Bachmann 36-567 or 36-567A?

[darkscot]

Does anyone know exactly what the 'brake function' on Bachmann Next18 decoders does? All I can find out is that it is for 'realistic control'.

Presumably it simulates slamming the brakes on so the loco comes to a halt, but not a sudden stop?

The next question, is it worth the extra £10+ for this function?

[Walkingthedog]

I very much doubt it is slamming the brakes on, nothing very realistic about that. It slows the loco down in a realistic manner.

[Rog (RJ)]

Nit sure if it applies to this decoder, but some decoders brake harder the longer the brake function is applied.

[darkscot]

I very much doubt it is slamming the brakes on, nothing very realistic about that. It slows the loco down in a realistic manner.

But could this not just be set by adjusting the deceleration rate?

[Walkingthedog]

It says you press F2 to brake the loco.

[Brian]

The Bachmann 36-567A decoder is actually a Zimo MX618-N18 and according to the Zimo web site its is used for.....
"The Motor Brake
This brake is useful for vehicles without worm gears to prevent them from rolling away on inclines, picking up speed
on declines as well as to prevent a heavy train from pushing a standing engine downhill."

[Walkingthedog]

So you actually use F2 as a hand/foot brake.

[RAF96]

It uses a function button to modify the CV4 setting. Usually as Rog says the longer you hold it the harder it brakes, a bit like your car.

[darkscot]

This brake is useful for vehicles without worm gears to prevent them from rolling away on inclines, picking up speed
on declines as well as to prevent a heavy train from pushing a standing engine downhill."

Well that makes a lot more sense than 'Brake Button function for realistic control of braking (operates on F2)', as Bachmann put it. Most places I have looked just seem to sell the version with the brake option, but one local shop has both versions with a £13 difference in price.

As my layout is very flat I think I can live without it.