I'd like to run at least 5 engines at once, at least 20 turnouts (remotely)
> and various accessories. Will the MRC Prodigy DCC system do the job? My son
> is 6 years old so ease of operation is a factor. But will it limit the
> functionality and realistic operation of my RR?
On that last part, I personally think it will limit you because at the time Prodigy was released, the company still had not embraced 128 speed step operation. So, with Prodigy, even if you have 128 speed step decoders, you only get 28 speed step operation, which is not as smooth as 128. BTW, every other DCC system on the market has embraced 128. MRC just recently started to release 128 decoders. So, that should show you how behind they are.
With Digitrax you can control two engines at the same time with a DT400 controler. The Zypher can control one engine and two mor with DC controlers. So to control 5 engines yoy would need 1 Zypher($199.99), 1 DT400(179.99), and two cheep DC power pacs.
To do the same with the MRC you need i prodigy system($199.98),4 throttles($54.98), two extenti>
throttles in the Command station. This should get you under way you can add extra walk about throttles at a later date thev system is readily expandable. Use whoevers Decoders you like, personaly I like TCS ones.
I cannot speak to the Prodigy specifically and don't know how it does multiple cabs. My old MRC-2000 had a walk around secondary throttle, so I assume the prodigy has similar. BUT it will eventually limit the functionality. All the other current systems have simple (throttle, direction, basic functions) utility throttles that your son could use. You might contact the "Youth In Model Railroading" group in Denver. I know they use the Prodigy for their HO layout. They would have insights on both the functionality and child usability that might help. Sorry I don't have the contact information at my finger tips.
Another thought. Do you really need the other functionality right now? DCC prices will do nothing but go down and the functionality will increase. I would not consider the DCC system you purchase now as a permanent thing. I expect continued explosive growth in the DCC area. The features of tomorrow's systems will make today's look like Intel 386 powered computers.
A possible alternative is the ROCO LocoMaus. I have just got one for our 5yr old and it has taken all of 15 minutes to explain the operation of the system (Locos have matching numbers to chip ID's, points have small numbered banners) and he is off and running. Dials up loco.turnout he want, sets controlls, moves on :-) Ha can even interperate a short circuit warning and remedy it :-)) It's also available for around 89.95 with a loco and couple of trucks. It comes with wander lead throttle, can be upgraded to control around 20 locos at the same time, brilliant intro package. I have used Lenz
Locomotives that have the user controlled couplers (we've seen a few attempts at this already). But how about remotely controlled couplers on all equipment. Instead of each locomotive just reporting its number, they will report things like speed (not voltage but real speed), drawbar pull, wheel slippage, current draw, decoder and motor temperature, wheel or motor rpm, grade, acceleration, or how hard it slams into a string of cars, etc. The auxiliary functions will be used for things like real cooling fans, centrifugal clutches, real brakes both friction and dynamic. Each car reporting its location and if it is loaded or not. The decoder in the car could apply friction to the axles to simulate the load. Each car could time itself at an industry so dispatchers know not to move it too soon. As they now control sound functions, they will control the video view and angle out of the locomotive. Operating booths for engineers will be possible making the "simulation" programs like Trainz actually run a model train on the layout. The main processors could record the number of stops and starts for during switching moves, to be used for competitions, rating engineers, or just tracking efficiency of an operating session. And for the really operationally picky, whether the switchman/brakeman is on or off the locomotive/caboose including if he got left behind at the last town (You know, that last stop everyone forgets to make in a switching puzzle.). The information back from the locomotives will help dispatchers select the motive power to assign a consist. It's presentation will be customizable in both content and units(real or scale). And for the people who don't really like to be engineers (you know the ones that like setting the throttle and having it maintain constant speed regardless of grade) automatic sound activation, like a bell when approaching a station or whistling at a grade crossing.
That's off the top of my head, I am certain there are others out there more imaginative than I.
The Prodigy will work fine for the layout you describe. I have a Prodigy, and have been pleased with it. My layout is a 20' x 15' L-shape, and I normally have around 8 locos on it. I don't use the Prodigy to control turnouts (mine are all manual), so I can't comment on that. The accessory controller has 32 addresses, so 20 turnouts should be no problem. You should get at least two extra handhelds so all three of you can have a separate controller. You can plug 4 controllers in to the base (or three and the accessory controller), and switching between locos is easy so running 5 at a time will be no problem (for the system, anyway). I haven't had a problem with the reduced speed steps. With good locomotives, you won't see any jumping or jerking despite having only 28 speed steps. I get very smooth starts and good low speed control. It is very easy to operate. My 4 year old nephew was able to control the speed and change directions after me telling him which buttons to push and which way to turn the dial. The Prodigy isn't as advanced as the other systems, but I like it. It doesn't have all the functions of other systems like transponding or on the fly programming, but it won't limit realistic operation
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