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Happy Holidays From SBS4DCC

Ring In The New Year With More Free Shipping Through January 4, 2015.

FREE SHIPPING On Domestic Orders Over $150 (Expedited Handling does not apply).

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Welcome to the DCC Edition of the SBS4DCC newsletter.

I am closing out 2014 with a final round of news, information, and great new product announcements from the world of Digital Command Control.  

It really is a great time to be a... Digital Model Railroader!

One announcement that is particularly noteworthy are several new models of Adapter Boards from Zimo that will improve the implementation of DCC for O Scale modelers significantly.

The new Zimo products will make the conversion of older HO locomotives with high amperage motors easier too.

I have been busy adding new content to www.SBS4DCC.com including a new how-to on installing a sound decoder and lighting upgrades in the new N Scale Kato Union Pacific FEF-3 that I am very excited about.  Be sure to check it out, no matter what scale you model.  

Links to all of the new content can be found in this newsletter.

I hope add more content like the Kato install in the coming year.  I feel this effort more valuable to me and my customers than simply rehashing the manufacturers new product announcements.  All of us get the those emails, right?

I also continue to add new information to my "Sugar Cube" Speakers page that I hope will help you get even better results from this fantastic solution.  The latest addition is about how to use the new Isobaric Sound Chambers which I have finally gotten in stock.

Thank you for riding The Backshop Flyer in 2014.  I hope you purchase a System Pass for '15.  It's sure to be a great ride!

I wish you a prosperous, healthy and happy New Year.  All the best, Bryan

So with that... All Aboard!


Featured Product

The Latest SBS4DCC "Sugar Cube" Speaker Baffle Configurations Now In Stock ...

Boiler Baffle

Single speaker with baffle contoured to match the profile of a steam locomotive boiler.

Isobaric Sound Chamber

Two speakers, wired in series or parallel.  

Isobaric coupling is another concept baffle for those who really like to experiment with sound quality. 

Long Boiler Baffle

Single speaker with baffle contoured to match the profile of a steam locomotive boiler.   

N scale version with speaker turned 90 degrees so long side runs parallel to the boiler to minimize speaker width.

SBS4DCC "Sugar Cube" Speakers

Finally! A small speaker that will rock your world.  

We pay big bucks for the finest hardware we can to get decent sound from our diminutive locos. Often we are left disappointed and wishing we had just bought another locomotive.

Now you can enjoy all the sound you paid for, and then some...
 
It is called a sugar cube because, well, it's about the same size and color of a cube of sugar.

I just happen to think the sound quality and volume are pretty sweet!

I offer the "Sugar Cube" in four sizes:

  • 8 x 12
  • 9 x 16
  • 11 x 15
  • 13 x 18

If that's not sweet enough, I also offer eight different baffles for each size:

  • Standard
  • Boiler Baffle
  • Long Boiler Baffle
  • Close Coupled Twin
  • Close Coupled Quad
  • Close Coupled 2x2
  • Hyperbaric Coupled
  • Isobaric Coupled


New Pages Added To Tutorials, Tips & Tricks 

I got most of my "honey do's" taken care of this fall so Mama Bear gave me a pass to get back to work.  I took some extra time to update a few pages and generate a lot of new content on the website that I hope you will find helpful.







It also occurs to me this type of content is probably what folks really want they sign up for the Backshop Flyer.  

Look for more of this stuff in 2015!


Digitrax DN163K4A Decoder
 
Digitrax released the DN163K4A in 2013 for use in the exquisite Kato Glacier Express model.

In a rare case of duplicity, this decoder also fits the new Kato Union Pacific FEF-3.

These and many other new Digitrax products are in stock now at SBS4DCC.  

As a bonus for SBS4DCC customers, all of the old models have been marked down and added to my Clearance Items category.  Don't miss out on these great prices!



New ESU Digital Lighting Sets

The ESU 50708 and 50709 Digital Lighting Sets passenger car lighting system offers crucial advantages:
  • Warm-White  or Yellow LEDs
  • Constant voltage
  • Adjustable brightness
  • Variable length
  • Buffer capacitor
  • PowerPack
  • Taillights included
  • Integral DCC / Motorola Decoder
The new Digital Sets use the same LEDs as the ESU 50700 and 50702 Analog Lighting Sets so they can be used together with differences in appearance.

The new ESU Digital Lighting Sets are in stock at SBS4DCC and ready to ship.


New ESU Large Scale Smoke Units


For many modellers running their trains in the garden smoke generators are a must. Besides sound reproduced by the LokSound XL decoders one finds the exhaust smoke synchronous with the exhaust chuffs most exciting. Prototype diesel locomotives also make their presence known by clearly visible exhaust fumes.


After a long delay, the ESU Smoke Units are now in stock at SBS4DCC and ready to ship.


ESU 12-567 LokSound Select Sound File

ESU has released the new EMD 12-567 sound file for the LokSound Select series of sound decoders.  The new file are number 73460/73860.

First made in the late 1930's the EMD 12cyl 567 Prime Movers were the power houses in many of EMD's Switchers. More often than not they were found sorting freight in much of North America's Classification yards. They could also be found in some of the early streamliner trainsets including the Aero Train, and at least one Burlington Zephyr. The EMD 12cyl 567 prime mover could and still can be found in North America in the NW-2, NW-3, NW-5, SW-7, SW-9, SW1200, SW1200RS, RS1325, GMD-1, NF110, NF210. As EMD Export Locos the 12cyl 567 can be found in: B12, G12, GL12, GA12, GA12C, GR12 and possibly others.

Included in the the 16 Horns are 2 New Horn files. There is an Updated Leslie A-200 and a Brand new Leslie Leslie A-125. The A-125 came standard on many switchers directly from EMD. There is also a new Fast Air Bell.

The news file can be downloaded from the  ESU website.

ESU has also recently released version 4.4.15 of the LokProgrammer software.  I have been using for a week or so and it seems fairly stable.  The have also released version 1.6 of the template pack.

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Rivarossi U25C with ESU Select OEM Decoders

The new Rivarossi U25C's have been released with a NEW version of the LokSound Select decoder.  The new decoder is an OEM version and is not available to the public.  

The primary difference in this version compared to a Select 73899 is the OEM is has eight functions.

To my knowledge, the Riv U25C is the first and only model to use this decoder. 

The ESU LokProgrammer will recognize and display this as decoder type "Select OEM".

It is also important to note, the Riv shipped with a custom sound file, 19405, with correct programming for all eight outputs that is not available on the web as of this writing.  Contact ESU, LLC or email me at [email protected] for a copy of the file.

JMRI - Decoder Pro
 
JMRI 3.10 Production Version

Released on December 20, 2014.  Version 3.10 is recommended for general use, including by new users.

For more information on this test release, please read the JMRI 3.10 Release Notes, which also contains the download links. 
 
MRC

MRC 1520 Decoder Dr. DCC Decoder Programmer and Analyzer

MRC has announced a new Programmer and Analyzer tool for DCC users called the DECODER DR.

Excellent tool for all DCC users. Plug in a new decoder BEFORE installation and check all of its functions before use. Easily perform programming and decoder read back functions. Program, read back, or test decoders by using a section of track or by plugging a decoder into the 8 pin NMRA socket enclosed on the DECODER DR.

DECODER DR. offers MRC's Unique TESTING FEATURE and all these additional features
  • Easy programming
  • Read DCC decoders
  • Program DCC decoders
  • Reassign DCC decoders addresses
  • Reset DCC decoders to factory defaults
  • TEST decoders including cv's such as speed control, head lights, flash rates and all 28 functions including bells, horns, etc.
  • Backlit LCD screen
  • 8-pin NMRA decoder socket for use with all decoders that have a harness
  • Works with all NMRA compliant decoders & locomotives in O, G, HO, N and Z scale
I am able to take reservations at this time but the delivery date is still unclear.

NCE

New NCE No-Halt "Keep-Alive" Device


Dimensions: 1.250" x 0.640" x 0.290" (32 x 16 x 7.5 mm)

Eliminates or reduces the following due to dirty track or unwired switch frogs:

  • Stalling
  • Sound interruption
  • Light flicker
Caution: Do not exceed DCC track voltage of 15 volts





FOR TWIN COIL SWITCH MACHINES ONLY



New NCE Accessory Decoders

While not newly released, these accessory decoders are new to SBS4DCC.


New QSI Support and Contact Information

QSI has announced the following support policy update on the QSI Yahoo Group.  This is a public forum but it is monitored and supported by many members of the QSI team.


 

>>>>>>>>
 

Gentlemen:

Your frustrations contacting QSI have not gone unnoticed. We are revising our phone policy to better meet your needs. Effective January 5th, 2015, we are implementing a new phone system. All calls to QSI (503-644-0047) and to my private QSI line (those of you who have the number know who you are) will be monitored. Please leave a message and we will check the messages every evening at 6:30 PM. We will return your call or forward your message to the appropriate person at that time. You can also email [email protected]. Please make sure you leave a contact phone number, and speak slowly and clearly.

If you are calling QSI Solutions, please continue to call 1-802-448-9899 or email [email protected] or [email protected]. If you are having difficulty getting thru, you may contact QSI.

We apologize for the inconvenience, the problem is we have too few elves at this time of year. We value your business and support.

Please note that many of your questions can be answered by the folks that monitor this forum, so ask your questions on the forum first. Those questions that cannot be answered can be directed to us.

 

From all of us, have a very Happy Holidays and New Year.

Kindest regards:

Kelly

QSI


>>>>>>>>


 

SBS4DCC should have the QSI Titan A and U Sound Decoders back in stock and ready for shipment in early 2015.



New Kato-Soundtraxx DC Sound System


In-Cab Sound from the comfort of your home

The Analog Sound Box has been developed as a joint effort between engineers at Kato and Soundtraxx to craft a simple, versatile, and powerful sound system for use on non-DCC layouts. Completely self-contained, the ASB has a built in speaker and will allow modelers to enjoy an "In-Cab" experience while operating their favorite trains!

Using separate plug-in sound "containers", cartridges each with their own individual sound and programming sets (even including things like momentum!), the ASB is a "smart" device, not just making sounds but reacting appropriately to the actions of your locomotives by reading back-EMF from the motors. Steam locomotive chuffs will speed up and slow down according to the speed of the locomotive itself; not just the position of the throttle, making the sound a properly interactive experience!

The new Analog Sound Box will ship with an included EMD 1st Generation Diesel sound container, appropriate for E and F-units or other older diesel locomotives! Other sound containers will be available around the time of release (details coming soon).

The new sound system is expected to ship in February, 2015 and I am taking Pre-Orders now.


New Application Notes at soundtraxx.com

Soundtraxx has added several new Application Notes to their website including:


Kato N-Scale FEF-3 Tsunami Digital Sound Decoder Installation Notes




The WOW-Diesel, Coming to a Geep near you...


This 6-function, 21-Pin, Plugin diesel sound decoder brings the superior audio quality and operational performance of WOWSound to your diesel locomotive. Included are all of the amazing features from the WOWSteam including Audio Assist™, Realistic Braking, and Prototypical Operation. The available sound set contains the 567 Roots Blown prime mover which is perfect for your early F-Series, and GP-Series locomotives.
  • Includes EMD 567 w/ Roots Blower Locomotive Sounds!
  • True CD Quality Sound! No one else even comes close.
  • 44,100 Samples Per Second at 16 bit resolution.
  • Prototypical Operatio for naturally realistic engine sounds.
  • Optional Keep-Alive for skip free sound and uninterrupted performance.
  • And many more features. Check back for feature updates! 
The WOW-Diesel decoders are expected to ship in January, 2015 and I am taking orders now!









Train Control Systems TrainSpeed Fixed-Location Train Speedometers

Train Control Systems (TCS) has contracted with TDP Associates to re-introduce to the TrainSpeed line of model railroad train speedometers.

This device is designed to measure the scale speed of locomotives or train cars that past by it.

Two small light sensors mounted discretely between the ties are used to record the speed of anything passing over them and then the device calculates and displays the corresponding scale speed on a 4 digit display.

The new TrainSpeed speedometers are in stock at SBS4DCC and ready to ship.


New TCS K6D4 N Scale Drop-In Decoder

TCS has released the new 1556 K4D6 motor decoders for the  Kato Union Pacific FEF-3.

 

In a rare case of duplicity, this decoder also fits the exquisite  Kato Glacier Express.

The new TCS 1556 K6D4 decoder is in stock at SBS4DCC and ready to ship.




The Updated SRC162 - Switch & Route Controller Is Now Available

The Team Digital DCC Accessory Decoder SRC162 - Switch & Route Controller is a DCC accessory decoder that has 16 inputs and 16 outputs. The standard input configuration is for connecting of eight (8) pair of push buttons for switch (turnout) control. The standard output configuration is for connecting eight (8) pair of LEDs for switch (turnout) status indication or eight (8) Tortoise™ switch machines. With the addition of Team Digital MotoDs it can control up to 16 Tortoise™ switch machines.

Features differences from SRC16:
* 16 routes.
* Ops mode address can be greater than 127 using LocoNet� and JMRI.

The SRC16 can be updated to a SRC162 by the manufacturer.  Contact Team Digital for more information.


The Updated SDH2 v2 Dual Signal Head Decoder Is Now Available 

The Team Digital DCC Accessory Decoder SHD2 v2 - Dual Signal Head Decoder is a DCC compatible signal head accessory decoder. 

The SHD2 does not contain any signal logic. It decodes DCC signal packets to drive two signal heads. It can drive four individual LEDs (4 colors) per head. A total of eight outputs. It is compatible with JMRI Signal Heads

Version 2 is available which includes an option to control aspects with turnout (switch) commands. This option allows the SHD2 to work like the Digitrax SE8C and is compatible with RR&Co. software. 

Version 2.1 includes an option for aspect memory.

Team Digital DCCBreak Digital Circuit Breaker

Team Digital has released the DCCBreak digital circuit breaker.  The DCCBreak features timed start-up so that you can control how the layout is energized on start-up.

SBS4DCC is now stocking the full Team Digital product line to offer you a great product and quick delivery at a great price.  All products are in stock and ready to ship.



New Zimo Adapter Boards Are Perfect For O Scale Decoder Installations

Zimo has announced two new models of Adapter Boards that will greatly improve the use of DCC by large scale modelers.  

O Scale motors require more amperage than N or HO but don't require the massive large scale decoders currently available.  

O Scale models benefit from larger, more powerful speakers so the sound "matches" the size of the model and to allow for better low-end bass response at lower volumes.

Most products on the market today either have undersized motor circuits and amps or are massively oversized models, both physically and electrically, that were really designed for use in G Scale models.

The new  Zimo Adapter Boards fill that void in decoder specifications by providing increased motor amperage and power from the sound amplifier while retaining the smaller footprint of "Small Scale" decoders.  The new models are:



The new Adapter Boards come in three versions for each model:

ADAMKL       ADAMKL15       ADAMKL50

ADAMTC       ADAMTC15       ADAMTC50


The ADAMKL and ADAMTC adapter boards increase the rated motor output of most MTC-21 decoders to 1.8A continuous load.

The ADAMKL and ADAMTC adapter boards increase the rated amplifier output of the Zimo MX644C to 3 watts at 4 to 8 ohms speaker impedance.

The boards can be used with any NEM 660 compliant decoder.

Zimo also offers the ADAPLU model that incorporates all of the same features but utilizes the PLuX22 connector.

The new Adapter Boards are sure to be a welcome addition by most O Scale modelers.

It is important to note these new Adapter Boards can also simplify the task of converting many of those older HO scale brass models with motors that exceed the continuous load rating of most decoders that are currently available.  Using an adapter board will surely be easier than re-motoring a vintage PFM smoker.


Zimo also offers the ADAPLU model that incorporates many of the same features of the new boards but utilizes the PLuX22 connector.

The new Adapter Boards are sure to be a welcome addition by most O Scale modelers.

It is important to note these new Adapter Boards can also simplify the task of converting many of those older HO scale brass models with motors that exceed the continuous load rating of most decoders that are currently available.  Using an adapter board will surely be easier than re-motoring a vintage PFM smoker.


Flag Stop... 
 
What YOU See Is What I Have

 

SBS4DCC - Stock Status Information

 

Just a reminder that SBS4DCC features real-time inventory tracking.  If it says it is in stock... it IS...  I try to maintain a strong selection of DCC and Model Railroad products and try not to hide what I do not stock yet.  I appreciate the opportunity to provide catalog items when you can wait a few extra days as this makes a huge difference in my ability to grow and expand my selection.

 

Every now and then, I do run out of an item.  Backorders are accepted on many stock items and orders can still be placed for those items through the web store.

 

Don't see what you need?  I have a growing list of suppliers so be sure to ask about any product you need that is not listed on my site.  
 

SBS4DCC Products...


Finally! A small speaker that will rock your world.  

 

*
Four Sizes
*
Eight Baffles
*
Thirty Two Sweet Speaker Options
*

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SBS4DCC Varnish Lighting 

 

Bring your crack passenger trains to life with the brilliance and intensity of flicker-free LED lighting at an affordable price. 

 

*

Constant Non-Directional Design

*

Expandable Anti-Flicker Circuit

*

DCC-Friendly Design 

*

Adjustable Brightness

*

Z, N and HO Scale Models Available

*

 

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DCC Tools...
 
The ESU LokTester is a stand-alone DCC Decoder Test Station compatible with any brand of decoder or command station.
 
Connections:

Screw Terminal
Next18 NEM661
6-Pin NEM651
8-Pin NEM652
PluX NEM658
21MTC NEM660

Features:

6 Function LEDs
5-pole Motor
20mm Speaker




The MRT Accutrak Speedometer is a free standing, battery operated scale speedometer HO and N scales.

 

Its design is based upon infrared beams which create a "trap" zone through which the train travels.

Accutrak Features:

Ideal for DCC speed matching DCC

 

Operates on 2 AAA batteries

 

Scale Selectable  - N or HO






Use this handy portable tool to keep your servos centered while you mount them under the layout.

The tool consists of a battery box connected to a small circuit board that continuously puts out a centering signal for the servo (1.5 ms pulse).

Keeping your servos properly centered while mounting is the key to making the servos work best.

The battery box has an on/off switch to save your batteries when not in use.

Everyone using servos for turnouts needs one of these.

Requires 3 AA batteries.

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RRampMeter is now marketed by DCC Specialties!

The only inexpensive device that accurately measures DCC Volts/Amps. Also measures AC and DC Volts/Amps.

Costs less than DVMs that cannot measure DCC. 

Ver I, II, & III rated at 6 Amps and Ver IV rated at 20 Amps.

Measures true RMS Volts/Amps, +/- 2%.

Suitable for all scales.

No batteries required.

Designed for Left/Right-hand use.

PCB length 5.63"; Enclosure length 4", width 2", height 1.25"

4 Styles Available
 
Adjustable contacts permit direct track voltage measurements for all scales.

DCC Links...



DCC Calculators & Reference...



Markers...

 

And don't forget I carry a fantastic selection of DCC products from all of the best manufacturers including CT ElektroniksDigitraxElectronic Solutions Ulm (ESU)Lenz,MRCNCEQSI SolutionsRoco Z21SoundtraxxTCS and Zimo.

 

Visit SBS4DCC today!