Hey everyone,
I am using decoder pro, a NCE 5 amp powerpro, and a usb adapter to try and program sound decoders. I had issues so i got a power pax as it was supposed to be the cats meow for sound decoders. Well as you can probably guess I still have issues. I've tried the resistor I've tried everything i can think of and i get 2 out of three to program. Whats the trick? Thanks in advance for any replies.
If you're talking about the NCE USB adapter, their web site very specifically states that you CANNOT PROGRAM A DECODER through it.
http://www.ncedcc.com/
Click on "Products" then "Accessories" and scroll to the bottom of the screen. The last line of the description about the USB interface is the most important and explains your problem.
I noticed that little caveat emptor statement just in time to avoid purchasing their USB interface.
I opted instead for a serial cable connection between my PC and PowerPro Command Station, which does allow programming of decoders using Decoder Pro. But if your PC doesn't have a serial port, you're S.O.L.
Keyspan makes a good serial-USB adapter. I have used it successfully where others haven't worked. I haven't tried it on my NCE powerpro yet.
Make sure it is the USB adapter, which it proably is, by programming one of your sound locos through the hand control unit. It is simple just to change a couple of things so you can check it out.
Elmer.
The above is my opinion, from an active and experienced Model Railroader in N scale and HO since 1961.
(Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone LocoNet for block detection and signals.) http://waynes-trains.com/ at home, and N scale at the Club.
According to the NCE website the USB computer interface only allows programming with the Power Cab System.
"Add this USB computer interface for computer programming and/or operation of your Power Cab equipped layout."
WS
cacole wrote: If you're talking about the NCE USB adapter, their web site very specifically states that you CANNOT PROGRAM A DECODER through it.http://www.ncedcc.com/ Click on "Products" then "Accessories" and scroll to the bottom of the screen. The last line of the description about the USB interface is the most important and explains your problem.I noticed that little caveat emptor statement just in time to avoid purchasing their USB interface.I opted instead for a serial cable connection between my PC and PowerPro Command Station, which does allow programming of decoders using Decoder Pro. But if your PC doesn't have a serial port, you're S.O.L.
Serial port adapters are cheap. Now the issue is whether you have an open slot for one. If not, then you're SOL, unless you want a PC upgrade. This is where the Digitrax Loconet architecture has an advantage.
Engineer Jeff NS Nut Visit my layout at: http://www.thebinks.com/trains/