HOW TO... FIT A DECODER

One of the more complex areas of railway modelling is that of DCC operation. When it comes to decoders, there are many interfaces, decoder types and options available. Despite the plug-and-play nature of many of the locomotives released in the last few decades, there are some pitfalls to be avoided and skills to learn. Of course, you could use a specialist to do all the fitting if you wish to pay for it, but there is satisfaction too in learning the ‘tinkering’ skills and expanding your knowledge.

The secret is to start with a simple subject and a straightforward installation and work from there as you build your confidence.

Let’s start with fitting a decoder into a robust diesel model equipped with a modern DCC interface and classed as DCC-ready. If you’ve never fitted a decoder before, this is a good starting point.