Older original Atlas loco decoders

[mecgp7]

I do not run DCC. However, I do buy DCC locos from time to time and I have an older Digitrax system for testing. Recently, I purchased a lot of six locos four of which have original Atlas Lenz decoders. Given the age of these decoders, are they worth anything? I am not just asking about the decoders themselves, but are the locos still considered "DCC" given all the advancements since their release? Would DCC modelers swap out the Lenz decoders?

[drbnc]

Yes, still good runners. I swapped out the Lenz for Digitrax decoders - didn’t like the buzz from the Lenz decoders.

[nickelplate759]

Yes, still good runners. I swapped out the Lenz for Digitrax decoders - didn’t like the buzz from the Lenz decoders.

Agreed.  The locos are great.  The Lenz decoders are not, but are easily replaced.  Swap them out.

[mecgp7]

So, I gather that these locos with the Lenz decoders should be considered non-DCC since replacing the decoder seems to be the thing to do. Normally I would consider the value of a DCC loco over that of an analog. Kinda seems like DCC locos with older decoders would be considered non-DCC at this point.

[nickelplate759]

Well, the DCC works.  It's noisy, and not as smooth as even Digitrax, but for a loco you aren't feeling fussy about it is serviceable.   So maybe the decoder isn't worthless, but it isn't worth a lot.  I have a couple I have yet to change out.

[peteski]

Lenz was one of the original developers of Digital Command Control.

The early decoders are still "real" DCC decoders (they will work on DCC or DC).  Sure, they are noisy and don't have any advanced lighting features, but they still work. Early Digitrax decoders had motor driver which would produce buzzing, and had limited lighting features. Old technology, but like George stated, not worthless.