 Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi friends, Days ago in the Märklin Insider Forum I read a thread about analog vs. digital. I suppose that the analog control have advantages especially in old layout, as it is mine, with M-track. What do you think??  Best regards Stefano
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 Joined: 03/01/2003(UTC) Posts: 5,181 Location: Southern New Jersey, USA
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The type of track is not important. Digital works excellently with M-track. The issue is the type of operations you prefer. Digital offers the advantage of not having to block for operating several loks on the same layout. I used to accomplish this with running one from catenary and one from the track. Within digital, then you have two camps...manual control and computer control. |
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Joined: 25/01/2004(UTC)
Posts: 639
Location: ,
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Analog works great, even with my new C-track. Love the simplicity and can do without all the bells and whistles (literally), even though much of what I have is digital now. Peter Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote: Originally posted by Rocca<br />Hi friends, Days ago in the Märklin Insider Forum I read a thread about analog vs. digital. I suppose that the analog control have advantages especially in old layout, as it is mine, with M-track. What do you think?? Best regards Stefano |
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi Ron,
The question of the bolck for operating several loks in my opinion too is central and for someone it may seem troublesome create section in the layout, but if we speak about the control of the possible operation, as you write, I'm sure that the analog control offer a great fun. Anyway if we use the catenary too, we can have a lot of indipendent loks which run in our layout. The digital control, instead, is generally overdimensioned because we cannot run simultaneously all the locks in a layout. Isn't?
Best regards
Stefano
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi Peter, Yes, you are right!!  and all digital loks work very well in analog mode too. Years ago instead I remember that it wasn't possible to have the light [xx(], for example. Now all is possible... Best regards Stefano Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote: Originally posted by verheyen<br />Analog works great, even with my new C-track. Love the simplicity and can do without all the bells and whistles (literally), even though much of what I have is digital now. Peter Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by Rocca
<br />Hi friends,
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 Joined: 01/02/2004(UTC) Posts: 7,452 Location: Scotland
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Digital is the best way to go and is the system of the present and future. In a few years it is unlikely any analogue product will be available. Drive the train not the track as the adverts say.
David |
Take care I like Marklin and will defend the worlds greatest model rail manufacturer. |
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 Joined: 14/03/2005(UTC) Posts: 15,870 Location: Gibraltar, Europe
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I run my layout digitally with a delta control, but I still have some analogue locos which I have not yet converted.
After running in digital mode (even without the functions), I find it so much harder when I return to analogue.
The main advantage that I find is that, when you stop one loco and want to run another, you don't have to find a dead track to park it in. This is even more of an advantage on a small layout like mine.
I often park 2 or 3 locos in one siding, while running another 2. Try doing that in analogue!
Ray |
Ray
Mostly Marklin.Selection of different eras and European railways
Small C track layout, control by MS2, 100+ trains but run 4-5 at a time.
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 Joined: 10/07/2002(UTC) Posts: 3,298 Location: Patagonia
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Hi, i think that all modes have its advantages, it is true that you can achieve more complexes things in an easier way with digital, but i think at last the important thing it's to have fun with your trains wether in digital or analog, and that is a matter of personal choice.....
You can always have analog and digital sections on a layout......... |
 German trains era I-II and selected III, era depends on the mood, mostly Maerklin but i can be heretic if needed XD, heresy is no longer an issue.. LOL |
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Joined: 16/07/2002(UTC)
Posts: 1,575
Location: DeSoto (Dallas area), TX
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The Analog Loks use the same current limits as digital on max number of Loks in motion at one time. In some cases, the digital and analog can have the same trafo. (I did that!)
You can also have analog blocks on a digital layout. I have that on the layout I am now building.
If you like to start the trains and let everything run hands-off, analog and digital makes no difference. If you like to have the throttle in your hane, only digital will do.
I am digital (IB) and not going back.
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The McLae
IB digital, DB, OBB, SBB epII-V
Providing a home for little lost 'Gators |
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by RayPayas
<br />I run my layout digitally with a delta control, but I still have some analogue locos which I have not yet converted.
......
I often park 2 or 3 locos in one siding, while running another 2. Try doing that in analogue!
Ray
Hi Ray, Sure! it is an advantage, but the question is that you can have in a layout only a limitated number of loks...[8)] and so [^]!!!! Best regards Stefano
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Joined: 14/03/2005(UTC) Posts: 15,870 Location: Gibraltar, Europe
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Hi Stefano, Of course you are right in saying that there is a limit to the number of locos on the layout. On mine (as you can see in my layout diagram in the thread with my layout pictures), I can only usually run 2 trains, with another two waiting in the sidings. For this reason Delta suits me fine. I have 21 locos, which I have divided into four groups depending on which part of the layout I am most likely to run them, and the four groups each have their Delta address: Delta address 1.Outer track passenger locos Delta address 2.Inner track passenger locos Delta address 3.Freight locos Delta address 4.Small or shunting locos This arrangement sometimes restricts my choice of loco and I can't choose 2 with the same address, but the solution is 2 minutes work with a small screwdriver.  Having said all this, I do have dead sections controlled by signals, which means that I occasionally go analogue for the fun of it, and also to give my unconverted old locos some track time. This is how I work my layout, and probably wouldn't suit many others. What do you think |
Ray
Mostly Marklin.Selection of different eras and European railways
Small C track layout, control by MS2, 100+ trains but run 4-5 at a time.
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Joined: 03/01/2003(UTC) Posts: 5,181 Location: Southern New Jersey, USA
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I run my layout with digital/computer control. I have had 8 loks running at the same time. I am currently modifying my (home grown) control software to allow me to run one lok manually while the others are under computer control. The computer will keep track of where my manual lok is and adjust the others accordingly. I just have to make sure I don't run the manual one into another stopped train. |
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi Ray,
Your solution is very interesting. Can you switch delta control and analog one or must you connect the wiring every time?
Bye bye
Stefano
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Joined: 14/03/2005(UTC) Posts: 15,870 Location: Gibraltar, Europe
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Hi Stefano, No switch. I physically change the Delta controller for the analogue transformer. Just 2 wires to change . The unused controller gets left to one side with the power off. Ray |
Ray
Mostly Marklin.Selection of different eras and European railways
Small C track layout, control by MS2, 100+ trains but run 4-5 at a time.
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi Ray,
Thank you very much for the answer! I want to connect, instead, all the system to a switch.
Best regards
Stefano
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by franciscohg
<br />You can always have analog and digital sections on a layout ...
Stefano: Francisco's advice [:p] is surely the very best way to go if you like BOTH worlds. Time ago I followed his great advice never to regret - level I of my layout is analog, level II is digital Francisco: Visited your site again - WOW, your layout grows just NICELY [:p][:p][:p] !!! John |
I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 06/03/2005(UTC)
Posts: 1,159
Location: The Netherlands
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I have a layout with mainly C track, but also M and K track. I did always use a analog layout, but at present I am rebuilding to digital. The present layout has a minimum space beneath( only 15 cm), which make it difficult to apply wires.
The lighting of houses is seperate, and this I will retain that way. |
Absolutly AFB-NOHAB fan ;-) |
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi John,
I have analog locos, which i'd like to let so and it is the the way because I'd prefer a switching digital/analog system. Anyway, with the old digitl system Märklin requires the rocker insulator n. 38555 (for M-tracks): what about the new Mobile Station?
Best regards
Stefano
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 Joined: 13/10/2004(UTC) Posts: 2,616
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Hi Stefano,
The only thing I know is that the new Systems and "old" digital don't go together.
Guus. |
Kind regards,
Guus |
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by Rocca
<br />Hi John ... I'd prefer a switching digital/analog system
Stefano: I would never mix such cocktail - in case of a "shorty" some of your expensive digital parts can go up in blue smoke ... [xx(] Best Regards John |
I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi John,
Neither I would like to have a "shorty"!!!, so I appreciate very much your suggestion: I'll never mix the system...
Thank you very much for the help
Best regards
Stefano
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by john black
<br />You can always have analog and digital sections on a layout ...
Tell me, John, please!! How are connected level I and level II in your layout?? Best regards Stefano
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Joined: 17/11/2004(UTC)
Posts: 31
Location: ,
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Hi all, I can change my (small) layout from analogue to digital operation by means of one switch. I must admit that most of the time the switch is in the "analogue-mode"  . I agree, you can't compare the level of detailling of the 60's/70's/80's-oldies with the new models. But in operating terms the oldies are unbeatable. Even after +20 years of service they function 100%. And I simply like the sound of any LFCM-loco (or 3015(9) croc!) better then that of any digital loco M. produced over the last 20 or so years. My humble advice: should you spot an old E18 (3023/24) at a swapmeet or 2nd hand shop, go for it. Compare it's running to any newer E18 and you'll know what I mean. Best regards, Hans |
Nothing is better then a solid metal 3015 |
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi Hans,
You are right!!! The sound of the oldies is fantastic...a really good thing.
Best regards
Stefano
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by Rocca
<br />Tell me, John, please!! How are connected level I and level II in your layout??
Stefano: Always wanted both worlds, but the two levels are NOT connected - never were, to avoid any kind of trouble [}:)] !!! More than that, with no acres of space available (whole area is 2,00 meters x 1,5 meters only) construction of two levels was imperative, somehow ... [:I] ANALOG LEVEL I (Ground level): 3 separated track ovals (R1,R2,R3) for 3(4) trains running simultaneously, plus parking lots for 3 additional trains. 4 transformers (#4 feeds the cat above track #3) DIGITAL LEVEL II (Highline, 25cm above level I): A small double oval (R1,R2) for 2 trains running simultaneously, plus parking lots for 2 additional trains and 8 additional locos. Operated by CU6021 & 60VA transformer I'll push the topic with the pictures up for you (same HO Forum), although most of the parking lots still were not built when the shooting took place (some new pictures wouldn't be bad) - but perhaps you get the idea ... [:p] Best Regards John |
I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi John,
Oh!! I know!! I'll plan my level II next days: really wonderful and exciting. It will solve a lot of questions, which were in mine mind..
Best regards
Stefano
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi John,
I see your layout in the forum!! It is very impressive!! Congratulations!!!
Best regards
Stefano
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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Thank you, Stefano - this was my very first try in 2003 (after been without [:0]!!! MRR since 1965 ...). It is nothing, but all technical sections work perfectly well & troublefree, and at least I had the possibility to build a small one just for myself - to play & have fun [:p] !!! The next one - my little Grandson's - will become somewhat better, somewhat bigger, somewhere in the future. Must always look at Alberto's most impressive masterpieces of Antonio's beautyful art - these guys are "The Leonardo da Vincis of Modelrailroading" [:p][:p][:p] ... S I G H ... a new standard - it's sheer unbelieveable how beautyful a layout can be ... Have Fun with your new one John |
I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 14/03/2005(UTC) Posts: 15,870 Location: Gibraltar, Europe
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Hey John,
I just had a look at your layout pics.
What a great way of getting more track into a small space! Your layout measures only slightly wider than mine, but you can run a lot more trains.[^]
I think I'll try to include a separate 2nd level on my next layout, for my analogue locos. Thanks for the Idea.
Ray |
Ray
Mostly Marklin.Selection of different eras and European railways
Small C track layout, control by MS2, 100+ trains but run 4-5 at a time.
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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Thanks, Ray - but the idea came up only when there was no space left anymore Best Regards to The Rock John post scriptum: cool profession - wow  |
I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 14/03/2005(UTC) Posts: 15,870 Location: Gibraltar, Europe
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:post scriptum: cool profession - wow No big deal. It's not as glamorous as it sounds. A bit like Marklin digital control, but with satellites instead of locomotives... and the Central Control is WAY bigger. |
Ray
Mostly Marklin.Selection of different eras and European railways
Small C track layout, control by MS2, 100+ trains but run 4-5 at a time.
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi friends,
I have another question to you, please!! I'm waiting for my Mobile Station, which doesn't arrive, but I would like to know how much long is the cable of the Mobile?
Thank you very much
Stefano
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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About 1,5 meters, Stefano
Best Regards
John
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I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by john black
<br />About 1,5 meters, Stefano
Best Regards
John
Hi John, Thank you very much!! Your answer in very useful for me because I'm organizing my control-desk.... 1.5 meters are perfect for my plans...[:p] Best regards Stefano
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Joined: 22/04/2004(UTC) Posts: 12,139 Location: New York, NY
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Stefano, just measured cable lenghts on two different MS for you: precisely 170cm including plug Have fun with your planning John |
I hope no one visits a poor Southener's layout in Brooklyn. Intruders beware of Gators.
AT&SF, D&RGW, T&P, SP, WP, UP, BN, NYC, ARR, epI-III - analog & digital Marklin Classics only.
CU#6021 FX-MOTOROLA DIGITAL SYSTEM. Fast as lightning and no trouble. What else ...
Outlaw Member of BIG JUHAN's OUTSIDER CLUB. With the most members, worldwide
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Joined: 28/01/2004(UTC) Posts: 632
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Hi John, You are really a gentleman!! Thank you very much Best regards Stefano Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote: Originally posted by john black<br />Stefano, just measured cable lenghts on two different MS for you: precisely 170cm including plug Have fun with your planning John
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