I just got my locos back from having decoders installed (Train Control Systems M1 and M3). I have a Digitrax Zephyr and when I go to step 16.6 in the manual "Reading Back CV Values programmed, I get a "d nd" error message for all engines. I've gone through the possible causes for error messages:1. the programming track is properly connected 2. I'm assuming the decoders are properly installed as it was done by a guy recommended by Aztec and I'd be surprised if he messed up all four installations! 3. the loco is making proper contact with the programming track 4. there is no other current draw on the programming track 5. "Be sure the decoder you are programming supports the programming mode you are using. Not all decoders support all programming modes." Ummm....how do I confirm this? So, I don't know the values programmed into these engines and am unclear how to set a new call number for them (I'd like to use the 4 digit engine numbers). Any suggestions on how to proceed? I guess I'm here to prove there is such a thing as a dumb question Bob
Man do I feel dumb. I had wired my main lines to my programming track. Once I wired "Prog A and Prog B" to the track it worked like a charm. This is a wonderful hobby to keep me humble
I have a Lenz 100 system. Perhaps those with a Digitrax Zephyr System can step up to the plate and answer your question. I'm sure your questions will be answered shortly. Did the person who installed your decoders send you any info on a sheet in reference to the numbers that were programmed for each loco. many use 03 which is the default number for any decoder. You can reprogram any loco number on a decoder, even if it was previously programmed. BTW, in a week you'll be fine. There is a sharp learning curve for the first few days. Once you start running your layout on DCC, you'll never look back. Stay cool and run steam.....
You don't have to use the readback, and as your instruction say, some decoders don't support it (the instructions said the MRC in my Athearn Genesis wouldn't readback). Personally I very rarely use the program track. I use program on the main (ops mode?) to set the long address to the loco number and also set it to use long address (been had by that one). Then I select the long address and give it a command - if it responds, it's done.
To quickly program a loco to a 4 digit address do the following: Set cv29 to 38 Now you have to work out what cv 17 and 18 need to be set to. Go to http://ruppweb.dyndns.org/xray/comp/decoder.htm and type in the address you want. It will automatically calculate CV 17 and 18's values. For example, cab No 3985 will have CV17=207 & CV18=154 This should get you out of trouble.
Digitrax Zephyr does all that for you automatically in the background. Just hit the Loco button and it'll alternate between 2 and 4 digit address.
Yep, I'm good to go. The Zephyr did it quickly once I got the (very simple) process of hooking up the programming wires installed. Zero problems since. Being rather late to the DCC process, I now wonder why I waited so long. Punch in my engine number (I prefer to go with the actual numbers), and you're done. Started using the (optional) UT4 throttle today so now I've got continuous running with my passenger trains with the Zephyr and am working my peddler freights with the UT4. All done with exactly four wires (two for the programming track and two to the layout) and soldered railjoiners. I'll be installing drop lines and bus lines on Monday, as I understand that's a good thing to do for electrical reliability, but I'm thrilled that the process is this simple. Count me as a very happy Digitrax Zephyr owner!
DCC is really fun and gives you an entirely different perspective on running your layout. Enjoy.... you'll never look back. Stay cool and run steam....
Completely agree. I'm MU'ing locos and creating many prototypical situations on the layout now, without the complexity of the DC wiring. I've already learned a lot from the Board, which is why I just sent in my check as a contributing member! Thanks folks.
