Today at a train show I purchased a Bachmann GP35 with DCC installed, and for some reason when I tried to program it (default adress was 3 for some reason) then the Digitrax Zephyr would flash d_nd, meaning there is an open circut on the programming track.
The loco runs fine on the layout, so the decoder is connected, and I tried my Atlas U23B with a TCS T1 decoder on the programming track, and it worked fine, so the programming track is also fine.
I tried ops mode programming (after removing all the other locos on the layout) and it wouldn't let me, although that may be a built in feature of the Zephyr.
I also tried seeing if it was the Bachmann decoder that couldn't use Paged mode programming (although the Zephyr manual says it works with all decoders....) and the other very similer loco (Bachmann DCC equipped GP30, same line, decoder, etc but different shell) also got a d_nd response.
This has got me really stumped. Could someone please help?
Thanks,
TrainManTy,
The Bachmann decoder used in their DCC Equipped locos is actually a Low Cost Lenz in disguise.
The Zephyr normally doesn't put out enough Oomph on the programing track for Lenz/Bachmann decoders.
I learned this little trick from a Digitrax technician: Place a 1K ohm, 1/4 watt resistor across the leads to your programming track. This fools the Zephyr into increasing its programming signal. I just soldered a couple of alligator clips to the leads on a resistor. I clip the rig to the programing track whenever I have to program a Lenz/Atlas/Bachmann decoder. Here's a picture from my website:
Not the best picture, but you get the idea. Some guys use it when programing Soundtraxx decoders too. I have never found the need for that.
One other thing. Your Zephyr should be able to program a decoder on the mainline in ops mode. I do it all the time. Just be sure you have the right address entered and push the program button, PRG, until OPS shows in the display. You're ready to go.
Good luck,
Remember its your railroad
Allan
Track to the BRVRR Website: http://www.brvrr.com/
Yup, needed this with every Bachmann DCC Onboard I have. Works every time. You can use any resistor in the 700 to 1K ohm range....maybe even lower.
This question comes up about once a month.