Digitrax PR1 Decoder Programmer

[Anonymous]

Does anyone have the scoop on the Digitrax PR1 decoder programmer? Every place I've been (train shops and online) does not have this item in stock and they have no idea when Digitrax will deliver the updated/redesigned version? I contacted Digitrax via email... the customer service contact has no ETA on the new version...

I wonder what they are planning? I sure would like to hook my laptop up to manage my decoders!

[CP5170]

I would strongly suggest that you look at DecoderPro which is freeware. You can program your decoder in plain English.

Hope this helps...Ken

[rrinker]

If your laptop has newer than Windows 98 on it, forget it. If it has USB only, no serial ports, forget it.
The PR1 operates in a rather simplistic manner, and the software requires direct access the hardware, something Microsoft FINALLY got around to blocking in 2000 and XP.
If you have a Digitrax system and want to interface to the computer for programming, your best bet is the Locobuffer-II from RR-CirKits. If you do not have a Digitrax system and are looking for some form of standalone programming, check out the SPROG from Andrew Sheerstock
In any case, also check out the JMRI suite of free programs, particularly DecoderPro. It's free open-source software that can connect with all major DCC systems (with the appropriate interface hardware) and handles decoder programming and a roster database. Plus other components of the suite include throttles for some systems and a dispatcher's panel program called PanelPro. Oh and did I mention, it's FREE?

--Randy

[BRVRR]

Kevin,
Stay away from the PR1 even if you can find one. Randy has it right, if you have a Digitrax system.the Locobuffer-II is much better. Places like Tony's Train Exchange and Litchfield Station have package deals that are pretty good. Come with everything you need in one box.
I am right on your heels, hope to hook the layout up to my computer by spring.
Good luck!
Remember, its your railroad.

[Anonymous]

Thanks guys... I will look into this. I actually have a couple of old laptops destined for the layout in various configurations (Windoze 98/2000) with serial and USB to use with my Digitrax Genesis system.

Do the two of you use the Locobuffer-II interface?

[simon1966]

I got a Locobuffer II and the JMRI software the other day. Installation was a snap and I was running a locomotive from my PC with the Throttle panel within 20 minutes.

[rrinker]

QUOTE: Originally posted by kbruce

Thanks guys... I will look into this. I actually have a couple of old laptops destined for the layout in various configurations (Windoze 98/2000) with serial and USB to use with my Digitrax Genesis system.

Do the two of you use the Locobuffer-II interface?

Not yet, I've been busy buying track and Tortoises, so no computer hookup just yet. When I get around to doing it, I will be using a Locobuffer.

--Randy

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by simon1966

I got a Locobuffer II and the JMRI software the other day. Installation was a snap and I was running a locomotive from my PC with the Throttle panel within 20 minutes.

How about programming decoders with the Locobuffer and DecoderPro? Have you had a chance to try that out yet? Can you save individual locomotive settings to a file? I would assume you can???

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by simon1966

I got a Locobuffer II and the JMRI software the other day. Installation was a snap and I was running a locomotive from my PC with the Throttle panel within 20 minutes.

How about programming decoders with the Locobuffer and DecoderPro? Have you had a chance to try that out yet? Can you save individual locomotive settings to a file? I would assume you can???

[rrinker]

I've found DecoderPro to be very useful already, even without the Locobuffer and a connection to my layout - there is an option to view what CV's will be changed, so I go throught the pages and make the settings I want, and then review the changes and program those values the usual way. Sure comes in handy figuring out those complex lighting CV's, what with Rule 17, manual dimmng, directional control, etc.

--Randy

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by kbruce


How about programming decoders with the Locobuffer and DecoderPro? Have you had a chance to try that out yet? Can you save individual locomotive settings to a file? I would assume you can???

Yes, each loco's settings is saved in a file. You can also use a function within the program to duplicate the file (and then modify it, of course) if you have the same type of decoder in more than one loco and want to program it with the same settings as the original.