlike a DC power pack that stops a loco by removing power from the rails, DCC controllers put a constant signal on the track and cutting power to the loco motor is controlled by the installed decoder responding to that signal, not directly by the controller.

Connecting two controllers to the same track will, at best, cause them to interfere with each other's signal, creating erratic operation. Potentially you could end up smoking decoders or a controller.

Len

[jward]

To expand on what Len said, DCC is a form of AC. Connecting two AC power sources to the same load, in this case the track is never a good idea because of phase differences. It's a good way to burn out one or both of your command stations. SOme systems allow the second command station to be used as a booster on an isolated section of your railroad, but once again I have never seen mention that EZ COmmand can do this. Bachmann used to make an add on controller that would plug into and be powered by the EZ Command. I don;t think it has been offered in many years but you might be able to find used ones on Ebay. Other than that, to do what you want to do requires a different, full featured DCC system in which add on controllers are available and supported.

[Ralph S]

Sorry I'm late to the topic again.  As for your inquiry of using two Bachmann DCC controllers to operate on the same track but for two separate locomotives, I have to inform you that Len and Jward (prior responses) are totally correct.

Mr Ward provided some information as to how you could do what you are asking.  My layout has this ability.  Below is what you would need without moving to the more professional controllers, if you're like me (an intermediate modeler with no desire to be professional) .

Below is what you need to perform the actions that you request without moving to the more professional DCC controllers.  Bachmann made three items to do this.





1) the Bachmann controller (44901) (see middle image made in light grey)

2) the Bachmann walk-around controller (44907) (see top image made in dark grey)
Unfortunately, Bachmann discontinued this fantastic dummy controller.  Why it was discontinued, is open for debate.   I blame Bachmann's sales analysis which I believe was miscalculated by a large margin.

3) the Bachmann walk-around connector panel (44908) (front face shown bottom image)

The DCC controller attaches to the walkaround via the I/O port that connects to the connector panel. From there, the walkaround connects to the other I/O port on the connecter panel.

Something to note:  If you have Bachmann's latest version of the DCC controller (called Bachmann DCC Plus model 44933) I believe it does not have the interface capability to support the walkaround)   

Again, Bachmann has stopped producing these controllers and finding the walkaround will be a task in itself.  The older DCC controllers (ones I have) and the connecter panel still seem to be available.

Hope this helps.

[jward]

I have often wondered why the walk around companion was discontinued, and why Bachmann has never adapted the cell phone app used for the discontinued EZ App trains for use with DCC. I can buy an interface that will allow me to do this with my DIgitrax controller.