shutoff switches, a guest, no matter how rare they are, doesn't
need to be trained to the layout. Larger layouts do need power
districts for troubleshooting, but that discussion is beyond this
column. I rarely run a second loco on the layout. Since I use
DCC, I am able to do so with impunity (5).
SOUND:
Sound is fun. I've said it for years, "DCC sells sound
and sound sells DCC." If you have a road crossing your
tracks, you can decide if it is necessary to blow for the grade
crossing(s) or not. When you are in the yard, you can decide
when and where the bell is needed, even on a whim. It's your
pike, you make the rules. The sound of the loco shuttling back
and forth makes solo operating less lonely. If you have a larger
solo pike than mine, you might want to have one train running
in circles while you are switching another. Sound helps you
monitor the other train continuously, and, if needed, DCC
provides quick control of it.
DCC Impulses Column - 5
MRH-Feb 2013
