On some of the ESU decoders that have 4 functions but no purple wire, you have to solder on the missing wires on the back of the decoder if you want to use those functions. See the last pic (red arrows) in the diagram from Taymar. ESU also now produce a drop in decoder for N-gauge, but see their web site for which model(s)
Thanks again guys - great info! Not to throw a wrench in the works here, but I noticed the Zimo 622 has 4 'regular' function outputs and from sbs4dcx is the same price as the lokpilot v4 micro. Would there be any other determining factors to help choose between these two please? I massively appreciate the info on the transistor switching - I'd never have figured that out. Thanks again guys, you've been super helpful.
Taymar, There is literally no difference in the quality of the motion control. Just some subtleties in how they are programmed. So flip a coin, you will not be disappointed with either decoder.
The ONLY factor that would come into play, in the future, is if you ever want to start moving into ESU LokSound decoders for some of your locos, and want to consist the non-sound units with the sound. ESU has a feature called "full throttle" which simulates coasting, independent braking, and heavy loads. It basically disengages the motor control from the throttle setting and sounds (e.g., the engine "works harder" going up a slope, so you hear it, but speed remains constant). The LokPilots can understand these commands, with the right settings, so act accordingly -- you wouldn't want you B units without sound to try to speed up, when the A units with sound are just "working harder". Zimo sound decoders do not have this feature, and their sound projects are much more Euro-centric; their US locomotive sounds are much more basic. But, as David says, in terms of comparing the Zimo motor/function decoders with the ESU LokPilots -- they are both fantastically performing decoders.
Hello again all, I ended up buying several Zimo 622 decoders and wow, what a difference! I now seem to be having reliability issues with my Digitrax Zephr, and think I'm about ready to throw in the towel and buy a new DCC controller. I'd like to eventually integrate with JMRI, and would like something that will get me up and running for under $200, with the ability to add more power to it later as my layout grows. Been checking out the NCE stuff (powercab?), but would greatly appreciate any other ideas please. I will be using the Zimo decoders in all locos, if that affects advice. thanks again!
The new Digitrax Zephyr Express (DCS 52) has a built in USB port so can work with JMRI immediately out of the box. The NCE PowerCab is also an excellent choice, but needs an accessory to connect to a PC.
Thanks Rick, I quite like the look of that. Are the digitrax control stations generally pretty reliable? I've not had the best of luck so far but my own purchases are admittedly a tiny sample size to draw any conclusions from. The flexibility that LocoNet offers would be a great plus, for sure.
You might also want to look at the Digikeijs DR5000 command station, it is Loconet. Also has USB, WiFi and a internet connection port, comes with a power supply.
Wow, that looks Interesting! Lots of features for the money. Do you happen to know offhand if it can do transponding please? Or is that a digitrax-only technology?
Fantastic! Thanks again. I wonder if it would work with the Soundtraxx Surround sound system.... Will reach out to the dealer. Definitely looks like one to check out.
