Overview of the El16 versions
Over the years Roco has made very nice models of the Norwegian El16 class, see my
El16 collection page for an overview.
With each new release some modifications were made to the model and that affects how easy it is to install a DCC decoder in the locomotives. From a technical perspective we can distinguish four different generations:
| Generation | Years | DCC ready | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1989-1994 | No | The orignal ny design version (catno: 43559) |
| 2 | 1994-1998 | Yes - 8 pin | The gammel design version (43668), which had a different PCB with 8 pin DCC connector. |
| 3 | 2008-2012 | Yes - 8 pin | A new series, with revised PCB, still with 8 pin connector. The decoder can now be placed under the frame. |
| 4 | 2016- | Yes - PLUX16/PLUX22 | A completely redesigned model with LED lights and PLUX 22 connector. |
This shows the first two generations. The bottom locomotive is the first generation that is not DCC ready. The top locomotive is the second generation that has an 8 pin DCC connector. In this picture a DCC decoder is installed. Note the lack of space for proper decoder placement.
The DCC ready generations. The big difference between second generation (top) and third generation (middle) is the placement of the decoder. It is now possible to place it under the frame. The last generation is completely redesigned and has a PLUX connector (bottom).
Decoder Installations
As the first generation of the Roco El16 didn't have a DCC socket I had make modifications to the printed circuit board and then hard wired a decoder to it.
This is described in details: Install DCC decoder in Roco El16 (old), a page a wrote in 2003.
This installation shows a Lenz LE1024, which together with the LE1025 was my standard decoder at that time.
This installation shows a Lenz LE1024, which together with the LE1025 was my standard decoder at that time.
The Roco model is based on the Swedish Roco RC model.
Arnold Hübsch in Austria makes a replacement board for the RC that
has the latest DCC plug/socket (his). PLUX replacment board makes for a very easy
installation of a decoder in this older El16 model. I also used this moment to install ESU LokPilot DCC
decoder which has become my standard decoder as it program abilities are beyond any other decoder on the
market.
See Install DCC decoder in Roco El16 (new) for details.
See Install DCC decoder in Roco El16 (new) for details.
The third generation makes for an easy installation. Remove the dummy plug and insert the decoder. In this case an ESU Lokpilot.
With the last generation it is even more easier. Just plugin a PLUX decoder and you are set.