ZTC .... Any Good ?

"Keith Lanham" wrote

It's expensive and there have been reported reliability issues.

Lenz is the industry standard, is much cheaper and is very highly regarded - it is also much more readily available and has first class back-up.

John.

John is correct Lenz systems are fine. Be advised Bachman are marketing an E-Z system designed by Lenz as an entry to DCC. I bought one of these for my Grandson - aged 71/2 he is now coming up to age 8. Guess what he wants for his birthday? A Lenz Compact like Grandpop's. In 6 months or so he has outgrown the E-Z system. It is ideal for youngsters ( &OAP's) to get the hang of DCC and its 'on track' programming is simplicity itself, but again limited. Once bitten by the DCC bug I would be surprised if anyone went back to the old DC system. As an aside, for largish models I use Lenz decoders but for tichy ones I use digitrack D series. To give you an idea I have fitted a digitrack module D123 into a Yorkshire - Lancashire saddle tank with no problems whatsoever.

there are lots of systems on the market the Lenz compak is a bit limited as most of the cheaper systems. The exception is the Digitrax Zepher which has all the bells and whistles for a budget price it is limited to 3 amps capacity. If you prepared to pay the look at the Lenz 100, Digitrax Super Chef, NCE powerhouse has a good reputation of ease of use, although I've never had any problems with Digitrax. Most users will pump their own system as being superior to all the others including ZTC users. You best bet is to try as many systems as possible and speak to experienced users.

Hi Keith, I have the ZTC 511, (not through choice) and I am very happy with it. The feel is good with the steam style regulator, which does not distract when running a diesel either.

I have also gone on to add one of the new hand held throttles. This is also very good, but I will add a little complicated (and you could do with a third hand sometimes) when it comes to either functions or changing points, which can be done from either unit.

If you are wanting a desk controller, the ZTC 511 is it, note that most other brands are hand held with a few minor exceptions.

Where abouts are you in the world? I'm in Nottinghamshire if you want to check out some time? I have had no end of folk ask and try when I have had it on show at exhibitions...

compliant and not compatible. regards, Steve

I submit that on or about Tue, 2 Aug 2005 13:06:36 +0100, the person known to the court as "John Turner" made a statement ( in Your Honour's bundle) to the following effect:

And a doddle to set up.

Guy

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EasyDCC has two controllers mounted on the 'desk console' - does everything that ZTC does at a lot less cost.

"Andy Sollis- Churnet Valley model Railway Dept." wrote:

Thanks to all that replied - I see more research is needed !

Keith

I did say with exceptions.... I just didn't know the brand name, but you've jogged my memory...

Andy

EasyDCC has two controllers mounted on the 'desk console' - does everything that ZTC does at a lot less cost.

"Andy Sollis- Churnet Valley model Railway Dept." wrote:

I think the biggest pro is the ZTC511 itself. If you want that type of controller then that's the best system for you. Otherwise Digitrax and Lenz are good bets for low to medium priced systems and NCE for more expensive. And you will a lot of model shops sell the Lenz system.

The ZTC shares the same network interface/protocol as the Lenz so it should interwork with Lenz ExpressNet devices such as hand held throttles and feedback systems. Best to check this before you buy things.

Chris

Yes ZTC wiill interface with Lenz controllers but not, the feed back system which is very important if you want to move on from the 'basic' DCC set up. Also ZTC use a different connection sysyem then Lenz which will require you to buy and solder wires to mini din plugs to interface with the more simple and straight forward Lenz system. If you buy the mini din plugs from ZTC they are =A35, if you buy them from Maplin Electronics they are about 80p.

Have fun, check out the systems and be careful. Not everything that looks good is good.

Chris wrote: