Troubleshooting Guides

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.

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 ...

CV29 is called the configuration register. It controls the following decoder characteristics: 1.  Whether the decoder uses 14 speed steps, 28/128 speed steps or loadable speed tables.  This affects how smoothly the loco will move and how it responds to throttle controls.2.  Whether the decoder automatically converts to analog mode when no DCC signal is present.  This allows the decoder to operate on a DC layout even though it is DCC equipped.3.  Defines the normal direction of travel for the locomotive. Normal Direction of Travel or NDOT can be changed when the motor connections of decoder have not been connected so that the locomotive runs ...

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. ...

Most intermittent operation faults on all layouts, not only DCC ones, are caused by bad electrical connections and poor wheel pickups on locomotives.  Poor electrical contact causes problems with sound decoder operation in particular.  Sound decoder installations usually include a capacitor to store energy to keep the sound going when the decoder briefly loses electrical contact.   When the track is dirty or corroded, it can't transmit the electricity and DCC signal needed to run locomotives.  When the locomotive pick ups are dirty or corroded, they can't pick up the signal from the track.  Check your track cleanliness and quality of wheel pickups ...

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 ...

Problems occurring on most auto reversing sections are a result of improper wiring or gapping. Digitrax auto reversing units such as the PM42 or AR1 require a "hard" short which means there must be good current flow to both sides of the gaps, on the reversing section side and on the "normal" side. Our experience has been that over 90% of reversing section problems are a result of improper wiring or improper gaps. Another 5% is a result of improperly wired or configured auto reversing units. It is poor practice to put the gaps immediately behind a switch (turnout in ...

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 ...

   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 ...

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

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 ...

Q: Can you have two command stations on the same layout? A: No. If you try and run with two command stations you will experience what we usually refer to as "shocking, horrifying results." Two command stations on a single layout is often a problem with modular layouts. You can disable the command station capability in Digitrax Command Station/Boosters so that you can use them as boosters only to add more power to your layout.For the DCS100 to disable command station mode:1. Set Op switch 2 to "c" 2. Set Op switch 5 to "t" 3. Set it to auto ...

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 ...

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 ...

The ability of a variety Digitrax throttles to work together on layout equipped with a variety of wireless technologies is part of the beauty of LocoNet.  With LocoNet, it is simple to add components to the system and have all of them work together. Digitrax infrared throttles will operate on any layout equipped with UR90 infrared receivers, UR91 simplex receivers and/or UR92 duplex transceivers.  All of these panels are equipped with infrared receivers.  All current model Digitrax throttles have infrared emitters that will work wirelessly with any panel that has an infrared receiver.  All current Digitrax throttles can also be used ...

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 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.

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 ...

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.

If your track does not have adequate power supply to the locomotives, then the DCC signal won’t get through either. Take a quarter or screwdriver blade and go around your layout creating electrical shorts by laying the quarter/screwdriver blade across both rails every 10 feet. Your Digitrax system should shutdown when the short is present.  When the short is removed, the booster should return to normal operation. If the unit does not see a short or it does not return to normal operation after the short is removed, then you need to add more feeders.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 & ...

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 ...

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 ...

The NET indicator is a red LED that displays information about what the DCS100 sees on LocoNet. When your layout is wired correctly and LocoNet is operating properly, the NET indicator will be on and it will flicker off any time a good LocoNet message is detected by the DCS100. The table below explains the patterns you will see for this indicator.

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. ...

  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 ...

Stealing A Locomotive AddressDigitrax systems do not allow more than one user to select and run the same locomotive address unless the loco is “stolen” (or shared) by the new user. When an address is receiving commands from more than one throttle, it may seem to be out of control.Stealing is a safety interlock that prevents operators from automatically taking control of locos that are already selected and being run on another throttle. Occasionally you may need to override this interlock to gain control of a loco. This override is called stealing and will result in having a single loco ...

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 ...

  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 a Digitrax Chief system. I wired the programming track as per the manual, using PROGA and PROGB outputs on the DCS100. I turned on the system and checked the track voltage with a Tony Trains RRamp meter, the mainline read 14.2 volts. The programing track did not read anything. I then checked the two wires coming from the DCS100 and they did not have any readable signal. A:  The programing track connected to PROG A and PROG B will NEVER have track power on except the very instant the program message is sent.  So, you would not ...

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 ...

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 ...

Whoa!!!!!Each locomotive on your railroad has a mobile decoder which receives the command control signals from the command station and operates the locomotive motor accordingly.  The performance of mobile decoders can be adjusted by changing the Configuration Variables (CV's) of the decoder.  You can improve the speed performance of a locomotive by adjusting its start speed (CV02, V-Start), its mid-range speed (CV06, V-Mid) and its top speed (CV05 - V-Max).  You can also adjust the acceleration (CV03) and the deceleration (CV04).If the deceleration CV value you set for a particular loco is very large, this can make it look like ...

One of the basic problems encountered with command control systems is when things simply are not working.  Period.  Even after vigorous exhortation on your part, and perhaps even some enthusiastic train table banging, nothing is running.  At this point, it is time to gather your wits and your patience for a debugging session.   The first step to determining how to proceed is to determine if the problem with the electronics or with the layout?  The tendency is to blame the electronics, after all it is a black box.  But don't jump to conclusions so quickly! Be patient and follow the ...

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. 

Railroad signaling works based on detection of trains on the railroad.  If a train is detected, then the signal system goes into action, setting up indications that let show that the track section is occupied and warn other trains that the section is occupied.  At a grade crossing where a railroad and a highway intersect, the presence of a train starts the crossing signals and lowers the gates in time to stop highway traffic so the train can pass.In the case of real railroads, detection is easy, since the rails are naturally insulated from each other and either a locomotive or ...

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 ...

Before sending your Digitrax DS54 stationary decoder in for repair try these steps to see if you can “bring it back from the dead” and save a trip to the shop and possible repair charge.If you find you need to send in an item for repair, click here For Digitrax Repair Procedures and InformationAre there burn marks on the DS54 decoder?You'll need to send it in for repair!Understand CV programming with different throttleCV values shown are 00 or 000 for decimal and x00 for hex. Read your manual carefully to be sure you are using the appropriate values when programming ...

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 ...

Before sending your Digitrax mobile decoder in for repair try these troubleshooting steps to see if you can “bring it back from the dead” and save a trip to the shop and possible repair charge. As with troubleshooting anything, begin checking what could be wrong methodically. Write down your observations as you work through the list to solve the problem.The most common "repair" problem we see in our repair department is decoders that are programmed incorrectly.Many decoders we receive for repair have been programmed with CV values that cause them to seem to have a problem. The good news-bad news ...

If the DB150 unit shuts down occasionally due to a track short circuit: 1. Correct the short circuit condition and the booster will resume normal operation. 2. Turning off the booster when a short occurs is not necessary since it will re-start automatically when the short is cleared. If the DB150 unit shuts down frequently: 1. Move the DB150 so that the heat sink has a flow of cool air. 2. Place the DB150 out of direct radiant heat like sunshine or a room heater. 3. Try direct cooling by using a small fan to blow air onto the heat ...

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.  ...

This article was originally posted on this site in 2006, but the source material dates back much further than that, probably back to the early 1990's, when DCC was an emerging control system. The article discusses non-sound mobile decoder programming operations. Many of the issues discussed in this article are less relevant when using recently produced decoders, but this text still does cover some questions which may be raised when you are using mobile decoders which were manufactured by other companies. These decoders will operate in the Digitrax environment, but you may need to make some adjustments.The earliest Digitrax mobile ...

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 ...

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 ...

The master volume control CV is CV58, its values range from 0 to 15.  The factory default value for this is 09.Digitrax SFX decoders have a factory default value of 09 set for CV58.  This works well for 32 ohm speakers.The decoder will reset to this value whenever you do a decoder reset of CV8=8. Digitrax SFX decoders built for use with 8 ohm speakers should have this value changed to 4 or 5 for best operation value of 4 or 5, since the decoder may not supply enough current at high volume/drive levels.Your results may also depend upon track voltage present. Kato USA says ...

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, ...

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 ...

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.  

Digitrax SoundFX Decoder Troubleshooting Guide This troubleshooting guide assumes that you are working with an operating Digitrax system that is able to run trains and that the locomotive you are troubleshooting is operational and has a Digitrax sound decoder and speaker installed correctly.  If there is no sound, first make sure the decoder is not muted: Press the Function 8 (F8) key, and make sure F8 is OFF.  Function 8 is used to toggle between sound active (F8 OFF) and mute (F8 ON). If there is no sound and the locomotive won’t move when the address is selected on your ...

  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 ...

Most Digitrax mobile decoders have a global reset function, which returns the decoder's CVs to their factory default settings.This is useful if the CV values in a particular decoder have been changed with less than wonderful results. For example, you may have accidentally set the CV value for acceleration so that the engine won't move for minutes when issued a speed command. This makes it look like the decoder is not working when all it needs is to have the CV value for acceleration reset. Many of the decoders that are sent to us for repair just need to have ...

FX3 decoders have motor isolation protection. If the decoder senses that the motor is not isolated, it will not run the motor. In this case, you will be able to control the loco’s functions but the motor will not work.FX decoders will blink the loco's lights when power is first applied to the decoder to warn you of a short circuit in your installation. If you see the lights blinking, immediately remove the loco from the track, locate the short circuit and correct the problem before proceeding. Do not leave the loco on the track with blinking lights because eventually, ...

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 ...

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 ...

Loco is running fine, then suddenly slows down, stops for a few moments, then starts up again to its original speed. This happens repeatedly and randomly (not at the same locations). Wheels, track are clean, doesn't seem to be a problem with other locos. Running HO using the Zephyr with Digitrax decoders. You did the right thing to make sure that the track and wheels are clean; that is one of the most common sources of problems with model trains, DCC or otherwise. What is probably happening is that the locomotive has been selected by two throttles. You are operating ...

Is track power turned on? Is your throttle in Idle or stopped and displaying a flashing track power indicator in the LCD? Press the PWR Key followed by the Y+ Key . You should see the track power indicator on the DT400 come on solid.

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   ...

To Test LocoNet Cables With an LT11. Unplug the wire harness from the LT1.2. Plug one end of the LocoNet cable you want to test into the LT1.Note: When making your own LocoNet Cables, it is important to make them in a consistent manner. At Digitrax, the white wire is always on the right side of the plug when the plug is viewed with the clip at the top.3. Connect the other end of the LocoNet Cable being tested to any powered Digitrax Booster’s LocoNet Port A or B. Be sure you have at least one Digitrax throttle plugged in ...

The LT1 is a simple decoder tester. Decoder Testing Instructions1. Prepare the cable for use in the testing procedure, by stripping the insulation from the Red, Green, Black, and Yellow wires. The Blue and White wires are not used and can be cut off the harness.2. Twist the RED and YELLOW wires together. Twist the BLACK and GREEN wires together. 3. Hook up decoder as shown in Diagram 2.4. Use your throttle to select the decoder and run it in the forward direction.5. One of the two center LEDs will light as the motor voltage from the decoder increases. Use ...

  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 ...

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 ...

From the start, the Texas & Southwestern was built with DCC in mind. The T&SW was built from the ground up by an individual with considerable model railroad experience, but an issue arose that defied explanation. The T&SW was meant to be operated with a DCS50 Zephyr, and the layout support structure was enlarged slightly to fit the Zephyr into one corner of the railroad. As it turned out, the cozy corner space for the Zephyr turned out later to be a bit too cozy. The bottom of the Zephyr has ventilating slots to help cool the unit’s electronics. As ...

Digitrax SoundFX lets you make your locos sound like the real thing!Remember, your Digitrax SoundFX decoder is ready to run and will operate and generate sound using address 03 with no additional programming.On your Digitrax system, simply select the locomotive's address and the sound will start. On some DCC systems, it is necessary to select the locomotive address AND send a command to start the sounds. When used in conjunction with a separate DCC motor decoder in a single locomotive it is most practical to program both decoders to the same address and operating modes.For a more prototypical railroading experience, ...

  The most common problems on the layout that will impact your DCC system are electrical short circuits. If you find that you cannot get the Track Status light on your command station to come up, or there are numerous beeps from the booster, then disconnect one of the Rails from the booster and the problem should be apparent. There is an electrical short in your layout wiring. The quarter test is the BEST diagnostic tool that you have! With your DCC system up and the Track Status ON, create a short circuit across the rails of the layout every ...

There are a few tools, which you will need for trouble shooting. A good VOM ( volt, ohm, milliamp meter ), also called a multimeter, is indispensable in measuring voltage and resistance. Most any of the inexpensive meters will do. A United States 25 cent piece, or similar size coin, sometimes called a quarter. Hence, the quarter test! The printed owners manuals or Adobe Acrobat versions. Small hand tools. The LT-1 which is included with the starter sets. Patience.

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.

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 ...

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 sound performance of any speaker is greatly affected by where and how the speaker is mounted and whether an adequate speaker enclosure or baffle is installed.The baffle is used to isolate to speaker diaphragm's front side sound waves from the out of phase rear sound waves. This minimizes sound cancellation, particularly at lower frequencies. For most efficient sound generation, the volume of the baffle should be as large as practically possible. The baffle walls should be acoustically rigid to prevent acoustic interference.Practical materials to use for the baffle are plastic, cardboard and sheetmetal. Common items such as cardboard tubes ...

I have loaded a new scheme but the CVs and Functions are not working as I expected. Load the sound project you programmed into Sound Loader.Select the "view>project description" from the menu.The text file that describes how the project you have loaded will appear on the screen.Read the text file to be sure the sound project is suitable for your needs.If not, load a different sound project and see if it works better for your application.  

Many Digitrax SoundFX decoders come with two different sound schemes pre-installed.  Check the decoder instruction sheet for which sound schemes are installed in the decoder you are using.  Instruction sheets are available on this website on the product pages for each decoder.The decoders come from the factory with CV60 programmed to a value of 01 to play the default scheme.  If you want to play the other pre-installed sound scheme, simply program CV60 to a value of 00.  You can switch back and forth between the two schemes.  Changing CV60 does not erase either pre-installed schemes.If you want to download ...

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.

The sound in your decoder shuts down after you stop it and you are not using a Digitrax system for control. On some DCC systems decoders are not addressed by DCC packets after the locomotive is set to 0 speed. In this case after the CV11 timeout elapses (6 second factory default setting for SoundFX decoders), sound will shut down. To remove the timeout and prevent sound shutdown, set CV11=00.  This would leave the sound in the locomotive on until you remove power from the loco.Digitrax command stations continue to refresh locomotives by periodically sending packets to them as long ...

If the sound output from your SoundFX decoder is distorted, try the following:1. Check the speaker cone for magnetic debris that may have collected there. Debris on the speaker will cause a loss of sound quality and must be removed.  This is a common problem in speaker installed facing down toward the track.  Remember, speakers are magnetic and will vacuum up magnetic debris along the track.2. Be sure that the CV58 volume is not set at a level that is too high for the speaker. For impedances below 32ohms (e.g. 8 to 30 ohms) set the volume setting lower to ...

If the sound does not start when you run the locomotive with a sound decoder installed try the follwoing:1. Make sure you have selected the locomotive on a throttle. The sound will not run unless the locomotive is addressed in the system.2.  Make sure the sound is not muted.  Try toggling F8 which is the Digitrax standard function for muting the sound decoder.3.  Made sure the volume in your decoder has not been turned down to a very low level.4. Check your installation to make sure the decoder is installed properly.

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 ...

There have been reports of headlight problems with some DN143K2 decoders; the unit will be running in one direction but the headlights are backwards. There is a simple fix for this problem. Set CV33=2 and CV34=1; this will remap the function outputs F0F and F0R.

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.

Q:  Can I loop LocoNet?  Is there any benefit to doing so? A:  LocoNet should NOT be looped back on itself.  The design of LocoNet allows branching in different directions, but LocoNet must not be set up as a loop or ring topology.

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 ...

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. ...

Before sending your Digitrax Command Station or Booster in for repair try these simple steps to see if you can “bring it back from the dead” and save a possible trip to the repair shop.1. Nothing is respondingIf there are NO LEDs lit on the front panel of the Command Station or Booster: Check the power supply to the unit to make sure that it has not been knocked loose in the power socket and that the socket is powered. Check the connections from the power supply to Track A and Track B connections on the front of the unit ...

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 ...

Direct Home Wiring: A wiring system where the DCC booster powers each rail via an individual wire.  Each booster is wired to it's own track power section and there is no electrical connection between boosters. This means that each power district is double gapped and is connected to it's own booster.  The boosters are in turn connected via LocoNet to the command station providing one source of commands for the entire layout.Digitrax recommends using only Direct Home Wiring for all Digitrax layouts. Non command control layouts typically use common rail wiring as part of their control method. This means that one rail ...