So, you saw that reference on the welcome page and now you want to know what DCC is.  Well, in short DCC means having very individualized control of the locomotive you run.  Before about 1994, model railroads were all controlled by multiple power packs, all electrically isolated in sections of a layout called blocks.  When you ran a train, you went all around the layout turning all the knobs of the power packs to the same speed.  When a power back was turned up or down every locomotive in the block responded.  Lights went brighter and dimmer with the adjustment as well.

In a DCC system, each loco has a small chip in it called a Decoder.  The decoder checks instructions that are routed through the track (along with constant power), ignoring all the those not meant for it.  Each operator selects his or her locomotive by a number - usually the road number on the engine - and is then free to operate independently, as long as they stay out of each other’s way.  The handheld controller each operator uses is called a “Cab” or “Throttle.”

DCC systems vary and some even include a wireless receiver and cab.  The TNW’s NCE system is one of these.  Operators can either plug in, or if their cab is wireless capable, wander around without plugging in at all.  The system accepts both throttle types.

There are still some engines for sale out there without DCC.  Most are very easily upgradeable, but some are not.  If your are shopping for a locomotive the box will usually say right on it.