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How can I run two engines in opposite directions?
If you are new to modelling or considering your first layout, you may be wondering if it is possible to run locomotives either independently or in opposite directions when placed on the same track. And the answer is yes, but there's a but!
Traditional model railway layouts (and most starter sets) operate by a controller sending power through the metal rails to a locomotive. The more power the controller sends, the faster the locomotive goes. And if you place a second locomotive on the same track, it too will react in the same way resulting in both models moving at roughly the same speed, in the same direction, and at the same time. A controller that works in this way is called an analogue controller (DC operation).
A DCC (Digital Command Control) controller works differently. This type of controller will energise the whole of your layout with full power at all times. DCC equipped models will only use that power when instructed to do so by the controller. A DCC controller can send messages to individual locomotives and therefore move them around independently and even in opposite directions.
If you desire independent control of your locomotives, DCC is the way to go. If you do decide to use DCC, you will be able to do much more than simply controlling your locomotives one at a time. Some DCC equipped models can have sound fitted and can be programmed to behave prototypically when speeding up or slowing down. DCC is certainly an entertaining feature to have, however, it is also more expensive and a little more complicated to install, so make sure you do your homework first to see if it's for you.
Posted in: Power and control
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