I've been looking at the older Marklin digital controllers of late, and while the 6021 seems to be fetching higher prices than when it was available new of late there seems to be little interest in the original system.

What disadvantages would a 6020-based system have? As I understand it I would need 6020, 6035 and a transformer? I don't have any MFX locos and the only function wagons I have are a 49960 messwagen and the digital version of the six-wheeled crane. Would the original system be able to talk to those? The MS I have at the moment can't control the 49960 anyway, and as I understand it the 6020-based system would enable me to have digital point control and multiple throttles with more power?

The 6020 was production in 1984-1993.

The 6036 control 80 or6036 control 80f (up to five functions) can connect with 6020.

Interesting on ebay?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Ma...rksid=p3286.c0.m14.l1318

Hi Matt,

The # 6020 is just a Central Unit you also need a 6035 to run your trains.
However the # 6020 can be expanded with a Control 80F then you all most have a # 6021.

Martin

Thanks chaps - I've done a little research in the meantime and found I need a 6020/6036 to get function control.

David, I was basing that on the fact that they seem to go for very good money on ebay. This is likely to continue until "Systems" is 100% reliable and people are satisfied with it, as from what I see here a lot of people are reluctant to give up their older controllers with a proven track record.

The other part that appeals about the old equipment (apart from it being a fraction of the cost of a CS) is that you don't have to register locos with the unit. Instead you just type in the address and drive off when a new loco arrives.

Thanks Steven, I was looking at that - might well have a bid if nobody else shows an interest. I can't afford to go over about £60 at the moment so I doubt I'll get it, but older digital oddments such as a lone 6020 do seem to pop up regularly for not a huge amount. I'd have no worries about building up a complete system from parts.

One other query - can 6035/6/6f be mixed to provide extra throttles, and if I do that would the 6036/6f keep the ability to control the extra functions?

Edit, I have also seen Arnold-badged versions of a "Control 80f" that looked identical to the Marklin one. Are these compatible with the Marklin kit? They don't seem to attract much interest when they do come up, presumably as people have no idea what they are!

Thanks Maxi - the Intellibox and CS are right out, it's a case of having a 6020-based setup vs only having an MS. The advantage with a multi-box setup is that I can buy parts when I can afford to and spread the cost out. Plus who doesn't like having a huge bank of buttons and readouts for a control panel? :D

That ebay set has already attracted a bid so will probably go well out of range. Might have a try for the 6043 memory unit though as that would work with either a 6020 or 6021. Would I need a 6040 as well to control points? I understand what the 6043 does, just not sure if it can be used as a straight (digital) point control box.

What do 6041 and 6038 do?

To be honest the ability to have the Messwagen do its thing properly is another big draw - the crane can go on an isolated section controlled by the MS. The MS can't control the Messwagen. Limited slots are not a problem, I intend to have two or three throttles at most.

Do you have a part number for that central control?

A bit of ferreting about should get me a 6020 and the other kit to make it work for under £100. I haven't seen a CS for less than three times that.

Well I won't be paying €50 a box - I see them for about half that on ebay UK.

It may take a while but the bargains are there, and now I know that I can use 6022 and/or the Arnold Control 80f boxes that gives me even more options.

Well I can understand the logic behind the decision of older equipment.

Easier to use, can be fixed loacally instead of sending to Märklin service for most problems, to date more reliable, quicker power on to use time.

I actually went through the process of buying more modules for my 6021 setup and do not regret doing so. I might actually consider he thought of selling my CS and ECOS if I don't feel that it is satisfying my needs and interest. Bells and whistles are not always the best options.

I think you would need a 6040 as well since the 6043 would simply record information or sequences and replay them back when certain buttons are pressed or conditions reported from the S88 reply modules.

The 6041 is identical to the 6040 in purpose of use but the lights and buttons are to be attached extenally so that you can make a track diagram board.

Marklin 6038/6039 - 25" and 72" extension cables for attaching various digital units to one another.

Matt depending on how long you wish to wait I have a 6021 and memory which I do not use. When the new CS is available I will have the old CS for a backup and will sell the 6021 and memory for whatever is within your budget. Both items are as new and complete with books etc.

David

You need one 6040 at least to borrow, in order to program the 6043! But then, a 6040 is not needed, if the buttons on 6043 are sufficient.

Remember, a 6040 can be adressed for any 16-group av point adresses; however, changed only when powering down. So if you have > 16 points, you need more 6040s.

6043 might also need a new battery inside, as it would be old today. I would perhaps not buy it on ebay without checking this. I don't know what battery is needed, but it's use is to remember the programming during power down. All other units are either not programmed or use DIP-switches.

/Lars

For the three items that is a fair price.