Before you make your decoder selection you
should test your locomotive to see which decoder to buy.
Here are a few rules of thumb.
Most N-Scale locomotives will draw
a maximum of about 1/4 amp
under full load, so any Digitrax decoder with a DN designator will work.
Most HO locomotives produced in the past 10
years draw about 1/2 amp under full load. So Digitrax DN and DH decoders will
operate most recent HO locomotives.
Note: Older HO
locomotives with "Open Frame motor" will draw 1.5 amp to 2 amps. It is
highly recommended you check the stall current on these locomotives with an amp meter
prior to selecting a decoder.
Large scales such as S, O or G generally draw
between 2 to 5 amps, it is recommended you test your individual locomotive to determine
which decoder is the right choice. The Digitrax DG series of decoders
have been specifically designed for these large scale.
