Digitrax Products

Can the output of the DS44 power more than one slow motion switch machine such as a Tortoise at the same time? No, the DS44 was designed to only drive one slow motion switch machine on each of its four outputs.  Connecting more than one switch machine is not advised and could burn out the DS44.

The DigiGroupSetup utility is in a ZIP file which is provided for Digitrax customer convenience and can be downloaded from our downloads page. Read Me Text File with DigiGroupSetup This utility is provided on an as-is basis for users with a Windows based machine configured to work with this software, and the ability to perform the setup and operation tasks detailed below. Techsupport is not configured to diagnose issues related to operating system, hardware, configuration or other possible problem areas that may cause problems with running these utilities. DigiGroupSetup: This program allows convenient Duplex system setup for any UR92 on ...

DCS50 Zephyr - Quick Start Guide 1. Unpacking Your ZephyrUnpack your box and locate the DCS50 Command Station and the PS315 power supply. 2. Before You BeginBefore proceeding to the next step, make sure the Throttle Knob is turned all the way to “STOP” and the Direction/ Brake lever is set to “BRAKE”. 3. Connecting the Pieces TogetherOn the back of the DCS50, locate the gray screw terminal strip. On this strip, locate the two terminals labeled “RAIL A” and “RAIL B”. Attach your layout track wires to these terminals. It does not matter which is which. 4. Turn on ...

There are 1024 different CVs that have been defined to handle many characteristics you might want to use for your locomotives. Your decoder manual has a complete listing of CVs that are available in specific decoders, what they do and suggested values for each CV. 1. Place the decoder equipped locomotive you want to program on the programming track. If you are using operations mode programming, the loco you want to program can be anywhere on the layout but it must have a decoder that is capable of ops mode programming installed. 2. Enter Program Mode by pressing the PROG ...

Q:  What is the output voltage to the LED's and the inline resistor value. A:  The typical output of the SE8C ranges between 4.5 and 5.0 volts DC; it varies a bit depending on conditions. The signal mast base kit (SMBK) and the terminal strip mounting kit (TSMK), both have 100 ohm resistors built into the base.

The UR92 ships from the factory with the default Duplex Group default radio channel set to 11. You can select channels 11 through 26 for the radio channel. 1. Plug a DT402D throttle into the UR92. 2. Press the EXIT key. 3. Press the OPTN key then the EDIT key. 4. Press the Y / + key to increase the channel number, or 5. Press the N/- key to decrease the channel number. In the example below, we have changed the Group name to JBS&J RR and entered 21 for the channel number. 6. Repeat step 4 or 5 until ...

Configuring the Duplex Group Password The UR92 ships from the factory with the default Duplex Group Password of 0000, the value that disables password requirements. You may have an occasion when operating in a multisystem environment when you may want to restrict access to your layout and operating system via a tetherless Duplex Throttle. The password for your Duplex Group may be activated or changed: 1. Plug a DT402D or DT500D throttle into the UR92. 2. Press the EXIT key. 3. Press the OPTN key then the EDIT key. 4. Enter a 4-digit number using the numbers on the keypad ...

Selecting a locomotive-Safety Selection While unplugged, the DT402 (IR only) and DT402R (IR and Simplex Radio) operate as one-way transmitters. The DT402 and DT402R must be plugged into LocoNet to select an available locomotive address. After an address is selected, you can unplug from LocoNet and run the selected addresses with infrared or simplex radio. The throttle will automatically convert to infrared or simplex radio operation for all speed, direction, function, operations mode programming, and switch commands. The DT402D throttle has full duplex radio capabilities. Once the 402D has been configured to communicate with a UR92, the full functionality of ...

44 pin connectors with screw terminals were originally designed by a company called LWH3.  Their products allow you to install the PM42, BDL168, and SE8C without having to solder to the 44 pin connector.  The product line was sold to Accu-Lites.  These products are available online directly from Accu-Lites at www.acculites.com              

The DT402 Throttle will control up to 29 functions in walkaround and radio modes. When operating in IR Mode the DT402 series throttles will control up to 9 functions (F0-F8). The numeric keypad is always active in the normal Fn operation mode. The functions that are currently on for the active loco will be displayed on the top line of the DT402 display. The following figure shows an example of how the display looks when functions 0 and 1 are turned on for loco 1652 on the R Throttle. Controlling Functions F0-F12 1. Determine which throttle you want to control ...

The mode indicator, located at the bottom center of the LCD, shows the DT402’s current mode of operations. The DT402 automatically defaults to the Fn mode and returns to this mode whenever the EXIT Key is pressed. The Mode indicator usually shows what the numeric keys are associated with. For example, in Fn mode, any entry on the numeric keypad will affect functions. In Sw mode, keypad entries will change turnouts and in Lo mode, entries on the keypad will enter loco address numbers, etc. The following table provides a list of the Mode indication displayed, the mode name and ...

The Track Power indicator on your DT402 display shows the track power status. There is also a Track Status light on your Command Station. If the track power indicator is lit then track power is on. To turn the track power on or off: 1. Press the PWR key on the DT402. You will see a screen similar to the one below. You will now be able to toggle the track power on/off: 2. Press the N/- key to toggle the track power off. The Track Power Indicator on your DT402 and on your Command Station will go off. 3. ...

1. The DT402 handheld has two knobs called the L Throttle (Left) and the R Throttle (Right). The throttles are used for speed control, direction changes, and input of information for operation of your railroad. 2. The row of numbers (0-9) across the top of the display are the functions being used by the active locomotive throttle. 3. The larger numbers in the middle of the screen indicate the speed of the locomotives being controlled by the throttles. 4. The numbers at the bottom of the display are the locomotive addresses, and correspond to the digital decoder that is in ...

1. Plug the DT402 series throttle into any functioning Digitrax LocoNet System or other LocoNet compatible system and you are ready to get started! You can use any LocoNet jack on your system. 2. After you plug the DT402 into your LocoNet, you will briefly see the DT402 splash screen: This screen shows the throttle type: DT402I, DT402R or DT402D and software version number. It is displayed for a few seconds each time you power on the DT402. 3. The DT402D will then momentarily display the Duplex Group name and radio Channel. 4. Next you will see the power indicator ...

For normal tethered operation, the DT402 series throttles do not need a battery. To use your DT402/R/D as an infrared or radio throttle, you must install a 9 volt battery. When you install the battery, the throttle will report the battery voltage then show the last display screen. We recommend that you remove the battery from throttle if it is unplugged from the system to conserve battery life. The battery can be stored inside the DT402/R/D by removing the battery and putting it back in the battery compartment with the polarity reversed. Be careful here, see the diagram below for ...

Zephyr Xtra (DCS51) and Zephyr (DCS50) systems can program Soundtraxx Tsunami decoders using Blast Mode Programming on the Mainline.  Blast Mode Programming will program EVERYTHING sitting on the main line track so, you MUST remove everything from the track that you are not programming or use an isolated piece of track connected to Rail A & B. NOTE: Track power must be ON during Blast Mode Programming.  Blast Mode programming will work with all sound decoders not just Tsunami. You will not be able to read back CVs using Blast Mode Programming.  To use Blast Mode Programming with Zephyr, close ...

Remember, the EXIT Key will take you back to the Fn Mode for Normal Loco Operations.

   Setting the Duplex Group Channel:  1. Connect the DT402D to the front RJ12 jack of any UR92 on the LocoNet.2. On the DT402D press the opTN key and then the EDIT key.  The Group Channel Numer (11-26) will now show in the lower left hand side of the display. 3. Use the Y/+ key to change to a higher channel in the available range of 11 through 26.  The N/- key will change to a lower channel.  4. Press the ENTER key to update the current displayed characters as the new UR92 Duplex Group Channel. To skip making any changes, ...

Setting Duplex Group Name You can use the DT402D to edit the UR92’s Duplex Group name to one you prefer. Note that this change is optional, and the UR92 factory default will always work out of the box.   The Duplex Group Name is stored in non-volatile memory and is remembered even when unpowered or disconnected from your system.   You should have all UR92s connected prior to changing the Group name or they will automatically renegotiate and may change the preferred name to a default.  1. Connect the DT402D or DT500D to the front RJ12 jack of any UR92 ...

Adding UR92s will provide better signal coverage for complex layouts. If you are adding more than one UR92, be sure to connect all of the units before changing the Duplex Group name or channel number or you will have the units automatically re-negotiate these values with each addition. 1. Add the UR92(s) to your LocoNet. (See UR92 Installation articles, below.) 2. After adding extra UR92s, use the DT402D to turn OFF layout track power and then turn track power back ON. This forces all the UR92s to automatically negotiate a common and permanent single Duplex Group name and channel number. ...

Resetting Factory Defaults You are unlikely to encounter a problem that will require a factory reset. One such instance may occur if you set a password for your Duplex Group name and forget what it is. Resetting to factory default condition is an easy way to correct the situation. Note: If you have more than one UR92 in your layout, you will want to disconnect all of them to do a full factory reset on each unit as follows. Once they have been reset, reconnected to your LocoNet, and allowed to renegotiate a common Group name; you can change the ...

Troubleshooting Your Installation To get the best performance out of your duplex radio installation, walk around the layout and check Duplex operation to ensure complete signal coverage. Depending on the layout size and geometry and surrounding materials it is often possible to move the UR92(s) to better cover dead-spots. Experimenting with UR92 location usually will quickly provide a position that is best for most layouts. Note that DT402D orientation and your body position may also affect range and reception. On very large layouts or layouts with problem areas, it is possible to add more than one UR92. Adding extra units ...

Join Your Throttle to the Duplex Group 1. Connect a DT402D Duplex Radio Throttle with an installed battery to the front RJ12 jack of the UR92 for about 2 seconds. 2. Disconnect the DT402D from the LocoNet jack. The DT402D will briefly display an 8 character Duplex Group name and the Channel number being used by the UR92 Group. The actual Duplex Group name is not important at this point, it is simply used by the DT402D to join this Duplex group on its particular Duplex channel (#11 through #26). 3. Now that the DT402D has joined the Duplex group, ...

The UR92 is simple to install and begin using in your new or current layout. 1. In most cases a UR92 should be situated near the physical center of a layout and will typically cover a circle of about 300+ feet (~100 meters) across, which will be adequate for most layouts. Some layouts may require additional UR92s for adequate signal coverage. 2. Connect the PS14 DC power supply to UR92 via the DC power jack on the side. The green and red LEDs should blink and then the red LED should stay on. 3. Connect the UR92 to your working LocoNet ...

How to read back and change BDL168 Option Switches (OpSw): 1. Power up your BDL168 and connect it to LocoNet. 2. Connect a DT series or UT1, UT2 Digitrax throttle to one of the the BDL168's LocoNet connectors. NOTE: The UT4 will not work as its design is different for the original UT series throttles.3. Press the switch behind the red option LED for about 1 second, then release it. The red option and green ID LEDs will flash alternately to let you know that you are in option switch setup mode. 4. Go into SWITCH mode on your throttle. ...

The option switches and settings you can use to customize your BDL168 are indicated in the table below. These option switches on your BDL168 are set up using a Digitrax throttle's SWITCH commands. (This can only be done with a Digitrax LocoNet throttle or equivalent software). SWITCH mode is normally used for operating turnouts by issuing closed ("c") or thrown ("t") commands. In the case of your BDL168, each switch address is a BDL168 option switch. The following table shows what each OpSw is used for when it is set for thrown or closed. Factory settings are indicated by shaded ...

I entered in a locomotive address by accident. Is there a way to clear the recall stack? The only way to clear a particular address that has been stored in the recall stack is to enter additional locomotive addresses so that the address in question "rolls off" the stack.

The BDL168 is designed to be used with power management devices such as PM42. The BDL168 is designed to operate “downstream” of the Digitrax boosters and power management devices. The BDL168 is the "last" device in the chain from booster to power manager to BDL168. It is connected directly to the track detection section. There should be no other connections to any detection section that will draw track power or the detection section will always show occupied. If a device is used to switch off power feeding the BDL168 and the track it is connected to, for example, a PM42 ...

The BDL168 can be used as an autoreversing unit for return loops. One of the BDL168 Detection Sections is connected to the non-reversing area, with the balance of the detection connections being made within the reversing area. Here is a wiring example: Note that an auto-reverse section can only use detection sections that are contained in a BDL168 zone that is correctly set up for auto-reversing.

The BDL168 does not require a heatsink to operate efficiently, however, large scale operations may generate higher heat levels with the BDL168 and you can make your own to add to the unit. The BDL168 design does not include a provision for a heatsink. There is not a kit available for adding on a heatsink, but you can make your own if you believe it necessary for your system. The following drawing will provide the correct measurements to produce a heatsink that will slip in between the two rows of rectifiers on the BDL168 Circuit Board. This will raise the ...

Reducing Sensitivity for Outdoor Layouts Outdoor layouts may require reducing sensitivity to allow for more accurate occupancy reporting through the BDL168. Resistors are connected between the detection zone and the zone common from the blue connector to reduce sensitivity. A 1KOhm resistor will reduce the sensitivity by 1/2. A 100 Ohm resistor will reduce sensitivity by a factor of 10.

Here are several things to check if you are having trouble with the BDL168: Proper Wiring Be sure that you have NOT connected pin 11 to pin M, as this can prevent proper LocoNet communication. Check to make sure not wires are touching adjacent pins.  Follow the wiring diagram closely. Packet Reception Be sure the green ID LED is ON & is “winking” off about every 2 seconds. This means that correctly formatted DCC packets are being decoded from the left most (Railsync) pin of the RJ12 LocoNet socket. For DCC detection, the same DCC packet signal that drives the ...

Railroad & Co. is a suite of computer programs for both digitally and conventionally controlled model railroads. The BDL168 needs to have several Option Switches changed for proper operation with Railroad & Co.'s Train Controller program. Our recommendations are based upon experience with earlier versions of the program: Suggested BDL168 Settings for Railroad & Co. (from European users): OpSw9 = Closed (No message sent if un-powered) OpSw36 = Closed (Ignore GPON) OpSw37 = Closed (Long delays for sensors) OpSw38 = Closed (Extra long delay for sensors) OpSw39 = Closed (Verbose mode enabled) OpSw43 = Closed (Filter for transponding disabled) OpSw45 ...

BDL168 Pin Out Configuration: Notes: 1) All connector pins are paired top (component side of the BDL168) and bottom (solder side of the BDL168) except 11/M and 12/N. For 6 Amp current rating with 3 Amp connector pins, track/zone wires must be connected to both pin pairs: e.g. Zone A = pins 1 & A (See Figure below): 2) Letters G, I, O & Q are not used as pin designations on the connector. 3) Power connections should be made to a power supply dedicated to BDL168 use only. Multiple BDL168 units can be supplied by a single shared supply ...

Common Rail Wiring Many older model railroads use Common Rail wiring because they were initially wired to operate with electrical toggle switches. Conversion to DCC is possible with Common Rail, but it is not recommended. Whole layout common rail is a method of wiring layouts where power districts and their boosters are electrically connected using a common rail or common power bus return wire. Whole layout common rail wiring is a disadvantage when it comes to detection systems since detectors cannot independently monitor whether zone power is on or off so they can't tell whether occupancy detection is working in ...

Direct Home Layout Wiring Digitrax strongly recommends direct home wiring where each power district and its booster are electrically isolated. This method of wiring has safety advantages and makes troubleshooting problems easier. In addition, direct home wiring makes detection work more prototypically. With direct home wiring, the BDL168 can determine and indicate whether any of its 4 zones is powered or not (possibly short-circuited) even when there is nothing on the rails in the detection sections. The BDL168 factory-set logic causes the detection sections to show "occupied" if the associated zone's power is off (because in this case, detection is ...

Here are some terms that you might find useful as you work with the BDL168. Direct home wiring is a layout wiring method where each power district and its booster is electrically isolated. The track within each power district uses a "common return" wiring method for occupancy detection and/or power management. Direct home wiring is the wiring method recommended by Digitrax for safety reasons & also because it makes detection work more prototypically. Power district is the power wiring, track, components and equipment attached to that wiring, driven by a single properly isolated booster. The track for a power district ...

The BDL168 manual states that 2 RX4's can be connected but it only shows how to connect one of them on Aux 2. How is the second RX4 connected? The RX4 is a 4 Zone Transponding Receiver Add-on for BDL16 series occupancy detectors. Each RX4 is made up of 4 RX1 sensors, a ribbon cable and a connector that lets you plug the unit into a BDL16-series detector. The earlier BDL16 and BDL162 occupancy detectors had the capacity for hosting one RX4. BDL16 & BDL162 boards are labeled with AUX1 & AUX2. Only the AUX2 connection should be used for ...

Is it possible to connect my BDL168 across two power districts (Boosters). I envisage using zone 1 & 2, with detection sections 1-8 one one booster (DCS100), with zones 3 & 4, with detection sections 9-16 on another booster (DB150). Will this work? Please refer to the chart below: Note that Pins 1 & A, 6 & F, 13 & P, and 18 & V are identified as "Connection to Booster for Zone *. Each Zone can support up to four detection sections. So, for your application, the DCS100 would be connected to Pins 1 & A and 6 & ...

SW01 to SW08 are inputs that allow a local switch mounted on the layout to operate the slow motion turnout machine. For example, SW01 when connected to the +VE sensor common (Pin 2 in figure) will reverse the voltages on SMTM1A and SMTM1B to change the position of turnout 1. SW02 controls local turnout 2 , etc. For each connection to +VE sensor common the slow motion turnout machine swaps direction and a Switch message is sent to LocoNet to report the new position of the turnout. This local control can be disconnected by setting OpSw 15 to closed, in ...

When the BDL168 is connected to LocoNet, it will communicate coded detection information to the system. If you wish to report BDL168 status to LocoNet and attached devices or computers that can interpret these messages, you will probably want to set up a unique board address for each BDL168. This is done so that the BDL168 Board ID does not conflict with the Board ID of other devices on the railroad. Board addresses can range from 01 to 999. It is recommended that you make a record of the addresses you use for all devices connected to your layout. Setting ...

The Nemo Junction module has a total of seven color light signals that regulate the flow of train traffic through this interlocking plant. Controlling the Signals with SE8C The SE8C is the signal driver, sending current to the various LED's of the color light signals. Each signal is operated via switch commands from the Zephyr. The SE8C has eight Driver Sockets, identified as DRV1 - DRV8. : A Signal Driver Cable (a 10-conductor ribbon cable) is plugged into a SE8C Driver Socket to control as many as four signal heads per Driver Socket. Each signal head can display 4 lighting ...

The TSMK, Terminal Strip Mounting Kit, includes 2 terminal strip boards with resistors for easy installation. The Digitrax Terminal Strip Mounting Kit makes it simple to connect any scale or model signal to the Digitrax signaling system without soldering. Simply connect the wires from the signal to the TSMK’s screw terminals and plug it in to the SE8C’s Signal Driver Cable. Using the Terminal Strip circuit boards You can attach any of a variety of types of model signal masts in any scale you choose to the Terminal Strip Mounting Kit. The Terminal Strip Mounting Kit has 10 screw terminals ...

Running the PR3 and PR3 Xtra with JMRI on MAX OS X. 1) Plug in the Digitrax PR3 to a USB port on an Intel-based Apple computer running MAC OS version 10.5 or later.  Within about a second the Green "USB" led on the PR3 should glow steady green showing a USB connection has been established with the MAC. 2) Open system profiler or About This Mac and under hardware>USB there should be a entry "Vcom" showing that the USB port has enumerated OK. This optional step is simply to check the PR3 device was found.3) Go to JMRI sourceforge ...

Note: If the PR3 driver installation process fails, you will have to uninstall the VCOM USB driver before attempting reinstallation. We suggest using a utility called USBDeview for this purpose.  It is available for download from: http://www.nirsoft.net/utils/usb_devices_view.htmlThe process is simple, run the USBDeview program, location the VCOM driver in the list and right click to uninstall. Disclaimer The software is provided "AS IS" without any warranty, either expressed or implied, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. The author will not be liable for any special, incidental, consequential or indirect damages ...

Detection Section Inputs DS01 to DS08 (see below) are inputs from occupancy detectors that provide at least +5V (max 22V) when occupied, and 0V when unoccupied. The SE8C sends occupancy messages to LocoNet when these inputs change. If these detection section inputs are not disconnected, they will report “unoccupied”. Occupancy reporting can be turned off by changing OpSw 13 to closed.

I'm looking to wire Tortoise switch machines on a DS64. When the track switch is thrown I want to power 1 color light (non-LED). When the track switch is closed, power a different colored light. Is this possible using the DS64 inputs or the Tortoise connections? The DS64 does not have separate connections for indicator lights for trackside or for a control panel. However, indicator lights can still wired to work with the DS64. Tortoise or other slow motion swith machines can be wired in two different ways. If using LEDs, a two leg, bipolar LED can be connected in ...

If you want to reset the SE8C to its factory settings, follow this procedure: No track power is required for testing, but you will need a working LocoNet connection and throttle, or a PC running DCC control software that is connected to LocoNet. a. Press and hold the Option Button until the red LED starts to blink. b. Release the button, the red and green LEDs will blink alternately indicating that you are in Option Switch programming mode. c. Go into SWITCH mode on your throttle or PC. d. Select Switch 20. e. Close and then Throw the switch to ...

We recommend testing your new SE8C prior to installation on your layout. The following testing procedures will help familiarize you with the general operation of the SE8C. Track power needs to be ON, a working LocoNet connection and a throttle or PC running DCC control software. Pre-Installation Set-Up 1. Solder one wire from a 12V AC or 15V DC power supply to Pin 3 and the second wire from the power supply to the Pin C on the 44-Pin edge connector; this powers the SE8C. Digitrax manufactures the PS14, which is appropriate for this installation. Multiple SE8Cs can be powered ...

The LOCO Key is used for selecting loco addresses on to the throttles so that the address is controlled by the throttle. Sometimes people call this “assigning locos to throttles.” DT100, DT200, & DT300 series throttles used the SEL or SET/SEL Keys for this throttle task.

The DS64 is a powerful stationary decoder that can be used to control different devices on your railroad. It can be used on both command control and analog model railroads. The DS64 is configured by the settings of different Option Switches (OpSw's), listed below: OpSw01 - Solenoid or slow motion devices OpSw02 - Pulse Timeout, 200ms OpSw03 - Pulse Timeout, 400ms OpSw04 - Pulse Timeout, 800ms OpSw05 - Pulse Timeout, 1600ms OpSw06 - Output Auto Power Up OpSw07 - Factory-default Reset OpSw08 - Regular/Extended Startup Delay OPSw09 - Timeout Option OpSw10 - Throttle/Computer Option OpSw12 - Sensor Input Option OpSw13 ...

The installation instructions indicate that a PS14 be used to power the PM42. Is it necessary that I cut the wire from the PS14 so that is can be attached it to the 44-pin connector, or is there a male adapter available for the connection? Yes, currently you will need to cut the wire, strip the ends and solder them to the edge connector of the PM42. Please see the related articles below. Which lead from the PS14 is to be soldered to terminal 3 on the 44-pin connector and which is to be soldered to terminal C? The PM42 ...

What Digitrax decoders work in the new Athearn N scale FP45? We recommend the DN163K1C, following the procedure below. One of our editors was able to successfully install both the Digitrax DN163K1B and DN163K1C decoders in the unit. We have determined that the chassis design requires that the decoder be installed backwards. The only problem this poses is that one additional step has to be taken when programming. Both the DN163K1B and DN163K1C decoders are the same footprint with the exception of the LEDs. The DN163K1B has T-1 3mm LEDs and DN163K1C has surface mount LEDs. When the K1B version ...

If you want to change the address or other settings of your locomotive decoders, you must set up a programming track. It is very important that the rest of your railroad can be isolated from the DB150 and the programming track when you are programming a locomotive. Decoders are programmed when the DB150 command station sends programming information to them through the rails. There are two basic ways of programming decoders. Service mode programming broadcasts a message to all DCC equipped locos that are on the track. Because this is a broadcast method, you will need to set up a ...

Shutting Down the System When you are finished with your sessionDispatching All Locomotive Addresses Some users prefer to “dispatch” or release all addresses active in their system before shutting down. This can prevent unexpected results when you power up the layout again. 1. Turn track power off: Press the PWR Key followed by the N - Key , the Track Power Indicator on the DT400 and the Track Status Indicator on your command station will go off. 2. Move the DB150 command station’s “MODE” switch to the “SLEEP” position. 3. Turn off the power supply to the system. Leaving the ...

How To Turn Track Power On and Off with the DT400 series throttle Turn track power on: Press the PWR Key, then press the Y + Key and the Track Power Indicator on your DT400 series display and on your command station will come on solid. If the track power indicator is blinking, press the Y+ key again to make it solid. Turn track power off: Press the PWR Key , then press the N - Key . The Track Power Indicator on your DT400 series and on your command station will go off. To Exit: Exit PWR mode by pressing the ...

The DT400 series’ Track Power Indicator and the DB150’s track status indicator show whether track power is on or off. The first time you plug in your DT400 series throttle, track power will usually be off. To run trains, you will need to turn on the track power. Look at your DB150 and/or DT400 series to determine whether the track power is on or off. 1. When track power is off: DB150 TRACK STATUS indicator is off DB150 OFF LINE indicator is on and DT400 series Track Power Indicator is off (Track Power Indicator is a small dot in the top line on ...

The actual track voltage supplied by the DB150 can be adjusted. To do this, you must open the DB150 case (this will not void your warranty). 1. Open the DB150 case. Remove the black screws on the top and bottom of the case and slide the gray front panel off. Be careful to avoid disturbing components other than the ones described below. 2. Locate the small yellow trimmer potentiometer behind the LocoNet B Jack and Scale Switch. 3. Use a small screwdriver to turn the potentiometer clockwise to increase the scale voltage setting. Turn it counter clockwise to decrease the ...

The front panel of the DB150 Super Empire Builder has electrical connection points, indicator lamps, LocoNet connections and toggle switches which give status indications, configure and connect the unit for your railroad. Power Input The two “POWER IN” terminals on all Digitrax boosters & command stations are the power input connections. Please see the related articles about power requirements for the DB150. Power Supply Digitrax recommends the PS515 power supply to power the DB150. There are many other transformers and power packs that can supply the input power for the DB150. Check with your Digitrax dealer for suggestions. Most regular ...

These instructions will get you up and running quickly. A full description of all controls and technical reference information are included later in this section of the Tech Support Depot. This section assumes that you are using a new set straight out of the box. If your set is radio equipped, we recommend that you follow this quick start guide without using radio to learn the basics. When you are successfully running your radio throttle tethered to the system, then go to the DT400 series tetherless overview article to learn how to install the radio option. Connect the DB150 to the ...

Your Super Empire Builder Starter Set contains: The DB150, which is the system’s DCC command station. It generates the DCC signals that control decoders and other devices on your layout. The DB150 is also a DCC booster. Boosters receive DCC signals from the command station, amplify them and put them on the track along with the power from the transformer to run the locomotives. You can have several boosters on your layout to provide additional power to run more locos. Depending upon the set, there is either a DT402 or DT402D (duplex radio throttle), which is the DCC throttle that ...

What is the difference between boosters and power management? A Booster is the device that provides the electrical power to the railroad. Most Digitrax command stations have a combined booster. The command station generates the DCC signal then sends it through a booster to the layout. A small model railroad may only have the command station and booster, while a large railroad will have numerous boosters. Multiple boosters provide more power to larger layouts.Additional boosters receive the DCC signal from the command station via LocoNet. Power management usually refers to the devices which act as circuit breakers and power distributors. ...

Can I use the DS64 to power frogs in Atlas turnouts with solenoid ( code 83 ) type switch machines? No, the DS64 does not have internal contacts to provide power to the frogs. This could be done by using a switch machine with its own contacts; these have been made by NJ International, Tenshodo, PFM and others. Another alternative would be to use the Atlas Snap Relay. The Snap Relay is a solenoid device like the switch machine, but instead of throwing the turnout, it throws a set of electrical contacts. The relay is wired in parallel to the switch machine, ...

Will the UT4R operate on an Infrared System also as well as a radio frequency? Yes, the UT4R & DT400R will operate on IR systems as well as radio systems.

I have a 4x8 H0 scale layout.  I'm 13 years old and REALLY thinking about switching to DCC, I need to know really fast because I want to ask my parents to get it for Christmas.You wouldn't know by looking at those who edit the Tech Support Depot, but there actually was a time when we too were thirteen, and just starting out in model railroading.  In many ways, we still are thirteen years old; we just can't move as fast.  Consider this photograph from our youth: This little bit of ancient model railroad history dates back to the 1950's, ...

Q: If my layout is experiencing short because of a thrown switch, how can you reset the switch using DCC? Many Digitrax operators use the PM42 Power Manager, which provides protection to four power sub-districts. One segment of the PM42 is used to control track switch power, with the balance being used for train power. When the inevitable happens and a train runs into a thrown switch, resulting in a short, the PM42 shuts down the track power in that segment, while the track switch power is maintained, allowing you to throw the offending switch. Because the PM42 isolates only ...

I would like to use a Tomar Searchlight Signal such as model # 858. It has three color LED for each head. The SE8C manual shows the wiring example for bi-color LED signals. Is the SE8C able to control the three color LED signals as well? The bi-pole LED's can be used to produce a yellow "Approach" indication. The SE8C sends an AC signal to the LED, alternately lighting both the red and green sides to make a yellow (or "amber") Indication. Please see below: "A2" is connected to produce an approach (yellow) indication. You may find that the yellow ...

My question is: How do I mount the PM42? Do I need a special housing in order to mount it under table? It appears to me that mounting it flush against a surface would prevent, or make it extremely difficult, to attach the 44-pin connector. Digitrax manufactures three devices which have a 44-pin connector. These are the BDL168 (and its predecessor the BDL16), the SE8C and the PM42 (and its predecessor, the PM4). These best approach to mounting these devices is to screw the connector directly to the wiring panel board. Drill mounting holes in the end of the 44-pin ...

If the DB200+ booster shuts down frequently: 1. Move the DB200+ so that the heat sink has a flow of cool air. 2. Place the DB200+ out of direct radiant heat like sunshine or a room heater. 3. Try direct cooling by using a small fan to blow cool air onto the heat sink. 4. Lower the track load current. 5. Reduce the input voltage from the transformer. If the DB200+ beeps 4 times and shuts down briefly and then comes back on again, it is probably being run too close to its pre-set current limit. To solve this problem, ...

To make the DB200+ an Auto Reversing Booster follow the following steps: 1. Remove input power from the DB200+ by turning off the Input Power Supply. 2. Move the Mode Switch to the center P/R or OP position 3. Restore power to the DB200+ by turning on the Input Power Supply. Use the below diagram as a guide to configuring the DB200+ for Reverse Loops. Please note that for Auto Reverse applications the DB200+'s Mode Switch is set to the center P/R or OP position. Also note the DB200+ connections to the track- the DB200+ track connections are NOT directly ...

Installation Notes: 1. Do not exceed the decoder’s 500mA total function output rating. 2. If you plan to use functions F1 (traditionally a green wire) or F2 (traditionally violet), the return, also called +Common or Lamp Common, should be made via a wire carefully soldered to the Common (or blue) pin indicated as shown in Figure1. 3. To use a function output with an inductive (coil) type load, you must install a kick-back suppression diode across the connections. If controlling a coil type load, such as an electromechanical relay or motor, shutting the device off can cause an inductive kick-back ...

Can the DS52 be powered directly from a 13.8 v DC external power supply instead of the rails? No. Screw Terminals 4 & 5 are used to not only supply power to the DS52 from the track but also are the path that is used to both program the DS52 and to operate the DS52 via a throttle or computer program.

My signals are supplied with current limiting resistors and require 12v max to operate. What are the voltage outputs from the SE8C and does this differ depending on the supply (15V AC or 12V DC). The output voltage is 5 volts, regardless of the input power. It is powerful enough to drive LED's, but it cannot handle incandescent lamps.

The actual track voltage supplied by the DB200 can be adjusted. To adjust the track voltage, you must open the DB200 case (this will not void your warranty). 1. Remove the DB200 input power & disconnect all DB200 leads. 2. Remove the two screws on the top and bottom of each side of the case. 3. Slide the gray front panel off the DB200. 4. Be careful to avoid disturbing components other than the ones described below. 5. Locate the small yellow trimmer potentiometer behind the LocoNet B Jack and Scale Switch. 6. Use a small screwdriver to turn the ...

Digitrax boosters have maximum output current limits of either 5 or 8 amps. The actual continuous output current that your booster will provide to the layout depends on several factors including the input supply voltage, the ambient room temperature and air flow over the booster's heat sink. Higher input voltages increase the amount of heat that must be dissipated by the booster's heat sink. If the heat sink does not get enough air flow to allow for heat dissipation, the booster will eventually reach an over temperature state and shut down. A small fan blowing across the heat sink on ...

The DS64 is a powerful stationary decoder. If you have tried to program this stationary decoder and are having problems, there are several things that you can do before contacting Tech Support for further help. Is the DS64 receiving enough power? The DS64 can be powered in several different ways. Although it is possible to power the DS64 from track power, this has been a source of problems for many operators due to low voltage. This typically arises on a railroad that is using power in excess of the capacities of its power supplies. Have you programmed all four addresses ...

Here at the Tech Support Depot, it has been our goal to improve operators' understanding of the Digitrax system of model railroad command control. We often see thoughtful words from others who are not employed by Digitrax that still have an in-depth understanding of the product line. Here, Doug Stuard talks about the UR91; these words originally appeared on the Yahoo Groups Digitrax discussion list, and are used here with his kind permission. UR91 and Throttle Antenna The UR91 antenna is the pair of 3" wires that sprout from the PC board that are arranged in a "V" similar to ...

We have designed a layout at my place with double main line with reverse loop at each end. Plus there is a branch line with two reverse loops that in one loop is connected to the main line. The main lines stay double track even at the split. The branch stays single with only one connection with the main. My plans where to use the AR1 for all my reverse loops and the PM42 for my power control. What if any problems do you see with all these loops? Nothing, if you can guarantee that at any given time only ...

What are the different operational modes available in the PR3? The PR3 is the combination of two previous Digitrax devices: the PR2 decoder programmer and the MS100 LocoNet to computer interface. The PR3 can be configured through manual (control panel buttons) or automatically (software) means to perform any one of the following three operations: a) The PR3 can be configured to function as a stand alone decoder programmer. In this mode the PR3 can program the configuration variables of most DCC decoders and the sound effects of the Digitrax Sound FX sound decoders. b) The PR3 can be configured to ...

Will the PR3 and SoundLoader software work on systems with specifications other than those listed in the PR3 manual? The beta testers have reported that the PR3 with SoundLoader software, DigiMon software, and IPL software have been found to work on many desktop and laptop computers running Windows 2000 and Windows XP with Processors as slow as 450mhz, Ram memory as little as 128mb, and USB 1.1 Ports. The beta testers cannot confirm that every computer with the above limitations will function properly with the PR3 and SoundLoader software.

Under what conditions can the PR3 be used as a Stand Alone LocoNet Terminator? The PR3 is so designed so that it can be configured to act as a stand alone LocoNet controller in the event that a Digitrax command station is unavailable for the control of a series of LocoNet compatible devices. There are two major situations that would require the PR3 to act as a stand alone LocoNet controller. The first situation is where one of the many advanced features offered by the LocoNet and the various LocoNet compatible devices is desired to be used on a layout ...

What are the most common applications for the PR3? 1) Stand alone Sound FX programmer As a bench tool the PR3 is the first USB and second device designed by Digitrax for the programming of the SoundFX sound decoder. The PR3 does write to and read from the sound patterns of any SoundFX sound decoder. In addition the PR3 can write to and read from any CV of most current non sound mobile and function decoders found in today's market place. 2) Digitrax command station LocoNet to Computer interface As a layout control tool the PR3 is a second generation ...

Just wondering if i can get clarification regarding using the PR3 as a standalone Loconet Terminator. The "LocoNet termination" mode of the PR3 allows the unit to connect to other modules without needing a command station, when there is no requirement for DCC track packets. In this mode you can interface to a PC and add units like DS64's with control of turnouts and detection (BDL168) and signals (SE8) without needing to run DCC track control or decoders. Running off e.g. JMRI or RR+Co is a good and intended usage.

If a Zephyr has been switched to run as a booster/throttle (no command function), can it still be used to program locomotives on the programming track? No, when using the DCS50 as a booster, the programming outputs are disabled. Programming is a function of the command station only, so when the Zephyr is toggled to booster mode, it loses the programming function. If a Zephyr has been switched to run as a booster, does the throttle still work? Yes, but you must assign an unique throttle ID to the Zephyr which is acting as a booster. Assigning Throttle Identities To ...

How can I connect my PR3 programming output to an existing programming track on my layout that is already set up for programming and mainline operations? Install a non shorting multi position rotary switch between a isolated section of track, 4-6” longer than your longest engine, and the various desired outputs from command stations and the PR3 output terminals. The following schematic allows a single section of track to be fed by the rail output of a command station, the programming track output of a command station, and the programming output of a PR3. To add other third party decoder ...

I'm helping a friend rewire an existing layout from analog to digital. You might be familiar with the layout, it is the original Clinchfield layout that Model Railroader built back in the late seventies, believe it or not. The layout, of course, is blocked for analog through DPDT switches which have been eliminated. I was able to repair the wiring back to original using the drawings that MR printed. The layout uses common rail wiring, this is what I have to work with, and to rewire using home run wiring would be a MAJOR rework, not doable. I was able ...

The Mode Switch: The Mode Switch next to the Green LED is used to toggle back and forth between MS-100 mode and PR2 Programmer Mode. The Green LED will wink once per second if in the MS-100 Mode or toggle every second when in the PR2 sound programming mode. The Loconet Termination Switch: The switch next to the error LED is used only in MS-100 mode to activate the Loconet current source termination feature. This switch is active ONLY when a command station is NOT connected to the Loconet and the red LED is solid on indicating there is no ...

SoundLoader and PR3 have been tested to work on PC compatible computers running at 550MHz and up with Windows XP or Vista, 512MB of RAM. Other combinations of hardware and software such as Windows 98 may also work, but are not supported by Digitrax, and have not been tested to operate properly. Installation consists of three steps: Hardware installation, software installation, and software setup. Below is a photograph of the actual hardware connections required for SoundFX programming. Assemble the PR3 hardware as shown in the diagram below and connect to an appropriate power supply (Digitrax PS14 or equivalent). Note the ...

When the PR3 is powered up and properly operating, the green ‘USB’ light on the PR3’s control panel will be blinking steadily and the red ‘STAT’ will be blinking momentarily. Make sure the supplied SoundLoader Installation CD is inserted in your PC's CD player. Plug the PR3’s USB cable into a vacant USB socket on your PC . Depending on which operating system you have on your PC, you will next see a dialog box appear on your PC’s monitor. The procedure we document in the following pages is for Windows XP, if you have Windows Vista®, Windows 2000®, or ...

My club uses UT4R radio throttles. At the end of the session they ask that the battery be reversed in the throttle housing to "extend battery life". This effectively reverses the polarity of the battery in the throttle. Is this step necessary? Is there any drain on the battery when the throttle is not in use? If there is a drain, should the battery then be removed for storage? So my question is: How should you store a UT4R so as not to drain the battery when the throttle is not being used? The throttle batteries will indeed drain if ...

The first Digitrax system to use LocoNet was Big Boy. Each Big Boy system came with a LocoNet Adapter 1 (LA1) or LocoNet Adapter 2 (LA2). Documentation for these units was minimal, but is included here. LA1 LA-1 came with a simple card: LA-1 LocoNet Adapter Use this cable to connect your DB100 to your DT200 command station unit and to your LocoNet command bus. The LA-1 allows you to connect more than one throttle to your Big Boy System. You only need one LA-1 in a Big Boy System. If you are upgrading to Big Boy from Challenger, you ...

Can the UT4 or UT4R be set to have its own unique throttle ID like the DT300/DT300R and DT400/DT400R? There are several uses for this functionality, including it being useful when looking at logs of LocoNet traffic from PanelPro/DecoderPro when trying to diagnose problems and identify potentially faulty throttles. This from A. J.: Each UT4 has a unique ID programmed as serialization at manufacture, and is distinguishable from DT400's etc. The UT4 has values of EX1 as {x74/x75} in the LocoNet messages with EX2 equal to the unit factory serial number.

Setting up your new Zephyr: Unpack the DCS-50 command station and the PS-315 power supply. On the back of the DCS-50,locate the gray screw terminal strip.On this strip, locate the two terminals labeled “RAIL A “and “RAIL B”.Attach these terminals to your track wires.It does not matter which is which. Before proceeding to the next step,make sure the throttle knob [1] is turned all the way to “stop” and the direction/brake lever [2] is set to”brake”. [See photo blelow]. Now, find the plug on the back of the DCS-50 marked “POWER IN, 15 VAC, 2.5 AMPS”. This is where you ...

To get the most out of your SoundFX decoders you'll need an internet connection in order to get to the Sound Depot website (digitrax.com/sounddepot). For the casual user, access to the Sound Depot site will let you download new Project files that other users have customized. So if you want to change your loco's factory default GP38-2 sound project, and another user has previously uploaded a GP38-2 sound project file with something special, perhaps a different horn configuration, you can do it. It's easy: Just go to the Sound Depot and download the desired new sound project file or use ...

What happens when I select a loco that is currently running at a different speed than the throttle is set to? example... running loco 'a' at half speed then switch to loco 'b' does loco 'b' suddenly change speed to half throttle? (which is the last position the knob was indicating for loco 'a' this would make for a nice crash if I planned on backing loco 'b' out of a siding, and it goes forward instead at 50% right into a bumper) You're right, when switching the loco 'b', the newly selected locomotive would be commanded to operate at ...

Will the Zephyr support a fast clock? Yes. Because Zephyr is fully equipped with LocoNet, it will work with LocoNet based fast clocks.

I have a Zephyr control station and I would like to set up a Braking District as shown in your PDF sheet in the Basic DCC issue section; you show a DCS100 connecting through a modified LocoNet cable to a DBxxx booster -- can this same setup be used with a Zephyr system? No. The braking district described here uses Super Chief and a second booster to create a braking district. Super Chief is configured by toggling OpSw47 and connecting it to a second booster that is properly configured. Because Zephyr does not have an available OpSw47, and because there ...

I am thinking of buying your "Radio Equipped Super Chief Premium Set", and I understand it is recommended that I use the PS-515 as a power supply. Your product specifications for the PS-515 say that it should be plugged into a wall outlet (AC 120V, 60Hz). I live in Japan and the AC power supply is 100V and 50Hz. I wonder if this difference in voltage and frequency poses any big problem in using a "Radio Equipped Super Chief Premium Set" here in Japan. The lower voltage input is not related to the voltage output necessary for the Super Chief ...

Is it possible to add a pair of PM42 Power Management Modules between the command station Rail A/Rail B outputs and run the resulting output from the PM42's on as many as 8 sets of Rail A/Rail B Wires to 8 isolated power Zones? These isolated power zones could have their Common Zone (Rail A) Wires running through RX1 transponding receivers connected to an RX4 ribbon cable running to the BDL168 for the purpose of interfacing with the SurroundTraxx Multi-Train Sound System. If this is possible, it would only require 5-6 of the DS lines on the BDL168 to be ...

What does SLP mean on the DCS50? The "slp" message on the DCS50 means that the unit thinks it is temporarily in sleep mode. This may occur if the LocoNet data line is grounded for more than 1/8 of a second. You may initially try to exit Sleep Mode by cycling the "Exit" key on the DCS50, or powering down and repowering the unit. If this problem continues, you must check your LocoNet for a shorted connection.

  Zephyr Xtra                             Super Empire Builder Xtra                            Super Chief Xtra                                                Command Station DCS51 DB150 DCS100 Current Rating 3 Amps 5 Amps 5 Amps or 8 Amps Throttle DCS51 DT402 DT402 Throttle Controls Single Knob, Direction Switch Dual click encoder throttles Dual click encoder throttles Function Control F0-F29 F0-F29 F0-F29 Keypad Full Numeric Keypad Full Numeric Keypad Full Numeric Keypad Display Large LED Multi-line Backlit LCD Multi-line Backlit LCD Throttle Capacity 20 22 120 Loco Capacity 20 22 120 Loco Address Range 00-9000+ 00-9000+ 00-9000+ Stationary Address Range 01-999 00-999 00-999 Turnout Position Reporting Yes, last command sent Yes, last ...

The UT4 series, UT4, UT4D & UT4R are "traditional" style throttles.  The UT4s were developed from a specification submitted by Digitras users through the Digitrax Yahoo group. These throttles were designed by operators for operators.  They are also great for beginners because of their intuitive controls and reduced feature set. By not offering all the bells and whistles, beginners can run your railroad without accidentally changing settings that might cause problems.   Works with any LocoNet compatible system   4-Digit addressing   Functions F0 - F12 for lighting and sound decoder operation   Direction switch with center brake position   ...

  Digitrax DCS50 (Zephyr) Operating Instructions by Dan Bourque   v1.0 Selecting a locomotive or consist 1.         Press the “LOCO” key (display will flash) 2.         Enter the address of the locomotive or consist - For a consist, the address will normally be the lead locomotive             - For a 3-digit locomotive number, use “0” for the first digit 3.         Press the “LOCO” key again (display will stop blinking) 4.         Move the direction selector on the throttle to either “Forward” or “Reverse” 5.         Move the speed knob until train moves   Dispatching (releasing) a locomotive or consist 1.         ...

I was wondering if I could use an output on the DS64 to momentarily apply power to a Kadee #309 electric uncoupler? OpSw 02, 03, 04, &05 closed would give me a 3 second pulse. The Kadee uncoupler may require as much as 3 Amps @ 22 Volts. So, what is the current carrying capacity of the outputs on the DX64 [sic] ? What is the maximum DC voltage I can apply to terminals AX1 and AX2? The DS64 can accept 12-16 volts AC or DC on the rear modular jack or 12-16 volts DC on the  AX1 (-) / ...

Why does the DS64 generate multiple output pulses for a single command? I get between 2 and 5 pulses over a period of about 2 seconds. Option Switch 01 determines the type of turnouts that you can operate, static or pulse. The Factory default is for "Pulse". Option Switches 02, 03, 04, and 05 set the pulse length. OpSw 02 = Closed the pulse width is 200ms (milliseconds). OpSw 03 = Closed, the pulse width is 400ms. OpSw 04 = Closed, the pulse width is 800ms. OpSw 05 = Closed, the pulse width is 1600ms. All, or any combination of ...

  Digitrax UT4D Throttle Operating Instructions by Dan Bourque   v1.0 Selecting a locomotive or consist 1.         Dial the 4-digit locomotive address into the “LOCO ADDRESS” dials             - For a consist, the address will normally be the lead locomotive             - For a 3-digit locomotive number, use “0” for the first digit 2.         Press the “SEL” key, the ST light on the throttle should flash green 3.         Move the direction selector on the throttle to either “R” or “F” 4.         Move the speed knob until train moves 5.         For headlight, press the “F0” key (“F3” will ...

The DH165Q1 is set up at the factory to control six function outputs. The DH165Q1 is configured to control the forward-headlight F0F/white lead and reverse-headlight F0R/yellow lead for directional lighting. These two headlight function leads are current regulated for LEDs or lamps, with factory setting of approx 15mA, with no resistors required. Cut the ADJ link to increase headlight current to approx 30mA- see fig 5. Functions F1 (Green), F2 (Violet), F3 (Brown) and F4 (White/Yellow) are full track voltage and can be used by soldering a wire from the pad for the function you wish to use to the ...

I've recently purchased a DCS50 system to run my HO trains. Since I'm new to the hobby I'm throughly confused on what parts I need to wire my 4 x 8 foot track to my control box. How many feeder lines do I need and what size do you recommend, and how do I hook these up to my control box? What size does bus wire do I need and how do I connect all this to my system? So far, all the articles just make recommendations general terms without specifics. I have purchased 2 terminal clips but have yet ...

Installation of the SFX004/SFX006 SoundBugs into a DH165-Series decoder is easy, but it does require some care. The SoundBug must be properly oriented to the decoder. Here, the DH165L0: Here, an installation in a Proto1000 DL-109. In this orientation, the SoundBug sockets are to the right on the DH165L0 decoder: The SoundBug is plugged into the sockets of the DH165L0 decoder: Because the DL-109 is a diesel locomotive, it will not need the white synchronization wire. Everything is fitted into place. The SoundBug is shipped with a small piece of foam to protect the pins of this decoder. You may ...

DH165L0 fits Life-Like GP7, SD60 and many other locos with Life-Like DCC medium plug arrangement. 1. Remove locomotive shell, noting the orientation of the circuit board inside. (See Figure 1) 2. Unplug the the manufacturer’s DCC socket from the pins on the factory board. Remove the two screws that hold the board in place. (See Figure 2) Lift out the factory board and save the two screws for future use. 3. Insert the locomotive’s DCC socket onto the pins on the Digitrax DH165L0 decoder board. In this orientation, Pin 1 (the orange wire) is the lower left pin and Pin ...

ENGINE SELECTIONPlace locomotive on the tracks controlled by the command station.1. Turn the throttle knob you want to run a loco on about a quarter turn (this lets the controller know you want to address that side.)2. Push the "Sel" Button3. Turn the throttle knob you have selected until the left numbers of the display match the locomotive number you wish to run. (No decoder = 00)4. Push "Sel" again.5. Repeat for the other throttle.If the number "33" appears it means that locomotive is unavailable (usually under the control of another throttle)These simplified DT100 operating instructions courtesy of Alan Mitchell

MU OPERATION Place the two units you wish to MU on the tracks controlled by the command station 1. Select the lead locomotive on the right side throttle  2. Select the engine to be added on the left side throttle 3. Make sure all the locomotives in the consist are traveling in the same physical direction. The direction lights may or may not be the same (green or red) depending on the orientation of the locomotives in the consist (head to head or tail to tail). 4. Push "mode" Button 2 times 5. The display should now show both locomotive numbers. 6. ...

What are the physical dimensions of the BD4 Quad Occupancy Detector? The longest dimension is 3.48 inches. The shortest dimension is 1.03 inches. Height at bridge rectifiers .842 inches and the height with the block monitor installed is 1.062 inches. Remember to allow for wire clearance at the screw terminal end (for the block detection wires) and also allow for vertical clearance for the DS1 and LED1 plug connections at the other end.

There are times when it is necessary to reset the Super Empire Builder. Because this is a system reset, there are special instructions: There are different levels of system reset. OpSw 36: Clears all mobile decoder information, including locomotive consists. OpSw 38: Clears the locomotive roster (such as when you receive a "slot=max" error report). OpSw 39: Full reset, clears all internal memory states. The factory default setting for all DB150 option switches is t or "thrown" The Initial Procedure 1. Determine which DB150 option switch you want to change, 36, 38 or 39. 2. Move the Mode toggle switch on ...

The DB150 has many customizable system operation options that you can set. The DB150's power up defaults are fine for most applications and the DB150 will run just fine right out of the box. These options are provided for those individuals who want more flexibility in setting up their operations. The factory default setting for all DB150 option switches is t or thrown except for 5, 17, 25, 33 and 34 which are closed ("c"). Changing DB150 Option Switches 1. Consult DB150 Option Switch Table to determine which DB150 option switches you want to change. 2. Move the right toggle switch on the ...

  Option switches are used to change the operation of the DB150. Option Switch # Effect on system when Option Switch “c” closed Default OpSw 02 Booster Only override t OpSw 03 DB150’s booster is auto reversing t OpSw 05 Default closed for command station –DO NOT CHANGE- c OpSw 13 Loco purge time extended from 200 seconds to 600 seconds t OpSw 14 Loco purging is disabled t OpSw 15 Purging will force loco to Stop or 0 speed t OpSw 17 Automatic advanced decoder assisted [FX] consists are disabled c OpSw 18 Extend the DB150 booster short circuit ...

If the DB150 beeps 5 times and shuts down briefly and then comes back on again. It is probably being run too close to its pre-set current limit. To solve this problem, reduce the track current load by setting up additional power districts to provide more total power for the layout. In this case excess current consumption may clip or mutilate some outgoing packets to keep the track current within acceptable limits.

What are the power requirements of a SE8C? Any power supply that can provide 12-15 volts either AC or DC with a minimum current rating of 100 ma is all that is necessary to power a single SE8c. Digitrax recommends the PS14 for powering the SE8c. A single PS14 has the ability to power two SE8c’s. When connecting multiple SE8c’s to a single power source the total maximum current requirement of the power source is computed by multiplying the number of SE8c modules by 100 ma (Example: 3 SE8c’s would require a 300 ma power supply - 3x100=300). The edge ...

I have a Broadway Limited Import diesel locomotive equipped with factory DCC and Sound. Every time I turn on my Digitrax Zephyr DCS50 the engine starts to short out. It begins to slow down and then jerks a little and sometimes it stops completely. My Zephyr shows a line of flickering zeros across the dial and the engine decoder number even flickers on and off at times. I have checked all terminal connections and for foreign matter on the track but have not had any success in solving the problem.I have taken all cars off the track to make sure ...

I have a Zephyr and a DB150. How can I wire the two together so that the Zephyr acts as throttle and the DB150 supplies power? At this this time I have only a single block. The easiest way to handle this situation is to divide the railroad up into two power districts. If one command station unit is more powerful than the other, then the area controlled by the weaker unit (in this case, the 2.5 Amp Zephyr) could simply be a single siding or engine terminal. The Zephyr would then become a booster, supplying power to this small ...

Is the DT 200 compatible with newer sets? The DT200 (now discontinued) was supplied with the Digitrax Big Boy starter set. The Big Boy system consisted of a DB100 configured as a booster, LA1 or LA2 LocoNet Adapter interface, DT200 throttle, and a power supply. The primary DT200 throttle also acted as the command station. The Big Boy system had full LocoNet capabilities. Unlike the Chief, this set depended on the DT200 as part of the of the system, with the throttle acting as the command station for the unit. With other LocoNet systems, such as Super Chief, it will ...

For some reason it is not possible to successfully operate Fulgurex point motors with a DS64. Tortoise work fine. We have determined that the Fulgurex motor draws too much current for the DS64. Published sources describe the Fulgurex motor as needing 400 Ma for operation, which is well beyond the capacity of the DS64. When the DS64 tries to operate Fulgurex motor, the excess current draw appears to be a short circuit and the DS64 shuts down to protect itself. The Tortoise, while also a slow motion point motor, is "on" all the time since it is a stall-type motor. ...

I would like to know what the output voltage of PROG A & PROG B terminals should be on my DCS100 Command Station. Under normal circumstances, there will be no voltage present across PROG A & PROG B. When the DCS100 is actually programming a decoder, there will be brief bursts of voltage up to 12 Volts.

In addition to controlling turnouts via LocoNet with your DT400 throttle or with a computer program such as Railroad & Co., you can use local push buttons to operate turnouts. These buttons can be mounted near a particular turnout on the layout fascia or on a local track diagram. In this way, train crews can operate a turnout with a push of the button. The momentary push buttons are connected to the DS64 inputs marked S1, S2, S3 and S4. The return connection of each push button is made to "+COM. Here, a momentary button is connected to operate Turnout ...

I have purchased an LNRP, UR90, and 4 UP5s. I have noticed the LNRP seems to have a solder point between the two LocoNet jacks as the UR90 and UP5.Can all of these be connected to the same 12 volt power supply? No. It is important that each LNRP has its own power supply. As noted in the documentation that comes with the unit, "the LNRP drives the power and Railsync signals on the standard LocoNet cable segments, so each LNRP should have a DC input of +12V to +18V at up to 250mA supplied on the side DC power ...

I have my Kato Switches hooked up to a standard switch panel with toggle momentary switches. Can I hook up the DS51K1 stationary decoder in addition to this wiring? In other words, if hooked up the DS51K1 to the Kato Switch Machine that was already wired to another source to throw the switch, would the momentary power damage the decoder when it is operated by the standard control panel? I would like to operate these switches via DCC and by the control panel. In this situation, it would appear that using a DS64 configured for Kato turnouts (solenoid turnouts) and ...

Is it possible to use UP3 with a Super Chief system?Yes. Both have LocoNet in common, so the signals produced by the DCS100 Super Chief go though LocoNet to all devices that can connect to the LocoNet, including the UP3.

Q. I tried to program an SFX0416 with my PR2 and the sounds did not "Take". I clicked the big green "Program" button and after the initial buzzing for about 15 seconds, nothing further happened and now the unit makes no sounds. I am using a Compaq XP-home 1.5GHz laptop with SoundLoader version 1.16. How can I fix this? A. The most likely issue is that you are using the earlier SoundLoader version 1.16, which was not configured for full support of 16M bit flash sound memories, such as those used in the recently released SFX0416. SoundLoader was updated in ...

Keep Alive Power Jack (For DT200 & BT2) When the layout is powered down we recommend that you change the DT200 that is running as the Command Station to Advanced Throttle mode so it can power down and conserve its battery. Do this by pressing Run/Stop & Left Arrow keys together. All other Advanced Throttles on LocoNet will power down and show "idLE" when the LocoNet bus wires (pins 3 and 4 of the RJ12 plug) fall below +5Volts for more than 1/4 of a second. If the RailSync lines on LocoNet (pins 1 and 6 of the RJ12 plug) ...

How can I remotely monitor the input and output status of a section of the PM42 that is configured to act as a circuit breaker at a remote location? The final output stage, of each section, of the PM4 or PM42 is a DPDT relay. The contacts of this relay act in a similar fashion as the contacts of a DPDT toggle switch. These inputs and outputs can be monitored in a variety of ways. Three common monitoring devices are a LED (with appropriate resistor), a lamp (of the appropriate voltage), or an optical coupler (with appropriate resistor). The following ...

Nowhere in your literature do I find the length of the cable for tethered DT throttles. The length is not published because there are variations between each order supplied to us by our vendor. Before the "coily" cords, the cable length was 7 feet. Checking my own DT400 throttle, the coiled cable is 31 inches long "at rest" and 84 inches at its maximum extension. However, it is quite likely that you will have a cable which might be slightly different. The DT400R will have a very short cable, long enough to connect to LocoNet to call up or release ...

There are times, when all else has failed, that it is best to simply start over. To reset Super Chief, you can use the Chief's option switches to start fresh. *Special Instructions for DCS100 Op Switches 36, 37, 38, & 39 For Op Switch #36-#39 to work properly:   In this example, a complete reset will occur (Option Switch 39). 1. Place the DCS100's MODE toggle switch on the DCS100 in the Center OP position 2. Press the SWCH key on the DT400/DT402/DT500 3. Press 3 and then press 9 4. Set the OpSw of choice to c by pressing the ...

When you hear 7 beeps when power is applied to your DCS100, you need to replace the CMOS battery. The DCS100 will continue to operate, even if this battery is not present, but all your memory settings and option switch settings will not be remembered when the DCS100 is powered down. To replace the CMOS battery without losing any memory settings: 1. Remove the DCS100 input power & disconnect all DCS100 leads. 2. Open the DCS100 case:  a. Remove the two screws on the top and bottom of each side of the case. b. Slide the gray front panel off ...

The DCS100 uses several beeps and clicks that can be used as diagnostic tools that help you debug a number of conditions.

The actual track voltage supplied by the DCS100 can be adjusted. To do this, you must open the DCS100 case (this will not void your warranty). 1. Remove the DCS100 input power & disconnect all DCS100 leads. 2. Remove the two screws on the top and bottom of each side of the case. 3. Slide the gray front panel off the DCS100. 4. Be careful to avoid disturbing components other than the ones described below. 5. Locate the small yellow trimmer potentiometer behind the LocoNet B Jack and Scale Switch. 6. Use a small screwdriver to turn the potentiometer clockwise ...

The MODE and SCALE switches are used to configure the DCS100 for your railroad. The 3 MODE switch settings are:  RUN is for normal operations. OP is used to customize the DCS100 by changing its option switch settings. SLEEP is used to shutdown the system and all throttles that are plugged in to the system. SCALE Switch (O/G HO N) This switch sets the maximum track voltage limit. 1. Set the DCS100's SCALE switch to the scale you are running (N, HO, O\G). Use the lowest setting (N, HO, or O/G) that will run your layout. 2. Set the MODE switch ...

The DCS100 automatically shuts down when the heat sink temperature rises to around 45 to 50 degrees Celsius and the OFF LINE indicator will glow red. The DCS100 automatically resumes operation when the heat sink cools down to approximately 40 degrees Celsius. The OFF LINE indicator will also be lit when there is no track status. This is normal and you should not be alarmed.

The TRACK STATUS indicator shows that there is voltage on RAIL A & RAIL B terminals. The color indicates the type of signal:  If it is orange the track is getting DCC signals with no analog zero stretching.  If the color is green or red then a stretched zero signal is being used to operate a conventional locomotive. When zero stretching is present, the DCC decoder equipped locomotives will read their digital commands normally and perform as commanded. If the Track Status LED is not lit there is no voltage on the track, the track power to the DCS100 may ...

The two "POWER IN" terminals on all Digitrax boosters & command stations are the power input connections. Digitrax recommends the PS514 to power the DC200 and DB150.  Set the voltage setting on the PS514 to 16.8v or 19v.  The PS2012 can also be used to power the DCS100 and DB150.  The "Y" cable provided with the PS2012 has an embedded 5 amp current protection.  The PS2012 can also be used to power the DCS200.  The "Y" cable is not suitable for use with the DCS200 since it has an 8 amp. output. When powering your layout, make sure that all polarities and ...

When using a DCS100 or DCS200 to setup routes within the Command Station in conjunction with DS64 Stationary Decoders, the DS64 needs to be connected to Track Power. The DCS100/200 does not send internal route messages via LocoNet. DCS100/200s only send Routes as a series of switch commands out to the Track in DCC format.  The DSC100/200 were designed in 1996 and had no requirement to echo these same switch commands out via LocoNet.  Additionally, DS64 Stationary Decoders are designed to allow up to 8 Routes to be programmed internally into them. Please refer to the DS64 manual and other ...

These are the basic DT400 and DT402 series throttle operating instructions designed to get you “up and running” quickly and to minimize your “frustration level” as you learn to use the throttle.   Turning Track Status On and Off To run your layout you must be sure track power and track status are both ON.  Follow these steps with your DT400 or DT402 series throttle to do this. Press the "PWR" key on the bottom left side of the throttle. The words “+ON  -OFF” will come on in the display. Press the “Y +” key quickly and you should see the ...

Can the DS51K1 be used with large scale DCC (22 volts)? What is the maximum DCC supply voltage for this decoder? The DS51K1 is designed specifically to be used with Kato N-Scale Unitrack turnouts only.  It will not work for large scale turnouts. For use with bi-polar turnouts in large scale, the DS64 is a better choice.

My dealer told me that the when the PM42 changes polarity on a section of track, that it should remain that way till another "short" is detected. Mine will change polarity for about 1 - 1.5 seconds and then change back. Is this normal and my dealer told me wrong? Your dealer is correct. You may need to adjust the trip timing of that particular node of the PM42.

On Page 9 of the instructions (under 5.0 Op Sw Set Up) I am to connect my DT400 throttle to my powered PM42 . . . 1. Does “powered” mean having the PS-14 power supply to the PM42 connected and energized? Yes. We took another look at the documentation and it means that the PM42 should be operating with its own power supply. What you are doing is using the DT400 to program the internal controls of the PM42; to do so would require that the PM42 be in its operating state, thus the power supply. The DT400 is merely ...

The Universal Panels all have a front made of sheet aluminum with a thin graphic overlay. There are four screw holes which are used to mount the panel on the layout fascia. When installing the panels, carefully tighten the screws; if they are too tight, the screw head will grab the graphic overlay and distort it.

I have had a Digitrax Big Boy for many years I recently bought a steam loco equipped with a Soundtraxx decoder I have been able to utilize function keys 0-4 but there is quite a few more that the decoder is capable that I don't know how to access example f6-9 Production of Big Boy was from 1994 to 1998. It was superseded by other starter sets and command stations. Big Boy can access Functions 1, 2, 3 and 4, but no higher. To reach the higher function numbers will require upgrading to a more current command station and throttle ...

PM42 Short Circuit/Auto-Reversing Failure When used with Zephyr (DCS50) The PM42 is designed to control 4 independent power subdistricts that can be set up as either a “Short Circuit Manager” (the factory setting) or as an “Auto-Reversing Controller.” The PM42 factory setting for trip current is 3 amps. The trip current can be modified to settings from 1.5 amps – 12 amps to accommodate the needs of your system. In addition, each of the 4 power subdistricts can be set for slow, regular, faster or fastest short circuit management. While a trip current of 3 amps will work with most ...

1) Does the LNRP terminate and re-time the LocoNet data signal in both directions? Yes 2) Does the LNRP repower the LocoNet data lines for each segment? Yes 3) What happens to the signal on a protected segment when there is a fault on an adjacent segment? Nothing, it keeps going 4) What happens RailSync on a protected segment when there is a fault on an adjacent segment? Nothing, it keeps going 5) What do the various diagnostics/error indicators really do? They monitor and report the protected sides. A Digitrax PS14 power supply is required for correct operation.

  Q:  Can I mix UP-5s with Radio and IR panels? I want to upgrade slowly and still use the 400 throttles and the UT throttles while I mail them in to you one at a time for conversion to radio. A:  Yes, and you can continue to use the UP5's after conversion to radio; for instance, if you have visitors who bring their own Digitrax non-radio throttles. That's the real genius of LocoNet, since you can add to your railroad in any way. Note that you will need to plug in your throttle to LocoNet initially to select the locomotive before you ...

I have a DCS100. I do not understand why my DT400's speed increases (all the way up to 99) sometimes when I plug it in. Also, sometimes the Loco number (when selected when this is taking place) will increase too. There is no control enabled when this is taking place. If I plug in a DT100 it operates normally. One of the buttons on the DT400 may be stuck, leading to this behavior. Take a look at the control panel of the DT400 and you will probably see this stuck button since it will not be in a fully returned ...

I am trying to wire my new layout (N gauge) using the DS 64 with Peco switch machine PL10. The PL10 has four wires to be attached. My question is: Do I need to attach all four wires or just one set of wires? The PL-10 is a coil-type switch machine with double solenoids. One solenoid is activated to make the track switch throw in one direction, and the other is activated to throw it in the other direction. All four connections are required, with one for each solenoid being common and the other two being for the individual coils. ...

Can I convert my DCS100 to a booster. I cannot find the switches in the instructions to accomplish this. Is it too old?. Can I return it for repair to accomplish converting it to a booster? The DCS100 is already a booster combined with a command station, but it can be converted to act as an expansion booster by using option switch 2 (OpSw02).

Q) You are offering a Loconet Repeater Module LNRP. Is it an RailSync Booster, too? There is no description in the PDF-File about this attribute. A) The LNRP boosts (and separates) the Railsync "Standard" outputs from the master command station ("Protected" Railsync), so if there is a problem with this separated "Standard" Railsync copy, the master Command Station is unaffected along with other devices like track boosters that need good Railsync copies. This boosted Railsync is also over-current protected and the LNRP will turn off an overloaded "Standard" Railsync and automatically retry re-powering, so when the fault clears the "Standard" ...

Installation: Figure 1 shows the general arrangement for connecting one or more LNRP's to configure a LocoNet based system for operation. Note that the LNRP's drive the power and Railsync signals on the "standard" LocoNet cable segments, so each LNRP should have a DC input of +15V to +18V at up to 250mA supplied on the side DC power jack. Note that the shaded cable connections are made from the protected network side connections of the LNRP units to the components that are on the "protected" or high reliability part of the System. The other solid cable connections are the ...

DT300 throttles can be converted to simplex radio by Digitrax. The DT300 cannot be converted to duplex radio. This radio retrofit must be done at the Digitrax factory because of FCC rules. Please complete the form in the warranty section of the website and send it in with your throttle.  Be aware the long cord will be cut off to 12", no exceptions.

  As of 2017, UT4 throttles can only be converted to duplex.  Digitrax discontinued simplex radio upgrades due to lack of parts. This radio retrofit must be done at the Digitrax factory because of FCC rules. Please complete the form in the warranty section of the website and send it in with your throttle.  Be aware the long cord will be cut off to 12", no exceptions.

The answer to this question applies to all Empire Builder sets including Super Empire Builder XtraQ:  I have just purchased a Super Empire Builder set. My expectations are for it to operate an N-Scale switching layout right now with future expansion to a larger N-Scale layout. I am a little confused as to which power supply I would need at this time. I am reading about power supplies and inline fuses, all of which is a little overwhelming to me as I am getting back into the hobby. Can you recommend which power supply will be better for me as ...

Q:  Can I add a booster to my Zephyr? A:  Yes. Since the DCS51 Zephyr Xtra and DCS50 Zephyr are equipped with LocoNet, adding additional boosters is easy; you simply divide your railroad up into power districts and add the boosters and their individual power supplies. These are connected together using LocoNet cables. Because the Zephyr Xtra is rated at 3 amps and the Zephyr is rated at 2.5 amps: most boosters have higher ratings, you may want to have the Zephyr control a smaller area that has fewer power consumers (locomotives, lighted passenger cars), such as a main line ...

Q:  Is it possible to use Digitrax equipment to wire the Kato N-Scale Automatic Track Crossing? If so, how do I do it? A:  The answer is a probable "No", but there may be a workaround. The Kato, USA website notes: Some Unitrack components such as the Automatic Crossing Gate and 3-Color Signal were designed with DC operation only. So, the official position is that that these devices don't work in the DCC environment. However, we are not above speculating on how to do this, nor are others. An online web search turned up this bit of message traffic by ...

Q:  I noticed a little black button on the circuit board of the UR91. What is it for? A:  The push button is a diagnostic tool for Digitrax technicians and it cannot be used by the user for anything.

In this example we add some more features to complete the capabilities of the DS64 / BD4 combination. In addition to the fascia button, we utilize the remaining sensors of the BD4 to automatically select the exit route if triggered by the advancing train. For this purpose, each yard track will need a short detection section just before the yard ladder. A departing train will then trigger and set its own exit route as soon as the engine enters the detection section. To enter the yard however, the routes must still be selected manually with the push buttons.

You can automate grade crossing signal lights with block occupancy sensors. Install a BD4 to detect track occupancy as shown in the figure below. Other than removing the Op Sw35 commands from the routes used in the related article example, there is no additional programming needed for the DS64. Sensor operated occupancy detection requires that all rolling stock be equipped with resistor wheels for proper detection or that the detection section is longer on each side of the RR Crossing than the full length of a train since only the locomotive will draw current. A lighted caboose on the end of ...

  This example is a small yard with a crossing signal at its entrance. We will use independent turnout addresses to demonstrate the flexibility that the DS64 offers. Here, route (track) 2 3 and 4 will activate the blinking light when set and the deactivation is done by resetting to route 1, the main line. The advantage of this setup is that you can easily do operating RR Crossing lights without the need for additional equipment for block detection. The turnout output utilized for the RR crossing operation is simply integrated into the route setup. In addition to the route ...

  Simple Example of a Yard Ladder with Manual Route Buttons in a hidden yard. Set DS64 OptionSwitches 11 and 15 to 'c' closed to enable route commands from local inputs. Make sure the momentary-on push buttons are wired as shown in Fig.1 above. OPSw 11 enables the local inputs to trigger the routes stored in the DS64. A1 will trigger route1, S1 will trigger route 2, and so forth. OPSw 15 prevents the local inputs from directly triggering the outputs.Option Switch Configuration Press the OPS button on the powered DS64 for about three seconds until the red led begins ...

A cascaded route is where the last command of a route triggers the next route; this is also known to some as a nesting route. With the capacity of 8 turnouts per route, it becomes necessary to cascade routes if more than 8 turnouts are involved in a route. To highlight these possibilities, we use a very complex scenario with many turnouts and possible routes. Cascading routes allows the setup of long routes without the need for a computer. Since some routes exceed the capacity of 8 turnouts, the remaining turnouts of the long routes are setup in the second ...

Q:  Can the SE8C slow motion turnout controllers operate multiple turnouts from one output? A:  No. The slow motion connection was originally intended to be used with single slow motion drives for semaphores, part of the overall design of the SE8C signal driver. Since only one semaphore is operated, the circuitry was not designed to handle heavier loads than that single drive.

Follow these simple instructions to determine the best location/s on your layout for installing your UR panels for the best possible infrared or radio reception. With LocoNet, you can use Infrared, Duplex Radio and Simplex radio individually or in any combination on your layout.You'll need to be able to observe whether your command station is receiving commands from the UR panels when you are installing infrared or radio receivers and transceivers.  Your Digitrax command station makes it easy to determine when the system is receiving a signal and when it is not.  You can observe the NET LED and the Track Status Indicator or your ...

Simplex Radio Coverage One UR91 should provide full coverage for a typical model railroad under most circumstances. Simplex Radio reception is affected by metal objects between the throttle and UR91 simplex receiver, or large metal objects adjacent to the receiver; a furnace is one example of such an object. Such objects cause a second reflected signal, impairing the radio throttle signal's ability to reach the UR91. In this case, the receiver gets the signal directly from the throttle, then another signal right on top of it from the reflection. Moving the UR91 to another location may solve this problem, or you ...

The individual signal heads are connected to the SE8C with 10 conductor ribbon cables. Depending upon which way you assemble the ribbon cables, Pin 1 can be either the brown colored conductor (called Phase A) or the black colored conductor (called Phase B). To maintain your sanity it seems easiest to be consistent when choosing either conductor, but there is no "wrong" answer. In the example below, the ribbon cable is being set up using the brown cable as Pin 1, thus it is being configured as "Phase A" The table below shows the various connections which result when setting up ...

The SE8C uses switch addresses to operate the signals, so you may need to change some factory settings to make it work in conjunction with turnouts that are already installed on your layout. Be sure that when you configure the SE8C that the switch address ranges you select to operate the signals do not conflict with other devices, like DS64s, that are already installed. We strongly recommend that you keep accurate documentation of the address ranges used to control all devices on the layout to avoid conflicts that might cause problems. Without this record it can be very difficult to ...

Security ElementsThe Digitrax Signaling System is organized around the concept of what we call "security elements", which are similar to what U.S. prototype railroads call "plants" or "interlockings". The Digitrax SE8C signal decoder displays aspects for up to 32 heads for 8 individual security elements (plants) using either a LocoNet Throttle or a computer with compatible software. When used with associated occupancy detectors and compatible software, the SE8C can be set up to protect the turnout with signals as shown by the example below. Note that trains can move from A to B, A to C, B to A or ...

Individual signal heads are driven from connections marked DRV1 - DRV8. Although these are typically connections to individual signals, they can serve more than one signal as necessary. The ID Button is used to set the individual SE8C board ID. If using more than one such circuit board, each must be assigned a unique number so that the system recognizes it. The Option Button is used to customize the SE8C. LocoNet Jacks provide a data channel for the SE8C.

How do you wire an AR1 with a BD4 so that you get block detection within the reverse loop and without the BD4 permanently detecting the AR1? It should be wired with the AR1 between the power source and the BD4. All four detection sections of the BD4 will have to be inside the reverse loop.

If you break or lose the battery cover for your DT500 series, DT402 series, DT400 series, DT300 series,DT100 series, or UT series you will need a replacement cover.   With these throttles being discontinued, we no longer have any battery covers availabe.  Serpac produces the throttle case we used.  You can order a case through them or other big box electronics warehouses.  

What is the physical size of the BDL168? The board itself approximately measures 3 3/4" wide by 3 5/8" long by 1 1/4" high. For those who use metric, it is 94mm by 92mm by 30mm. In addition to the board itself, the edge connector measures 4 1/32" (112mm) by 3/8" (10mm); it has edge connector pins which make the connector 5/8" wide (18mm). The edge connector pins will need additional clearance for the connected wires. Users have found that the heavier bus wires used in most applications are difficult to connect to the edge pin connector; in ths situation, ...

The 5 Amp DCS100 and the 8 Amp DCS200 share the same front panel layout. There is a variety of indicators, switches and connectors: Power Input The two POWER IN terminals on all Digitrax boosters & command stations are the power input connections. Power On Indicator This green LED indicates that the power to the DCS100 is on. Ground Terminal The terminal marked ground provides electrical safety features and an RF ground reference for minimum radiated noise. This should be the ONLY point of any DCS100 installation that is connected to the AC safety ground pin provided on most 3 ...

The headlights of my locomotive aren't acting properly. If you can’t control the operation of the lights in your locomotive with the DT400 (in default 128, or 28 speed step mode), be sure that the decoder is programmed in advanced 28 speed step mode. Do this by programming CV29 with a decimal value of 06.

  If your DT402 or DT400 display isn’t showing you what you expect based on the manual, press the EXIT Key to return to normal operating mode-Fn. Then try the throttle task again.

Option #F sets the radio frequency used by the throttle when in radio mode. This setting is x0A. This value is informational only, users are not able to change this value.

To change DT400 Option Settings 1. Consult the Throttle Option Setting Tables found in the DT400 manual to determine which settings you want to make for each of the 6 available options. 2. Press the OPTN t Key and the display will show: 3. The right side of the display will show the current value for OP#1. The default setting for OP#1 is x01. Notice that these values are entered in hex format. The “x” in front of the value lets you know to expect to use hex numbers. Pressing the throttle keys will not change to decimal values in this ...

  DT402 & DT400 can be set to click each time you press a key or turn one of the knobs. Some users prefer this auditory feed back and others don’t. DT402 & DT400 throttles are shipped with key & knob clicks enabled.

Throttle Option 2Throttle Default Decoder Status 128/28/14 speed steps Each DT402/DT400 can be set up to operate new decoders selected by that throttle as any decoder status code you choose. New decoders are defined as decoders that have not been selected in your system. Your throttle's default setting is to operate decoders that are 128 speed step capable, so when a new decoder is selected the throttle automaticaly assumse that all decoders selected are that 128 speed steps. If you operate mostly decoders that are only able to recognize 28 speed steps, you can change this setting.Tetherless Operation Mode Each throttle can be set up with radio ...

While it is running as a tetherless throttle, the DT402 and DT400 R and D versions automatically check the power available to the throttle each time a battery is inserted and each time it is plugged into or unplugged from LocoNet. The battery's voltage will be displayed in the text area of the throttle briefly each time the throttle is plugged in or is unplugged from LocoNet. When you plug in to LocoNet the number displayed will be the power provided by LocoNet. This value will be between 9 & 15 volts. Other characters will also be displayed in the LCD depending on ...

For normal tethered operation, DT402/DT400 throttles do not need a battery. If you want to use your DT402/DT400 as an infrared or radio throttle (R & D version), you must install a 9 volt battery.  You can use rechargeable batteries.DO NOT USE ANY OTHER TYPE OF BATTERY-AA BATTERIES DO NOT WORK. When you install the battery, the throttle will report the battery voltage and then display Idle. Once you plug in to LocoNet, the throttles will begin operating infrared and Ds and Rs will begin operating as duplex and simplex radio throttles. We recommend that you remove the battery from throttle if it is unplugged ...

You can use your DT400 series throttle with a DCS100 or DCS200 to set up routes that are triggered by operating a single turnout address to make it either c (closed) or t (thrown). Setting up and operating routes is similar to consisting locomotives because you can cause more than one unit to operate based on a single command sent to the system. We call the turnout address that other turnout addresses are “consisted” to, the TOP address. To operate a route, use Sw (Switch) mode to select the TOP turnout address in the route and move it to either closed or ...

Many operators use a fast clock during operating sessions to simulate prototypical operations. Traditionally, the fast clock is on the wall in view of the train operators; it is set up to run at a faster than real time so that an operating session can simulate prototypical operation on a compressed time scale. LocoNet has its own networked fast clock for all Digitrax throttles connected to your system. The fast clock display is a 4 digit 12 or 24 Hour format clock. To display the fast clock simply press the CLOC c Key. The fast clock display will remain active while ...

  What is Sw (Switch) Mode? Switch mode is used by throttles for sending commands to accessory decoders and for changing option switches in your LocoNet system. The most common use of switch mode is for operating turnouts.Switches are either thrown or closed.To change the position of a switch or turnout: 1. Press the SWCH key to enter switch mode. When you enter Switch mode, the throttle knobs & direction keys continue to control the loco addresses running on the throttle. Loco speed is displayed on the bar graph and loco direction is displayed on the direction indicators for each ...

The DT402 & DT400 can program and readback CVs with the DCS100 or DCS200 (Super Chief) or the DCS51 or DCS50 (Zephyr). You must use the programming track for this unless you are using Ops Mode with transponding installed to allow for Ops Mode readback.  Infrared and simplex radio throttles must be plugged in to LocoNet to read back CVs & their values.  Duplex radio throttles do not have to be plugged in for reading back CVs.Systems with a DB150 command station (Super Empire Builder) are not able to read back CV Values programmed into decoders. To read back CV values: 1. Place the decoder ...

A  “Busy” message during programming means that the system is temporarily busy.  Simply try the task again.  When the system is no longer busy, you will get a “Good” response. A  “Fail” message during programming means that there is a problem with the locomotive on the programming track.  Check to be sure the loco's wheels are making good contact with the programming track.  Make sure that the decoder is properly installed in the locomotive.   Make sure the connections to the programming track are secure.  Make sure the programming track is powered. 

Ops Mode programming, also known as "Programming on the Main" lets you change the configuration of an individual decoder while the locomotive is on your railroad without having to move it to the programming track.Operations mode programming lets you program CVs in DCC locomotives equipped with Ops mode capable decoders while they are on the mainline. A typical use for Ops mode programming would be to change the acceleration rate (CV03) or the deceleration rate (CV04) of your locomotives to simulate the weight and braking capability of the train to compensate for changing the number of cars or power units on a ...

In addition to the locomotive address, there are different Configuration Variables (CV's) that have been defined to handle many characteristics you might want to use for your locomotives. These include operational characteristics such as acceleration, headlight functions and others. The manual for each decoder type has a complete listing of CVs that are available in specific decoders, what they do and the suggested values for each CV. Simpler decoders have few CVs while advanced decoders may have many different CVs 1. Place the decoder equipped locomotive you want to program on the programming track If you are using operations mode ...

All CV values except for 2 digit and 4 digit addresses can be displayed as either decimal or hexadecimal numbers by the DT400. When you are using the L Throttle knob to browse through CVs 002 through 255, you will use the R Throttle knob to set the CV value you want to program.By default, the DT400 displays the CV values as decimal numbers 000-255 (nnn). To view the numbers as hexadecimal simply press the R throttle knob and you will see the CV value change to the hex equivalent of the decimal. Hex numbers are displayed as xnn. For ...

  Duplex Radio Throttle do not need to be plugged in to LocoNet to Program Decoders.  Simplex Radio & Infrared throttles must be plugged in to LocoNet to program CVs on the programming track. Ops Mode Programming can be done without plugging radio throttles in to LocoNet. IR throttles must be plugged in for Ops Mode Programming. 1. Be sure that only the loco you want to program is on the programming track. If you are using operations mode programming, the loco you want to program can be anywhere on the layout but it must have a decoder that is ...

Q:  I'm wanting to know how to MU two locomotives together that are in a tail to tail configuration. I know that this can be easily done with a DT400 or DT402 throttle but not sure how to do it with the Zephyr. A:  Make sure all the locos in the consist are traveling in the same physical direction on the track (both going to the left or to the right). Remember that "reversing" takes place in the locomotive not on the track, so it is important that the engines be traveling in the same direction when they are MU'd.  ...

  Q:  How can I write and read the Configuration Variables of Mobile Decoder on the mainline using the DT40x Throttle? A:  Operations Mode Programming, also known as Ops Mode, lets you program a locomotive decoder's CVs while it is on the main line. With the addition of transponding in Ops Mode, you can write and read back CVs in DCC locomotives equipped with most modern decoders while they are on the mainline. Some older decoders before Extended Packet Format was used are not able to do this.For example: A typical use for Ops mode programming would be to adjust an engines ...

  Q:  Can I use a PM42 with a non-Digitrax DCC Command system? A:  The PM42 was specifically designed to work with Digitrax Direct Home wired layouts. Any system that is configured this way will probably work with the PM42 with no interoperability issues. Digitrax has no control over or knowledge of each specific non-Digitrax system and how it may interact with the PM42. The PM42 can be used as a stand-alone auto-reversing unit and short circuit manager with many third party DCC systems, but for systems without LocoNet capability a number of the networked management features will not be available. ...

Q:  What is the preferred way of protecting a reverse loop with circuit breaker management and still having automatic reversing? A:  There are two ways of protecting a reversing section with a circuit breaker and reversing section controller. 1.  Use one PM42 (circuit breaker manager) and one AR1 (automatic reversing section controller). 2.  Use two PM42s (one as a circuit breaker manager and one as a reverse section control). The following diagram displays both methods: a) The first method (left), is where one section of a PM42 configured for circuit breaker operation feeds one or more AR1s (automatic reversing section controller), or b) The second method ...

Q:  Can two sections of a single PM42 be configured to perform both the task of a circuit breaker and also automatic reverse section control for a single reverse loop? The PM42 can be configured so that one section of the PM42 is used for circuit breaker operation, feeding into another section of the same PM42 which is configured for automatic reverse section control. In the field, this configuration has been found to be unreliable in some layout configurations.  If you are having problems getting this to work in your setting, we recommend using an AR1 to handle the automatic reversing secion.  The ...

Q: What is the basic configuration and OpSw settings for a section of the PM42 when configured for circuit breaker control? A:  The PM42 is a 4 section multi-purpose device where each of the four sections can be individually configured to act as either a circuit breaker, or automatic reverse loop controller. The PM42 monitors the current flow to the rails and interrupts the connection when it senses that the current demands exceed the upper allowable current level determined by the User controllable Option Switch (OpSw) settings. The power flow of a layout's command control system starts with the command station, or ...

  Q:  What is the basic configuration and Option Switch (OpSw) settings for each of the four sections of the PM42 when configured for automatic reverse section control? A:  The PM42 is a 4 section multi-purpose device where each of the four sections can be individually configured to act as either a circuit breaker, or auto-reverse section controller or DPDT relay. When configured as an auto-reverse section controller, the PM42 adjusts the rail phasing of the reversing section it controls whenever a locomotive, or car with metal wheels, bridges the gaps between the rails of that reverse section and an adjacent non-reversing section ...

Q:  What are the differences and similarities between the LT5 module that is included as part of the BDL168 package and the Block Monitor module that is included as part of the BD4 package? A:  These two devices are for all practical purposes interchangeable. Similarities – They use the same electronic schematic. Differences – They use different leds and different display configurations. The LT5 that comes with BDL168 has 5 red LEDs, four on the top row, and one on the bottom row. The Block Monitor that comes with BD4 has of 5 green LEDs in a single row.  Either module can ...

Q:  How do I program the PM42 Option Switches (OpSw) with a DT400 throttle? A:  The PM42 OpSw settings are used to set up the PM42, adjusting the trip current, short circuit management (including sensitivity), and/or auto-reversing. Note: The factory default setting on all PM42 OpSws is “thrown” or “t”. Follow the steps outlined below to program the OpSw settings of the PM42 using the DT400 series throttle with any Digitrax command system. 1) Connect the PM42 to a DCS50, DCS51, DB150, DCS100, or DCS200 with a standard LocoNet cable. 2) Connect the PM42 to an external power source; Digitrax ...

  Q:  How do I program the PM42 Op Switches with a DT300 throttle? A:  The PM42 OpSw settings are used to set up the PM42, adjusting the trip current, short circuit management (including sensitivity), and/or auto-reversing. Note: The factory default setting on all PM42 OpSws is “thrown” or “t”. Follow the steps outlined below to program the OpSw settings of the PM42 using the DT300 throttle with any Digitrax command system. 1) Connect the PM42 to a DB150, DSC050, DSC100 or DSC200 with a standard LocoNet cable. 2) Connect the PM42 to an external power source; Digitrax recommends the ...

  How do I program the PM42 Op Switches with a DCS50 (Zephyr) throttle? The PM42 OpSw settings are used to set up the PM42, adjusting the trip current, short circuit management (including sensitivity), and/or auto-reversing. Note: The factory default setting on all PM42 OpSw's is “thrown” or “t”. Follow the steps outlined below to program the OpSw settings of the PM42 using the keypad of a Digitrax Zephyr. 1. Connect the PM42 to the Digitrax Zephyr with a standard LocoNet cable. 2. Connect the PM42 to an external power source; Digitrax recommends the PS14. Note: Before entering Switch Mode ...

Instructions below are for both DCS100 & DCS200 (DCS200 omitted in text for clarity).1. Refer to the DCS100 Option Switch Table to decide which option switches you want to change. Also note that there are special instructions for OpSw's 36, 37, 38, & 39. 2. Move the MODE toggle switch on the front of the DCS100 into the "OP" position . The LocoNet Railsync will go inactive & all other boosters plugged in to LocoNet, including the one that is built into the DCS100, will shut down. 3. Disconnect LocoNet from the DCS100 you are configuring. 4. Connect your DT300 ...

This list is the same for DCS100 & DCS200 Command Stations.* NOTE: Option Switches 36, 37, 38 & 39 have special instructions.

Note:  These instructions are the same for DCS100 & DCS200 (DCS200 omitted for clarity).1. Refer to the DCS100 Option Switch Table to decide which option switches you want to change. Also note that there are special instructions for OpSw's 36, 37, 38, & 39. 2. Move the MODE toggle switch on the front of the DCS100 into the "OP" position . The LocoNet Railsync will go inactive & all other boosters plugged in to LocoNet, including the one that is built into the DCS100, will shut down. 3. Disconnect LocoNet from the DCS100 you are configuring. 4. Connect your DT400 ...

  Digitrax AR1 is a DCC Automatic Reversing Controller.  We have become aware of another product of a similar name that may cause our customers some confusion. Circuitron makes an automatic reversing unit called the AR-1 that is used for automatic reversing of analog powered trains. The Digitrax AR1 is not the same device and does not work in the same way.

Q:  I just purchased a used Digitrax set consisting of a DB150, UT2 and a PS515 for a very low price. What do I need to add to bring this up to current standards? A:  Because of Digitrax LocoNet, it is easy to add the latest components to upgrade on older starter set.  What you purchased was originally called a Genesis Starter Set.  The PS515 did not come with it but it is the perfect power supply for the DB150.   Your next step depends on what you want to do with your railroad.  In this case, the components you have will be ...

Although the UT1 can only handle addresses between 00 and 99, it can be used to operate one four digit locomotive address. 1. On the UT1 dial up 992. On a DT100, DT300 or DT400 series throttle, dispatch the four digit address you want to run on the UT13. On the UT1 press the ACQ (acquire button) to run the four digit addressNote that dispatching is a special state and the first UT1 throttle to press the Acquire button after the dispatch from another throttle will acquire that address to run.

  Connecting BD4 to an SE8C?The BD4 is a block occupancy detection device designed as an add-on device that can take advantage of the LocoNet hosting capability of the SE8c signal decoder.   It is connected this way: The installation of a BD4 is relatively simple. Looking at the BD4, you will find a 5-point terminal block on one end and two (LED1 and DS1) 10-pin (5x2) headers on the other. There are three termination areas: a) The 5-point terminal block (left) is for the interconnection between the rail power source and the rails. b) The LED1 10-pin header is ...

  Setting up DS54 for Exact Turnout Reporting The creation of a feedback circuit for exact turnout reporting is simple. Connect a normally open set of contacts attached to the switch machine, a normally open set of contacts of a micro switch monitoring the throw arm, or a normally set of contacts of a relay monitoring the switch machine power to the common and switch input of the DS54 input connector. When the turnout is closed these contacts must be closed. Connect a normally open set of contacts attached to the switch machine, a normally open set of contacts of a ...

  Setting up DS54 for Standard Turnout Reporting The creation of a feedback circuit for standard turnout reporting is simple. Connect a normally open set of contracts attached to the switch machine, a normally open set of contacts of a micro switch monitoring the turnout throw arm, or the normally open contacts of a relay monitoring the switch machine to the common (green) and switch (red) wires to the desired DS54 output circuit. The following two diagrams indicated the two most common switch machine configurations plus the contact configuration for turnout reporting.  Note: The location and type of contacts available for ...

Q:  What is the white wire for on the SoundBug? A:  The white wire is used on conjunction with a driver cam for steam sound synchronization. Q: What type/size loco does "generic" steam sound represent? A:  This sound was based on recordings of Union Pacific 3985, a 4-6-6-4 "Challenger" type.  Q:  Does the Sound bug come with an oval speaker to fit in the shell of the older model GPs or SDs that do not have space in the fuel tank. A:  The SoundBug comes with a 28mm round speaker but others may be substituted. The included-speaker is rated at ...

  Q:  On my PR2, I have been getting the red light and message saying COM Port Paused a lot when trying to read CV’s. A:  This operation is normal. Whenever you bring up any of the auxiliary menus such as Soundtest or CV editing, the main Soundloader screen pauses its communication with the PR2 so the auxiliary menu operation can take place. When in the normal main screen, the program is constantly talking to the PR2 so it must be paused to allow these other activities to take place. Unless you are not able to read/write CV's, this should ...

Digitrax DB150 Command Station/Booster Power On LED Diagnostic BlinkingSteady on = DB150 is operating as a Command Station/Booster 1/2 sec on / 1/2 sec off = DB150 is operating as a Booster only 1 sec on / 1 sec off = DB150 is in Option (OP) mode, the Option switch is in the OPTN position 2 sec on / 2 sec off = DB150 is in Sleep mode, the Option switch is in Sleep mode Fast pulsing = DB150 is in Program Mode, the Option Switch is in PROG mode. Commands sent in this mode will program decoders that are ...

The DCS100, 200, 240 and DB150 use several beeps and clicks that can be used as diagnostic tools that will help you debug a number of error conditions.   DCS100/200 Audible Sounds 1 Beep           DCS100/200 has powered on successfully or has sent a programming command. 3 Beeps         A loco address has been "purged" due to non-use. This is informational only and is normal. 4 Beeps         Booster short circuit shutdown. Fault Alarm. 6 Beeps         Command station already present in system. When two command stations are operating on the same system, you may experience unexpected results. 7 Beeps         DCS100/200 CMOS battery low ...

Q: I would like to know about SE8C and signals on non-DCC layouts. A:  The SE8c is a signal driver for your layout. You can operate signals manually with any LocoNet Throttle and Command Station. Or, in your case, the SE8c can drive signals automatically with detection and compatible computer software such as RailRoad & Co. or JMRI.You will need detection devices to identify the presence of trains, a computer interface such as the PR3, a computer program supplying the signaling logic and the SE8c driving the signal heads themselves. Note that in a LocoNet environment, the SE8C supports detection: DS01 ...

Q: I am setting up a yard control panel with a CML Electronics DTM30. For the DTM30 to know what state a turnout is in, it can issue an interrogate command but my DS54's do not seem to respond with this information. Is there a trick to this? A:  According to CML: The DTM30 makes use of the “Interrogate” feature that all modern Digitrax systems use. After power up, the Command station normally sends out 8 switch commands. All accessory devices respond to these, and send LocoNet messages back reporting sensor states and point states. The DTM30 can also send ...

Q: I have a Digitrax DT400 throttle. The left speed knob accelerates the locos at one speed unit per "click". However the right knob accelerates at three speed units per "click". How can I change the right knob to one unit per click? There is not a way to change the clicks to one per unit. Each rotation of a throttle knob on the DT400 series throttle generates 24 clicks.  Digitrax supports 14, 28 and 128 speed step operation in decoders; each click on a DT400 series throttle knob is related proportianally to the number of speed steps used by the decoder. So, for a ...

  How to Configure the DS54 for one-button turnout controlThe local buttons, throttle, or any other turnout control device connected to the LocoNet can control the DS54 output when the DS54 is connected to the rails. The following drawings indicate the general wiring schematic for a one-button control of a turnout using either a Dual Coil (upper) or slow motion (lower) switch machine. The following two charts indicate operating criteria and CV settings for one-button turnout control. 

Note: Zephyr (DCS50) has been superseded by Zephyr Xtra (DCS51) which is available in an EU version that comes with the appropriate power supply.  This article only applies to the original Zephyr (DCS50)Q: I´m a foreign model railroader, and I want to buy a Zephyr without power pack. The instruction manual says that I can use a 18 Volt DC trafo in order to power the Zephyr. Can you suggest a way to connect a Zephyr DCS 50 to German current (220/50)? A:  In the North American market, Digitrax recommends the use of a dedicated PS315 power supply or equivalent for use ...

The 10-Pin Signal Mast Bases that are part of SMBK and used as test signals with the SE8C have two connections marked Aux Hi and Aux Lo (Pins 2 & 9). These connections are not currently implemented and are reserved for future use.

Q:  I want to buy the Zephyr. I have read the manual, read articles on the Tech Support Depot, but I still find it confusing. So, here's my question: Can you run multiple trains at the same time with the Zephyr, without additional throttles, each locomotive performing a different task, and if so, am I right in assuming that this can be done by punching in the locomotive address, adjusting the throttle and direction, and when I punch in another address, the previous locomotive will keep on doing whatever it was doing until I punch its number again and change ...

Q:  Can I set up the DS54 for two-button operation turnout control? A:  Two-button control (one button for setting the points to the main route and the other button for setting the points to the diverging route) is a standard configuration for the control of any turnout.  The following charts indicate operating criteria and CV settings. 

Q:  What is the procedure for programming the DS54 Address using the Programming Address Button? A:  The procedure for programming the DS54 address using the Address Programming Button is simple. This procedure only requires the determination of the turnout addresses block for the DS54. During the programming cycle the activation of any turnout address within the desired turnout address block will automatically set the DS54 to the proper module address. 

Q:  What is the purpose of the Program Enable Link? A:  The CV Program Enable Link is used to program the DS54. The link (two pins) must be in the open position (one pin uncovered) for normal DS54 operation. The link (two pins) must be in the closed position (both pins shorted by the shorting block) during the programming of the DS54. Warning: The DS54 will behave erratically if the link is closed during normal operation.

  Q: How can I configure the DS54 for block occupancy detection? A:  Any DS54 input can serve as a block occupancy message generator. All that is necessary is to activate a DS54 input with a device that can detect the presence of a train within a specific area/location. The DS54 input can respond to a number of different block occupancy devices including the BD1, BD4, and isolated contacts. The following drawings indicate two different methods (wiring schematics) for the connection of devices to the DS54. The upper drawing Is for isolated contacts and the lower drawing is for BD1 ...

Q:  Can I set up the DS54 to act as an emergnecy stop device? A:  Any unused DS54 input can be configured to send an Emergency (OPC_IDLE) Stop packet. The typical Emergency Stop circuit is a supervised series of one, or more, normally closed switches or contacts. When any one of these devices is opened the circuit is deactivated and everything affected by the Emergency Stop circuit immediately shuts down. The following drawing depicts a typical Emergency Stop circuit using a DS54. 

Q:  I recently split my layout in half, with a DB150 acting as a booster powering one side and a DCS100 powering the other. I'm trying to reconnect the bus feeders to the rails, which all worked properly before the split. Now when I reconnect the feeders there is no short indication, BUT when a loco goes over the insulated gap between the two sections, a short occurs. A:  This is a common issue when the first booster is added to a DCS100/DCS200 command station. MOST DCS100/DCS200 command stations come from the factory set with Rail A & Rail B connections that are the opposite ...

  One major consideration is that the reverse section controlled by the AR1 must be longer than the longest train. It is a common misconception that the AR1 will work with an analog controlled ("DC") locomotive; it will not. The AR1 is meant to be used only in a DCC enviroment. The AR1 coordinates the phasing of the reversing section with that of the mainline (non-reversing) section of the layout.  Because a Digitrax layout can be a complex enviroment with detection and transponding, etc. consult the approriate Digitrax user manuals and the Digitrax Tech Support Depot knowledge base.  

  Changing the value of a DS54 Configuration Variable with a DT400 is easy if you follow the steps listed below. 1) Disconnect the DS54 from the LocoNet, aux power source, all inputs and all outputs. 2) Short the pins of the Enable Link. 3) Connect the DS54 track terminal inputs to the isolated programming track.4) Connect the yellow (feedback) wire from any DS54 Output (A, B, C or D) to either rail of the isolated programming track. 5) DT400 Programming Steps:  6) Remove the yellow feedback wire connecting the output connector to the isolated programming track.7) Remove the wires ...

Changing of the value of a DS54 Configuration Variable using your Zephyr Xtra (DCS51) or Zephyr(DCS50) is easy if you follow the steps listed below. 1) Disconnect the DS54 from the LocoNet, aux power source, all inputs and all outputs. 2) Short the pins of the Enable Link. 3) Connect the DS54 track terminal inputs to the Zephyr isolated programming track. 4) Connect the yellow (feedback) wire from any DS54 Output (A, B, C or D) to either rail of the Zephyr isolated programming track. 5) Zephyr Programming Steps.  6) Remove yellow (feedback) wire connecting the output connector to the Zephyr isolated programming track. ...

Q:  What is the purpose of the single 6-32 screw terminal beside the input connector? A:  The 6-32 screw terminal next to the input connector is the -VE Sensor common for the BD1 and BD4 block occupancy detectors. The 6-32 screw terminal next to the input connector should not be mistaken for the standard system ground. The LocoNet connector handles all of the DS54’s system ground needs. Warning: Do Not Connect the 6-32 screw terminal to a house or earth ground (water pipe, electrical ground connection, earth ground stake, etc.) as it may result in damage to the DS54.

Q: Where do I locate UR91 for best performance? A:  The UR91 works best in simplex radio mode if it is mounted in a central location on or near the ceiling. A few layout configurations may require a second UR91 for best performance.If the UR91 is also to be used in IR mode, then the recommendations for the UR90 should be followed.

Q:  Where do I locate UR90 for best performance? A:  Infrared signals are transmitted and received in the line of sight between the transmitter and the receiver.  Most problems with IR reception are caused by people or things blocking this line of sight.  UR90 should not be mounted in the layout fascia below track level because that is where we stand when we run trains.UR90 works best when mounted on a wall, opposite the operators, near the ceiling, at a 30° to 45° downward angle. The reason for this positioning is simple. When you are making speed and function changes on ...

Q:  How can the DS54 be configured to control a Flashing Crossing Signal? A:  The elements necessary to create a simple function flashing/blinking crossing signal are: a block occupancy detection (trigger) device, an electronic flashing/blinking circuit (DS54) and a crossing signal. The DS54 can accommodate two different types of triggering devices: Digitrax block occupancy devices (BD1 and BD4) and third party block occupancy devices (such as magnets and reed contacts). The following drawings indicate how to connect the two different types of triggering devices, along with the crossing signal, to the DS54. The upper drawing is for the BD1 or ...

Q: What is the exact reset procedure for a TF4? I tried both with series 3 procedure (CV8) and the other mobile decoders procedure with no success. My TF4 remains out of control. However, the white output makes the LED on my decoder testing board flicker. A: Since CV8 to 08 only works on series 3 and later decoders, it does not work on the function only decoders. TF4's CVs must be reset manually to factory values. The Factory Default Values are: CV64 000 CV61 002 CV49 000 CV50 000

Q:  How do I reset the DS54 CV's to factory default values? A:  Each DS54 CV must be manually reconfigured to set the DS54 to factory default values. The factory default values for the DS54's CVs are: CV01 = 1 All other programmable CVs = 0

The DS54 is a powerful stationary decoder, which can be used to control devices in several different ways. Within the DS54 electronics are four independent sections. Within each section are three independent elements: Switch_, Aux_ and Output_. Each element can act independently or in conjunction with one or more elements within that independent section. (Note: The Switch_ element can be accessed from the input connector and the Output connector of the respective section.) Each of these elements can perform any one of several different actions. The actions are determined by two variables: trigger and task. The relationship of the Trigger ...

A slot is a memory location in the command station that holds an active decoder address.  The number of slots is the number of locomotives that the command station can support in operation at a time. When the available slots are filled with decoder addresses, trying to select another locomotive address to run generates the "slot=max" error code.  When all the slots are full you can't select another address until one is released from the system. See Clearing your Command Station's Mobile Decoder Slots below for how to prevent this from happening.The DCS100 Command Station/Booster that is included with Super Chief Xtra and other ...

CV29 controls many aspects of the locomotive, including its decoder address (including two or four digit address) , normal direction of travel (NDOT), whether the locomotive opperates at 28 speed steps or 128 and others. Some older Digitrax throttles use hexadecimal notation for programming.  This article is presented for the benefit of those who may still be using these throttles.  CAUTION: if you are NOT using a DT100 or DT200, please disregard this article to avoid confusion.The Addition Method The table below shows each switch and its value if it is on or off. Notice that if the switch is ...

Q: I want to use the AR1 for a reverse loop between two different power districts (i.e. different booster for each connected track). Is this possible or do I need to make a special wiring set-up to do this? SThis diagram shows how to do this The usual rules apply, the AR1 track section must be longer than the longest train you will run.

Since 1999, Digitrax has produced function-only decoders with Transponding capabilities.  These decoders make it easy to add transponding and additional functions to locomotives with decoders that do not have transponding or enough functions.  These are useful for customers with older decoders produced before transponding was incorporated into Digitrax decoders.  They are also useful for users of decoders made by manufacturers that do not support transponding.The TF1 is a single output function decoder with Transponding capabilities. This function decoder adds an additional function along with Transponding ID capabilities to an engine with non-Transponding decoder capabilities or adds a single function along ...

Programming the locomotive decoder with DT402 or DT400: Place the loco on the programming track 1.  Press the "PROG" key. 2. Make sure "Pg" is displayed in the bottom center of the display if you want to use Paged Programming Mode.   If not, press the PROG key until the programming mode you want to use is displayed.3. "AD2" should be displayed on the left side of the screen. 4. If you want a two digit address (01-127) use the right throttle knob and select the address you want to program into the loco.  If you want to program a 4 digit ...

To run two or more locomotives together as a multiple unit lash up or consist controlled by a single locomotive address: Place the two or more units you wish to MU on the track. 1. Select the TOP loco (the one that will control the consist) on the right hand throttle knob. 2. Select the loco to be added to the MU on the left hand throttle knob. 3. Make sure all the locos in the consist are traveling in the same physical direction on the track (both going to the left or to the right) 4. Press the "MU" key 5. Press the "+" key 6. ...

Selecting a locomotive address to run on your DT4001. Place the locomotive you want to run on the track.  Turn the throttle knob you want to run a loco on slightly counter clock-wise letting the controller know you want to address that side. 2. Press the "LOCO" key 3. Select the address of the loco by entering it using the numeric key pad.,4. Press the "LOCO" key to complete address selection.

The DS64's approximate size:12cm (length) x 8.8cm (width) x 3.5cm (height)4.75" (length) x 3.5" (width) x 1.4" (height)The front edge of the DS64 needs clearance for wires to be attached.  The back edge has two LocoNet connectors and a barrel style power supply connector.  The back edge and left end have cooling slots which must remain clear.  The case has three holes which can be used for mounting screws. (#6 5/8" or longer screws can be used)

The changing of the value in the CV of a DS54 is relatively easy if you follow the steps listed below. The difficult part is deciding which CV and CV value to program to achieve the desired effect. The following are step-by-step instructions for changing a DS54 configuration variable using a DT300 throttle: 1) Disconnect the DS54 from LocoNet, the auxiliary power supply, all inputs and all outputs. 2) Short the pins of the Enable Link. (see related article) 3) Connect the DS54 track inputs to the command station programming track. 4) Connect the yellow feedback adapter wire from any DS54 output (A, ...

  There are two methods of providing power to the DS54: from the rails and from an auxiliary power source. The DS54 can be powered from the rails however, Digitrax strongly recommens that the DS54 be powered from an auxiliary power supply capable of delivering 12-16 volts (ac or dc) at 300 millamperes for best results.  Powering the DS54 from the rails reduces the current available to power locomotives and lighted rolling stock.  The auxiliary power supply connections are the red (+) and black (-) wires. Note: Digitrax recommends the PS14 Power Supply for independently powered DS54’s. Multiple DS54’s can be powered from a single power ...

Dispatching is a special way of offering a locomotive address to a UT1 or UT2 to run. The address is set up and then dispatched to the system to be acquired by the next throttle that presses its ACQUIRE Key. This is not the same as releasing a locomotive address from the system. Releasing an address clears it from the locomotive slot to make room for another locomotive address to be run by the command station. 1. Set the address selector switches to address “99” then press the “ACQ” button. 2. The Status LED will light green showing that you ...

Dispatching is a special feature incorporated in the LocoNet language to meet the needs of operators that wish to enforce a strict discipline in how operators gain access to locomotives during an operating session. Dispatching also lets you run consists with basic throttles that can't set up their own consists and run four digit addresses on basic throttles that only have two digit capability. It lets you have newcomers run trains on the layout without giving them access to the entire operation. When you dispatch a locomotive address or consist to your LocoNet system, you make it available to be ...

  To remove a loco address from a consist using a DT400 or DT402 Series throttle: Note: Duplex Radio throttles can remove locos from consists without the need to plug in to LocoNet.  Simplex Radio & infrared throttles must be plugged into LocoNet to remove loco addresses from consists. 1. On the L Throttle Knob, select the loco address that you want to remove from a consist. 2. Press the MU Key to enter consist mode. 3. Press the N - Key to remove the loco address from the consist. 4. The L Throttle automatically becomes active with the loco ...

Duplex Radio throttles (D throttles), do not have to be plugged in to add loco addresses to consists. Simplex Radio (R throttles) and Tethered/Infrared throttles must be plugged in to LocoNet to add loco addresses to consists.  To set up a consist using your DT400/DT402 Series throttle: 1. Select the loco address of the TOP loco on the R Throttle Knob. 2. Select the address of the loco you want to consist to the TOP loco on the L Throttle Knob. 3. Move the two locomotives into position. The locomotives can be headed in either direction. They can be adjacent to each other ...

Digitrax defines the TOP loco as the loco on the R Throttle Knob at the time when the MU add is performed.  This will be the locomotive address that controls the consist.

  Q:  I have read in some of the model magazines that the F2 button on the DT400 is a pressure sensitive playable whistle button. I have not noticed any difference in sound with the F2 button on my DT400. Is there some way to determine if this feature is present on my throttle? A:  Most Digitrax DT400 and all DT402 series throttles have the capability of implementing the playable whistle feature when used with Digitrax sound decoders.Prior to the release of Digitrax sound decoders this feature was considered as an experimental throttle feature and was not fully documented. Once Digitrax released ...

Q:  I have an MRC RailPower 1370 DC power pack.  I was wondering if that would work as a jump throttle on my Zephyr till I get my UT4 LocoNet Throttle? A:  We think that the answer is "No", but you will need to verify whether this power pack produces pure or pulsed DC power directly with MRC. Throttles used with Zephyr Xtra via the Jump Port must produce pure DC power, often referred to as "smooth" power packs. Many "advanced" analog power packs use automatic pulse injection to make model locomotives run better at slow speeds. This uses 1/2 wave AC ...

  To reset the DCS51/DCS50 to factory settings: If you change command station option switches and experience unexpected results, just set OpSw 39 to “c” (closed) to reset the unit to the original factory settings. 1. Press the PROG key. The display shows the last decoder programming mode used. 2. Press the SWITCH key. The display shows the last switch used and its commanded position. 3. Use the numeric keypad to enter the number of the Option Switch you want to change; in this case 39. 4. Press the "c - / CV-WR (lower right of keypad)" key to set the ...

How to disable command station capability in a DCS51 (Zephyr Xtra) or DCS50 (Zephyr) so it will operate as a booster and throttle without command station capabilityIf you have outgrown your Zephyr Xtra or Zephyr and have moved up to a more powerful command station, you can disable the command station capability in your DCS51 or DCS50 and continue using it as a booster and throttle in your system.Digitrax operators who upgrade from Zephyr to more powerful command stations for their systems can change Zephyr into a Booster/Throttle by setting OpSw 02 to closed. Changing DCS51/DCS50 Option Switch 02 to closed to disable command station capability: ...

  Q: Can I assume that any of the 3 powering options for the DS64 are acceptable for OpSw changes? A:  Yes you can power the DS64 using any of the 3 options.  The DS64 is strictly looking for power, and doesn't need the DCC signal from the track to set op-switches. Q: If I have only 3 turnouts on a DS64, to complete the 4 point programming I have been inputting a bogus turnout number. Is that correct? A:  Yes, that is correct. Q: When setting OpSw 1, do I have to be connected to track power or can I power ...

Q: I have the original DCS100 with the old style non-removable wire connectors. What would I gain with a firmware upgrade? A: Early DCS100s that do not access Functions 9 - 12. If you have a DCS100 that you would like to have updated, please send it to the Digitrax Repair Department for updating. This update is a chip change only and the original style connectors will not be changed to the new style connectors. The circuit boards used for the two different connectors are completely different and are not interchangeable. The DCS100 must be sent to us for this ...

1. Choose which THROTTLE knob (L or R) you want to use to run a locomotive. Make it the active throttle by turning the throttle knob a 1/4 turn in either direction or by pressing down on the knob.2. Press the SEL key. The active throttle display will begin flashing the Loco Icon, the last loco address selected on the throttle and the Lo mode indicator. Sel loco will be displayed in the Text Area of the LCD display.3. To select a 4 digit address, rotate the L THROTTLE knob to dial up the first two digits (1000s and 100s) of ...

There was an error In the BDL168 Instruction Sheet, Figure 6 on Page 19.  The LT5 diagram was incorrect.  This article shows the correct LT5 Detection Sections.  The current on-line version of the BDL168 Instruction Sheet has been corrected. Each BDL168 comes with an LT5 that will help you with layout wiring and troubleshooting for transponding & detection. The LT5 plugs onto the LED header connections of BDL168 and the LEDs on the LT5 light when detection sections are occupied. The status of power to each zone is also shown. In service, the LT5 is plugged in to one of ...

SDN144K0A installation question about the capacitorIs the 100microF capacitor needed? Or is it only for use in the Kato E8B unit when both LEDs are removed? If it is part of the installation, what size hole doesit need for mounting? The 100uF capacitor is required for all installations.  The capacitor provides keep alive voltage to the decoder.  This is important when the locomotive runs over a section of dirty track or is traveling through a non powered (insul-frog) turnout.  On non-sound equipped locomotives, typically you will not see the locomotive hesitate or lose power when it encounters dirty track.  With ...

  Q:  How do you connect more than one DS64 to a single power supply like a PS14 to power them or do you need a separate power supply for each DS64? A:  One power supply can be used if it can provide adequate power for all the DS64s it is powering. The PS14 has a built-in circuit breaker; when it exceeds its capacity, it will shut down, cool off and then start up again. If you are experiencing this behavior then you need to add one or more PS14s to provide enought power for the DS64s you have connected. Our recommendation of one ...

Q:  I have three engines lashed together. The sound is coming through . However when I turn the knob there is no response. The engine in the window is blinking and there are two stationary dots above A:  If you are using a DT300 series or DT400 series throttle, make sure that the Track Status Indicator dot in the upper right of the display just below the right throttle knob is on solid.  If it is not on at all Track Power is OFF.  If it is blinking, Track Status is in Idle and the throttle knobls will not move the locos.  To ...

Q: I have a Lenz Set 100 and was wondering if I can use my DCC system and use the Digitrax signaling and detection components. What about other DCC systems?A: Yes, Digitrax detection and signaling will work with any DCC system.  You will need to install a LocoNet network for the LocoNet components to communicate with each other and use a PR3 or MS100 to interface with a computer running software such as Railroad and Co. 

Digitrax command stations have Option Switches that care used to customize their operation.  Command Station option switches should not be changed unless you fully understand what you are trying to accomplish.  Information on these Option Switches is included in each command station's manual.Be sure that you are changing the correct Command Station Option Switches as the unit can be crippled by closing the wrong switches.  NEVER CLOSE OPTION SWITCH #1!!Clearing your Command Station's Mobile Decoder SlotsMost command station problems are caused by filling up the command station's available slots by the following:1.  Operators failing to zero the speed of unused ...

Q: How do I use the AR1 and automatically control the turnout? I'm confused here. It is good that the AR1 controls the switching of the track power for a reverse loop automatically but it seems the turn out direction also needs auto control. Am I missing something here? Need help understanding...Please explain. A: The AR1 is handles correcting the track polarity mismatch when a reversing section is encountered by a locomotive. When the polarity inside the reverse section does not match the polarity outside the reverse section, the AR1 detects the short circuit and flips the polarity so that ...

Q: I am building a new DCC layout that will include a logging spur that is simply a single long piece of track with no loop. I want to have a train go back and forth on this track which automatically reverses when it gets to each end. While the AR1 was designed for reversing loops, can it be wired to simply reverse a train on a straight piece of track? A:  Not in the way that you intend. One of the interesting problems with DCC is that we often still think in terms of DC, where the track polarity ...

Q: I have an older Super Chief system that came with DT100 throttles. They are both shot; one was accidentally pulled apart by an over zealous operator who forgot about the cable length and the other was ruined by me (I'm ashamed to admit) by spilling some super glue on several of the buttons. Can I upgrade to the current throttles or do you recommend I purchase the old DT100 units? A:  All Digitrax Starter Sets have LocoNet, including your older Chief series unit. This means that you can use any Digitrax throttle past and present.  Both of your damaged DT100 ...

Since many Zephyr and Zephyr Xtra Starter Sets are used on smaller railroads, a natural choice for setting up an automatic reversing section would be an AR1. If you have more than one reverse loop, then the PM42 is a better choice. These automatic reversing strategies will work equally well for any Digitrax system using any Digitrax Starter Set.  Alternately for larger railroads, an auto reversing booster such as the DB150 can be used for automatic reversing if the section is large.

There are two jumpers on the DS52 stationary decoder board. To properly use your DS52 you must be sure these jumpers are in the correct position. The configuration jumper sets whether your DS52 operates slow motion or solenoid type turnout machines. When the jumper is open it will run solenoid turnout machines. When it is closed it will operate slow motion turnout machines. The programming jumper determines whether the DS52 is in programming mode or not. To program the addresses for the DS52 the program jumper must be closed. For normal operation, it must be open. 

This application note shows how you can use your Digitrax PR2 Programmer with the USB Port on your computer. The PR2 has been replaced by PR3 Programmer and Computer Interface.  PR3 offers USB connectivity.The PR2 Programmer is a serial device that connects to a computer via a 25pin serial port. Serial ports are not available on most computers in current production. USB ports are more widely used today. The Digitrax PR2 Programmer can be connected to a USB port by using a USB to Serial RS-232 DB-25 Adapter Cable. Caution: Not all cables on the market will work. One that ...

The jacks on the front and sides of the UP5, UR92, UR91, UR90, and LNRP front panels are Throttle Jacks and should only be used for connecting throttles to LocoNet.  They should not be used to connect to other LocoNet devices.  The jacks on the back of these units are LocoNet Jacks that are used for connecting LocoNet devices to the network.  Technically speaking! These units were designed to have the FRONT jack's second Railsync differential signal run as a diode-or'ed power source (for throttles).  This means that some cable orientations and power loads could cause unexpected operations in downstream LocoNet devices ...

I was planning on purchasing the Digitrax Super Chief Radio 5 amps but several members in the club told me to buy them Super Chief Radio 8 amp for my HO Layout.  They said you will need the power when you start expanding.Question:Is it ok to use the 8 amp version for my HO layout?Answer:Yes it is fine to use 8 amp Digitrax boosters on your HO layout.  The choice between 8 amp and 5 amp command station/boosters, it is a question of how much power your railroad is likely to consume on your railroad as it is built today.  ...

Includes 3 Signal Masts that can be used as Signal Mast Bases in any scale or can be painted and detailed and used as N-scale signal masts.Making these circuit boards look like signals is easy, just paint the mast silver and the heads black (be sure not to cover the LED with paint), then add targets and hoods for a reasonable facsimile of a signal. Another option is to cut off the circuit board mast from the base and attach a signal from another manufacturer.

Power Management is a concern on every layout.  With Digital Command Control, the main concern is that enough power is supplied to evey track section on the layout so that the digital signal is transmitted to the decoders in the locomotives and turnouts.Each locomotive uses power from the track, some for the motor, some for headlights and other functions and some for the command control electronics in each locomotive.  More electrical power is necessary to run more locomotives on the layout.  Digitrax boosters provide between 2.5 amps & 8.0 amps.  A small N Scale or HO Scale layout with two to ...

Overview:To reset locomotive electronics to factory defaults the user must set CV08 to a value of 08. It is recommended that this procedure be performed on the dedicated service mode programming track using direct mode programming.* Note: This is the only programming procedure that we recommend using the programming track for. All other programming should be performed on the main track using Operations mode programming.Procedure:1. Place the DCC equipped locomotive on a dedicated service-mode programming track.* Note: The rails of this track should be connected to the PROG A & PROG B outputs on the DCS100 command station.2. Set the ...

Performing factory decoder reset using Digitrax Zephyr Xtra (DCS51) or Zephyr (DCS50)Overview:To reset a Digitrax decoder to factory defaults the user must set CV08 to a value of 08. It is recommended that this procedure be performed on the dedicated service mode programming track using direct mode programming.Procedure:1. Place the decoder equipped locomotive on an electrically isolated service-mode programming track which is connected to Programming Outputs Prog 'A' & 'B'.2. Press the PROG MODE key until “dir” appears in the LED display.3. Press the STEPS CV key. (The LED display should read “t###” with the # symbols replaced by actual digits)4. Enter “08” using ...

Setting the clock rate to rate=00 will stop the fast clock for the entire system at the currently displayed time. Fast time will re-start when a new non-zero rate value is set.

  Note: DT300 radio or infrared versions must be plugged in to LocoNet to edit the fast clock settings.1. From Lo (Loco) mode, press the MODE key to change to Sw (Switch) mode.2. Press the FN/F0 key to change from Sw (Switch) mode to E (Editor) mode.3. The mode indicator in the center of the bottom row of the display will show Ec (Edit Clock Mode) and the text area will show the current system time in either a 12 or 24 hour format.4. Use the L and R THROTTLE knobs to dial up the desired start time. Use the ...

You can view the fast clock time even if you do not have the display option set to view the current fast clock time as a default display1. From Lo (Loco) mode, press the MODE key to change to Sw (Switch) mode.2. Press the FN/F0 key to change from Sw (Switch) mode to E (Editor) mode.3. The mode indicator in the center of the bottom row of the display will show Ec (Edit Clock Mode) and the text area will show the current system time in either a 12 or 24 hour format.4. Press the FN/F0 key twice more to ...

Many operators use a fast clock during operating sessions to simulate prototypical operations. Traditionally, this clock is on the wall and is set up to run at a faster than normal rate. LocoNet has its own networked fast clock for all Digitrax throttles connected to your system.To use the Fast clock feature of the DT300, you must be plugged into a Digitrax command station.When there is no activity on your DT300 for more than about 6 seconds, the DT300 will revert to the default display. Your DT300 was shipped with Lo (Loco) mode, showing the current speed of selected loco(s), ...

If an untethered DT300, operating as a tetherless throttle, detects no user throttle activity for about 3 minutes it will enter power save mode. The display will show: The throttle may flash the normal Lo (Loco) Mode screen about every 60 seconds. This happens when the throttle “pings” the system to let the command station know that it is still part of the system. This keeps the system from releasing that locomotive back to the system and making it available to be selected by another throttle.Any key strokes or movement of the throttle knobs will bring the DT300 out of ...

The DT300 is “InfraReady”. The DT300R can operate tetherless on radio or “infraReady.” Both units are also provided with a cable to attach into LocoNet when required. A 9 volt battery must be used to power both the DT300 and DT300R for tetherless operation. Using DT300 as a tetherless throttle is easy:1. For Infrared operation, plug in at least one Digitrax IR receiver (UR90 or UR91) to your working LocoNet. Because infrared signals are line of sight, more than one receiver may be necessary for optimal performance in your layout room. 2. For Radio operation, plug in at least one ...

Your DT300 has two infrared LEDs in the cable end of the throttle case. These emitters send infrared signals that can be used by LocoNet compatible Infrared receivers such as UR90, UR91 & UR92 to give you tetherless operation via infrared signals.

Setting Up a Mars Lights with the PR1To program the decoder for Mars Light or other "single" output applications, follow these steps:1. Go to the Digitrax Decoder Programmer2. Select FX Set up3. Choose the function that you want to be the Mars Light4. Select "Mars Light"5. Click "OK"6. When you are back in the main screen click "Send"

The following CV set up simulates prototypical ditch lights that are on steady when running and alternately flashing when the horn blows. The ditch lights will be on when the engine is running, when you simulate blowing the horn by going into function mode and pressing F2 the ditch lights will flash on alternate sides of the loco. Note, the F2 key on Digitrax throttles is set up as a non-latching function so that the function assigned to F2 will be "ON" as long as you hold the F2 key down and will go "OFF" when it is released. Follow ...

When you click on the "FX-Setup" button a second menu screen appears which contains the special light effects for the FX decoder. If the decoder you are programming is not capable of FX effects, this section will not apply to your situation.On this screen we have access to F0 Forward Light, F0 Reverse Light, F1, F2, F3 & F4. The programming directions and choices are the same for each function. The pull down field to the right of this shows you which effect is assigned to that particular function. The following is a list of choices: No effect, normal function ...

The MODE key is used to move from one operational mode to another on the DT300 throttle and to dispatch selected addresses or consists to make them available for use by other throttles in the system. Lo (Loco) mode is the DT300’s default mode since most of the time you are running locomotives.Press the MODE key to cycle from Lo (Loco) mode to Sw (Switch) mode to Mu (Multi Unit) mode and back to Lo, and so on.The current operation mode will show in the middle of the bottom row of the LCD display.Dispatch: To Dispatch or offer a locomotive ...

The SEL key, called the Select Key or Select/Set Key, is used for selecting loco addresses on to the throttles. This is sometimes referred to as “assigning locos to throttles.”This key is also used to select or complete (set) an operation.

The STOP key has two uses: as an emergency stop for the locos on the layout and as a shift key used in conjunction with other keys.Emergency Stop keyThe factory setting for the STOP key is for Local Emergency Stop which stops just the locos controlled by the two throttle knobs on the DT300. The STOP key can also be set for Global Emergency Stop which will stop all of the locos on the layout.  This is done by setting throttle option switches.Using the Stop key as a Shift KeyThe STOP key is also used as a shift key in ...

Track Power IndicatorThis very small star shaped dot located just above the bar graph display in the LCD on the right side indicates the status of the track power.No indicator = System track power is OFFIndicator On Steady = System track power is ONBlinking Indicator = System is in “STOP” and track power is ON Tetherless IndicatorThe tetherless indicator shows when your throttle is using either infrared or radio communications.L and R Semaphores-Cab SignalingThe L and R Semaphores are used when cab signaling is implemented on the layout. The L and R Semaphores will display the following:

  Whether functions 0-8 are on or off for the currently active loco address is displayed on the top line of the LCD. The number for the activated functions for the active throttle (the one with blinking smoke) are displayed. Up to eight functions can be controlled by the DT300. To view the function status of either throttle, simply press the throttle knob to display the active functions for that throttle.

  Each throttle has a bar graph located just above the text area of the LCD. Each of these indicates the speed setting of the L THROTTLE and R THROTTLE graphically from a single dot (0% throttle) to 20 dots (full throttle). This is useful when the text area is showing information other than speed.

  The decoder address selected on the L THROTTLE is displayed on the bottom line of the LCD to the left of the Mode Indicator. The decoder address selected on the R THROTTLE is displayed to the right of the Mode Indicator. The address can show as either the 2-digit or the 4-digit decoder address. If no address is selected the display will show “SEL.” If a 2-digit address is selected (00-127), the display will show two or three digits (25 is shown in the example). If a 4-digit address is selected (0128 -9983), the display will show all four ...

The mode indicator, located at the bottom center of the LCD, shows the DT300’s current mode of operations. The DT300 automatically defaults to the Lo (Loco) mode and returns to this mode after about 6 seconds of inactivity in Mu (Multi Unit) or Sw (Switch) modes.

The Text Area of the LCD consists of the eight characters in the middle line of the display. This is where information like locomotive speed, decoder status, turnout position, fast clock, text prompts, messages and programming data are displayed.

The direction indicators are located in the LCD Display of the DT300 directly below the Loco Icon. There are separate indicators for the L (left) and R (right) throttles. If the arrow points to the front of the loco, the throttle is in the forward direction. If the arrow points to the back of the loco, then the throttle is in the reverse direction. If there is not a locomotive selected on a throttle the loco icon and direction arrow will not appear. Note: These direction indicators are for DCC equipped locos only. They will indicate direction based on the ...

  The Smoke Icon is located just above each Loco Icon and appears with the Loco Icon when an address has been selected on the throttle. When a loco is selected on a throttle, the Loco with Smoke icon will appear below the THROTTLE KNOB and beside the address of that loco. If no address is selected, there will be no Loco icon and the address area will show SEL. A Blinking Smoke icon indicates that the THROTTLE is currently active. Since both throttles must share the keypad, only one at a time can have access to the keypad and ...

  Many prototype trains use multiple locomotives to provide the necessary power to pull or push the train. This practice is called Multiple Unit consisting, usually shortened to MU or consisting. The DT300 Throttle can provide three methods of consist control:1. The Basic Consisting method, which is not commonly used, is to program all the locomotives in a consist to the same address and run them on one throttle. In this case all the locomotives must be headed in the same direction, head to tail, head to tail, head to tail. If you use decoders that allow you to set ...

  To control the speed of a locomotive with your DT300:1. Activate the loco address on either throttle by either pressing the C/R key or the R THROTTLE knob to gain control of the loco on the right side of the display and the L/t key or the L THROTTLE knob to gain control of the loco on the left.2. Turn the THROTTLE knob clockwise to increase speed and counterclockwise to decrease speed or3. Use the Y/+ and N/- keys to increase and decrease speed. The percentage of full speed will be displayed in the text line of the display ...

When the command station is sending commands to a loco address that is in-use on one of the DT300's throttles and that address is being changed by another throttle or computer, it will cause the DT300 to “click” every time it sees a remote throttle change its locomotive settings. If that locomotive is in the active throttle, its speed display will also show the changes. This is called slot following. This allows two DT throttles to run a single locomotive address with both throttles being able to send commands to the loco. Both throttles will show the current speed and direction of ...

When you are finished running a locomotive address, you should release it from your throttle so that the locomotive address is available for other throttles to select and run.  This also clears a slot for a different address to be used in the system.Radio and infrared throttles must be plugged in to LocoNet to release an address from your throttle. You can disable this safety feature by setting your DT300’s OP#3 to one of the values that allows tetherless release. To release an address from a throttle:1. Use the THROTTLE knob to select the loco and make its speed zero. This step ...

Stealing an Address that is in use by another throttle If you try to select a loco address that is already selected on another throttle the DT300 will display “Steal?=Y” in the text area. This is a safety interlock to prevent operators from taking control of locos that are already selected on other throttles. Occasionally it is necessary to override this interlock to gain control of a loco that is “lost” for whatever reason. This override is called stealing and can result in having a single loco address selected on two different throttles at the same time.To Steal An Address With ...

  To run a locomotive, you must first select it.1. Choose which THROTTLE (L or R) you want to use to run a locomotive. Make it the active throttle by turning it a 1/4 turn in either direction or by pressing down on the knob. If there is no active address selected to the throttle, as shown above, SEL will blink to let you know that the throttle is ready to select an address.2. Press the SEL key. The active throttle display will begin flashing the Loco Icon, the last loco address selected on the throttle and the Lo mode ...

If a throttle knob does not have a locomotive address selected when you make the throttle active by turning or pressing the L or R THROTTLE knob or L/t or c/R (direction) key, a flashing “SEL” will appear in place of the locomotive address in the LCD display. This is a prompt for you to select a locomotive address on that throttle.

Digitrax Command Stations use three address ranges available for addressing and programming locomotives. You can use all three address ranges at any time and in any combination you choose.Address 00: The analog address used to run locomotives without decoders. All analog locos (those with no decoders) active on the layout will respond to the speed and direction commands issued to address 00.2 digit addressing: Addresses in the range of 01 through 127. Also called short addressing, 2 digit addressing can be used with any DCC decoder, shown as the two or three digits, with no leading zero, of the address ...

Each DCC decoder that is installed in a locomotive is assigned a unique address. To select a locomotive and run it on either throttle, you must know the address assigned to the decoder. Digitrax decoders are set up at the factory with the “default” digital address of 03. This means that when you take a Digitrax decoder out of the package and install it in your loco, you can select address 03 on your throttle and run the decoder. The first Configuration Variable (CV) programmed by most DCC users is the decoder’s address since it is not very useful to ...

Does your throttle say slot=max ?This means that the system's capacity to handle operating locos is full. The DCS100 can run up to 22 or 120 addresses at the same time. If you have the slot=max message, be sure that all locos that are not running are released from throttles or set DCS100 OpSw 44 to closed to increase the number of address slots available to 120. The DCS100 command station that comes with all Genesis, Empire Builder and Chief series starter sets are set with a factory default of 22 slots.  So, once you begin to operate significantly more locos, you may need to ...

Option # 4 sets the throttle ID of your throttle. Each throttle in your LocoNet system can have its own unique ID to support advanced LocoNet functionality. Products that use this feature will usually require each throttle in your system to have a unique ID.We recommend changing this ID only when specifically directed to do so by the manufacturer of a LocoNet compatible product that requires unique throttle IDs for operation. You may use any ID in the range of values x00-x7F (hex) and you must be sure that every throttle in your system has a unique ID #.

The factory setting for the DT300 is Op#2=x23 with 128 step decoder setting and IR (infrared) tetherless operation enabled.The factory setting for the DT300R (radio) is Op#2=x03 with 128 speed step decoder operation and tetherless operation for both radio and IR enabled.Throttle Default Decoder OperationEach DT300 can be set up to operate new decoders selected by them as any decoder status code you choose. New decoders are defined as decoders that have not been selected in your system. Your DT300 is set to expect to operate mostly decoders that are 128 speed step capable, so when a new decoder is ...

  The DT300 can be used to access your systems Option Switches (OpSw):1. Release all locos selected on the throttle before you begin.2. Unplug the DT300 from LocoNet.3. Press and hold the SEL key while plugging the DT300 back into LocoNet.n.b.You can also enter option setting by holding down the SEL key while installing a battery in your DT300 while it is not connected to LocoNet.Your throttle will display a screen similar to this: 4. The DT300 display will show Op#1=x## where the x## represents the hexadecimal number of the current setting for Op#1. The default setting for Op#1 is ...

The factory setting for Op#3 for all DT300 throttles is Op#3=x01.LCD Backlight Brightness SettingThe backlight intensity can be set for off, low, medium or high intensity. The brightness of the backlight affects battery life, the brighter the LCD, the shorter the battery life.Note: When the DT300 is untethered, the backlight automatically reduces brightness by one setting to conserve battery power.Fast Clock FormatThe fast clock can be set up to display either 12 hour format or 24 hour format. The factory setting is 12 hour format.Recall Stack DepthThe DT300 recall feature can be set to keep a list of the last ...

The factory setting for Op#1 for all DT300 throttles is Op#1=x01. This option controls Tracking, Fast Clock Display, Key/Knob Clicks and Stop, local/global.Ballistic or Straight Line TrackingWith ballistic tracking, the faster you rotate the throttle knob, the faster the data changes in the throttle. When ballistic tracking is enabled so are typematic keys. With typematic keys, when you press and hold the Y/+ or N/- keys, the values will continue to increase or decrease without having to do a separate key press for each increment. Your DT300 was shipped with ballistic tracking as the factory default setting.With straight line tracking ...

The DT300 Throttle has two throttle knobs, allowing you to select and control two locomotives.  We refer to the throttle knob on the left side as the L THROTTLE and the throttle knob on the right side as the R THROTTLE. This corresponds to the L and R labels that appear on the DT300 near the throttle knobs.The throttle knobs on the DT300 use “encoders” to control speed and direction of the locomotive. The encoder can be pressed or rotated to “activate” the throttle. Pressing the throttle knob once activates that encoder. Pressing the knob twice will change the direction ...

The DT300 Throttle is a full-function hand held controller that includes 2 independent throttles and a common keypad to control up to 9 functions (0-8), turnouts and programming. The DT300 Throttle does not require a battery in normal walk-around operation, but if you do not install a battery, the throttle display will be off while you are unplugged from the system. The DT300 requires a 9 Volt battery for infrared operation.   The DT300R requires a 9 Volt battery for radio operation.

There are two throttles in the "300" series: The DT300 connects into LocoNet by a 7' cable. The cable allows flexibility in movement. The throttle can be disconnected to move to another point on the layout and reconnected to LocoNet without losing the acquired locomotive. The unit will also work wireless using Infrared signals when used with either a UR90 or UR91 or UR92.   The DT300R is a simplex radio control throttle with a 1' cable to connect into LocoNet. The throttle is plugged into LocoNet to select a locomotive or to program a locomotive and then can be disconnected ...

  The DT300 controls devices and operations in different modes:

  Can a DS64 be powered from the LocoNet RailSync lines? No.  The LocoNet cable is used only for LocoNet commands. The DS64 must be powered via the rear modular connector (12-14 volts AC or DC) OR via the AUX power 12-16 volts DC using AX1(-) and AX2(+) on the circuit board at the front of the unit. It is also possible for the DS64 to get it's power from the track hooked to Trk A and Trk B terminals, but experience has proven that this power source may not be reliable in certain situations.  NOTE: Use only the rear power jack or ...

Programming is the process of setting the configuration variables (CVs) in your decoder to the appropriate values that will make the locomotive perform the way you want it to.  The first CVs that most people change are those that set the locomotive decoder's address.  The mobile decoder in your locomotive usually comes pre-porgrammed to a factory default address of "03".  Once you add a second locomotive, you will want to change the this new locomotive to another address.  Not doing so will result in both locomotives operating at the same time when you send commands to address 03.Likewise, there are a ...

This procedure should be done on an electrically isolated programming track1. Be sure that only the locomotive you want to program is on the programming track.2. Press the PROG key on the DCS50 to enter programming mode. The DCS50 will display one of the programming modes available. Digitrax recommends the Paged Mode when you are using the programming track. If you press the PROG key repeatedly, you will cycle through the following choices:      PAGE     PHYS     dir     OPSFor example, to use Paged mode stop pressing the PROG key when the following screen appears:Each time you press the LOCO key the ...

Can I add Radio and IR to my Big Boy?Yes.Adding radio and/or IR to Big Boy is the same as adding it to any other existing Digitrax layout or Digitrax Starter Set. Digitrax offers InfraRed, Duplex Radio and Simplex Radio systems for wireless operation. Any combination of these wireless methods can be used on the same layout at the same time.Infra Red Wireless OperationAll current Digitrax throttles are Infrared capable (InfraReady) in that they come from the factory equipped with the IR emitters required to send IR information to LocoNet. To use this functionality, you only need to add one ...

  Can I add Radio and IR to my Zephyr Xtra?Yes.Adding radio and/or IR to Zephyr and Zephyr Xtra is the same as adding it to any other existing Digitrax layout or Digitrax Starter Set. Digitrax offers InfraRed, Duplex Radio and Simplex Radio systems for wireless operation.  Any combination of these wireless methods can be used on the same layout at the same time.Infra Red Wireless OperationAll current Digitrax throttles are Infrared capable (InfraReady) in that they come from the factory equipped with the IR emitters required to send IR information to LocoNet.  To use this functionality, you only need to ...

Q:  Can I use non-Digitrax decoders on a Transponding layout?A: Yes.  If you want to add transponding to a decoder that does not have the feature, add TL1 or TF4 to the decoder.  Some non-Digitrax decoders that use supersonic features are not compatible with transponding unless you switch off the supersonic feature. Digitrax supersonic decoders are compatible with transponding and can be used in supersonic mode while transponding.

1.  Install BDL16 series occupancy detector(s).  BDL16, BDL162 and BDL168 occupancy detectors can be used together on the same layout.2.  Add RX4 transponder receivers to the zones you want to set up for transponding. (You won't need to cover every detection section on the railroad for effective coverage and reporting. Some areas will be detection only sections while others will have full transponding as needed.)  Use either two RX4s with your BDL168 to set up 8 transponding zones or use one RX4 if you only need 4 transponding zones.3.  All current production Digitrax decoders are transponder equipped. If you have decoders ...

Testing the installed TF4 for correct transponder operation1. Place the unit with the installed TF4 on an empty transponding track section. This test assumes that the transponding track section is already set up, tested and is working before you start TF4 testing.2. Using a DCC throttle, select the TF4 address that was programmed into the TF4 and verify that the transponder detector identifies the presence of the transponder device. Depending on how you have set up your transponding reporting to the system, your system should detect the presence of the address in that transponding section.For example, if you have an ...

Installing the TF4 in the Loco or Rolling Stock1. Connect the TF4's RED and BLACK wires to the matching RED and BLACK track feed wires of an installed DCC mobile decoder.2. If the TF4 is used by itself, for example in a caboose or box car without a DCC mobile decoder installed, connect the TF4's RED wire to the right hand track pickup and the TF24s BLACK wire to the left side track pickup.3. No other parts are required to set up the transponder current pulses, since this is self-contained in the TF4.4. Install the lamps using the TF4's blue, ...

Program the TF4's Address & Function Outputs1. Before using your TF4, set its address. This may or may not be the same address as a mobile decoder already installed in the loco or car depending on how you are planning to use the TF4. In the case of TF4's being used as a stand alone transponder or as a function decoder, choose an address that is not the same as another mobile decoder address in use on the layout.2. Connect the RED & BLACK wires of the TF4 to a service mode DCC programmer and program the TF4's address as ...

A TF4 can be used with any decoder that is not transponder equipped to add transponding capability to the loco.  It can also be used in any piece of rolling stock with track pick ups to add transponding.  For example, you could use a TF4 to add transponding and lighting effects to a caboose if it is equipped with track pickups to provide power and signal to the TF4.A TF4 should not be connected to an existing transponder equipped DCC decoder unless the DCC decoder's transponder is disabled. This avoids having 2 transponders responding to the same address in the ...

Function-only decoders allow you to add additional functions to a locomotive with an existing mobile decoder.  Additionally, function-only decoders allow you to install lighting in passenger cars, as an example.Function only decoders also are used to add Digitrax transponding to early model Digitrax decoders and decoders from other manufacturers that do not have this feature.

1. Before using your TL1, set its address. This may or may not be the same address as a mobile decoder already installed in the loco or car depending on how you are planning to use the TL1. In the case of TL1s being used as a stand alone transponder or as a function decoder, choose an address that is not associated with another mobile decoder address in use on the layout.2. Connect the RED & BLACK wires of the TL1 to a service mode DCC programmer and program the TL1's address as you would any mobile decoder address.Follow the ...

1. The UP5 Universal Panel is designed for mounting on the fascia board of the layout. Cut a hole approximately 2.5” W x 1.5” H in the fascia board. Insert the UP5 through the hole with the face plate on the front of the fascia board. Attach the UP5 face plate to the fascia board with four #6 screws. Note: The UP5 uses the black screws to mount the front fascia plate.2. Connect the UP5 to LocoNet using pre-tested LocoNet cables. There are 2 LocoNet Jacks located at the back of the UP5 board for connecting LocoNet devices on your layout. ...

Hooking up the UP5's Power Supply (Optional but highly recommended to make sure LocoNet voltage is adequate to control large layouts)The optional power supply (PS14) can be connected to one or more UP and/or UR panels to provide additional power for LocoNet operation and for battery saving power to any Digitrax throttle that is plugged into any of the powered panels.1. Plug the PS14 into the DC jack located on the side of the UP5 circuit board.2. Connect the +Common point on each additional board (located between the two LocoNet jacks) to the powered board with 22AWG wire (Figure 2). ...

While it is possible to use RJ12 telco jacks as throttle jacks on LocoNet, the UP5 is much simpler to use and looks much more professional on the front of the layout. The UP5 is shipped as a kit that must be assembled.  You will need to attach the front panel to the circuit board using the screws provided as shown below before installing the entire unit on your layout.  If your front panel does not fit at a "perfect" 90 degree angle to the circuit board, this is will not affect the functionality of the unit.Make sure to line up the Track ...

DG583S - Function Outputs 1. Function outputs are rated at 2 Amps each. Do not exceed the decoder’s 5 Amp total output rating. This total includes the motor current and total of all function output currents.2. To use a function output with an inductive(coil) type load, see the Digitrax Decoder Manual for more information to avoid damage to the decoder.3. See the Digitrax Decoder Manual for full details of wiring 12-16V lamps, 1.5V lamps, and LEDs. Lamps that draw more than 80 mA when running require a 22 ohm 1/4 watt resistor in series with the directional light function lead ...

UT4 Sleep Mode is used to extend throttle battery life; it does not charge the throttle batteries but it does reduce the draw on the throttles' batteries.To put the UT4 to sleep, press and hold any function key down and turn any address selector to the next digit. The throttle will go into sleep mode. The UT4 will release the address that was selected and the status light will briefly turn red. If the unit is plugged into LocoNet port you can unplug the throttle and the throttle will then be in sleep mode until plugged back in to LocoNet ...

The UT4 comes InfraReady for layouts that are equipped with one or more UR90 infrared receivers. For Infrared operation:1. Install one or more UR90 infrared receivers on your layout.  These should be connected to LocoNet and powered.  If you have UR92s and/or UR91s present on the layout, these also support infrared operation.  You will need enough infrared receivers installed on the layout so that the throttles you use can "see" the receivers since the transmission is line of sight.  You may also encounter problems in rooms where there are large windows that would interfere with the transmission.2. Install a 9 ...

UT4 Function Control Keys and How they WorkThere are 8 physical keys used to control functions F0-F12 on the UT4 throttle. F1 through F6 and F7-F12 share the same keys.  You will see F1-F6 in black print and F7-F12 in blue print to remind you that you will need to use the SHIFT key to access F7-F12. To use functions F7-F12 you must press and hold down the SHIFT key on the lower left row of the throttle as you press the F7 through F12 keys to activate any functions available on those functions. All the UT4 functions work like other Digitrax throttles. ...

Dispatching is the process of releasing a loco so that another user can take control of it. To release, or dispatch, a loco under current UT4 control:1. Unplug the UT4 from the LocoNet port.2. Press and hold the DISP (Dispatch) key.3. Plug the throttle back into a LocoNet port.

Stealing, or "sharing" is defined as acquiring control of a loco address that is being used by someone else on another throttle. To ‘Steal’ a loco:1. Unplug the UT4 from the LocoNet port.2. Dial up the address of the loco you want to steal.3. Press and hold the ‘STEAL’ key while plugging the throttle into the LocoNet jack. Note: To steal or dispatch another loco, you must unplug the UT4 and repeat the above sequence.

Changing the Direction switch on the top left hand side of the UT4 from Forward (F) to the center Brake (B) position causes the loco to stop at the locomotive’s programmed deceleration rate. Changing quickly from ‘F’ to ‘R’ (Reverse) causes the loco to stop at the programmed deceleration rate, then reverse direction and accelerate at the locomotive’s programmed acceleration rate.

If you are NOT plugged into a LocoNet port1. Use the 4 rotary address selector knobs on your UT4 to dial up the 2 or 4 digit address of the locomotive you want to run.  To enter a 2-digit addresses, set the first two selector knobs to 0 and enter the two digit address on the 2 address selector knobs on the right hand side of the throttle (for example 0025).2. Plug the UT4 into any LocoNet port and automatic selection occurs.3. A Green Status light confirms that selection has been done successfully - You’re off and running!4. A Red Status light means the loco is ...

LocoNet is Digitrax's method of communication between LocoNet compatible devices on a model railroad layout.  LocoNet compatible devices are designed to work together on the network, and in some cases can also accept DCC commands from  the track, but often go beyond the scope of simple DCC train control.   LocoNet is a peer-to-peer Ethernet type multiple access network.  Because of its design architecture, it is very robust and powerful.  Layout implementation is simple and wiring is free form with minimal limits. LocoNet is designed to run an unshielded 6 conductor ribbon cable.  Digitrax recommends using flat, six-conductor telephone wire ...

The sound project loaded into this decoder can be operated independently of any other DCC motor or function decoder. If another non-Sound FX compatible DCC decoder is connected to the track leads then CV readback of SFX064D Sound CV's and PR2/PR3 SoundTest modes may not be possible. Note that it is always possible to Write CV values using Operations mode or a Service Mode programming track, even if CV Read is inoperative.If the connected function loads are insufficient for CV readback or an incompatible DCC decoder is also connected, it is still possible to download a complete sound project by ...

If you have trouble reading back CV's on the programming track, this may be due to insufficient current draw on the SFX064D function leads. You can always just re-program the CV value into a CV to get the desired results, even though reading CVs does not work. OPs mode is recommended for programming all CVs except CV01, CV17 & CV18 (2 digit and 4 digit addresses). If a second DCC decoder is present that is not Sound FX compatible then correct readback of CV data is not possible, since the NMRA CV readback was not designed for multiple decoder readback.

These are the Function buttons for sound control:

1) Connect the Red and Black track wires from the 9 pin Track and Function harness to the locomotive track power connections.2) Connect the function leads that are to be used from the 9pin Track and Function harness. Note that to be able to readback Sound FX CV's a combination of function lead loads of at least 60mA at 12volts should be connected to these function leads. Insulate the unused function leads so they cannot short to the locomotive frame or track power.3) Mount the 28mm speaker attached to the 10pin sound feature harness in an appropriate sound enclosure. Be ...

Even though an individual locomotive is part of a consist and you can’t control its speed and direction separately from the consist, you can still control its function outputs independently as follows:1. Press the LOCO Key and select the address of the locomotive that is a part of consist for which you want to control functions.2. Press the LOCO Key again to select the loco address to your throttle. The speed value will show “cn” to remind you that you can only control functions on the loco and not its speed.3. Use the steps described above to turn on or ...

The DT400 can control Functions 1 - 12.Note: DT400 can access F0-F12 when used with the DCS50 Zephyr or DCS100 Super Chief command station. DT400 can only access F0-F8 when used with a DB150 Super Empire Builder command station.To enter Fn (function) mode:1. Determine which throttle you want to control functions on and make it the active throttle by single clicking the throttle knob or by turning the throttle knob a couple of clicks.2. DT400’s numeric keypad is always active in function mode during normal loco operations. When the mode indicator on your DT400 shows Fn, simply press any number ...

DT400 Series Throttles - Make F2 Latching or Non-latching The F2 button on the DT400 is meant to control locomotive whistles and horns, so it is configured to be "momentary" or non-latching.  This means that the key will activate the horn or other function for as long as you hold the key down and stop when it is released. This was done to facilitate the use of a playable whistle in sound decoders. If you are not using F2 for this purpose on your layout, you can change the way the F2 key on the throttle works so that it latches on and ...

DT402 & DT400 Series Throttles Locomotive Directrion Control There are two ways to change the direction of the locomotive address from the DT402 and DT400 Series Throttles:Double click the Throttle Knob to reverse the direction of a locomotive running on that throttle:1. Double click the Throttle knob that is controlling the locomotive. Press down on the knob quickly two times (2 distinct key presses within 1/2 second).2. The locomotive selected on that throttle will change direction.3. Repeat the process to reverse again, etc.4. Double clicking the R Throttle knob will reverse only the locomotive running on that throttle. Double click ...

To stop everything on the layout, press the PWR Key followed by the N - Key while the track power is on. This will turn track power off and will cause all locos to stop. Press the PWR Key followed by Y + Key again and the locomotives will start running again at the same speed they were running prior to STOP mode. To exit PWR mode, press the PWR Key or the EXIT Key.

DT402 & DT400 series throttles have two ways of doing an emergency stop. When you use Emergency Stop, the deceleration rate programmed into the decoder will not have an effect and the stop will be immediate.Local Stop Press the EMRG STOP Key to stop the loco that is active in the throttle display. To resume operation, use the throttle knob associated with that address to increase the loco’s speed.Press the EMRG STOP Key again to stop the loco that is associated with the other throttle on the DT400 or DT402 series throttle. To resume operation, each operator must use their throttle to set ...

Bring Your Locomotive to a Compete Stop Turn the Throttle Knob that the loco address is selected on counterclockwise until the speed display shows 00 and the loco stops moving. This lets you slow down your loco and stop it in a prototypical manner.If you have set up deceleration for the loco and you move the throttle knob to 0% speed, your loco will slow down and come to a stop at the programmed deceleration CV value.   We strongly recommend that you run your locos with the factory default of no deceleration until you are familiar with your system. If ...

DT402 & DT400 Series Throttle - Locomotive Speed Control To control the speed of a locomotive:1. Select the loco address on either throttle2. Turn the throttle knob clockwise to increase speed and counterclockwise to decrease speed or3. Use the Y + & N- Keys to increase and decrease speed.The % of full speed will be displayed in the text line of the display on the L or R side depending on which throttle is controlling the loco. The % of full speed will also be displayed on the bar graph above the text area in the display.If a loco address is ...

Stealing is  also known as Forcing An Address Selection or SharingIf you try to select a loco address that is already selected on another throttle the DT400 will display “Steal?=Y” in the text area. This is a safety interlock to prevent operators from taking control of locos that are already selected on other throttles. Occasionally it is necessary to override this interlock to gain control of a loco that is “lost” for whatever reason. This override is called stealing & can result in having a single loco address selected on two different throttles at the same time.To steal an address ...

DT402 & DT400 Series Throttle-Locomotive Recall The DT402 & DT400 Series Throttles store the last 4, 8,or 16 unique loco addresses used by the throttle in a recall stack; your throttle defaults to a 4 address recall stack.  Users often discover this feature when taking their throttle for use on another Digitrax railroad; they plug their throttle into the new LocoNet and discover their own locomotive addresses are still in their throttle.  The presence of stored locomotive addresses may make operations on your railroad easier.For example if you have your throttle set up for an 8 deep recall stack and the last 8 ...

DT402 & DT400 Selecting and Running A Locomotive If a throttle knob does not have a locomotive selected when you make it active by turning or pressing the L or R Throttle knob or Reverse Key, flashing “SEL” will appear in place of the locomotive address in the LCD display. This is a prompt for you to select a locomotive on that throttle. 1. Choose which Throttle (L or R) you want to use to run a locomotive.Make it the active throttle by turning it a 1/4 turn in either direction or by single clicking the throttle knob. If there ...

DT402 & DT400 Series Throttles Track Power ON and OFF When track power is on: The Throttle's Track Power Indicator is on solid (small dot in the top line on the right side of the LCD)   Command Station TRACK STATUS indicator is lit   and Command Station OFF LINE indicator is off To turn track power on: Press the PWR Key and the LCD will display a screen similar to this: Press the Y + Key to turn on track power. Press the PWR Key again to exit Power On/Off Mode. You may also press any other key to go directly ...

There is a numeric keypad on the DT402/DT400 throttle.  The numeric keys on the keypad are primarily related to the throttle mode shown in the LCD’s mode indicator area, but can be used for numeric entry and function control in other modes. For example, when the command station is in the Function Mode Fn, the numeric keys are used for function control. When the command station is in the Locomotive Mode,Lo, the numeric keys are used to enter loco addresses. When the command station is in the Switch Mode is Sw, the numeric keys are used to enter switch addresses.In ...

Your DT402/DT400 throttle comes from the factory set for “Local” Stop. When you press the EMRG STOP Key , the loco address that is active on your display (the one with the blinking smoke) will stop.When you press the EMRG STOP Key again, the loco address on the other throttle of your DT400 will stop.You can use the OPTN t Key to change the EMRG STOP to “Global” Stop.With global stop option enabled, pressing the EMRG STOP Key will stop all locos on the layout and you will see the throttle's track power indicator blinking on and off.To resume operations, press ...

The ENTER key is used to complete the current throttle task and return to Fn mode for normal operations.

The EXIT Key is used to exit the current throttle task without making changes. Pressing this key will usually return the DT402 and DT400 series throttles to Fn mode for regular locomotive operation.

The CLOC, "c" Key is used to toggle between displaying and not displaying the current fast clock time. It is also used to issue c (closed) commands when the throttle is in Switch mode.In the case of turnout control:c=closed, when a "c" command is sent, the turnout is set for the main line with routing through the straight leg of the turnout.

The OPTN t Key is used to enter the Option Mode to set throttle and system options. It is also used to issue t (thrown) commands when the throttle is in Switch mode.In the case of turnout control:t=thrown, when a "t" command is sent, the turnout is set for the diverging route through the curved leg.

The PWR Key is used to enter power mode for turning layout power on and off. Once you press this key, you will be prompted to use the Y+ key to turn power on or the N- Key to turn power off.  The PWR Key is also used to turn on and off the flashlight feature. The flashlight LED will be on as long as you hold down the PWR Key.

The BACK key lets you go back one step.

The FIND Key is used in conjunction with a layout instrumented for Digitrax Transponding and locos or cars equipped with transponders to find the location of those pieces of rolling stock on the layout.

The EDIT Key is used to enter the Edit Mode for editing the fast clock, routes, signaling, etc. It is also used to status edit decoders while in locomotive address selection mode.

The DISP Key is used both for displaying programming information and dispatching loco addresses.

With ballistic tracking, the faster you increase or decrease turning the throttle knob, the faster the data changes in the throttle. When ballistic tracking is enabled, so are typematic keys. With typematic keys, when you press and hold the Y +or N - Keys, the values will continue to increase or decrease without having to do a separate key press for each increment.With straight line tracking each movement of the throttle knob causes a fixed rate of change. When you use straight line tracking, typematic key action is off. This means that you must press each key once to cause ...

The DT402/DT400 Throttles include two multipurpose keys.The Y + and N - Keys are used: To turn track power on and off   To increase or decrease loco speed   To link and unlink locos during MU’ing   To accomplish tasks using system editors These two keys can be set up to act in two different ways:Repeating: so that if you hold a key down it will continue to increase or decrease step by step until you release the key. This option is active when your throttle is set up for ballistic tracking. Your DT402/DT402 throttles are shipped from the factory ...

The L & R Direction Reverse Keys change the direction of travel of the loco on the related throttle when the throttle is in Fn (Normal Operation) Mode. The R Direction Reverse Key changes direction of the address on the “R” or Right Throttle. The L Direction Reverse Key changes direction of the address on the “L” or Left Throttle.  You can also reverse the locomotive by double clicking the throttle knob.

The SWCH Key is used for entering switch control mode. Once this key is pressed, you will be prompted to select a switch address and issue a thrown or closed command. Switch control mode is used in normal operation for operating turnout machines and in set up mode for setting up option switches in the throttle and command station.

The MU Key is used to enter consist or multiple unit (MU) set up mode.Once the MU Key is pressed, you will be prompted by the throttle to use the Y+ Or N- Keys to add locos to or remove locos from consists (MUs)

The FUNC Key is used to enter function control mode. Function control mode is the default mode for normal locomotive operation with the DT402/DT400 Series Throttles. Press this key during any throttle task to return to normal loco operation mode with function controls active on the numeric keypad.

The L & R Semaphore Indicators are used when cab signaling is implemented on the layout. These semaphores offer three indications:

The tetherless indicator shows when your throttle is using either infrared or radio communications.

The DT400 display LCD includes a small star shaped dot which indicates the status of the track power. No indicator = System track power is OFF (Press PWR followed by N-)Indicator On Steady = System track power is ON (Press PWR followed by Y+)Blinking Indicator = System is in “STOP” and track power is ON (Press PWR followed by Y+ and Y+ again)

The DT400 includes an LCD information display.  This display includes information about the active functions of the selected locomotive. The functions 0-12 which on or off for the currently active loco address are displayed on the top line of the LCD. The functions for the active throttle (the one with blinking smoke) are displayed. To view the function status of either throttle, simply press the throttle knob to display the active functions for that throttle.

Each throttle has a bar graph located above the text area of the LCD. Each bar graph indicates the speed setting of the L & R Throttles graphically from a single dot (0% throttle) to 20 dots (full throttle).  This is useful when the text area is showing information other than speed.

The Text Area of the LCD consists of the eight characters in the middle line of the display. This is where information like locomotive speed, decoder status, turnout position, fast clock, text prompts, messages and programming data are displayed.

The DT402/DT402 series throttles have displays which give you information about the performance of your railroad.The decoder address selected on the L Throttle is displayed on the bottom line of the LCD to the left of the Mode Indicator. The decoder address selected on the R Throttle is displayed on to the right of the Mode Indicator. The address can show as either the 2-digit or the 4-digit decoder address. If no address is selected the display will show “SEL.” If a 2-digit address is selected (00-127), the display will show two or three digits. If a 4-digit address is ...

The mode indicator, located at the bottom center of the LCD, shows the DT402/DT400 series throttles' current mode of operations. The DT400 automatically defaults to the Fn mode & returns to this mode whenever the EXIT Key is pressed. The Mode indicator usually shows what the numeric keys are associated with. For example, in Fn mode, any entry on the numeric keypad will affect functions. In Sw mode, keypad entries will change turnouts and in Lo mode, entries on the keypad will enter loco address numbers, etc.

The Smoke Icon is located just above the Loco Icon. Both the L & R Throttles have a smoke icon. If a loco is selected on either throttle, the Loco icon will appear beside the address of that loco. If nothing is selected, there will be no Loco icon and the address area will show SEL. The blinking smoke icon indicates which throttle is currently active (having its function states displayed in the top line of the LCD). Since both throttles must share the keypad, only one at a time can have access to the keypad and function controls. The ...

On the DT402 and DT400 series throttles, the direction indicators are located in the LCD Display directly below the Loco Icon. There are separate indicators for the L (left) and R (right) throttles. If the arrow points to the front of the loco, the throttle is in the forward direction. If the arrow points to the back of the loco, then the throttle is in the reverse direction. If there is not a locomotive selected on a throttle the loco icon will not appear.Note: These direction indicators are for DCC equipped locos only. They will indicate direction based on the ...

On The DT400 and DT402 series throttles, the L & R Loco Icons are used to indicate whether an address is available for selection. A blinking loco icon means that the address is available for selection and a steady loco icon means that the loco address is currently selected or in use by another throttle.

The DT400 has an informational liquid crystal display (LCD).The display shows: Mode Indicator   Track Power Indicator   Tetherless Indicator   Text Area   Throttle Addresses (L & R)   Throttle Direction (L & R)   Loco Icons (L & R)   Smoke Icons (L & R)   Functions 0 - 12, active throttle only   Bar Graph (L & R)   Semaphore Indicator (L & R), not currently implemented

Digitgrax refers to the throttle knob on the left side as the L Throttle and the throttle knob on the right side as the R Throttle. This corresponds to the L & R that appears on the throttle. The throttle knobs on the DT400 use “encoders.” They give very smooth, fine speed control. In 128 speed step mode it takes four complete rotations of the knob to go from stop to full speed. When you select a locomotive that is already moving on either throttle knob, that throttle will continue to run the locomotive at the same speed and in the ...

The DT400 and DT400R are full function hand held throttles that include 2 independent throttles and a common keypad to control up to 13 functions (0-12), turnouts and programming.The DT400 offers wireless infrared remote operation used in conjunction with a UR90 or UR91 Receiver Unit.  The DT400 requires a 9 volt battery for infrared operation; the DT400 does not require a battery in normal walkaround operation. If you do not install a battery, the throttle display will be off while you are unplugged from the system. The DT400R offers wireless radio remote operation when used in conjunction with a UR91 ...

How to Select and Run a DCC Locomotive Using a DT402 or DT400 Series Throttle 1. Activate the throttle's left throttle knob “L” by turning it a 1/4 turn in either direction or by clicking the throttle knob once. The left side address will begin flashing. If nothing is selected on this throttle it will flash “SEL”.2. Press the LOCO Key. The left side of the display will begin flashing. The illustration above shows the LCD display just after you press the LOCO Key to select an address on the L Throttle when nothing has been selected on that throttle before and ...

'It is possible to operate one conventional DC locomotive at Address 00.  In many cases, this is the first locomotive that beginners use when they first get their command control system.  In other cases, this locomotive is one which cannot be easily converted to DCC.  Regardless, although it is possible to use your Digitrax system in this way, it is not a recommended approach.1. Place an analog locomotive (one without a decoder) on your layout.  While the analog loco is sitting still, you will hear the characteristic “singing” caused by the DCC track signal when it is applied to analog ...

The DT400 and DT400R are full function hand held throttles that include 2 independent throttles and a common keypad to control, up to 13 functions (0-12), turnouts and programming.

The DT402 & DT402's screens are an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) that is designed to show you what you are controlling with the throttle.  It also facilitates programming and other features of the LocoNet system. 1. The handheld has two throttles called the left throttle (L) and the right throttle (R).2. There are two direction indicators. One for the L throttle and one for the R Throttle. If the direction indicator is lit, and there is smoke over the loco icon there is an address selected on that throttle.3. The direction indicator with blinking smoke indicates which throttle is currently active. The ...

1. Plug the DT402 & DT400 series throttle into any functioning Digitrax LocoNet System or other LocoNet compatible system and you are ready to go! You can use any LocoNet jack on your system.2. First, you will see the DT402 or DT400 version number screen: This screen shows the throttle's software version number. It is displayed for a few seconds each time you power on the throttle.3. Next you will see the power indicator screen: This screen indicates the power available to the throttle. When you are plugged in to LocoNet, this value will be between 9 & 15 volts. When you ...

The track power indicator on your DT400 shows whether track power is on or off. If the track power indicator is lit then track power is on. There is also a Track Power indicator on your command station.To Turn Track Power On:If the Track Power Indicator is not lit, turn track power on as follows:1.  Press the PWR Key2.  Press the Y + Key and the Track Power Indicator on your DT400 display and on your command station will come on solid. If the Track Power Indicator is blinking, press the Y+ Key again to make it solid and turn ...

The DT400 can be connected directly to the LocoNet port of your command station or to any Universal Panel of your LocoNet system.

DT400 is designed to maintain a close similarity in function & feel with Digitrax DT300, DT200, & DT100 series throttles. This family resemblance makes it easy to add new throttles to your Digitrax Command Control System and be able to use them in ways similar to the existing throttles that you are already used to. DT400 can be used with any Digitrax LocoNet System or other LocoNet compatible DCC system.   User friendly Multi-line Backlit LCD with easy to read icons and messages.   Prompts in the display guide you every step of the way. To make operation easy and ...

The tuneable trip current (TTC) adjustment allows you to set the current at which the reversing section reverses when the train crosses the gap into the section. This allows you to improve the operation of your reversing sections.The tuneable trip current is adjustable from .25 amps to 8 amps. Turning the TTC screw clockwise increases the current trip point and turning the TTC screw counterclockwise decreases the current trip point. The total adjustment is approximately one half revolution of the TTC adjustment screw. The TTC adjustment is made using a full load on the reversing track--the total number of locomotives/cars ...

The AR1 is usually located close to the point where the gaps are cut for the reversing loop. The length of the reversing loop is determined by the maximum length of the train that will use the loop.1. Turn off track power. (Note: Failure to turn off power before connecting your AR1 may damage your AR1.)2. Connect Track Power from Rail A and Rail B mainline to the AR1. Rail A connects to terminal 5 and Rail B connects to terminal 4.3. Connect the wires from the reversing section to terminals 1 & 2 on the AR1. (Note: terminal 3 ...

This procedure is best done after installation of the decoder to the turnout.  The process is "blind", so it is easier to program this decoder after installation because you can then test the operation of the turnout with its new address.  The DS51K1 can be installed into the base of the turnout or attached to the bottom of the layout near the turnout.1. Turn off track power and temporarily connect the yellow programming wire from the DS51K1 to the same rail as the black wire.2. Turn on track power.3. Using your throttle, select the address you want to program into ...

The DS51K1 is designed specifically for Kato N-Scale turnouts.  Kato manufactures both a #4 and #6 turnout; one DS51K1 will control one Kato turnout solenoid.  In cases where there are two turnouts in a crossover track arrangement, you must use two DS51K1s, each assigned to the same address.Installation of the four decoder wires requires soldering skills.  And, just to make things interesting, Kato uses the colors of black and red for their turnout control wires, while Digitrax uses black and red for the power and data bus.  You will make four connections, two connected to the turnout motor and two ...

Stationary Decoder for use with a single Kato Unitrack bi-polar turnout machine or similar device   Simple hook up and set up.     Kato Unitrack compatible bi-polar drive.     DCC compatible.    

UT 2 was manufactured between 1995 and 2005

Super Chief superseded Chief II.Super Chief IncludedA DT400 throttleA DCS100 Command Station BoosterA UP5 Universal PanelInstruction Sets

Super Empire Builder superseded Empire Builder II Super Empire Builder Included A DT400 throttleA DB150 Command Station/BoosterA UP5 Universal PanelA Short LocoNet CableInstruction Manuals

Chief was superseded by Chief II, which came with a DT300 throttle.

Empire Builder was superseded by Empire Builder II, which included a DT300 throttle.

Genesis was superseded by Genesis II, which included a DT300 throttle.

Empire Builder was manufactured from 1998 to 2000.  It was offered with a DT100 throttle.

Chief was Digitrax third commercially produced starter set.  It was manufactured from 1998 to 2000.  It included:A DT100 throttleA DCS100 command Station Booster

Challenger was Digitrax' first commercially produced system.  It was manufactured from 1993 to 1998.It included:A CT4 analog throttle that controlled 4 addresses.  These were color coded.A DB100 command station/booster.A decoder (either HO or N scale).The CT4 throttle is the only throttle ever manufactured by Digitrax that could not be used on other Digitrax systems.

How To Run a Route with DS64:1. Select the Switch Address that corresponds to the Top Address of the route you want to run.2. Issue a Closed or Thrown command depending on which you set up in the route table.Note that if you are using an actual switch address as your top address and you send the opposite closed or thrown command from that set up in the route; you will operate that switch address only and not the route.For example: If you set up Switch Address 50 as your Top Address by sending a Thrown command, you’ll need to ...

How To Set Up Routes Using Your DS64NOTE:  During this procedure the DS64 must be connected to an active LocoNet with an active command station.1. Press and hold down the STAT button on your DS64 until the green LED begins to blink quickly. You are now ready to set up a Route.2. To program the DS64 Route Number, use your DCC throttle in Switch mode to select a Switch Address from 1 through 8 and issue a Closed or Thrown command. This lets the DS64 know which of the 8 available routes you are setting up. This is NOT the ...

When you program the DS64, you must program all four outputs, even if they are not connected to anything.  A "Virtual" top address can be used to avoid conflicts with actual turnout addresses and other routes. To create a virtual top address use a switch address for your top address that is not used to operate an actual turnout on the layout. The advantage of this is that you can consistently use either the "thrown" or “closed” command to operate all routes, making it easier to remember which position goes with which route to make them work. Since DS64 routes ...

Automated Routing with DS64   Routes are a way of operating a preset combination of turnouts to predefined positions using a single Switch command. Route tables hold the Switch Address and position information that make up the Route that operates when a single command is issued. The DCS100 Super Chief can store up to 32 individual routes that consist of a "Top" address and 7 additional turnout addresses and their positions.  The DS64 has a route table that can hold up to 8 individual routes that consist of a "Top" address and 7 additional turnout addresses and their positions. Sensors ...

Use this table as a planning guide for setting up a DS64 for route control.

DS64 is set up by setting Option Switches (OpSw)This is how to set option switches on the DS64:1. Begin with your DS64 powered up. Turnouts can be either connected or not.2. On the DS64 press and hold the OPS button down for about 3 seconds until the red OPS LED and green ID LED begin to blink alternately. This indicates that the DS64 is ready to change the option switches.3. Using your DCC throttle, select the Switch Address that corresponds to the OpSw number and send the Closed or Thrown command corresponding to the setting you have chosen. Refer to ...

If you have more than four turnouts, you will need to program the addresses.The DS64 has 4 Output pairs labeled 1R & 1G, 2R & 2G, 3R & 3G, and 4R & 4G.  The DS64 is shipped from the factory with these outputs programmed as Switch Addresses 01, 02, 03, and 04 respectively. You can set the Switch Address of each of these four Outputs to any value from 01 - 2048.NOTE:  During this procedure the DS64 must be connected to an active LocoNet with an active command station.1. On the DS64’s control panel, press and hold the ID button ...

Hook up for slow motion type turnout machines & crossing gates.Note: Multiple turnout machines of the same type can be operated on a single DS64 output.For example, you can run 2 Tortoise or Switchmaster machines on a single DS64 output.Note: If you find that your turnout is operating “backwards” simply switch the + & - wire connections to achieve correct operation.Note:  The outputs can be configured to drive a grade crossing signal.  See Knowledge Base article.

Can I mix solenoid & slow motion turnout motors on a single DS64?No.The DS64 is configured for either for solenoid turnouts (the default setting)  OR slow motion turnouts. Only one type of turnout motor can be used on any particular DS64.If you have both slow motion and solenoid controlled turnouts on your railroad, different DS64s must be used for each type of turnout. 

Once you have set up the DS64 to operate the type of turnouts you will use, the next step is to hook up the turnouts to the outputs of the DS64. Each type of turnout machine has specific requirements for wiring.Note: The DS64 is configured for either for solenoid turnouts (the default setting)  OR slow motion turnouts. Only one type of turnout motor can be used on any particular DS64.Note: Multiple turnout machines can be operated on a single DS64 output.For example, you can run 2 Peco or Atlas Snap Switches on a single DS64 output. Up to 4 Kato ...

At the factory, your DS64 was set to control solenoid type turnout machines that use a single pulse output for operation. If you are using solenoid type turnouts, you can install the DS64 “out of the box.”  If you have reconfigured your DS64 for stall motor type turnouts, the DS64 can be reconfigured back to solenoid type turnout motors.1. Connect the DS64’s ‘TRKA’ and ‘TRKB’ terminals to your track. No turnouts should be connected to the DS64 at this time.2. On the DS64 press and hold the OPS button down for about 3 seconds until the red OPS LED and ...

At the factory, your DS64 was set to control solenoid type turnout machines that use a single pulse output for operation. If you are using slow motion turnout machines, like the Tortoise or Switchmaster, that need a static type output to operate, you’ll need to reconfigure the DS64’s outputs before hooking up your turnouts.To set up your DS64 to operate stall motor type turnouts:1. Connect the DS64’s ‘TRKA’ and ‘TRKB’ terminals to your track. No turnouts should be connected to the DS64 at this time.2. On the DS64 press and hold the OPS button down for about 3 seconds until ...

DS64 can be used as a LocoNet device. The two RJ12 sockets (above, left) on the back of DS64 are LocoNet Ports for connecting your DS64 to LocoNet.  Either can be used to connect to LocoNet, with the other being used to connect to other LocoNet devices.

  There are three different ways to power the DS64.  Track power (Trk A and Trk B), Auxiliary power (AX1(-) and AX2(+)) and power through the rear modular power connector.  Connect the Trk A and Trk B screw terminals of the Power and Track Connections to the corresponding Rail A and Rail B track connections.  The PS14 power supply can be used with Auxiliary or the rear modular power connector.  The DS64 requires 300mA for proper operation.  Only one DS64 can be powered per PS14.  A generic DC power supply between 12-16vdc and 300mA can be connected to a DS64 ...

DS64 Quad Stationary Decoder      The DS64 is a Stationary Decoder for use with 4 slow motion, solenoid, or bi-polar turnout machines Simple to hook up and configure   Controls 4 individual turnout machines: EITHER4 Slow motion turnout machines, such as TortoiseTM by Circuitron or SwitchmasterTMOR4 Solenoid-type turnout machines such as three wire (twin coil type) Peco or Atlas Snap Switches or two wire bi-polar type turnout machines such as Kato Unitrack, AristoCraft, or LGB turnouts with capacitive discharge capability  Support for up to 8 routes   Screw terminals make installation easy   Use with any LocoNet Compatible System   ...

The DCS50 is set up at the factory to run right "out of the box", but the DCS50 does have several operational options that you can use to customize the perfomance of your railroad.  It should be noted that: Most customers never have any need to change these options.Changing DCS50 Option Switches1. See the DCS50 Option Switch Table that follows to decide which option switches you want to change.2. Press the PROG key. The display shows the last decoder programming mode used by the DCS50.3. Press the SWITCH key. The display shows the last switch used by the DCS50 and ...

If the Zephyr DCS50 repeatedly shuts down briefly and then comes back on again, it is probably being run too close to its pre-set current limit of 2.5 Amps or it may be overheating due to restricted air flow to the bottom of the unit. In this case it may clip or mutilate some outgoing packets of information to keep the track current within acceptable limits.To solve this problem, reduce the track current load by running fewer locomotives or setting up additional power districts and adding more boosters to provide more power for the layout.  With more sound decoder equipped ...

HELP!!!!!!!!If your Zephyr DCS50 display isn't showing you what you expect based on the manual, press the EXIT key to return to normal operating mode. Also make sure that the "Power" is on. Then try the throttle task again. If you think you might have made an inadvertent change to one of the factory settings in either the decoder or the command station, try resetting everything to the factory settings and try the task again. Please see the related articles (below).

Shutting Down Your Zephyr when you are finished running.Some users prefer to release all addresses active in their system before shutting down. This can prevent unexpected results when you power up the layout again.  There are two ways to do this. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________To release addresses one at a time (this is optional):1. Press the LOCO key. 2. Enter the loco address on the numeric keypad. The display will flash the Function Indicator Dot and the loco address. Press the LOCO key again.3. Set the Throttle Knob to STOP.4. Press the EXIT key.5. Repeat for all locos/addresses used in your session._____________________________________________________________________________________________________Alternately, you can clear all ...

1. Disconnect the wire harness from the LT1.2. Plug one end of the LocoNet cable being tested into the LT1.3. Connect the other end to the cable into on of the LocoNet ports on your DCS50. Make sure the Track Status Indicator Dot is lit.4. All four LEDs on the LT1 will light if the cable is good. LEDs may not all be the same brightness, this is normal. NOTE: Only three LEDs will light if the Track Status Indicator Dot is not lit.5. If any of the LEDs fail to light, recrimp the plugs on the LocoNet cable and ...

You can add a second Zephyr to add more power and an additional throttle on the DCS50 and two additional Jump ports for using DC power packs to control DCC locomotives.  You will need to change Option Switch 02 to c (Closed) on the second (and any additional DCS50s you might choose to add to the layout as well).  The diagram below shows you how to do this.

Switch Mode is used for sending commands to accessory decoders and for changing Option Switches (OpSw) in your DCS50. The most common use of switch mode is for operating turnouts (track switches).To change the position of a turnout:This note assumes that you have already installed and programmed turnouts and turnout decoders on your layout.  Each turnout is connected to a stationary decoder that controls the operation of that turnout.  There are several different stationary decoders for this purpose such as DS64 and others.  Please see the related articles below.1. Press the SWITCH Key. 2. The last switch address selected by ...

The Digitrax DCS50 Zephyr is set at the factory to send 128 speed step commands to all mobile decoders.If you have a non-Digitrax decoder that can’t run in 128 speed step mode, you can change the number of speed steps the DCS50 sends to that decoder so that you will be able to control the decoder. This is called status editing the decoder. When you status edit a decoder, the DCS50 will send a different format to that specific decoder address without affecting the 128 speed step operation of Digitrax decoders and other 128 speed step decoders on the railroad.NOTE: ...

The DCS50 Zephyr displays three types of error messages: Short circuit shutdown occurs when the DCS50 detects a short circuit in the power district where it is connected to the layout. This can be a loco that has derailed or picked a switch or some other conductive material lying across the tracks. In this case you will see “o”s walking across the display from left to right. Once the short is cleared, the DCS50 will resume normal operations. Current overload occurs when the DCS50 has reached its 2.5 Amp current limit. In this case you should run fewer locomotives or ...

If Zephyr DCS50/DCS51’s display shows FuLL this means that it has reached the limit of 10 (20 for the Zephyr Xtra) locomotive addresses that it can manage at one time. If you want to select additional addresses, you will need to release one or more loco addresses before you will be able to select other locomotives to run.The DCS50/DCS51 runs a “purging” routine that helps eliminate addresses that have not been used for a period of time to make slots available for running other addresses.If you see this "FuLL" message while you are operating, you can release locos that you ...

Dispatching is a special feature incorporated in the LocoNet "language" to meet the needs of operators that wish to enforce a strict discipline in how operators gain access to locomotives during an operating session.Dispatching also lets you run MUs with basic throttles (such as the Utility Throttle series) that can't set up their own MU's and run four digit addresses on basic throttles that only have two digit capability (such as UT1 and UT2). It also lets you have newcomers run trains on the layout without giving them access to the entire operation.When you dispatch a locomotive address or MU ...

DCS50 Zephyr has ten "slots" available for train control.  When you are finished running a locomotive address, release it from your throttle so that it is available for other throttles to select and run and so that your command station will have room to run other addresses.To release an address from a throttle:1. With the loco address selected on the throttle, use the Throttle Knob to set the locomotive’s speed to STOP.2. Press the LOCO key to release the address from your throttle immediately. The address will begin to flash in the display.3. Press the EXIT key to dispatch the ...

Another way to describe "stealing" is "sharing"; it is a process where one operator can mutually control a mobile decoder with another operator.This feature can be useful for training new operators or supervising engineers who insist on breaking the speed limit. The supervisor can "steal" a locomotive that is selected on a trainee's throttle and be able to closely supervise that locomotive's control, taking over when necessary. The supervisor can gain instant override control without having to physically "grab" the trainee's throttle. This lets you have unskilled visitors participating and enjoying operations without too much anxiety for either party.If you ...

  MU (Multiple Unit) OperationsIt is not uncommon to see two, three or even four diesel locos pulling in consist at the front of a train. Sometimes, there is a locomotive added in the middle of the train or at the end of the train to give “helper service” to the head end locomotives. This is called Multiple Unit Operation or MU operation. With DCC, each locomotive is separately controlled. But in the case of MU'ing we would like to have more than one locomotive address controlled by a single throttle to simplify MU operation.Your DCS50 uses universal consisting to ...

If the function you want to operate does not respond, check the following:1. Is Track Status [4] on? If not press the POWER key to turn it on. 2. Did you select the correct loco? If not, select it now.3. Is the function you want to use installed in the loco? If not, you may need to install it. Most new locos have a head lamp/backup lamp installed, but most do not have any additional lights or sounds installed.4. Change the position of the Direction Control Lever and see if the lamp comes on in the other direction. If the ...

The DCS50 Zephyr normally treats Function 3 as an on/off function unless you set it up as a non-latching function like Function 2. This means that F3 can be used either as a normal function operating as an "On / Off" switch, or to control a function that only requires a momentary activation like some couplers.To set up Function 3 as a non-latching function, set the DCS50’s Option Switch 6 to closed as follows:1. Press the PROG key. The last programming mode used by the DCS50 will be displayed.2. Press the SWITCH key. The display shows the last switch used ...

DCS50 Zephyr can control Functions F0 - F8. Most DCC mobile decoders have function outputs that you can use to control lamps, LEDs, sound, smoke generators and other on/off devices installed in your locomotives. Most locomotives made today come with a head light and sometimes with a rear light, too. With DCC, these are controlled by the decoder’s function outputs. You can also install additional DCC controlled lighting such as cab lights, Mars lights, ditch lights, rotating beacons and others on your locos. The addition of these functions can add to the fun and realism of your locomotives.You must have ...

DCS50 Zephyr can control Functions F0 - F8. Most DCC mobile decoders have function outputs that you can use to control lamps, LEDs, sound, smoke generators and other on/off devices installed in your locomotives. Most locomotives made today come with a head light and sometimes with a rear light, too. With DCC, these are controlled by the decoder’s function outputs. You can also install additional DCC controlled lighting such as cab lights, Mars lights, ditch lights, rotating beacons and others on your locos. The addition of these functions can add to the fun and realism of your locomotives.You must have ...

Your DCS50 can read back the CV data values programmed into your decoders. You will use your programming track for reading back CV data values.To read back CV values using a programming track:1. Be sure that only the locomotive you want to read back is on the programming track.2. Press the PROG key to enter programming mode. The Zephyr DCS50 will display one of the programming modes available. Once the mode you want to use is on the screen you can go to step 3.For example, to use Paged mode stop pressing the PROG Key when the following screen appears:3. ...

When you are programming decoders, there are a few error messages you may encounter.There are many causes for these error messages but most can be solved by checking the following:1. Be sure the programming track is connected properly to the DCS50.2. Be sure a decoder is correctly installed in the locomotive with all motor and pick up connections made correctly.3. Be sure the loco with decoder correctly installed is making electrical contact with the programming track and that it remains in contact with the programming track until programming is complete.  Check to see if the track is clean and the ...

Programming On The Mainline: Operations Mode ProgrammingOperations Mode Programming [Ops Mode] lets you program CVs in DCC locomotives equipped with Extended Packet Format decoders while they are on the mainline.  This is handy for situations where you want to make an adjustment to a specific locomotive while it is in service.  There are also situations where mobile decoders from other manufacturers can only be programmed in this manner. A typical use for Ops mode programming would be to change the acceleration rate (CV03) or the deceleration rate (CV04) of your locomotives to simulate the weight and braking capability of the ...

There are many different CVs that have been defined to control operating characteristics of your locomotives. Your decoder manual has a complete listing of CVs that are available with specific decoders, what they do and suggested values for each CV. Programming these CVs is simple:1. Be sure that only the locomotive you want to program is on the programming track.2. Press the PROG Key to enter programming mode. The DCS50 will display one of the programming modes available. Digitrax recommends the Paged Mode when you are using the programming track. As you press the PROG Key repeatedly, you will cycle ...

This is a table of the various DCS50 Programming Displays.  There are four programming methods available in with Zephyr, which are displayed in the left hand column.  The right columns show the display for each type of method:

1. Be sure that only the locomotive you want to program is on the programming track.2. Press the PROG key on the DCS50 to enter programming mode. The DCS50 will display one of the programming modes available. Digitrax recommends the Paged Mode when you are using the programming track. If you press the PROG key repeatedly, you will cycle through the following choices: PAGE   PHYS   dir   OPS For example, to use Paged mode stop pressing the PROG key when the following screen appears:Each time you press the LOCO key the display will toggle between Ad2 and Ad4. ...

DCS50’s Jump A & B ports can host two DC power packs that work as additional throttles to control DCC locomotives.You begin with an operating DCS50 attached to your layout.   In addition to the throttle built into the DCS50, you can create a LocoNet to add additional Digitrax throttles and other Digitrax devices.  Jump Ports:You can also connect up one or two smooth DC power packs as shown in the following illustration.  These power packs must also be powered, since the Zephyr jump throttle connections detect the voltage level from the individual power pack(s) and makes adjustments to the command control ...

Your DCS50 has two sets of DCC outputs. This means that you will be able to program decoders using one set of DCC outputs while the layout is running on the other set of DCC outputs. When you hooked up your DCS50 to the layout, you used the RAIL A & RAIL B connections to the track. Now we will use the PROG A & PROG B outputs to set up a service mode programming track.NOTE: The programming track is powered for programming only and cannot run locomotives. You will have to manually move your locomotive on to the track ...

To stop everything on the layout immediately:Press the POWER key to turn off power to the whole layout. This option will stop everything on the railroad.

To use the pre-set braking rate to stop and start a locomotive: Move the Direction Control Lever [ 2 ] to the BRAKE position, the Brake Indicator Dot will begin blinking and the loco will slow down to a stop at the brake rate you have set up in the Zephyr DCS50. As the loco slows to a stop, the Brake Indicator Dot will change from blinking to steady on to let you know that the brake is on.Move the Direction Control Lever to the FORWARD or REVERSE position and the loco will accelerate at the programmed brake rate to ...

To stop a locomotive immediately Make sure the loco address is selected on the throttle and turn the Throttle Knob [1] counterclockwise until it is in the STOP position. The loco should slow to a stop as you rotate the throttle knob. This lets you slow down your loco and stop it in a prototypical manner. If you have set up deceleration (CV4) for the loco and you move the throttle knob to STOP, your loco will slow down and come to a stop at the programmed deceleration rate.

To control the speed of a locomotive:1. Select the loco address on the Zephyr.2.  Place the reverse lever [2] into either forward or reverse.3. Turn the Throttle Knob  [1] clockwise to increase speed and counterclockwise to decrease speed. Setting Speed LimitsYou can limit the speed on any locomotive controlled by the DCS50. This feature is very useful if you are running your layout with young children who want to make the trains GO FAST!!! By setting a reasonable speed limit on the throttles used by the children, everyone can have more fun with the trains.To set a “speed limit” for ...

QUICK INSTALLATION Notes for users with decoders not made by Digitrax:1. The DCS50 command station operates in 128 speed step mode. If you are using a locomotive with a decoder that does not have 128 step capability you will have to adjust either the decoder or the DCS50 so that both are using the same number of speed steps to communicate. We call this procedure status editing. You can status edit each individual decoder or you can change the DCS50’s system default by setting the DCS50’s Option Switches 21-23 and run all of your decoders with fewer speed steps to ...

When you are finished with your session, you should shut down the DCS50 by turning off power to the system.Shutting Down DCS50 Zephyr1. Bring all locomotives on the layout to a stop by setting set the Throttle Knob for each loco to STOP. 2. Turn track power off: Press the POWER key, the DCS50's Track Status Indicator Dot will go off. The display will briefly display "Po" followed by two characters, the Po means power off, the two characters indicate which software version is installed in the unit. The display will automatically revert to showing the last loco address selected ...

Changing Locomotive Direction with DCS50 Zephyr:Move the Direction Control Lever [2] to FORWARD or REVERSE to change the direction of the loco address running on the throttle. To determine the direction of a loco that is not moving, simply look at the position of the lever. You can move the lever quickly past the BRAKE position with no adverse effects. If you change direction while a loco is moving it will slow down to 0 speed and then speed up to the commanded speed according to the decoder’s programmed CV (configurable values) for deceleration and acceleration.

To select and run a DCC equipped locomotive with a known address follow these steps:1. Set the DCS50's Throttle Knob [1] to STOP. 2. Place a DCC equipped locomotive (one with a decoder installed) on your digital layout that is controlled by your DCS50. In this example we assume that you have a new Digitrax decoder that is factory programmed to address 03. If your decoder is using a different address, simply use that address as you follow these instructions.3. Check the DCS50's Track Status Indicator Dot [4] to be sure that track power is turned on. Press the POWER ...

These simple instructions will help you get up and running quickly. A full description of all controls and technical reference information are included later in this knowledge base. This section assumes that you are using a new set straight out of the box.1. Hook up the wires from the track to the RAIL A & RAIL B terminals on the DCS50. Insert the wire from one rail of the track into the RAIL A terminal on the back of the DCS50. Insert the wire from the other rail of the track into the RAIL B terminal. Turn the screw counter ...

Zephyr Rear Panel Connections1. RAIL A & B - for connecting the DCS50 to the rails on the layout.2. PROG A & B - for hooking up the programming track. Section 16.1.3. JUMP 1 & 2 - for connecting one or two smooth DC power packs to the systemfor use as additional throttles. Section 25.24. POWER IN - plug in the PS315 here.5. LOCONET PORTS A & B - for connecting the DCS50 to other LocoNetdevices for expanding your layout.6. YOUR LAYOUT -  You can connect Zephyr to most existing layouts.

The DCS50’s LED Display is made up of 4 digits/letters on the main part of the screen and 4 Indicator Dots across the top of the screen.  When you are running a locomotive, you will see the address of that locomotive in the display and the Function Indicator Dot will be lit. This means that the throttle knob will control speed, the direction lever will control direction and braking and the number keys will control the functions on the locomotive. You will see the following display if you are running loco address 1873 on your local throttle.The LCD has three ...

The front panel of the DCS50 Zephyr has a throttle knob & direction control lever, indicator lamps & display, which give status indications and operate your railroad. Before you select and run a locomotive, take a few minutes to look at the DCS50's controls and display.1. The Throttle Knob is the large silver and black knob on the right side of the DCS50. The Throttle Knob controls locomotive speed from STOP to FULL speed. Turn it clockwise to increase speed and counter clockwise to decrease speed.2. The Direction Control Lever is the small silver lever (located on the left side of ...

The DB200+ is the 8 amp booster. It has NO command station capability. This booster was designed for adding power to layouts that run lots of locos and for large-scale layouts where power requirements are heavy.DB200+ Control PanelNOTE: DB200+ front panel graphics may vary from those shown here.  Internally the booster is the same. These instructions are written for both versions of graphics as well as the DB200+ OPTO optoisolated version of the booster. About the Green Jumper WireEvery DB200+ is shipped with a green jumper wire on the front panel Booster Terminal Plug connecting Synch & Ground or ‘Config ...

The DZ121 was discontinued in 2002.  There were some interoperability issues with Easy DCC, MRC and Lenz.  The exchange offer is no long valid.  This article is still published for reference only.At that time, Easy DCC, Lenz and MRC users could return DZ121's to Digitrax for no charge replacements that will work on their systems. There was no reason for Digitrax, Wangrow or NCE users to replace any DZ121 decoder unless they wre having problems.The text at that time:For Easy DCC and Lenz users who are having problems: To determine whether your DZ121 should be returned, read back CV07. A ...

This application note concerns the DA120 deocder, which began production in 1997 and was discontinued around 2000. The DA120 decoder that is being shipped with the Atlas locomotives has certain variables that are available for programming. These guidelines are provided for those who are using the Wangrow or Lenz systems for programming the DA120 decoders.The following variables were selected by Atlas to be offered in the DA120. These CV's are available to be programmed on the DA120:    * CV01 - Address    * CV02 - Start Voltage    * CV03 - Acceleration Rate    * CV04 - Deceleration Rate    * CV05 - Maximum ...

Many thanks to Dick Sutcliffe, Superintendent BR &T Railway Co. for this application note!Install the DN121 in the tender   1. The tender is easy to open by removing two screws so you can pull the decoder out and put in a plug when running on DC layouts.   2. Use a piece of styrene to raise the decoder off the weight.   3. Notch the front edge of the tender frame to bring the wires through to loco (all power pick up is in the loco).   4. Split the loco frame to isolate the motor brushes, remove the contact springs in the ...

CTX/CTY throttles allow you to have up to 4 separate throttles controlled by 4 different operators rather than 4 throttles controlled by one operator as in the CT4 that comes with your Challenger Set. Digitrax provides these instructions so that you can build your own throttles to your own specifications. You are free to choose any knobs, buttons & cases you like, the ones on the parts list below are just suggestions. These throttles give you the option of expanding your operations cost effectively. The CTX throttle controls speed & direction for one train in the operating group & can ...

Note: This page applies only to Challenger SetsOur customers continue to come up with different combinations & configurations to suit their individual needs so, feel free to customize your own CTX/CTY!Some users choose to hard wire 4 throttles for the 4 different channels so that the throttles are not able to change locomotives within the group.Parts List:Radio Shack Part NumbersSW-1: 6 Position Rotary Selector Switch, # 275-1386, CTX 1, CTY 1C1-C4: 0.047uf Disc Ceramic Capacitors 50v, # 272-134, CTX 2, CTY 2D1-D5: 1N4148/1N914 Small Signal Diodes 50v/100ma, # 276-1620, CTX 1, CTY 2SW-2/SW-6: Normally Open Push Button Switch, # 275-1566, ...

Short Address Programming Note When programming the short address (CV01) in your DZ121, the decoder will automatically set CV19 to 0, CV29 to 0, CV 55 to 80, CV56 to 30 & CV57 to 0. This is done to insure compatibility with DCC systems that only recognize short addressing (2 digit mode). When using long addressing (4 digit addressing) these CV's are not affected.After changing the short address (CV01), you will probably want to change CV29 to 06 or another appropriate value based on your operations. You can do this on the programming track or, if you forget, you can ...

How do I add a heatsink to my BDL162 for large scale operations?The BDL162 design does not include a provision for a heatsink. There is not a kit available for adding on a heatsink, but you can make your own if you believe it necessary for your system. The following drawing will provide the correct measurements to produce a heatsink that will slip in between the two rows of rectifiers on the BDL162 Circuit Board. This will raise the current handling capacity but we do not know by how much.Cut the heatsink from .05" thick aluminum or brass sheet stock, ...

RX4 / BDL168 Hookup Worksheet BDL168 #_______ Address:________ Description______________________________________________________ Aux Power:_______ Standard BDL162 Configuration Advanced Detection Section Wiring: Transponding Method________________________________   Section Pin # Named Detection Section Description ZONE A Power In 1       1 2     Power 2 3     District 3 4       4 5     In Out Alternate Zone Comments                                             ZONE B Power In 6       5 7     Power 6 8     District ...

How do I Increase BDL162 Detection Section Threshold SensitivityThe BDL162 has Option Switch settings to control detection sensitivity. The factory setting is OpSw19=t for a threshold sense for DCC occupancy of approximately 22 Kohms minimum. Changing OpSw19=c will set the threshold to 10 Kohm minimum. See the BDL162 instruction manual for details on setting the Option Switches. These settings will accommodate most layouts, though there may be circumstances when a higher threshold is desired, for example, in a high moisture environment or with G scale operations outside.To raise the threshold even further resistors can be added into the wiring between ...

The MS100 LocoNet Interface is a serial device that connects LocoNet to a computer via a 25pin serial port.This application note shows how you can use your Digitrax MS100 computer interface with the USB Port on your computer.  Serial ports are not available on most computers in current production. USB ports are more widely used today.  The Digitrax MS100 LocoNet interface can be connected to a USB port by using a USB to Serial RS-232 DB-25 Adapter Cable.  Digitrax recommends the PR3 for interfacing your USB equipped computer with LocoNet.Caution: Not all cables on the market will work. One that ...

When using the your PM42 with an AR1 Auto Reversing controller do not use the "fastest setting" in the Short Circuit Sensitivity Settings section:

SE8C - Default Switch Address Range Usage For Board IDs 01-36  Board ID(Press ID Button, set Sw# for Board ID number) Slow Motion Turnout Machine Switch Address Range8 Per SE8C Signal ControlSwitch Address Range 4 Aspects Per Head64 Per SE8C Signal ControlSwitch Address Range2 Aspects Per Head   32 Per SE8C 01 (factory setting) Sw01-Sw08 Sw257-Sw320 Sw257-Sw288 02 Sw09-Sw16 Sw321-Sw384 Sw289-Sw320 03 Sw17-Sw24 Sw385-Sw448 Sw321-Sw352 04 Sw25-Sw32 Sw449-Sw512 Sw353-Sw384 05 Sw33-Sw40 Sw513-Sw576 Sw385-Sw416 06 Sw41-Sw48 Sw577-Sw640 Sw417-Sw448 07 Sw49-Sw56 Sw641-Sw704 Sw449-Sw480 08 Sw57-Sw64 Sw705-Sw768 Sw481-Sw512 09 Sw65-Sw72 Sw769-Sw832 Sw513-Sw544 10 Sw73-Sw80 Sw833-Sw896 Sw545-Sw576 11 Sw81-Sw88 Sw897-Sw960 Sw577-Sw608 12 Sw89-Sw96 Sw961-Sw1024* Sw609-Sw640 ...

The SE8C can drive position light type signals such as those used by the Pennsylvania Railroad and the B&O RR and the N&W RR. Leads from the signals can be soldered directly to the pads on the Signal Mast Base (the Terminal Strip Mounting Kit can also be used for interfacing your signals with the system.)You can use either common anode or common cathode signals.  We recommend that you use either all common anode or all common cathode signals on your layout for consistency in the set up procedure on your layout. If you are using the terminal strip option ...

  To use the UT2 to program a decoder you must first put the UT2 in Programming Mode. To do this press and hold “RUN/STOP” and simultaneously press “PROG”. The Status LED will now turn a steady orange color indicating the UT2 is now in Programming Mode. Set the locomotive you wish to program on an isolated programming track (See Section 5.2). Make sure that the DB150 command station is not connected to any other part of the layout. If you don’t have a programming track on your layout remove any locomotive you don’t want programmed at this time. Decoders ...

  Digitrax DCS51 (Zephyr Xtra) Operating Instructions by Dan Bourque v1.0 Selecting a locomotive or consist 1.         Press the “LOCO” key (display will flash) 2.         Enter the address of the locomotive or consist             - For a consist, the address will normally be the lead locomotive             - For a 3-digit locomotive number, use “0” for the first digit 3.         Press the “LOCO” key again (display will stop blinking) 4.         Move the direction selector on the throttle to either “Forward” or “Reverse” 5.         Move the speed knob until train moves   Dispatching (releasing) a locomotive or consist ...

I own a Digitrax Starter Set that is now discontinued. Can I still use it and can it be upgraded?LocoNet lets you use all Digitrax LocoNet components in your system no matter when you purchased them. You can continue to use what you already own with new components as they become available. Note:  This will work with all starter sets except for Challenger. If you have a Challenger Set and you want to move up, the best thing to do is to purchase one of the new sets and use the DB100 series booster that came with your Challenger as ...

I want the top of the line Digitrax Set. Which one should I buy?Super Chief Extra with Duplex Radio.  

  Zephyr Xtra Super Empire Builder Xtra  Super Chief Xtra Command Station DCS51 DB150 DCS100 Current Rating 3.0 Amps 5 Amps 5 Amps or 8 Amps Throttle DCS51 DT402 DT402 Throttle Controls Single Knob, Direction Switch Dual click encoder throttles Dual click encoder throttles Function Control F0-F28 F0-F28 F0-F28 Keypad Full Numeric Keypad Full Numeric Keypad Full Numeric Keypad Display Large LED Multi-line Backlit LCD Multi-line Backlit LCD Throttle Capacity 20 22 120 Loco Capacity 20 22 120 Loco Address Range 00-9000+ 00-9000+ 00-9000+ Stationary Address Range 01-999 00-999 00-999 Turnout Position Reporting No Yes, last command sent Yes + actual ...

You can simply add a TL1 or TF4 to locos with decoders made by other DCC manufacturers. In the case of some supersonic decoders made by other DCC companies that are not transponding compatible, you will need to turn off the supersonic feature when you want to use transponding. Digitrax supersonic decoders are compatible with transponding and can be used in supersonic mode while transponding.

Once you have instrumented your layout for transponding, you simply add transponder equipped locomotives and you are ready to go. Digitrax decoders have been shipped with transponding included since 1999.  All current production Digitrax decoders are transponder equipped. Older Digitrax decoders models without transponders and decoders made by other manufacturers can add this capability by installing a transponder such as the TL1 or TF4 to existing DCC locomotive installations.  These transponders also add functions to the loco.

Can I combine the power input requirements for PM42's with other units for economy?Digitrax recommends each PM42 module to have its own seperate power source. The criteria for choosing a power supply for the PM42 is any power source that can deliver 12-15V AC or 13.8-15V DC with a minimum of 125 ma. The Digitrax PS14 meets the minimum power requirement of a PM42.It is possible to power more than one PM42 from a single power source. When powering multiple PM42's special care must be taken to insure identically phasing of all PM42's and ample current availability to power all ...

If I use a non-Digitrax compatible system, what features of the PM42 Auto reverse/Short Circuit Managers (SCM) will I lose?The PM42 can be used as a stand alone Auto reversing unit and Short Circuit Manager with many other non-Digitrax systems, but for systems without LocoNet capability a number of networked management features will not be available.For example, the PM42 sends out real-time, event driven (non-polled) information to the LocoNet about fault problems and resolution, auto reverse actions and also identifies the affected sub-districts. This allows other devices, such as PCs, the Digitrax Signaling system, Digitrax Transponding or other detection and ...

The PM42 was specifically designed to work with Digitrax Direct Home wired layouts. Any system that is configured this way will work with the PM42 with no interoperability issues. For example, CVP uses interoperable booster connections.The PM42 can be used with a DC system if it is hooked up in the negative ground return path, or even a Marklin AC digital (trinary) booster. It is possible for the PM42 to be used with most DCC systems. Digitrax has no control or knowledge of each specific non-Digitrax system and how it may interact with the PM42.

My PM42s seem to correctly trip on track shorts and auto-reverse reliably, but the power briefly drops out during these events, and when the PM42s attempt a fault recovery into a persistent short circuit, why is this?No power on earth can stop the track voltage of the booster from collapsing to a low value when a true short circuit is present. This is simply Ohm’s law in action!Actual track voltage seen depends on: the loop resistance of the short circuit, the current capacity of the booster and power supply and whether the Booster employs "smart" fault detection and recovery along ...

Use a throttle to change the PM42's Option Switches 01, 02 and 09 as detailed in the PM42 instruction manual. The PM42's trip current threshold can be set at a value from 1.5amps to 12 amps. Always use the lowest possible setting, consistent with good operation and reliable short circuit detection and recovery. Higher current settings are not "better." We ship the PM42 with a moderate current trip threshold of 3amps so it will work on most DCC boosters and layouts with no changes.This is because some boosters cannot supply enough current with the track feeder resistance to reliably allow ...

  Digitrax UT4 Throttle Operating Instructions by Dan Bourque     Selecting a locomotive or consist 1.         Dial the 4-digit locomotive address into the “LOCO ADDRESS” dials             - For a consist, the address will normally be the lead locomotive             - For a 3-digit locomotive number, use “0” for the first digit 2.         Plug the throttle into any receptacle on the layout fascia (e.g. Digitrax UP5) 3.         Press the “SEL” key, the ST light on the throttle should turn green 4.         Move the direction selector on the throttle to either “R” or “F” 5.         Move the ...

Any LocoNet throttle can be used with your WTL12. Simply plug the LocoNet throttle into either LocoNet port on the back of your WTL12 or into any LocoNet or Throttle Jack anywhere on your LocoNet system. If you want to be able to plug in a throttle at a remote location, we recommend using a UP5 Universal Panel.   Your WTL12 can handle up to 6 LocoNet Throttles. If you need to run more than 6 throttles, you can move up to a Digitrax Command Station with additional capacity. You can continue to use your WTL12 as a throttle and ...

Since each system, no matter how large, needs only one command station, you need only one WTL12 (or other Digitrax Command Station) performing this function. Any additional WTL12s must be converted to a booster by following the startup directions described below: Disconnect the power from the WTL12 unit Press and Hold the VOL- key Reconnect the power while continuing to hold the VOL- key Release the VOL- key The WTL12 is now configured as a booster/throttle only.  The power button will be lit up red on the right side. The command station determines the total number of locomotive addresses your ...

Regulated power supply delivers more power with less heat for more efficient booster operation. Operates up to 4 Five amp boosters. Scale selectable for use with N, HO or large scale. DC Ammeter. On/Off Switch. Integral cooling fan. Design coordinated for use with Digitrax products. One "Y" Cable (P/N YC52) Included for convenience with dual 5 amp protected outputs All secondary devices must be properly fused on their power input leads for their rated capacity. For example if you intend to use the PS2012 to drive a 5 and an 8 amp booster, you must input fuse these devices for ...

You can operate reversing sections manually or automatically with Digitrax. You must double gap (completely isolate) both ends of the reversing section just like with any other layout. If you choose manual operation, use a DPDT switch or relay to handle the polarity change as the loco enters and leaves the reversing section.   If you choose to use to completely automate the reversing section, power the reverse loop with a booster and power supply and the main layout with another Command Station and power supply. The WTL12 when running as your command station will not auto-reverse.  To configure your ...

In order to reset your WTL12 to the factory default setting as a Command Station/Throttle simply follow the steps below: Disconnect the power from the WTL12 unit Press and Hold the PWR key Reconnect the power while continuing to hold the PWR key Release the PWR key The WTL12 is now configured as a Command Station/Throttle.  The power button will be lit up green on the right side.

The PR3 Xtra is a bundle including the PR3 and the PS14 power supply, please go to the one of the following pages for support you need: PR3 PS14