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What are functions on a DCC decoder?
Posted in: Model Railway, Power and control
21st July 2020
One of the many advantages of using DCC is that compliant models are capable of operating auxiliary functions such as...
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In model railways, what are code 60 rails used for?
Posted in: Tracks
27th June 2022
Peco's code 60 rails are used in the production of Z gauge model railway track, but they're also used to model the...
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Can I create my own decals?
Posted in: Decals / Transfers
10th November 2022
Regardless of the subject matter, many model kits are supplied with decals that can be applied to the finished model....
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How do I apply decals to irregular surfaces?
Posted in: Decals / Transfers
7th May 2019
This is not as difficult as you would think. Normally you would dip your transfer in warm water to help remove it...
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What is a push to break switch?
Posted in: Power and control
27th January 2021
A push-to-break switch is a button that can be pressed to break a circuit. The break in the circuit is only effective...
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When choosing a DCC decoder, how important is the amp rating?

Decoders are definitely not all the same, they have different numbers of pins, can control different functions, come in different shapes and sizes, and often, have different amp ratings. But how important is the latter?

Well, it is both very important, and not very important all at the same time. Decoders have two ratings, a continuous rating, and a peak rating. A continuous rating is the maximum amount of amps the decoder will safely support for prolonged periods, a peak rating, is the amount of amps it can tolerate in the event of short spikes in power. If either are exceeded in their relevant context, the decoder will likely be permanently damaged.

The above is clearly the reason why amp ratings are very important, having said that, how likely is your locomotive to draw more amps than even the lowest rated decoders can handle?

Well, that depends on the engine itself, the length of your trains, the gradients encountered, and the number of functions used. A layout featuring a humble tank engine shuttling up and down between fiddle yard and country station is unlikely to be greedy with the amps. On the other hand, a display layout with steep gradients, locos with sound, lights, whistles and bells, and long consists to please the spectators, may well have locos that require decoders with more heavy-duty capabilities.

If you have an ammeter, you can always do a quick test to see how many amps your loco is drawing at maximum power, just don't forget to really put it under some strain when you take your measurement. If you do not have an ammeter, you can either play it safe and install a decoder with a higher amp rating, or check on your decoder's manufacturer's website to see if your decoder is suitable for use with your loco.

Posted in: Model Railway

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