Decoders - Mixing 2 brands with same ID?

[E231-500]

Hi all,

 

This might seem like a silly question, but I hope someone may have had experience.

 

I am looking into using transponding on my layout to identify train location and ID. Whilst researching, I noticed that it seems only Digitrax decoders have transponding available as a feature. I already have a Digitrax BDL168 for occupancy, and the RX4 plugs into that for the transponding, so I am all set there (My first DCC Command station was a Zephyr DCS52 so I have along the line purchased other Digitrax equipment to go with it)

 

The problem comes with the fact that I primarily use ESU Loksound and Lokpilot decoders. As far as I can tell, ESU do not have transponding as a feature.

 

My question is, If I already have an ESU decoder installed for motor/light control, Would it be possible to somehow install a Digitrax decoder into the same train just for the purpose of transponding, and also as with other multi decoder setups, assign them the same ID number?

 

If required, I know if it is possible, that I would probably need to install the second decoder on a separate car and/or wheelset so there is no interference between the two communicating. And I know I can have multiple decoders of the same type share an ID (I have 4 decoders in my Z Scale 0 Series all with the same ID) I am just not sure if the 2 brands of decoder would interfere with each other.

 

Also, I plan to use JMRI to control everything.

 

Any help would be appreciated.

[chadbag]

I don’t know the answer to this but I suspect it would work?  Just make sure Railcom is turned off on the ESU????
 

 But you could also use Railcom compatible occupancy detector modules.  The ESU have Railcom built into them. I don’t know how the Digitrax command station could play with the Railcom detectors.   
 

this is more a WAG stream of consciousness post than a meaningful answer.  Sorry. 

let us know when you try it.  I’m just wondering if it wouldn’t be cheaper overall to get a railcom compatible command station (lots to choose from) rather than add second decoders to all your locomotives.   
 

Does Digitrax have function decoders that offer transponding?  Maybe cheaper than motor decoders.  

[E231-500]

thanks for your reply chadbag. I still need to get the RX4 transponders for my BDL168, but I have found a spare digitrax micro decoder I might try installing and test it. I will report back my results.