Last night I installed a TCS M1 decoder into an N scale Atlas RS1. I used an Ohm meter to make sure there wasn't a short and everything seemed good. I put the loco on my programming track. I am using an Atlas DCC Master for my DCC system. I entered the programming mode and pulled up the address register. I was able to read the default address of 3. I then went to change the address. At first it seemed to work but when I put the loco on regular track it wouldn't respond. So, back to the programming track. This time when I tried to pull up the address, I got an error message saying the Commander couldn't communicate with the decoder and my automatic reversing unit tripped. Is my decoder fried? I know TCS has a goof proof warranty so it shouldn't be a problem to get it replaced. Eric
The motor contacts of the Atlas loco aren't touching the pads of the decoder. You can place some solder on the motor contacts of the loco, or you can hardwire the motor contacts of the loco to the decoder pads. Stay cool and run steam....
Bob, Sorry, forgot to mention this was a Classic RS1. The decoder is hard wired. After giving it some thought, I'm going to check the solder joints at the lightboard where the power wires are soldered. Eric
Like Bob said, if the command station can not communicate with it, most likely there's a short or open circuit somewhere. I wouldn't toss it up to a fried decoder at this point.
Eric: It's not a fried decoder. If it was, when you put the loco on your mainline track, the system would have shorted out. The motor contacts are not properly wired to the decoders. Check this out first. Then check the connections to the light board. Note: If a decoder blows out on a layout during operation, the entire system will short out and shut down. Stay cool and run steam.......
Bob, that was it. The solder joint to the lightboard was okay. But for some reason the lightboard contacts were not coming into contact with the frame half. It working great now. Thanks all for your help. Eric
Eric, I have two of these engines that I really like and want to install decoders in them. Where did you put the decoder? I would appreciated your input or possibly pics of the install. I will be using TCS M1s as well. Thanks, Jim
