--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "Doug Stuard" <dstuard@...> wrote:
>
> Sounds very much like  an overload (or short) on the LocoNet data
> lines. Check all connections.  Also, by "purge" I assume you mean
an
> OpSw 39 reset.  If that was done to multiple DCS's, you need to
> ensure that all but one are reconfigured (via OpSw#2) to be
boosters
> only.
>
> Doug Stuard

Thanks Doug and all others who took the time to answer this
question.  I think the issue was powering up both the command station
and booster at the same time.  As explained, this causes both
to "fight" for loconet control.  Why DS64's and one UR91 died, I do
now know, but I do know four command stations are not working
properly as are two throttles.  Today, we Used a single DB150 (my
trusty little workhorse) and ran the whole layout for 9-hrs with no
problems.  We managed to get one UR91 working as well as one DS64, so
all was not lost.  Something else, is running multiple UR91's bad?
I've been told yes and no.  I presonally can't see using more than
one in a small setting.
Finally, is there any way to regain the use of the command stations,
and resetting the throttles.  I got one of my throttles to work off a
stand alone DCS100, but when I plugged it into the layout's UP5, it
immediately went to Idle, and in some cases, briefly shut down the
layout.  Once unplugged, all went back to normal.
One other thing, we were using a Digitrax Repeater which refused to
funcion as well as three circuit breakers.  I wound up using just one
circuit breaker off my main module.  No one derailed or caused any
shorts, so that was a non issue.
Again thanks for all the help.

Jim Oliver

--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, Eduardo Lecea <eduardo_lecea_g@...>
wrote:
>
> Ok, I will try to use the Zephyr for the 2 locos (the 1.5 came from
the loco spec!)
>  
> For the lighting, just need to add a power supply?? This will not be
connected to the zephyr in any way, so how can I toogle lights on/off??
> --- On Sun, 10/12/08, Roger Thomas <rogert@...> wrote:
Hello!
I have a Chief myself, and I know it has more power than the Zephyr. I
have no trouble using several sound-equipped locos. But be aware of
that you should consider two kind of limits:
- The start up voltage is often high, even higher with sound-equipped
locos. Therefore I would not recommend the Zephyr to start several
sound-equipped locos at once
- As a loco has started running, the voltage need drops, so running
several sound-equipped locos should not be a problem even with the
Zephyr.
There are other factors that could limit you here - level track is
easier on current draw than up a hill, how many lights is used in your
locos, are the lamps LED or ordinarty 'old' lamps, are some of your
wagons lighted, and how many wagons do you try to pull. That list is
long! You have to take all the factors that appky to your trains into
consideration. If you think the Zephyr is too small, divide your layout
into two or more sections,one connects to the Zephyr, the next to a
booster. Then connect your Zephyr to the booster via a Loconet cable.
As your needs grow, buy a new command station, and use your Zephyr as a
booster - you need only one command station for your layout as your
layout grows. This is the great plus for Digitrax and Loconet!

So to your other question:
In order to limit the use of current feeded from the Zephyr, the track
current from the Zephyr (or other DCC command stations) should be
strictly limited to running trains. If you do not use DCC to control
your turnout motors, then these should be connected to another
powerpack. The same is for all other lighting on your layout. I prefer
using some single throw (ST) toggle switches (simple on off type).
These I connect to an old DC power pack - others have said here that
you might find cheap used ones on eBay, at train shows or at your local
hobby store. I use an old MRC 30 VA transformer.
From this I feed all my ST switches. From one switch I can turn on/off
the lights in one ore several buildings, another is used for other
buildings, the next for some street lights and so on. You could even
devide the lighting in one building into two or more ST switches in
order to simulate lighting in office hours and in other periods. The
combinations is unlimited... Just plan ahead and think about what
lighting should always be turned on/off at the same time. These you
connect to one ST switch.
Hope this helps you
Best regrds from Olav in Norway

If by lighting you are referring to scenery lights, then you are better off(as
previously mentioned)obtaining a dc power source.  I run dcc but chose to use a
dc power source
for my turnouts, turntable, and some scenery lights.  Easy to wire up using
Atlas breakers(for lighting), Kato switches for turnouts.  I live by the "KISS"
method.  DCC is great but unless one is running a REALLY large layout, I prefer
to do the switching myself(keeps me moving rather than sitting in one place.  I
hope that this helps.  Have a great week!

--- On Sun, 10/12/08, Olav Mathhiassen <olav@...> wrote:

From: Olav Mathhiassen <olav@...>
Subject: [Digitrax] Re: Another booster??
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, October 12, 2008, 11:30 PM






--- In Digitrax@yahoogroup s.com, Eduardo Lecea <eduardo_lecea_ g@...>
wrote:
>
> Ok, I will try to use the Zephyr for the 2 locos (the 1.5 came from
the loco spec!)
>  
> For the lighting, just need to add a power supply?? This will not be
connected to the zephyr in any way, so how can I toogle lights on/off??
> --- On Sun, 10/12/08, Roger Thomas <rogert@...> wrote:
Hello!
I have a Chief myself, and I know it has more power than the Zephyr. I
have no trouble using several sound-equipped locos. But be aware of
that you should consider two kind of limits:
- The start up voltage is often high, even higher with sound-equipped
locos. Therefore I would not recommend the Zephyr to start several
sound-equipped locos at once
- As a loco has started running, the voltage need drops, so running
several sound-equipped locos should not be a problem even with the
Zephyr.
There are other factors that could limit you here - level track is
easier on current draw than up a hill, how many lights is used in your
locos, are the lamps LED or ordinarty 'old' lamps, are some of your
wagons lighted, and how many wagons do you try to pull. That list is
long! You have to take all the factors that appky to your trains into
consideration. If you think the Zephyr is too small, divide your layout
into two or more sections,one connects to the Zephyr, the next to a
booster. Then connect your Zephyr to the booster via a Loconet cable.
As your needs grow, buy a new command station, and use your Zephyr as a
booster - you need only one command station for your layout as your
layout grows. This is the great plus for Digitrax and Loconet!

So to your other question:
In order to limit the use of current feeded from the Zephyr, the track
current from the Zephyr (or other DCC command stations) should be
strictly limited to running trains. If you do not use DCC to control
your turnout motors, then these should be connected to another
powerpack. The same is for all other lighting on your layout. I prefer
using some single throw (ST) toggle switches (simple on off type).
These I connect to an old DC power pack - others have said here that
you might find cheap used ones on eBay, at train shows or at your local
hobby store. I use an old MRC 30 VA transformer.
From this I feed all my ST switches. From one switch I can turn on/off
the lights in one ore several buildings, another is used for other
buildings, the next for some street lights and so on. You could even
devide the lighting in one building into two or more ST switches in
order to simulate lighting in office hours and in other periods. The
combinations is unlimited... Just plan ahead and think about what
lighting should always be turned on/off at the same time. These you
connect to one ST switch.
Hope this helps you
Best regrds from Olav in Norway


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Check your cables.
How many command stations? There can be only one. If the  rest are set
as boosters, there will be no fighting when they are turned on because
they don't know to fight.

We run multiple Boosters, UR91's, and LNRP's all the time. Had two
UR91's hooked up all weekend. One was set on ID6 and the other on ID7.
I knew it but wanted to see what would happen if left that way. The
layout and radio ran flawlessly all weekend so I left them alone. I'll
sync their ID's next show but found out that the system can handle it
and it's not all doom and gloom if the id's don't match.

Martin Myers
BANTRAK

--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "Jim Oliver" <tunnelmotor40@...> wrote:
>
> --- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "Doug Stuard" <dstuard@> wrote:
> >
> > Sounds very much like  an overload (or short) on the LocoNet data
> > lines. Check all connections.  Also, by "purge" I assume you mean
> an
> > OpSw 39 reset.  If that was done to multiple DCS's, you need to
> > ensure that all but one are reconfigured (via OpSw#2) to be
> boosters
> > only.
> >
> > Doug Stuard
>
> Thanks Doug and all others who took the time to answer this
> question.  I think the issue was powering up both the command station
> and booster at the same time.  As explained, this causes both
> to "fight" for loconet control.  Why DS64's and one UR91 died, I do
> now know, but I do know four command stations are not working
> properly as are two throttles.  Today, we Used a single DB150 (my
> trusty little workhorse) and ran the whole layout for 9-hrs with no
> problems.  We managed to get one UR91 working as well as one DS64, so
> all was not lost.  Something else, is running multiple UR91's bad?
> I've been told yes and no.  I presonally can't see using more than
> one in a small setting.
> Finally, is there any way to regain the use of the command stations,
> and resetting the throttles.  I got one of my throttles to work off a
> stand alone DCS100, but when I plugged it into the layout's UP5, it
> immediately went to Idle, and in some cases, briefly shut down the
> layout.  Once unplugged, all went back to normal.
> One other thing, we were using a Digitrax Repeater which refused to
> funcion as well as three circuit breakers.  I wound up using just one
> circuit breaker off my main module.  No one derailed or caused any
> shorts, so that was a non issue.
> Again thanks for all the help.
>
> Jim Oliver
>

I can not help you on the conversion question, but if you get a DCC/Sound
equipped one make sure that you get one from the latest production run that has
the v7 chip.  The v7 chip allows you to download upgraded firmware.  The
previous production runs have the v6 chip and the v6 chip can not be
reprogrammed and due to space constraints the chip was soldered to the PCB on
the MP15DC's so you can not easily change the v6 chip to a v7 chip.  All other
Atlas Gold Series engines had the chip in a socket so that it can be easily
upgraded from v6 to v7.
 
Rod


--- On Sun, 10/12/08, snarlman@... <snarlman@...> wrote:

From: snarlman@... <snarlman@...>
Subject: [Digitrax] Quick Atlas question- MP15
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, October 12, 2008, 8:17 AM






I am interested in an Atlas MP15, and would buy the DCC sound equiped
version, but the LHS has the Silver line in stock. Has anyone converted one to
DCC
and which decoder did they use. The dealer sort of said for me to do a
conversion, would be extremely hard. Are the weights and such the same on both
versions?
Any information is a great help.
Jeff H
************ **New MapQuest Local shows what's happening at your destination.
Dining, Movies, Events, News & more. Try it out
(http://local. mapquest. com/?ncid= emlcntnew0000000 2)

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thanks to all, now I have a better idea of what I need to do :)

--- On Sun, 10/12/08, Olav Mathhiassen <olav@...> wrote:

From: Olav Mathhiassen <olav@...>
Subject: [Digitrax] Re: Another booster??
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Date: Sunday, October 12, 2008, 11:30 PM






--- In Digitrax@yahoogroup s.com, Eduardo Lecea <eduardo_lecea_ g@...>
wrote:
>
> Ok, I will try to use the Zephyr for the 2 locos (the 1.5 came from
the loco spec!)
>  
> For the lighting, just need to add a power supply?? This will not be
connected to the zephyr in any way, so how can I toogle lights on/off??
> --- On Sun, 10/12/08, Roger Thomas <rogert@...> wrote:
Hello!
I have a Chief myself, and I know it has more power than the Zephyr. I
have no trouble using several sound-equipped locos. But be aware of
that you should consider two kind of limits:
- The start up voltage is often high, even higher with sound-equipped
locos. Therefore I would not recommend the Zephyr to start several
sound-equipped locos at once
- As a loco has started running, the voltage need drops, so running
several sound-equipped locos should not be a problem even with the
Zephyr.
There are other factors that could limit you here - level track is
easier on current draw than up a hill, how many lights is used in your
locos, are the lamps LED or ordinarty 'old' lamps, are some of your
wagons lighted, and how many wagons do you try to pull. That list is
long! You have to take all the factors that appky to your trains into
consideration. If you think the Zephyr is too small, divide your layout
into two or more sections,one connects to the Zephyr, the next to a
booster. Then connect your Zephyr to the booster via a Loconet cable.
As your needs grow, buy a new command station, and use your Zephyr as a
booster - you need only one command station for your layout as your
layout grows. This is the great plus for Digitrax and Loconet!

So to your other question:
In order to limit the use of current feeded from the Zephyr, the track
current from the Zephyr (or other DCC command stations) should be
strictly limited to running trains. If you do not use DCC to control
your turnout motors, then these should be connected to another
powerpack. The same is for all other lighting on your layout. I prefer
using some single throw (ST) toggle switches (simple on off type).
These I connect to an old DC power pack - others have said here that
you might find cheap used ones on eBay, at train shows or at your local
hobby store. I use an old MRC 30 VA transformer.
From this I feed all my ST switches. From one switch I can turn on/off
the lights in one ore several buildings, another is used for other
buildings, the next for some street lights and so on. You could even
devide the lighting in one building into two or more ST switches in
order to simulate lighting in office hours and in other periods. The
combinations is unlimited... Just plan ahead and think about what
lighting should always be turned on/off at the same time. These you
connect to one ST switch.
Hope this helps you
Best regrds from Olav in Norway


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

When writing new values to CVs in PR3 mode I always have to do it
twice.  The first time I enter a new value and hit write the old value
reappears.  When I do it a second time the new value then registers.
Am I doing it wrong or is this normal?

Jerry

I AM NICK BERARDI, JUST STARTING OUT IN DCC. I HAVE READ MANY BOOKS AND
ARTICLES ON DCC. MY LAYOUT SIZE IS 7 X 12 COAL, LUMBER, AND VARIOUS. I
RUN MOSTLY STEAM. ANY TIPS FOR THE BEST SYSTEM, MANUF, AND AMPS WOULD
BE HELPFUL FOR RIGHT NOW.

Hi All,

I have 2 DS64's on loconet and separate power.  When trying to program
route they always exit on the 7th switch.  What could I be doing wrong
- read the manual and followed it word for word...  Help!  KenM

Hi Nick. First thing, turn your caps off, its like shouting. Second it
is a Digitrax site, so thats the only recommendation for a manufacturer.

Next is what are you running? Sound, non sound, old engines, new
engines, how many engines, before you get an amps recommendation.

Last is whats your need on other items, track detection, etc. Dave






--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "nickyb65" <nickyb65@...> wrote:
>
> I AM NICK BERARDI, JUST STARTING OUT IN DCC. I HAVE READ MANY BOOKS AND
> ARTICLES ON DCC. MY LAYOUT SIZE IS 7 X 12 COAL, LUMBER, AND VARIOUS. I
> RUN MOSTLY STEAM. ANY TIPS FOR THE BEST SYSTEM, MANUF, AND AMPS WOULD
> BE HELPFUL FOR RIGHT NOW.
>

Hi Nicky,



It's my self appointed role on the list to remind folks even on a DCC list
most questions relate to the modelers scale in one way or another.



In short, tell us what scale is your layout?



Phil Agur
Capitol City N-Trak - All DCC - Sacramento, CA
Mid Century N- California - SP, WP, SF, UP, TWS, and others.
  <http://capitolcityntrak.org/> http://capitolcityntrak.org
  <http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm>
http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm

-----Original Message-----
From: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Digitrax@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf
Of nickyb65
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 2:19 PM
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Digitrax] HELLO



I AM NICK BERARDI, JUST STARTING OUT IN DCC. I HAVE READ MANY BOOKS AND
ARTICLES ON DCC. MY LAYOUT SIZE IS 7 X 12 COAL, LUMBER, AND VARIOUS. I
RUN MOSTLY STEAM. ANY TIPS FOR THE BEST SYSTEM, MANUF, AND AMPS WOULD
BE HELPFUL FOR RIGHT NOW.





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Ken,



It could be you're expecting to put in a label and 8 steps but the 8
position route table holds the SW Number that starts the route plus seven
other steps. So that first turnout throw/clear is the name or label for the
route plus 7 additional steps.



Phil Agur
Capitol City N-Trak - All DCC - Sacramento, CA
Mid Century N- California - SP, WP, SF, UP, TWS, and others.
  <http://capitolcityntrak.org/> http://capitolcityntrak.org
  <http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm>
http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm

-----Original Message-----
From: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Digitrax@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf
Of Kenneth Monty
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 3:33 PM
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Digitrax] DS64 Routes



Hi All,

I have 2 DS64's on loconet and separate power. When trying to program
route they always exit on the 7th switch. What could I be doing wrong
- read the manual and followed it word for word... Help! KenM





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Has anyone else here had any problems with the athearn genesis
garbage sound engines, I gent a dnd on my Zephyr, no response in ANY
programming mode.....is this thing defective on me or is athearn sound
engines just pure crap?

-Mark

To:    Nick???

Some tips;

1)    Use 'lower case' with capitalisation where required.  There are those
on the web (don't give a hoot myself) who think they are being shouted at
when they see a message completely in 'upper case'.

2)    Purchase a Digitrax Zephyr (DCS50) system.  All the primary DCC
equipment (command station, throttle and power supply) are in a single
package.

3)    Make your geographical location (country, city, etc., etc.) known.
Your neighbour next door is probably dabbling in DCC already and can be a
good source of advice.


Bob Young
Clinton, Ontario
Canada's other West Coast
E'Mail: bob.young@...
Web: http://www.tcc.on.ca/~bobyoung
----- Original Message -----
From: "nickyb65" <nickyb65@...>
To: <Digitrax@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 5:19 PM
Subject: [Digitrax] HELLO


>I AM NICK BERARDI, JUST STARTING OUT IN DCC. I HAVE READ MANY BOOKS AND
> ARTICLES ON DCC. MY LAYOUT SIZE IS 7 X 12 COAL, LUMBER, AND VARIOUS. I
> RUN MOSTLY STEAM. ANY TIPS FOR THE BEST SYSTEM, MANUF, AND AMPS WOULD
> BE HELPFUL FOR RIGHT NOW.

Nicky,



Another point is that many systems have many different features, and the
ones that you value the most will differ from others.



Get around and try as many different systems as possible. It will expose
you to the good and the bad. Also knowing what is around your own area
is important as some things are much simpler when you can visit and see
something or that somebody can visit you and point things out.



So check out what any clubs or museums are using for their systems. Ask
around, find layouts you can visit. Try to find as many as you can and
as many different types as possible and play with them. Advice is good,
but what your own hands and eyes decide is at least as important if not
more so.



But as Phil asks, what scale and size of layout are you thinking about??
What background (prior layouts) do you have?? What special features
might you be thinking about (signals, automation, sound)??



As you can see there are lots of possible and all the answers do impact
each other if you are going for a 'best choice'.





-ken cameron
Syracuse Model Railroad Club http://www.SyracuseModelRr.org/
<http://www.syrmodelrr.org/>
CNY Model Railroad Club http://www.cnymrrc.com/
<http://www.cnymrrc.com/>
mailto: kcameron@...

_Nov 1 & 2 2008 Great NYS Model Train Fair, Syracuse NY,
http://cnynrhs.org/Train_Fair/train_fair.html
<http://cnynrhs.org/Train_Fair/train_fair.html>







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Dear Anonymous,

Sorry, and exclamation point is for an exclamation ­ which means łto shout
out˛. A normal full stop (period) is the appropriate punctuation. There was
nothing wrong with the content of your answer, just the way you present it.

Brandon

PS Using a name is common courtesy, too.



What are you on about! Atleast there was some info in my reply pertinent to
the issue at hand! Im not screaming im being expressive!


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi Mark,

Actually, I quite like the Athearn Genesis F7s I have; but I would agree
with you assessment of the MRC decoders that Athearn uses. Iąd suggest
replacing them with almost any other brand.

Did you get d nd while writing to the decoder? or were you trying to read
back? I didnąt have any difficulty writing to mine, but they donąt read
back.

Brandon


From: mem160_2000 <mem160_2000@...>
Reply-To: <Digitrax@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:01:56 -0000
To: <Digitrax@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: [Digitrax] Athearn sd60m

    Has anyone else here had any problems with the athearn genesis
garbage sound engines, I gent a dnd on my Zephyr, no response in ANY
programming mode.....is this thing defective on me or is athearn sound
engines just pure crap?

-Mark


------------------------------------

Yahoo! Groups Links






[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

""Did you get d nd while writing to the decoder? or were you trying to
read
back? ""
............BOTH.

      I don't get it.
Do I need a full sound decoder or will a standard do?  Is the sound
tied into the train or the decoder.  I blew a wad of $$$$$$$$ on this
piece of garbage.

-------------- Original message ----------------------
From: "mem160_2000" <mem160_2000@...>
> ""Did you get d nd while writing to the decoder? or were you trying to
> read
> back? ""
> ............BOTH.
>
>      I don't get it.
> Do I need a full sound decoder or will a standard do?  Is the sound
> tied into the train or the decoder.  I blew a wad of $$$$$$$$ on this
> piece of garbage.
>
>
> ------------------------------------

Just program the thing in OPs mode. I have a DCS-100 and I rarely use the
programming track anymore, I do almost everything in OPs mode.

Chris Z.

Hi Nicky,

Ken has good advice.

Most people on this Digitrax list have Digitrax DCC systems and have had
success with them.

I'm on several DCC manufacturer's list, because my best friend's layout  uses
one brand, the club of which I'm a member uses another (Digitrax), I  have a
small portable layout which uses a third, I've used several other  brands
during open house operating sessions, and use several different brands of
locomotive and stationary decoders for various applications.

What's "best" depends on you.  Have you sat down and decided what you  are
trying to do?  Multiple mainline drags with mu'ed diesels and several
operators, solo single-locomotive branch-line operation, radio control versus
single-connection tether versus multiple-station tethered walk-around, or  ??  I
find
it helpful to write down what I want and then look at  what I've written.

Try before you buy.  Get on several DCC lists and look at what folks  are
saying.  Ask questions.  Find out if there are any folks near you  who will let
you try their particular brand out on their layout.

Also, sometimes the final decision will be based on what DCC system most
people in your area are using. . . why?  Because it provides a base of
experience to which you can go and ask questions while you are getting your own 
system
up and running.

Today, almost ALL manufacturers make "good" equipment, i.e. it conforms to
NMRA standards and will provide basic operation of NMRA standard decoders.
The differences are in the details of complexity and functions performed.

Whatever brand you finally choose, you will find ANY of the DCC brands
better than wiring a layout for conventional DC!  I just spent three months
re-wiring a club layout from (bad) DC wiring to properly done DCC wiring.   DCC
. .
. any flavor . . .  is so much easier for the same functions.   Be sure to
look at Alan Gartner's "Wiring for DCC" website for practical wiring  advice.

Enjoy!

Fred  Bock
**************New MapQuest Local shows what's happening at your destination.
Dining, Movies, Events, News & more. Try it out
(http://local.mapquest.com/?ncid=emlcntnew00000002)


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Sorry for the misunderstanding! Steve
   ----- Original Message -----
   From: Brandon Bayer
   To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
   Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 7:33 PM
   Subject: Re: [Digitrax] Zepher low power


   Dear Anonymous,

   Sorry, and exclamation point is for an exclamation ­ which means łto shout
   out˛. A normal full stop (period) is the appropriate punctuation. There was
   nothing wrong with the content of your answer, just the way you present it.

   Brandon

   PS Using a name is common courtesy, too.

   What are you on about! Atleast there was some info in my reply pertinent to
   the issue at hand! Im not screaming im being expressive!

   [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thanks Phil,

Sometimes I am not so bright and others less so... Seems I confused
routes and switches.  Maybe what Digitrax needs is a AI system for
some of us.   KenM

--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "Philip J Agur" <pjagur@...> wrote:
>
> Ken,
>
>
>
> It could be you're expecting to put in a label and 8 steps but the 8
> position route table holds the SW Number that starts the route plus
seven
> other steps. So that first turnout throw/clear is the name or label
for the
> route plus 7 additional steps.

It won't work in Ops mode either, something is wired wrong or
something...or it is just pure crap.....It is DEFINITELY a waste of
money, and I'll never buy another Athearn Genesis again, that's for sure.
--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, zurekc@... wrote:
>
>
>  -------------- Original message ----------------------
> From: "mem160_2000" <mem160_2000@...>
> > ""Did you get d nd while writing to the decoder? or were you trying to
> > read
> > back? ""
> > ............BOTH.
> >
> >      I don't get it.
> > Do I need a full sound decoder or will a standard do?  Is the sound
> > tied into the train or the decoder.  I blew a wad of $$$$$$$$ on this
> > piece of garbage.
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
>
> Just program the thing in OPs mode. I have a DCS-100 and I rarely
use the programming track anymore, I do almost everything in OPs mode.
>
> Chris Z.
>

If the first entry in the route definition is a "virtual" turnout
number (i.e., not an actual turnout), then you are indeed limited to
7 turnouts.  If the first step is a real turnout, then you can get 8.

Note that if you need more steps, you can have a route in one DS64
call a route in another DS64 if they are connected via LocoNet.

Doug Stuard

--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "Philip J Agur" <pjagur@...> wrote:
>
> Ken,
>
>
>
> It could be you're expecting to put in a label and 8 steps but the 8
> position route table holds the SW Number that starts the route plus
seven
> other steps. So that first turnout throw/clear is the name or label
for the
> route plus 7 additional steps.
>
>
>
> Phil Agur
> Capitol City N-Trak - All DCC - Sacramento, CA
> Mid Century N- California - SP, WP, SF, UP, TWS, and others.
>  <http://capitolcityntrak.org/> http://capitolcityntrak.org
>  <http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm>
> http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Digitrax@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf
> Of Kenneth Monty
> Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 3:33 PM
> To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [Digitrax] DS64 Routes
>
>
>
> Hi All,
>
> I have 2 DS64's on loconet and separate power. When trying to
program
> route they always exit on the 7th switch. What could I be doing
wrong
> - read the manual and followed it word for word... Help! KenM
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

Hi Nick, my name is Bill. I am just starting out in DCC also. First,
you probably do not realize that typing in ALL CAPS makes it seem like
you are yelling. When you post to groups (and other forms of
electronic communication such as instant messaging and e-mail) do your
best to use mixed case. Your readers will greatly appreciate it.

Okay ... onto your question. I spent alot of time reading and
researching on DCC before I bought my system. I found that I probably
spent too much time doing this. If you understand the costs and
benefits of DCC and are willing to accept that, than just do it.  As
far as steam specifically, I don't have much experience but I get the
impression that you can find a decoder for most any loco (I am
guessing that you use HO scale).

I bought a Digitrax Zephyr and have been very happy with it so far. It
works fine so far with my small 4  x 8 layout ( I am using it to
control several locomotives -- though generally no more than two
simultaneously) as well as 8 Tortoise machines.

Best of luck and I am sure you will get some good help here.

Bill Siggelkow


On Oct 13, 2008, at 5:19 PM, nickyb65 wrote:

> I AM NICK BERARDI, JUST STARTING OUT IN DCC. I HAVE READ MANY BOOKS
> AND
> ARTICLES ON DCC. MY LAYOUT SIZE IS 7 X 12 COAL, LUMBER, AND VARIOUS. I
> RUN MOSTLY STEAM. ANY TIPS FOR THE BEST SYSTEM, MANUF, AND AMPS WOULD
> BE HELPFUL FOR RIGHT NOW.
>
>
>



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

For the record Athearn Genesis engines are great engines, it is the DCC/Sound
decoder that Athearn decided to use that is probably causing all the problems. 
If possible return the engine under warranty as defective.  Hopefully you bought
it from a LHS or if through the mail or off the internet through a dealer who
will work with you.
 
If you want an Athearn SD70M then get one without the DCC/Sound decoder and
install your own, then you can have a great engine and great DCC and sound all
in the same package.
 
Rod


--- On Tue, 10/14/08, mem160_2000 <mem160_2000@...> wrote:

From: mem160_2000 <mem160_2000@...>
Subject: [Digitrax] Re: Athearn sd60m
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2008, 5:24 AM






It won't work in Ops mode either, something is wired wrong or
something... or it is just pure crap.....It is DEFINITELY a waste of
money, and I'll never buy another Athearn Genesis again, that's for sure.
--- In Digitrax@yahoogroup s.com, zurekc@... wrote:
>
>
> ------------ -- Original message ------------ --------- -
> From: "mem160_2000" <mem160_2000@ ...>
> > ""Did you get d nd while writing to the decoder? or were you trying to
> > read
> > back? ""
> > ............ BOTH.
> >
> > I don't get it.
> > Do I need a full sound decoder or will a standard do? Is the sound
> > tied into the train or the decoder. I blew a wad of $$$$$$$$ on this
> > piece of garbage.
> >
> >
> > ------------ --------- --------- ------
>
> Just program the thing in OPs mode. I have a DCS-100 and I rarely
use the programming track anymore, I do almost everything in OPs mode.
>
> Chris Z.
>















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Question folks:
Is the information on routes keep in the DS64 or the Command Control?
Is it possible to program routes without setting them in the DS64?

Tom


On 10/14/08 6:46 AM, "Doug Stuard" <dstuard@...> wrote:

>
>
>
> If the first entry in the route definition is a "virtual" turnout
> number (i.e., not an actual turnout), then you are indeed limited to
> 7 turnouts.  If the first step is a real turnout, then you can get 8.
>
> Note that if you need more steps, you can have a route in one DS64
> call a route in another DS64 if they are connected via LocoNet.
>
> Doug Stuard



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

--- In Digitrax@yahoogroups.com, "mem160_2000" <mem160_2000@...> wrote:
>
>    Has anyone else here had any problems with the Athearn genesis
> garbage sound engines, I gent a dnd on my Zephyr, no response in ANY
> programming mode.....is this thing defective on me or is athearn sound
> engines just pure crap?
>
> -Mark
>
DITTO for the Athearn N scale Big Boy.
Since I am not in the market for N scale locos without decoders, I
doubt I will ever buy another Athearn unless they change decoders. The
Athearn Big Boy is currently a total waste of money. I'm making
arrangements to have Athearn install a special MRC decoder that
(Hopefully) will make the Big Boy a usable loco. I'll have to wait and
see.

Right now I am mostly buying "N" but, once in a while I also buy HO, so
I might buy an Athern HO diesel without decoder. I can manage
installing my own decoder in some HO locos. The way I look at it, If
they put crap decoders in a big boy, what other shortcuts did they take
with the motors, flywheels, couplers, wheels, etc.

Sorry, but I will stick with Atlas "N" scale for now. The decoder that
came with the N scale Atlas SD 60 is nearly as good as it gets. I only
had to add a Transponder and am pretty happy with it.

Hi,
 
I bought an Athearn Genesis F7A with DCC and sound, and it works fine with my
Zephyr.
 
What I did to program the decoder the first time, its to attach a track to the
programming track in the back of the zephyr.
 
This works for me, since when I tried to program directly in the mainline I
couldnt.
 
Try to program in this way.
Note : you cannot read back the CVs!!

--- On Mon, 10/13/08, mem160_2000 <mem160_2000@...> wrote:

From: mem160_2000 <mem160_2000@...>
Subject: [Digitrax] Athearn sd60m
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, October 13, 2008, 6:01 PM






Has anyone else here had any problems with the athearn genesis
garbage sound engines, I gent a dnd on my Zephyr, no response in ANY
programming mode.....is this thing defective on me or is athearn sound
engines just pure crap?

-Mark


















[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Routes can be kept in the command station but from time to time a need
arises to clear the command station memory to fix unrelated problems. When
that happens the routes in the command station might get cleared depending
on how you reset the DCS.



Since we have a modular layout no routes can be stored in the DCS since
there's no way to collect them into the master DCS for a particular layout.



Phil Agur
Capitol City N-Trak - All DCC - Sacramento, CA
Mid Century N- California - SP, WP, SF, UP, TWS, and others.
  <http://capitolcityntrak.org/> http://capitolcityntrak.org
  <http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm>
http://www.cuttergraphics.com/N-trak/index.htm

-----Original Message-----
From: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Digitrax@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf
Of Tom Guenthner
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:23 AM
To: Digitrax@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Digitrax] Re: DS64 Routes



Question folks:
Is the information on routes keep in the DS64 or the Command Control?
Is it possible to program routes without setting them in the DS64?

Tom

On 10/14/08 6:46 AM, "Doug Stuard" <dstuard@verizon.
<mailto:dstuard%40verizon.net> net> wrote:

>
>
>
> If the first entry in the route definition is a "virtual" turnout
> number (i.e., not an actual turnout), then you are indeed limited to
> 7 turnouts. If the first step is a real turnout, then you can get 8.
>
> Note that if you need more steps, you can have a route in one DS64
> call a route in another DS64 if they are connected via LocoNet.
>
> Doug Stuard

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]