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 ...

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.

Yes. Digitrax decoders with integrated transponding are shipped with transponding enabled but this does not affect the operation of existing layouts not outfitted for transponding.

Q:  Which decoders work on Transponding layouts?A:All DCC decoders can be used on transponding layouts. However, only those decoders with Transponding capabilities turned on will issue a report each time they enter or exit a Transponding Zone.  All current production Digitrax decoders include transponding.Transponding can be added to any decoder by installing a TL1 or TF4.

Transponding gives you operations mode readback of decoder CVs while they are on the layout (for decoders with this feature). Your dispatcher will know where trains and other equipment are located. Feedback from your transponding decoders lets you know the zone location and address of any piece of transponding rolling stock on the layout. This information can be presented on a display panel, your computer or even on your throttle. Feedback from the locomotive decoder also can provide information about the speed and other status data for the specific locomotive. With transponding, you can FIND the location of a specific ...

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.

Q:  Can I use Transponding with existing Digitrax decoder installations?A:  Once transponder receivers are installed on the layout, you can run any transponder equipped locomotive. All current production Digitrax decoders are transponder equipped. Older Digitrax decoders models without transponders and decoders made by manufacturers that don't support transponding can add transponding by installing a TL1 or TF4 to the locomotive.

Proven technology for bi-directional layout control without the need for modifications to your existing DCC system investment. Know the detection section and/or zone location and identification of any specific locomotive or other rolling stock equipped with a transponding device. Yes, now your dispatcher will be able to know "who you are and where you are"! Location and identification information are updated constantly on LocoNet and can be displayed on a track diagram. Adds operations mode readback of CVs to your layout. Data received by the system from mobile decoders can be used for display, automation, sound processing and much more. ...

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 ...

Digitrax transponding works with Digitrax signaling system products. Transponding is not required to operate signaling systems however, the provision of transponding allows the possibility of the signaling system being able to automatically take control of trains that violate a signal aspect. Transponding can also be used to eliminate the "pushy pusher" problem that is characteristic of hardware implemented signal influenced speed control schemes.

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.

Q:  Will Digitrax Transponding affect my existing boosters, track wiring or locomotive pickups?A:  No. Digitrax transponding is designed to be sued with DCC compatible boosters made by all DCC manufacturers, track wiring & locomotive pickups without causing any damage or operational problems with existing DCC track signals. Unlike other "bi-directional" systems, no high current spikes are used by Digitrax transponding that can cause problems with boosters and wiring. Digitrax transponding does not require the replacement or modification of existing control equipment or infrastructure.

Can I still operate a non-decoder equipped locomotive on my Transponding layout?Yes! Transponding will not affect operation of an analog loco (one without a decoder) on address 00. The analog loco will not transpond since it is not transponder equipped.

I understand that LocoNet is used for transponding "feedback."  How can Digitrax systems handle both DCC and transponding without interfering with other track level communication and without adding another communication or feedback bus like other system have to do?LocoNet is a true network with future expandability built in. Part of that future is here now with transponding. LocoNet was engineered from the very beginning with things like this in mind.If you are already using Digitrax LocoNet, you will not have to add a "feedback bus" since this is already incorporated into LocoNet's design! If you are using transponding with a ...

Will I be able to use Transponding with other DCC systems?Yes. You will have to run LocoNet, instrument your layout and install TL1 or TF4 or transponding decoders in your locomotives. You can then use a computer on LocoNet to display position and ID information for transponder equipped locos. LocoNet will run independently of your existing non-LocoNet system.

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 ...

On layouts set up for Digitrax transponding with transponders in locos and rolling stock and transponder receivers installed on the layout, the DT40x’s FIND Key is used to turn on the find command. The FIND function lets you see the zone location of transponders on the layout in your throttle display. To use the FIND Command: 1. The layout must have Digitrax transponder receivers (BDL16x & RX4s) installed and configured. 2. The loco or other rolling stock that you want to track must have a transponder installed.  This can be either a transponding decoder or a stand alone transponder. 3. ...

Transponding is proprietary technology of Digitrax Inc.  Transponding works with existing DCC compatible layouts. RailCom is proprietary technology of Lenz Elecktronik. This is sometimes referred to as "bi-directional communication."  It requires modifications to existing DCC equipment for proper operation.The two methods are not compatible, they do not use the same technology.

Digitrax transponding does not use high current spikes so it does not typically cause radio frequency interference (RFI) issues with large installations as with some other bi-directional communication protocols.

Operations mode (OPs mode) programming allows you to program decoders on the layout instead of having to move them to a separate programming track.  This is a write only programming method.  If you want to be able to read back the values written to a particular decoder using Ops Mode programming, you will need to install transponding on the layout.  If transponding is not active on the layout, you must use an isolated programming track for reading back CV values.The extent of the area with OPs Mode readback available depends on how muchof the layout is instrumented for transponding. The ...

LocoNet DCC Occupancy Detector with Transponding and Power Management for 8 Detection Sections, Transponding Zones, and Power Sub-Districts

TL1 Single DCC Function Decoder with Integrated Transponder

The RX4 is a 4 zone transponder detector for use with Digitrax occupancy detection systems. The RX4 enables you to not only see what blocks are occupied but also identifies what is there.

Digitrax DCC Transponder for use with non-Transponding DCC decoders or as stand alone transponder. Retired in 2003

The BXPA1 is a combination DCC Auto-Revereser, occupancy detector, Transponding detector, and intelligent power manager. It is designed to make transponding implementation easy and provide advanced DCC track management by communicating all state information to LocoNet. The BXPA1 is silent solid state and uses no mechanical relays for auto-reversing.

Power Manager with Occupancy and Transponding detection for 4 sub-districts.

 OpSw Setup Enter OpSw mode by pressing the OpSw button.  The OPS and ID light will flash alternating RED and GREEN. Use your throttle in SWITCH mode to set switches to thrown or closed to match your desired OpSw setting.  There are currently no published OpSws for the BXPA1. If you erroneously set an OpSw, the BXPA1 can be factory reset by setting OpSw40 = Closed Trip Speed Pot The Trip Speed Pot can be adjusted to set the speed at which auto reversing and power management is resolved.  Turning the pot clockwise will make the speed slower and turning ...

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 ...

Characteristics Controlled by CV61:Some Digitrax Decoders use CV61 (one of the manufacturer specific configuration variables) to give you the following options:  Non-Directional Headlight Operation, Transponding Enabled or Disabled, & Split Phase Motor Drive for Märklin AC and Lionel Type motors.The look up table below shows the effects of different CV values that you can program into CV61.  CV values are shown in hex & decimal are the same in this case.TABLE 61: CV61 Values CV 61 Value Non-directional headlights Transponding Split Field Motor/AC 00 No No No 01 Yes No No 02 No Yes No 03 Yes Yes No 04 ...

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 ...

  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 ...

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 ...

The PM74 OPSW41= C will change the 4 DS1-4 led display, so each DS led now reports the same way the PM42 leds did. This is a Legacy option provided for users who want the PM74 indications to be similar to the PM42. The default OPSW41 =T has the DS led light ON for resistance Occupancy detection within that DS, and will flash when a Transponder is present in that DS. These 2 additional DS detection capabilities and indication were NOT present in the PM42. Whatever the OPSW41 state is, LocoNet messages will report Power state/action,  Occupancy and Transponding messages to a connected LocoNet, ...

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 ...

If you want to use Transponding for bi-directional layout communication and are using Digitrax LocoNet, you will not have to add any "feedback bus" since this is already incorporated into LocoNet's design! If you want to use Transponding with a non-LocoNet system, you will need to add LocoNet. Non-Digitrax control systems require a separate feedback bus for the layout to achieve more limited types of bi-directional communication anyway so, you can simply add LocoNet instead of that feed back bus.

I have a medium/large sized layout with a reversing district. I want to operate 6-10 trains with several operators. I am interested in turnout control, prototypical consist operations and signaling to be added later. I might want a computer added later, too. Which components do I need?You will need a Super Empire Builder Xtra or Super Chief Xtra with additional throttles for the operators and an additional DB150 booster or PM42 for the reversing district. You will also need at least one additional DB150 to provide enough power to run 6-10 trains in N or HO. You can choose and Digitrax ...

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 ...

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.

LocoNet's "ethernet like" architecture seems interesting and more advanced than the systems used by other DCC manufacturers. But, at the numbers we are talking about (a few controllers and perhaps 10-20 decoders), does it really make a difference?If your system operates with a few throttles and other devices attached any of the commercially available systems will work today. But what about tomorrow? Remember when a hard-drive bigger than 32Mb seemed excessive- and remember when DOS had to change to 16bit FATs/ directories? Also, the LBA access change at 540Mb also once seemed unthinkable!!The network structure of LocoNet is very important ...

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 ...

  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.  

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.

I want to sit back & watch my railroad run. Can you do that with Digitrax?The Digitrax Command Control System is designed for prototypical operation. The objective is to provide realistic operation so that the models run like the real thing. To do this you need an engineer in control of each locomotive. The starter sets are not designed for automated train control when used by themselves. To set up automated operation, you can set up the layout with detection and or transponding and use a computer to handle the automated operations.

Only the basic communications protocols are covered by the " Standard" in order to ensure interoperability and backward compatibility with existing systems. The "Standard" defines the signal sent over the rails, the tolerances allowed in its generation, the tolerances that must be accepted by the decoders and the basic communications protocol used to convey information to digital decoders. Recommended Practices cover things like the locomotive sockets and "advanced" decoder features. Manufacturers are free to design and implement DCC hardware and interfaces that make sense for their customers. Manufacturers are also free to define how the DCC packets are handled by their ...

It is important to realize that the standard only covers the communication protocol on the track.  As long as it is not extended further than the basic track level communications for train control, creativity will be encouraged rather than stifled. This protocol is very basic and does not require any particular hardware. The Digitrax Complete Train Control System incorporates the DCC protocols for interoperability reasons but has not been held back by them.  Digitrax has developed and marketed automatic reversing boosters, decoders with 128 speed steps and user customizable speed tables, mobile decoders with onboard functions and lighting effects, stationary decoders with sophisticated ...

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 ...

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 ...

Installation Notes: 1. Do not exceed the decoder’s 500mA total function output rating. 2. We recommend that the Blue wire, also called +Common or Lamp Common, be connected as shown. If you wish to omit the Blue wire in your installation, consult the Digitrax Decoder Manual for more information. 3. The head lamp should be hooked up using the Blue/+Common wire for optimal Digitrax transponding operation. 4. 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. 5. See the Digitrax Decoder Manual for full ...

LocoNet System ArchitectureDigitrax LocoNet is a Peer to Peer local area network (LAN) designed specifically for model railroad operation.  System architecture is the biggest difference among DCC systems, the way the components of a DCC system communicate among themselves. LocoNet wiring is cost effective, flexible and expandable to accommodate almost anything you want to do with your railroad today and in the future.System ExpansionHere are some of the expansion possibilities available with LocoNet. With Digitrax LocoNet your DCC journey starts at the Main Station with your first “starter” set. From there, it’s up to you. You can add:  Mobile decoders ...

1. Carefully remove the locomotive’s shell from the frame. Notice the orientation of the shell to the frame so that you can reinstall correctly. 2. The DZ125 has 6” wires that you will solder directly to the appropriate connections inside the locomotive. The smaller size allows the decoder to be easily installed in a variety of locomotives. The bare ends of the wires are wired to the motor connections, power pickup connections and the lights according to this standard. Note: Avoid stressing the solder connections of the wires to the decoder board. If a connection is broken, carefully solder the wire ...

Digitrax Complete Train Control By Zana & A.J. Ireland Digitrax Complete Train Control makes reliable, realistic train operation and simplified layout wiring a reality. Digital Command Control is incorporated within the Digitrax system to let you control multiple trains independently on the same section of track without blocking. In the real world, engineers control the speed and direction of real trains. Engines operate under their own power independent of the track. Each engine has its own motion characteristics like how fast it speeds up (acceleration) and how long it takes to slow down (deceleration). A locomotive's performance is influenced by ...

Dcc Dual Function Decoder with Transponder supports 2 function outputs as well as transporting, great for adding lighting features to your rolling stock. Retired in 2003

TF4 Quad DCC Function Decoder with Integrated Transponder

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 ...

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 ...

This Atlas Snap-Track layout appears in the Atlas Model Railroad Company's book "Beginner's Guide to HO Model Railroading". It includes a reversing section which can be controlled with a Digitrax AR1. DC Control For DC operation, Atlas specified an Atlas Controller (for the reverse loop), two Atlas Selectors (to control eight track segments) and seven controllers for the railroad's turnouts. DCC Makes Things Simple With DCC, the wiring of this railroad is considerably simpler. Because each locomotive has a unique address, the section insulated gaps and the two Selectors are not necessary. Likewise, the Controller is replaced with the AR1 ...

  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 ...

CV # Use Decoder DefaultValue ValueRange CV01 Address All 01-9999 01-127 * CV02 Start Voltage All 001 0-255; higher is more voltage CV04 Acceleration Rate All 000 0 - 31 CV04 Deceleration Rate All 000 0 - 31 CV05 Maximum Voltage Gen4 - 0 (disabled) 1 - 255; lower is slower CV06 Midpoint Voltage All 0 (disabled) 1 - 255 CV07 Manufacturer's Version ID All Variable - CV08 Manufacturer's ID, Decoder Reset All FX3 129 08 to reset,09 reset leave speed tables CV13 DC Functions "On" FX, not on FX3 - See decoder documentation CV15 Decoder Lock FX3 000 See ...

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, ...

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 ...

  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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

In response to questions about the differences among the DCC systems that are currently available from different companies, I offer the following comments & observations. You may have heard that all the systems are pretty much the same or you may have seen “comparison” charts in various DCC companies’ literature, in magazines or “analysis” on the Internet by “impartial observers.” Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to break down the system and company differences on a simple chart & the people who write the “impartial analysis” are usually not really impartial. As you read these comments, please keep in mind that ...

Current production Digitrax decoders use the following numbering system: The first character means that it is a digital decoder. This is always a “D”. The second character indicates the decoder’s physical size. This is based on the smallest "scale" the decoder is designed to fit. This will be a Z, N, H, or G. The third character is the current rating of the decoder. This will be a 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5. We designate 1.25 & 1.5 amp decoders as 1s and 3.5 amp decoders as 3s for simplicity. The fourth character indicates how many functions, including directional ...

By Zana & A.J. IrelandThis clinic is titled Digital Command Control: The Wave of the Future. Recently, I was asked the question: "DCC has arrived and is the technology of today, everybody's using it so, why don't you change the title of your clinic?" My answer is that digital command control is still evolving rapidly. Today's digital command control is moving beyond the basic NMRA DCC Standards and RPs to encompass many new technologies that will compliment and enhance the basic things we can do with the track format defined by the NMRA. It's an exciting time for model railroaders ...

By Zana & A.J. IrelandThis clinic is titled Digital Command Control: The Wave of the Future. Recently, I was asked the question: "DCC has arrived and is the technology of today, everybody's using it so, why don't you change the title of your clinic?" My answer is that digital command control is still evolving rapidly. Today's digital command control is moving beyond the basic NMRA DCC Standards and RPs to encompass many new technologies that will compliment and enhance the basic things we can do with the track format defined by the NMRA. It's an exciting time for model railroaders ...

Digitrax series7 mobile decoders have many industry standard Configuration Variable (CV) numbers and values, as well as numerous Digitrax custom CV numbers and definitions or controls. The series7 CV values are a superset of older Digitrax FX3 series3 and series6 decoders, already covered in Digitrax Decoder Manual V2 on the Digitrax Web site. The “CV8 to 8 default” columns indicate current factory defined value after writing a value of 8 to CV8, using; Service mode programming track or Mainline Operations Mode Write to the active decoder address. An entry with value/xx indicates a xx number invokes the value before the ...