[batman7]

Is it true that Carrera is going to start selling a digital track with analog racing built in as an option?

[woodcote]

That’s been on people’s wishlists forever. Not heard anything about an official product, but both Tek-Slots and OmniSlotBox have produced a digital/analogue switch in the post. I don’t think either is still available.

The simplest solution is to swap out the digital Control Unit for an Evolution power base. Not ideal for a permanent layout.

[KensRedZed]

Another problem is the lane change tracks need to be switched with criss-cross tracks (and balanced in sets of 2, 4, or 6, etc).

[MrFlippant]

Another problem is the lane change tracks need to be switched with criss-cross tracks (and balanced in sets of 2, 4, or 6, etc).

Why?

[KensRedZed]

I thought lane change tracks would not run properly in analog mode.

[MrFlippant]

I thought lane change tracks would not run properly in analog mode.

Well, they certainly won't operate as lane changers when there is no digital signal to control them, but they work just fine, depending on the specific lane changer type. Double lane changers are no problem at all. Some single lane changers, such as the curved ones, have wiring that bridges the two lanes, and so require a simple wiring modification.
Yes, I am referring to Carrera Digital, and not Scalextric.
But, that's probably one reason they have not, and likely will not, add an analog mode.

Scalextric decided to phase out the curved lane changers entirely.

either way, if you removed the lane changers that had that wiring issue, there's no requirement to put analog X tracks in place of them.

[KensRedZed]

I thought lane change tracks would not run properly in analog mode.

Well, they certainly won't operate as lane changers when there is no digital signal to control them

That was my point. They won't work.

[MrFlippant]

They won't work AS lane changers, but you can still drive over them just fine, so they don't need to be replaced just to run analog cars, is what I'm saying.

[dazee]

My layout previously was set as a hybrid track able to do both digital and analogue racing.  As I recall the main thing needed was a large 4 pole dual throw switch for you to easily swap between the 2.  As had been mentioned earlier you just need to make sure for using cross overs to do so in pairs.  Having said that, one of my cross overs was modified so it could quicly swap out with a straight piece.  This being good for Mr Billy No Mates to have a long circuit covering both lanes for a single lap time attack :)