Marcus’ NCE DCC for Everyone. More DCC stuff at my Main North HOME
Topics in blue are web pages and won’t print in DCC for Novices.
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Lights & Resistors |
Wiring & General. |
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Track Wiring This is covered in both books on DCC and Allan Gartner’s Wiring for DCC |
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LEDs Connecting to decoder. |
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Sound Decoders. |
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Programming. |
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Reset & change Address of QSI |
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General instructs & programming |
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CV 1 - The Short Address CV |
Speakers and mounting |
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CV 7 & 8 Decoder make & vers. |
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CV 17 & 18 Long Address CVs. |
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Decoder Pro. |
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Consisting. |
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Consisting with Back EMF |
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Installing Decoders & Gen info. |
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Great DCC sites, Groups etc. |
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Decoder types/sizes |
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NCE Specific Information. |
Marcus’ NSW Main North in DCC |
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System. |
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Choosing a DCC system. |
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Intro NCE & DCC at Tony’s |
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Selecting Functions on NCE |
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Motor Control |
Details of 2004 EPROM Upgrade |
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Mar 2007 EPROM details |
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Clubs/Associations of |
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Cabs/Throttles. |
Australian Model Railway Mag. |
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Australian Model Railway Assoc |
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NMRA Australian Region. |
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Pro Cab Software Version No. |
Printing DCC for Novices. |
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NCE Radio |
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Cab Addresses
for Radio Throttles |
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DCC is for Everyone.
During Oct 06, there was discussion on the NCE DCC Yahoo Group requesting a book along the lines of the “xxx for Dummies” series of books and asked if there could be a DCC for Dummies or a similarly titled book to address issues that a newbie or novice DCC user would have, that don't understand all sorts of things electrical etc and the jargon that sometimes is necessary to solve some of the new issues.
I thought the user manuals that came with systems and all the components, answered so many of the questions asked. On the 15 or so model railroad Yahoo groups that I belong to, there are many questions that repeat themselves due to the steady growth in new members. All these groups just get bigger as people see and reap the benefits of sound and DCC on their ever growing model railroad empires that provide a much more satisfying operating experience. Model trains are now MUCH more fun, now.
Later in the month (Oct 06), I had a very comfortable, non pain 5 day hospital stay that caused me to miss the NMRA Convention here in Sydney Australia. I took my laptop and decided to start to put together “DCC for Novices” that I hope will help a few modellers. Something I would not have done if I was at home. Being a one fingered typist and of average comprehension ability (I should have been more serious at high school all those years ago in the 60s), what I get onto these pages may not be grammatically correct and free flowing, hopefully will have the technical content, necessary to answer any questions asked.
I purchased my NCE DCC radio system in Feb 03 after using a local DC Command control. I am still learning about my NCE DCC system and I don’t use all the features of this great DCC system that just continues to get better, if that's possible. NCE releases Command Station Upgrades regularly, that provide enhancements to the system eg the great new 2004 Consisting method of double ended loco addressing etc and fixes to any bugs that get past the beta testers that become evident due to many modellers demanding operating experiences and Jim Scorse's relentless desire to make it the best DCC system. Thanks Jim and the team at NCE.
Thanks to Mark Gurries, Rex Beistle, Don Vollrath,
DCC for Novices is aimed mainly at NCE users, as I know a little about the NCE system but nothing about the others. I can see how hard it would be to write a DCC for Dummies type of book for all the systems, because many of the questions asked are system specific. Systems are being enhanced with more features and better ways of doing things (look at the way Consisting is done now). A requirement for a continually updated book would be impossible. There are many general topics for all. Now I am committed to the web book, Ill have to update it along the way.
If anyone has a question, that the answer would be valuable to others, please let me know and I will include it in these pages.
Hope you enjoy DCC for Novices and hopefully it answers some of your queries.
It’s for ALL existing DC layouts and layouts of any size, not just for new and large layouts. Now is the time to connect DCC, its much easier now. Just connect DCC and have so much more fun.
With the availability of RTR DCC locos complete with sound and cheaper DCC Entry Levels systems, it has never been easier and cheaper to install DCC on any layout. All those stories you've heard about re-wiring the layout and modifying points/turnouts may not happen on your own layout. Just get DCC connected and see what ACTUALLY happens.
Imagine how an owner of an existing DC layout that operates free of any major problem, would feel, when told by us DCCers, or what he reads in the DCC books, sees on the chat groups, that if their wiring was smaller than 12 14 AWG, they would need to rewire their layouts. Not many DC layouts are wired with anything this size. Also to have trouble free operation at points/turnouts, all these should be made DCC Friendly. Any interest these DC owners had in DCC would soon disappear. They would feel that DCC is a big joke. They would rightly say I’ll be happy with DC if that's what it takes to have DCC. They would be robbed of all the benefits of DCC.
While I thoroughly agree with using thicker wire, so that the system can sense a short, this depends on the size of the layout, the length of the Power Busses and the DCC system used.
The effect of global shutdowns of the layout when there is a short at the points/turnouts should be assessed for EACH layout and can only be done AFTER DCC has been connected. You may only have the occasional short that may be very tolerable. Modifying all your installed points/turnouts for this, is plainly too much effort for only a small gain and certainly not necessary before you connect DCC. Anyway any problems found, you can fix them later at a time that is suitable and convenient to yourself, in the meantime you're reaping the benefits and having fun with DCC.
See below how to easily connect DCC.
What is DCC.
Digital Command Control is where a decoder (receiver) with its own unique address, is installed in every loco, between the loco’s pick ups and the motor, to tell it how to operate. The address, speed, direction etc, of a loco, is selected on the throttle and is combined with power from the system and sent to all sections of the layout. Only the loco with the address “match”, will move while all the others, remain stationary.
To achieve this level of independent control, does require extra expense and in a lot of cases effort (installing decoders), but the benefits of operating a layout with DCC, will soon be realised.
A simple analogy is: In DCC you control your loco/train and in DC you control your layout.
The extra level of realism that DCC provides, is in every ones reach now, with the availability of many reasonably priced RTR DCC locos (fitted with a decoder), many with sound and cheaper entry level DCC systems. Wiring up a DCC layout is easier than DC, no need for any electrical blocks in many situations and DCC can be installed on any existing operating DC layout, see below how to.
As a DC owner/operator, would you like any of these features when operating your trains on your personal or club layout?
- Individual loco control?
- Operation more typical of the prototype?
- No block controls and no more who's got my train?
- Easier wiring?
- Better motor performance by tuning your locos?
- Walk around capability?
- Sound in your existing locos?
- Lights effects that can be selected off/dim/on and at a constant intensity and on even when the loco is stationary?
- Do you want to operate trains and not your layout?
If you answer yes to a few of these, then DCC is for you. The benefit that each modeller gets from DCC will vary, depending on the:
- Type of layout he has shunting/operations or mainline running.
- Size of layout.
- How he operates it from one central point or walk around.
- What effects he wants out his locos lights, sounds etc.
- The amount of locos operated.
DCC is not for everyone. Some model railroaders are happy watching trains go around the layout and dont consider operation as a part of the running session. What someone sees as a priority, others may not? It is all about choice.
There are hardly any choices with DC but DCC has many.
I have mentioned some of the benefits of DCC, and YES they do come at a cost. These include:
- Purchasing a DCC system starting from $100.
- Purchasing decoders for each operating loco depending on type, non sound or sound.
- Increased price of a RTR loco with the addition of sound or a chip.
- Time and effort to fit decoders to each loco.
- Yes I can hear you say,
- Don’t think of it like that. How many of those do you operate now? Fit decoders into your popular ones first.
Talking about installing decoders in all your locos, I operate a medium sized walk around layout (approx 30 x 30) with 25 locos. So now how many do you have to chip? Fitting decoders to locos is so much easier now. The size of decoders is getting much smaller, more features and cheaper. A small HO decoder is the size of your thumb nail. How easy will this be to fit?
Manufacturers are now providing locos that make it all that easier to go DCC, when purchasing new models. They are:
DCC Ready locos that have all the loco wiring terminated (for HO) with a NMRA 8 pin socket that makes installing a decoder really easy. Another benefit, there is room for the decoder and this is important if the loco is manufactured with a large weight and many are these days.
DCC Equipped locos that come with a decoder already fitted and ready to run. There
are manufacturers making RTR sound locos, for example Broadway Limited in the
Once you have operated on a DCC layout, you will find the restrictions in DC, hard to put up with.
Playing trains is only a part of this wonderful hobby. Some modellers spend a great deal of their hobby hours building beautifully detailed models, while others make wonderful scenery etc. There still is only 24 hours in a day. DCC is NOT the only way to control a layout, but it has been said, In DCC you operate your loco, whereas in DC you operate your layout.
Things have changed since I went DCC, in April 03.
These things have changed and will make a huge difference in going DCC. Now is the Time. The below list items, will make you DCC adventure cheaper, easier and above all, more fun especially the availability of RTR sound locos and sound decoders.
· DCC systems have become cheaper.
· Many DCC manufacturers offer entry level systems. NCE’s Power Cab can be purchased for US$139.95.
· Decoders are cheaper, smaller in size for easier installation and offer more features and function outputs.
· Decoder current determination uses slipping current instead of Stall current, enabling Z scale decoders in HO locos.
· These small 1 Amp decoders like the NCE Z14SR and the TCS M1 can be located between HO steam locos driving wheels, allowing separation of tender and loco for better handling and easy installation. Good for club operators.
· Locos of the latest designs (last 15 to 20 years) only need about 200 300 mAs of current.
· Manufacturers are producing DCC RTR locos.
· Many RTR locos are available with sound. Sound provides a whole new dimension to your layout.
· The availability of these RTR, means users that feel they don't have skills to fit decoders, now can have DCC.
There are four excellent DCC books available from hobby shops and the Internet. The first 3 published by Kalmbach Books.
- DCC Made Easy by Lionel Strang.
- DCC Projects and Applications by Mike Polsgrove Model Railroader DCC Corner fame.
- The DCC Guide by Don Fiehmann
- Digital Command Control A comprehensive guide to DCC by Stan Ames, Rutger Friberg and Ed Loizeaux.
Any of these books are suitable and certainly worthwhile for new entrants into the DCC. These books explain what DCC is about, in not too technical terms. Included are descriptions of the DCC systems components including: Command Stations, booster, throttles etc, how to wire up a layout, how to install a decoder etc.
The latest (late 2007), The DCC Guide by Don Fiehmann is thoroughly recommended.
Digital Command Control was written by members of the NMRA DCC Working group that implanted certain Standards and Recommended Practices (R.Ps.), that are necessary for the continued success of DCC. What these Standards & RPs gives us, is commonality at the rails. In essence, this allows ANY DCC system to control ANY brand of DCC decoder.
Connecting DCC to existing working DC layouts no need to rewire the layout or modify your points/turnouts.
While writing some new pages for DCC for Novices, I thought about two recent converts to DCC that I know about. Both of these model railroaders, along with many others, have operating well established “older” DC layouts with wiring that is nowhere near the standard that is promoted and recommended by all, including me, for DCC. This recommendation is NOT for the actual running of trains (a loco draws 100- 300 mAs) but because a 5 Amp short on all sections of the layout has to be sensed by the Power Pro’s booster, to remove power from the short.
The catalyst for both of these modellers going to DCC was the introduction of a sound loco (a 620/720 or an AD60 QSI equipped model of our local NSW Australian prototype) on their DC layouts. They soon realised that sound brings a whole new dimension to their layouts. Their interest in the hobby has been rekindled and they are having fun, more than ever before, just like a kid with a new toy. Now they wanted sound for their existing favourite DC locos. One of the modellers, I fitted Soundtraxx Tsunami decoders to two of his C36 4-6-0s. He wants more sound. They were bitten big time by the Sound Bug. After operating the Tsunami, they both asked, how hard would it be to connect DCC to their layouts, to get the most of the Tsunamis and QSIs.
Connect an Entry Level DCC system like NCE's US$140 Power Cab to the layout, by switching all the mainline blocks to one Cab, say Cab 1, disconnect Cab 1 from the layout and connect the Power Cabs track connections to the Cab 1’s layout side connections, taking less than 30 minutes.
The Power Cabs current (Amps) capacity of approximately 1.5 Amps and this will operate 2 to 3 sound locos at the same time. Enough power for a single operator home DC layout with the capability for a second operator using any of NCE’s standard throttles, irrespective of the size of the layout. It’s not the size of the layout that determines the capability of whether a system is “big enough”, it is the AMOUNT of locos that are RUNNING at the ONE time.
No layout re-wiring and making their points/turnouts, DCC Friendly.
It is that easy.
See below for using a 5 Amp Power Pro system.
Re-wiring, DCC Friendly Points/Turnouts and DCC for existing DC layout.
This topic is about helping existing DC owners to convert their layouts to DCC, so they can enjoy the benefits of DCC with the minimum amount of fuss. This is possible if we don't scare modellers off and explain the options.
There has been plenty of discussion about these two topics. For building a layout from scratch for DCC, yes wiring with the correct gauge wire is essential. Making your points/turnouts DCC Friendly prior to installation is recommended.
For an existing DC layout, providing this, may be impossible or at best, very difficult to achieve.
Imagine how an owner of an existing DC layout that
operates fault free to their standards, would feel, when told by us DCCers, or
read in all the DCC books, that if their wiring was smaller than 12 14 AWG,
they would need to rewire their layouts. Not many DC layouts are wired with
anything this size. Also to have trouble free operation at points/turnouts, all
these should be made DCC Friendly. Any interest these DC owners had in DCC
would soon disappear. They would feel that DCC is a big joke. They would
rightly say
I will try to explain, you can make going to DCC easy or as hard as you like.
- The easy way, just connect DCC and operate less than 30 minutes and this will work for almost all existing DC layouts.
- The hard way, re-wire your layout and rip out all of your points/turnouts and make them DCC Friendly. It may not be necessary.
Why is it suggested to re-wire a layout?
In DCC a 5 Amp booster supplies the current to operate ALL the locos/trains on the whole layout, where as in DC, the DC Cab only supplies the current for one train approximately 1.0 Amp. A short on any layout creates heat and the current has to interrupted to reduce the chance of any damage. A short in DCC with a 5 Amp system will create approximately 60 watts and in DC approximately 15 to 20 watts. For obvious reasons in DCC with this much heat, it is paramount that the booster can sense a short.
The requirement of heavier gauge wiring on DCC layouts is not so much to run trains, but so a booster can sense the short. Thinner wire has higher resistance value (ohms) per foot than thick wire. Depending on the size of the layout and the gauge of the wire used, the resistance of the wiring may prevent the booster from tripping and removing the power to a short. A short left un-noticed may cause serious damage.
What should an existing layout owner do?
Most shorts on a layout happen at the points/turnouts and many are caused by running into an incorrectly set point/turnout. This is operator error. The benefit of making your points/turnouts DCC Friendly will vary, with each layout. Shorts at these same points/turnouts happened in DC, but in a lot of cases, went un-noticed or the loco had a slight hesitation. Depending on how many shorts will be sensed in DCC will depend on types of wheels being used (may be plastic), if wheel sets are in gauge, the track alignment etc. These shorts may be tolerable for one or two operators.
My recommendation is connect DCC and see what happens. You never know until you try your layout with DCC. You might have two or three shorts for a whole session. Does this warrant all the effort required to make your points/turnouts, DCC Friendly.
For the re-wiring issue, your layout wiring may be ok. A 1.0 to 2.0 Entry Level system like NCE's Power Cab works slightly different than the 5 Amp Power Pro.
My recommendation, connect the system of your choice to the layout, but for a 5 Amp Power Pro prior to operating any trains, carry out the Coin Test by placing a coin or a metal object across the track on ALL sections of the layout and if the booster cuts out then all is ok.
If the booster doesn't cut out, wire up the Power Pro with an 1156 in series with one track feeder as shown below. This will restrict the current to approximately 2.0 Amps but the booster will never shutdown, removing power from the layout. A strategically placed 1156 will provide a great visual indication of a short that will attract someone's attention.
Understanding the issues will have you enjoying the benefits of operating your layout in DCC in less than half an hour. Addressing any problem now can be done at your leisure and you never know, they may not create the hassle that was perceived, prior to connecting the layout to DCC.
Many thanks to Joe Fugate, the DCC 1156 pioneer, for showing us how to use the trusty old incandescent lamp to solve a high tech problem. Its not the first time in DCC that an old lamp saved a new issue.
See other topics in DCC for Novices to help you in your DCC experience.
Look for these features when choosing a DCC system
Listed below are 10 of the most important features I have found, when using my NCE DCC. See how many of these are found in the other DCC systems. Your level of priority will be determined by the way you operate and the type of layout you have. You may not understand what these features are, but many DCC users agree that a lot of these features are important to them, also.
- An entry level option that provides nearly all the features of its more expensive 5 Amp big brother.
- For clubs, when they have a NCE Power Pro setup. Each member would need to purchase a throttle. Purchasing the Power Cab entry level system that at the club performs as a throttle and at home, as a complete DCC system.
- 4 digit addressing that is so much easier to remember the loco number, the one on the side of the locos cab.
- Easy to set up consisting and double ended addressing, by using the loco number, not some two digit number.
- Easy two button presses momentum programming that allows easy changes from main line running to switching.
- Programming on the Main POM that the can be done ANYWHERE on he layout with the supplied full featured throttle.
- A throttle that is not part of a control panel and will provide 15 feet of walk around capability out of the box.
- An easy to upgrade system with plenty of options and supports radio control
- A computer interface option to operate programs like Decoder Pro.
- Total flexibility.
The throttle is your interface to your trains, so the most important criteria when selecting a DCC system, what does the throttle feel like to you and how do you find using the throttle Try these tasks on your short list of DCC systems throttles. Compare the ease of doing the below operating tasks:
- Select and run a train.
- Set up a Consist, operate it and then “kill” it.
- Do some programming.
- Try POM programming. Once used this will be your preferred method of programming.
- Operate whistles/horns, lights etc.
Don’t make you decision on price alone. The cost of the DCC system is only a part of the DCC “experience”.
DCC Programming.
One of the first terms you will hear when someone talks about DCC is programming. Not to be confused with programming a computer that many don't want to do or understand anything about, programming in DCC is just adjusting the decoder, to fine tune the motor performance, selecting a particular light effect, changing the address, configuring the system etc.
Do not be put off by this term programming.
All decoders and RTR DCC locos come from the factory with default values for every CV. This includes CV 1, the Short Address set at 3 and CV 29 set so the decoder responds to the Short Address. A decoder/loco can be operated on 3 without any need of programming, just select 3 on the throttle and the loco runs.
To get independent control, you have to program the decoder/loco with a new address, mostly the road number on the side of the cab. The system manual clearly explains how to do this and the Power Cab/Procab prompts you all the way a really easy procedure. For many, this is all the programming that needs to be done forever. Operating a loco with this absolute minimum of programming will provide more than satisfactory motor performance, making programming a NON issue with DCC. Programming can be as simple or as complicated as the user wants it to be.
After a short period of time operating your new DCC system, the black magic of DCC will no longer be an issue and you will see that you can fine tune your locos, something that could not be done in DC, by programming. Now programming will be an asset, instead of something that is feared about with DCC.
Decoder Configuration Variables CVs for short.
At the heart of each decoder is a microcontroller that deciphers information from the DCC track voltage to control the loco’s motor, lights etc (outputs). The performance of the motor, the desired lighting effect etc, can be modified, by what is called programming the decoders Configuration Variables CVs for short.
For example in most decoders, the lag of the loco to move off at start up, as soon as the throttle is turned, can be reduced or eliminated by programming CV 2 with a higher value. Similarly a locos top speed can be reduced by programming CV 5 with a lower value. Many parameters of the microcontroller can be programmed that gives the user the ability to fine tune the motor performance, selecting a particular lighting effect etc, making for a better performing loco.
Configuration Variables for all decoders are grouped in the following categories:
- Mandatory. These CVs must be implemented in order to conform to the NMRA's Recommended Practice (RPs).
- Recommended. These are strongly encouraged but not mandatory.
- Optional. These are at the manufacturer's discretion.
See the NMRA Standards page for the CV lists. Not all current CVs are listed, as decoder manufacturers are always adding their individual CVs to control their particular features.
To comply with the minimum NMRA Standard, all decoders must have the Mandatory CVs that are CV 1 the Short Address, CV 3 and CV 4 the momentum CVs and CV 29 the configuration CV. This minimum standard makes it possible that ALL decoders can be operated by ANY DCC system commonality at the track.
The basic CVs are discussed below.
CV 1 - the Short Address CV.
Short Addresses of 1 to 127 are stored in CV 1.
Addresses 128 to 9999 are stored in CVs 17 and 18.
All decoders and RTR locos out of the box will have their default values for all CVs including the Short Address - CV 1, that’s “3”. A new decoder and a loco/decoder that has been reset for some reason, can only be addressed by “3”. If you are using long addresses on your loco roster, leave CV 1 at 3. This will leave the maximum amount of short address available for other locos and consists.
Note: The Short Address is typed “3” not “03” or “003” or “0003” For NCE, placing a 0 in front of a 1 or 2 digit number 1-127, makes it a long address.
CV 7 and CV 8 - the decoder manufacturer and version CVs Essential for Advanced Programming.
These two CVs are hardly needed. They cannot be changed, but gives us some valuable details of the decoder.
CV 7 - Version. This displays the software version that is installed in the decoder. Use this to look up a decoder manual.
CV 8 Manufacturer ID No. This displays the manufacturers Identification number. The NMRA list here will correlate the number to the manufacturer. This along with CV 7, the version number will allow you to identify a decoder. Especially useful when trying to identify a loco that will allow you to visit the manufactures web site and download the applicable manual.
For example, for an NCE shown in CV 8 (Manufacturer ID of 11) decoder with software version 3.3 displayed as 33 in CV 7, it does not have Torque Compensation (CVs 116 and 117), whereas version 35 of the later decoders, does. So no point trying to set CV 116 and 117, to fine tune the motor control in a version 33.
Fine tuning the motor, setting the Light Effects of the decoder’s outputs and Function Mapping CANNOT be done, without referring to the manual. All manufacturers use different CVs to control these features. There is no point guessing.
CVs 17 and 18 the Long Address CVs.
Since decoders can have an address between 1 and 9999. Addresses in the range of 128 to 9999 have to be stored in two CVs.
- CV 17 for the High Byte of the 4 digit address.
- CV 18 for the Low Byte of the 4 digit address.
For example when using the programming the address options of 1 = ADR for POM or 1 = STD for the Program Track the system will program the required value automatically. For example for an address of 4836 the system will program CV 17 with 210 and CV 18 with 228.
There is what I consider a complicated method of working out the values of CV 17 and 18 for a particular address that can lead to mistakes that I have seen on the Yahoo groups in programming a loco that resulted in the loco not moving after programming. In the event that you need to find out the values of CV 17 and 18, program the desired address into a loco using the above methods and then reading CV 17 and 18 on the Program Track using 2 = CV option. Alternatively use this CV 17 & 18 Calculator
Programming the long address of QSI locos using POM may be unsuccessful and if you try to read CVs on the Program Track you may get the CANNOT READ CV message. See the topic on Programming the locos address and what does CANNOT READ CV message mean?
CV29 The Configuration Variable CV - CFG
This is one of the most important CVs in the decoder. This is where you set up what you want the decoder to do and which address to respond to.
At the 3 = CFG option you will be prompted for:
- The Direction
- Analogue (DC) on or off. NCE and many other decoders DO NOT operate correctly on DC unless the DC is PURE DC. That is without any form of pulse control. This rules out most DC controllers. To prevent runaways that happen on some layouts, setting DC to OFF, reduces the chance of runaways. I suggest you always set DC to OFF in CV 29.
- Whether to use internal or external speed tables. Internal speed table are made with CV 2, CV 5 and CV 6 or using a selectable pre-programmed speed table, loaded in the decoder. External Uploadable speed tables comprising of CV 67 through to CV 94, you can add any value to each of these CVs to make your own speed table. A convenient and easy way to do this is to use Decoder Pro . See also motor fine tuning.
- Which address the decoder should respond to, either the short or long address.
If you ever need to program CV 29 at the 2 = CV option you have to know the value of your combination above. Some values are:
- 34 =
- 38 =
- 50 =
- 54 =
For all the combinations, see the decoder and the system manuals.
The Address - What does it mean and types?
To allow for individual control in DCC, each loco has its own decoder, that is programmed with its own unique address, normally the loco road number. To operate that loco, the address is entered into the throttle with what ever the operator wants that loco to do (command). This address and command, form what is called a DCC packet. The booster adds power to this packet, which is then transmitted to all parts of the layout. All decoders (locos) are listening and only the decoder with the matching address responds to the command.
It is this matching address scenario that gives DCC, its individual loco operation.
Most decoders now come with three types of addresses:
- The short 2 digit address. For NCE addresses 1 to 127.
- The Long 4 digit address. For NCE addresses 00 to 9999. Note: For NCE, placing a 0 in front of any 1 or 2 digit number makes it a long address.
- The Consist address. The Consist Address and Short Address are shared, using the 1 to 127 range. So there may be some conflicts here, just be careful.
In most cases, DCC users use the Long 4 digit addresses to control their locos, e.g. 3801, 5335 etc. Use the short address for operating locos like the Austrains NRs e.g. NR52 NR60 NR109 etc.
There are times when two or more locos may intentionally move at once - consisting. See the notes on consisting later.
Programming Why and What.
A decoder is programmed to adjust how the microprocessor, at the heart of a decoder, what it responds to and how it controls its outputs, the motor, lights, if applicable, sounds etc. For a DCC system and its components, they can be programmed to be set up each system or component like a throttle, in different ways, to best suit the individual. Working with the system manual, will provide all the options and what to program to give these features. What can be programmed for the decoders and system, are:
- Decoders:
- Assign a unique address for each decoder for independent control.
- Configure the decoder by selecting numerous parameters in CV 29.
- Fine tune the motors performance. This includes CVs 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 116, 117 etc for NCE decoders. Also the use of Speed Tables and their associated CVs. For other brands see their relevant manuals.
- Selecting the headlights and any other lights to the users desired effect that range from Rule 17, dimmable, on/off, reversing, mars, beacon, gyra, strobe etc. See the relevant decoder manual.
- Sound decoders have many adjustments like volume, chuff rate, bell, whistle/horn selections, etc sounds. Sound decoder manuals are very comprehensive.
- The DCC system and components:
- Cab (throttle) addresses. The same reason each decoder requires a different address, so do throttles.
- Cab Parameters.
- Command Station parameters.
- Other system adjustments.
In the event of something going wrong when programming, the user may think that he has damaged the decoder because the loco does not respond. No damage is done, the decoder is just confused. Normal operation can be restored by resetting the decoder. For many decoders including NCE, place the loco on the Program Track and program CV 30 with 2. See the decoder manual. All CVs will be returned to the default values, where communications will allow the user to start over again. Note: After a reset the operating address is short address 3.
Systems and components can be similarly reset, see the manual.
Types of Decoder Programming:
There are a few modes of programming a decoder: Paged, Direct, Register, etc, to change a CV but the two terminologies we are familiar with NCE, are:
- On the Program Track or Service mode on a dedicated piece of track located in a yard on a siding etc.
- On the
As you become used to programming and you a free yourself from the MYTH that you program all the locos that are on the track that a lot of people still think can happen when POM is used and the NEED to read a CV that you just programmed, really happened, you will find POM is the most convenient type of programming.
Utilize on of the most powerful features of DCC and now almost all decoders support POM.
The pros and cons of each type are:
- Program Track or Service Mode:
- You can read most decoder CV values and program all decoders.
- The Program Track is current limited and this allows for testing a new installation for correct wiring. This ensures that the decoder is not damaged if the wiring was incorrect.
- This type of programming does not require an address, so a loco that has become confused or is operating irregularly, it can be reset.
- To read CVs on the P/T, only one decoder (loco) can be read. A loco with two decoders, separate motor and sound decoders, the CVs cannot be read, without disconnecting one of the decoders from the track.
- Some people use this form of programming, because they can check that what they have programmed, is in the decoder, by reading the CV and confirming the write procedure. With clean track and wheels, all writes work.
- Using the Program Track can be somewhat inconvenient due the loco always has to be physically returned to the same piece of track. This inconvenience can be reduced by using POM mode of programming. See below.
- Programming on the Main POM or Operations Mode.
- POM is the easy way to program. No layout shutdowns or returning to specific place for programming.
- You cannot read CV values, just change them.
- POM is address dependant, just like operating the locos.
- POM can be done anywhere on the layout and hence is very convenient.
- POM in most cases, only needs the loco to be stopped, program a CV, then re-start the loco with the CV value taking effect immediately, confirming the write.
- POM enables on the fly programming or program as you run.
- Adjusting the motor performance CVs and sound volumes is really easy. Its dynamic programming.
- A great benefit of POM programming, is that the layout is NOT shutdown. How good is that for you club members without Power Cabs?
- Some users are very apprehensive about using POM mode programming, because they feel or have heard that it programs every loco. This is just a myth that should be corrected. For the same reason not all locos move, only the addressed loco/decoder gets programmed. POM is address dependant.
- POM is a very powerful feature and almost all decoders support this type of programming because of its convenience. I feel this is one of the greatest features of a DCC system. Try it and you will agree.
The Initial Programming of a newly installed decoder.
The Program Track is current limited so that a short from an incorrectly wired decoder during installation, won’t damage the decoder. On completion of the installation of a decoder, place the loco on the Program Track and select either the 1 STD or 2 = CV programming option, where the Command Station will try to read CVs.
A correctly installed decoder will result with a displayed value at either of the above programming options. If the message CANNOT READ CV shows, then there may be a fault with the wiring. See the section, what does CANNOT READ CV mean?
Programming the address of a loco.
In a lot of cases, the first time user of DCC, this will be their first experience at programming to provide independent control. Using either of the below programming options, NCE makes it really easy by working out the correct CV values for the appropriate CVs for the desired address. Nothing to work out, its all done by the system automatically by following the prompts at:
1. On
the
Note: Whenever you need to program the Long Address of a QSI equipped sound loco using POM, FIRST turn off the decoders Verbal Acknowledgement program CV 62 to 0, otherwise this procedure will not work.
2. On the Program Track - using 1 = STD option and follow the prompts. The same as what I call the Initial Check of a new decoder installation.
Note: If you get the CANNOT READ CV message during this procedure while programming a sound loco, you will need a Program Track booster from Tony’s or Soundtraxx. For the time being, just press ENTER on this message, but only if you are sure there are no faults with the decoder installation. For more details see the section on What does CANNOT READ CV mean?
In a lot of cases, the loco will have the DC running, turned OFF. If the loco needs to be operated on a DC layout, CV 29 will have to be programmed to either 6 or 38 if programming for a short or long address respectively. NCE recommends all decoders to be set with the DC (or analogue) running OFF. For more details, see either: the CV 29 topic below, the decoder or system manual or this CV 29 Calculator
Basic programming of a loco your desired long address, better loco starting and lights.
Contrary to what a lot of people think, for motor only decoders, once the address has been changed by following the prompts at 1 = STD option on the Program Track or the 1 = ADR prompt using POM, you don't have to program any more CVs. You can operate the loco as is, for a reasonable loco start most probably with some lag and suitable lights for many prototypes.
To reduce or eliminate the locos lag on take off CV 2 Volts Start is increased. This single adjustment will dramatically improve the starting performance of the loco.
If the default setting did not provide the desired lighting effect, CVs for NCE, 120 and 121, need to programmed,. See the section of Light Effects.
So how hard is it to program a loco? Not hard at all. What's all the hype about? You certainly don't need to know how to program a computer or a degree in programming, to program a loco in DCC.
Programming the address or any CV of sound locos on the Program Track.
When using the Program Track, to program any decoder, after entering the CV number you want to program, the system reads the decoder for the currently programmed value.
Due to the increased Inrush Current of sound decoders, you may get the CANNOT READ CV message that prevents reading ANY CV values. When this is displayed the users has to decide what can be done:
- This message during the first read of what I call the Initial Check for a newly installed decoder could mean a potential short caused by a fault in the decoder installation. What to do? Double check the installation and you'll have to decide, whether to proceed or not. This could lead to a dilemma. The only way in this situation, is to use a Program Track booster from Tony's or Soundtraxx. These will allow the read of a CV.
- With a loco/decoder that has been working, when the message CANNOT READ CV is displayed, just press ENTER and continue programming as normal. The entered CV will be programmed with the value.
- For a RTR loco or an operating sound loco, you can use POM and the 2 = CV option.
Note: Reading a CV value is NOT a requirement for programming a decoder, so if you are sure that this above message is NOT caused by a faulty installation, bad connection or dirty track/wheels. Press ENTER at this message and type in the desired value.
For more details, see what does the message “CANNOT READ CV” mean, see below.
What does the message “CANNOT READ CV” mean, when on the Program Track.
There are numerous reasons why the message CANNOT READ CV shows on the Procabs display while trying to program a decoder/loco on the Program Track. Many modellers are now seeing this message, now that they have bought their first sound loco (see item 7):
1. Wiring problems to the track that could include a faulty changeover switch, if installed, bad connections etc.
2. A broken wire or loose connection in the loco wiring
3. Dirty loco wheels.
4. Dirty/oxidized program track.
5. A faulty decoder installation.
6. A faulty decoder.
7. Trying to read a Sound Decoder CV.
Items 1 to 4 - Loss of electrical continuity:
Using a digital multimeter, selected to Volts A.C, should indicate that voltage (approx 10 15 volts) is present when the Program Track is selected by both, the changeover switch and the Procab. If there is voltage, then the problem is with dirty track/wheels, wiring inside the loco, the decoder or bad connections.
Note: The NMRA 8 pin plug in DCC Ready locos, are a known source of bad connections under those Black Caps. Check to see if the insulation is removed from all the wires and make sure no strands of wire have missed the hole and touching the motor or chassis.
Items 5 and 6 - A short:
5 - For a faulty decoder installation, check all wiring and rectify until no message appears and the C/S reads CV values. This indicates a correct decoder installation.
6 A faulty decoder can sometimes be bought back to life with a decoder reset. If still no response, then only a replacement will correct the problem.
Item 7 A type of short.
Many sound decoders cause this message due to the higher Inrush current of sound decoders and the Command Station cannot tell the difference between this larger current flow and a short, when attempting to read a CV during programming. Program Track boosters are available to allow reading CVs.
In most cases you can press ENTER here and just program as normal.
Note: You will have to be sure that the message was not displayed due to a fault (items 5 & 6 above) before you assume the Inrush Current issue.
The Sound decoder problem:
Sound decoders have bigger and more capacitors than NON sound decoders. When power is first applied to a capacitor, maximum current flows initially then decreases as the capacitor charges up. When power is first applied to a decoder, this current is termed Inrush Current. The bigger and more capacitors of a sound decoder, creates a higher Inrush Current than a NON sound decoder.
For short protection on the Program Track, the current is limited so that a new installation can be checked and this low limited current wont damage the decoder if the wiring of the new decoder caused a short, thus saving the decoder and alerting the user of a potential problem.
To read a CV value on the Program Track, the decoder pulses the motor (or speaker on a sound only decoder). The pulses as sensed by the Command Station provide the value of the CV to be displayed on the screen. When attempting to read a CV of a sound decoder, the Command Station sees this higher Inrush Current, while trying to read a CV, as a short. The trouble is the Command Station cannot tell the difference between high Inrush Current and a short, so it shows the CANNOT READ CV message.
What should be done?
At the CANNOT READ CV message during programming, just write the value that you want after pressing ENTER The system will accept the write. You will not be able read CVs but you will be able to program the loco. Alternatively use Programming On the Main POM, to program your loco.
With sound locos becoming more popular since Broadway Limited released RTR locos with QSI chips, DCC operators cannot read the value of CVs. Tony’s Trains released a Power Pax and for the Soundtraxx Tsunami, Soundtraxx released the PTB-100. Both of these items are Program Track Booster and wired between the Power Pro and the Program Track. These allow users to read CVs of sound locos.
Reading CVs is not a prerequisite of programming a loco. You can completely program a loco using the Program on the Main POM (Operations) mode of programming, including changing to the 4 digit long address, without reading a CV.
For determining the loco current for a DCC decoder Use Slipping current not Stall current.
A loco motor would only ever STALL if the gearbox jammed up or there was some mechanical fault with the driveline. How often does this happen, hardly ever, I’ve never had it happen to me in the 20 or so years I’ve been playing with trains. After questioning others that have been in the hobby a lot longer than me, say that it only rarely happens.
Why base the decoder current selection on a scenario that “rarely” happens.
A situation that happens regularly, is the loco stalls on a hill or runs into a stationary train etc. In this case the wheels will be spinning.
There is a big difference in current (amps) between a “slipping” or “stalled” motor. The SLIPPING current can be as little as ¼ of the “stall” current. For example my NSW 45 Class diesel, Slipping Current = 320 mAs and the Stall Current = 1.4 Amps (1,400 mAs).
Using the above example, using the STALL Current value, I would have to use a 1.3 Amp D13SR or similar. Using the SLIPPING Current value, I could use a 1.0 Amp Z14SR Amp decoder or a 0.5 Lenz Gold Mini. The advantages here are enormous if space is at a premium. Using the same set of figures, I could not fit a Soundtraxx 1.0 Amp DSD-100LC or the latest 1.0 Amp Tsunami or the .75 Amp Tsunami Micro decoders. I am aiming to fit sound to all of my locos, so I would be in a bind if I used the STALL current value.
Many decoder now have overload protection and in some cases, shutdown when the decoder overheats. These types of protection are there to cover the worst possible cases.
Some decoder manufacturers have removed the word STALL in their instructions and use the words Continuous and Peak (Stall) as is the case with NCE.
So use the SLIPPING Continuous current for determining the decoder Current Rating.
Bye the way, Almost 90% of my locos have 1.0 Amp sound decoders and they are still operating 3 to 4 years later. More than half of the fleet have “stall” currents in excess of 1.3 Amps. Most modellers that are using Soundtraxx DSD and Tsunami sound decoders are exceeding the specifications of the decoder, with no reports of damaging decoders due to normal every day running.
Is Left & Right Rail applicable to DCC during decoder installation?
Courtesy of Mark Gurries on NCE-DCC Yahoo group - May30, 2007.
The NMRA DC polarity convention covering rail polarity is: A positive rail polarity on the Engineer's Side of the locomotive with the engine Facing Forward will result in Forward motion. This allowed standardization of direction between multiple manufactures of DC locomotives. Hence when you MU multiple brands of DC locomotive on the track, they will all move in the same direction.
Most DCC decoders support DC mode, if turned on, so people can continue to run decoder equipped locomotives on a DC layout. As such if you plan to run your decoder equipped locomotive on DC, you should follow the same rail polarity rules if you plan to have this locomotive MU with standard DC locomotives or other Decoder equipped locomotives. The red wire goes positive rail as described by the rule.
If you never plan to run DC on this locomotive, it does not matter how you connect the red and black wires to the rails in terms of which goes which rail. Direction of the locomotive is controlled by the decoder and not the rail polarity.
The NMRA 8 pin DCC Ready Plug.
Manufactures of loco have been terminating the wiring in a loco from the pick ups, motor and lights (if installed) to a plug. In an effort to standardize this, the NMRA has provided a standard 8 pin plug for HO. This will allow the easy installation of a DCC decoder. For DC operation, this plug will be plugged into a diode board that is used for constant lighting with normally 1.5 volt incandescent lamps. If fitting a DCC decoder these 1.5 volt lamps will be damaged if the decoder is fitted without installing a voltage dropping resistor for these lamps. The decoders function operating voltage is about 12 14 volts DC.
Looking at the plug from the socket side, the pins are numbered as I
have notated them in the diagram. I have seen numbers on these plugs that are
not correct, so please check the wires go to the right pins according to the
photo below.
For the original wiring of the loco, it is not unusual
to see just red and black wires. There maybe NO colour coding for the original
loco wiring. The table below relates to the DCC decoder wiring colours that the
manufacturers have standardized.
Note: The
black caps on the DCC Ready Plus are a confirmed source of bad connections.
If you are having problems with intermittent operation, please check these
first. I have even seen where the insulation has not even been removed or loose
strands of wire poking out from underneath these caps and touching the motor.
This shows up as a short when trying to program the loco.
This plug is so designed that the decoder can be inserted 180 degrees out, and the decoder will not be damaged, the loco may go the wrong direction and the lights will not work as the lamp common, is connected to the pin 3, the optional connection.
The connections to pins 4 and 8 to the track pickups can be reversed. This will not cause any problems in DCC. Reversing the connections to the motor will reverse the direction of the motor as this is DC power.
Note: The wiring to this DCC Ready Plug was incorrect on the Austrains 442 and
lots of NRs that will DAMAGE the decoder. Check carefully.
Programming the Long Address.
For QSI equipped locos, see below.
4 digit addressing enables users to use the loco road number as the address thus reducing all the hassles associated with remembering which two digits to use when addressing the locos.
This can be done a few ways and will depend whether you are programming a RTR loco with a chip installed or a loco you have installed a chip into, using:
- 1 = STD or Initial Program option on the Program Track, where the Command Station will program the correct values of CV 17 and 18 after typing in your desired 4 digit Long address. No need to know these values all automatic.
- 1 = ADR option using Program on the Main- POM. Similar to above, the C/S does it all automatically.
- Individually programming CVs 17, 18 and 29 where you will have to
know the values of both CV 17 and CV 18. You can get these by using this CV 17 & 18
Calculator. Program CV 29 with 34 for DC OFF or use this CV 29 Calculator
to determine your value for CV 29. Note: If using
this method on the
Note: Sound locos may cause the Procab to display CANNOT READ CV message when using the Program Track.
I find after checking a RTR locos operation on the default address of 3, the easiest way to program the Long Address is to use the 1 = ADR option using POM. This confirms that we have communication with the loco decoder (its running) and that the correct values of CVs 17 18 and 29 will be programmed into the decoder. On completion, the Procab shows ADDR and your new 4 digit number and you are now operating the loco with your new Long Address.
Note: CV 29 will be programmed with 34 that will disable DC operation of the loco. If you want to run your loco on DC, program CV 29 to 38 prior to using the loco on a DC layout otherwise you will have to reset the loco with the wand when you arrive at the DC layout, as the loco will not operate.
Note: Using the 1 = ADR option on QSI equipped locos see below.
Programming the Long Address for QSI Equipped locos.
After resetting the address of a QSI equipped loco or programming an out of the box loco with its loco number, the easiest way to do this is On the Main POM using the “1 = ADR” option.
Prior to using POM to change the address, program CV 62 to 0 to turn off the verbal acknowledgement that interrupts multiple CVs from being programmed, that happens when using the “1 = ADR” option.
- Operate the loco on 3 to confirm operation of the loco.
- Select POM.
- Select 2 = CV
- Program CV 62 to 0.
- Press PROG/ESC button to return to the normal operating window.
- Select POM again.
- Select 1 = ADR
- Select 1 for Long Address.
- Type in your desired address.
The Command Station works out the values required for CV 17 and CV 18 and programs CV 29 to 34, so it responds to the new Long Address. These 3 CVs are programmed, in sequence by the system. With the QSI’s Verbal Acknowledgement ON, it starts saying CV 17 equals ……… While it is “talking”, it misses the CV 29 to 34 command.
If you want the QSI to announce further CV values while programming, program CV 62 to 1 again. The default value after a reset is 1.
Reading QSI CVs with Decoder Pro.
Thanks to Ollie Mayes on the QSI Yahoo group on April 6, 2009.
When you select Service Mode Programming, the Service Mode Programming Setup windows opens in the Page mode. Select an engine and open the Programmer window. It opens in the Direct Byte mode. No matter what mode is selected in the setup window the Programmer opens in the Direct Byte mode.
Change this window to Page mode, and you’ll be able to read the CVs.
Programming QSIs including Indexed CVs
Programming some of the QSIs CVs, is the same as what we are used to, just select the CV and program the decimal value, but for other CVs, QSI uses what they call Indexed CVs as there were not enough available CVs to cover all the required adjustments. Quite ingenious, but a new way of programming CVs that is a little hard to understand and certainly more difficult to implement.
These CVs are 51, 52, 55 and 56 and require a:
- Primary Index P.I., set in CV 49 for all of them
- And for some, a Secondary Index S.I., set in CV 50.
An example of programming a CV that uses only the Primary Index is CV 56.12 with a value of 32 is where:
· 56 is the CV where you program the desired value in this case 32.
· 12 is the value we program into CV 49 (P.I. the first pointer).
· To program CV 56.12 with a value of 32, you must program the P.I. CV with the pointer first. In this case
· Program CV 49 with 12 the first pointer.
· Program CV 56 with 32 the desired value.
An example of programming a CV that uses both the Primary and Secondary Indexes is CV 55.70.1, with a value of 10 is where:
- 55 is the CV where you program the desired value in this case 10.
- 70 is value you program into CV 49 (P.I. first pointer).
- 1 is what you program into the CV 50 (S.I. the second pointer).
- To program CV 55.70.1 with a value of 10, you must program the P.I CV first then the S.I CV, then CV 55.
- Program CV 49 with 70 first pointer.
- Program CV 50 with 1 the second pointer.
- Program CV 55 with 10 the desired value.
To determine the correct decimal value for a particular effect, you must use the QSI Q1a DCC Reference Manual Version 4.0.2 for Firmware 7 by Bit Weighting where you choose the effect and give the 1s and 0s their relevant bit weight for an 8 bit word. For some modellers, including me, this can be a little difficult to work out, similar to determining what value to program into Soundtraxx DSD and DSX CVs, using the Technical manuals.
If I have lost you in the above text, don't worry too much, there is an easier way, by using Decoder Pro.
AD60 Headlights Programming Indexed CVs example.
Programming the headlights for the AD60 to auto reversing headlights is an example of programming Indexed CVs with a total of 6 CVs needing programming. To do this, program the following CVs to:
- The Forward Headlight, that is on bright in forward and OFF in reverse, CV 55.70.1 has to be programmed with a value of 10 as per page 105 of the manual. This set by programming:
- CV 49 set to 70.
- CV 50 set to 1. and
- CV 55 set to 10.
- The Reverse Headlight, that is on bright in reverse and off in forward, CV 55.73.1, has to be programmed with a value of 160 as per page 110 of the manual. This is set by programming:
- CV 49 set to 73.
- CV 50 set to 1 and
- CV 55 set to 160.
Adjusting the Volume of QSIs with CVs including the AD60 including Individual Sounds Levels.
This requires programming Indexed CVs. In this case TWO CVs will have to be programmed.
Overall Volume of the QSIs can be adjusted 3 ways.
1. Easily adjusted by using the Wand if the QSI chip supports the wand.
- Position the wand across the loco where the instructions say to. In case of the AD60, just forward of the dome. It will start to announce short toots and in a descending order. Remove wand when the level is ok. At minimum and maximum levels, the decoder announces this.
- If the loco does not support the wand, then use method 2.
2. Using POM, programme both CV 49 to 0 and then CV 51 to between 0 no sound to 127 - max sound.
3. For NCE, using POM by using option 8 - QSI Sound. At the moment the Procab can only set CVs 51, 52 and 56.
· Using POM and on the menus, scroll through to 8 = QSI Sound. Press 8 and Enter.
· At the CV prompt, enter 51 for the CV.
· It will then prompt for the Primary Index, in this case enter 0 (CV 49 value from above).
· Now enter 0 to 127 for the appropriate volume.
Programming Individual Sound Volume levels.
|
Primary Index Entered into CV 49. |
Individual Sound |
Default. |