Hi all,
Having recently purchased a Digitrax PR3 and downloaded all of my loco configs onto my computer, I now find that I'm doing all my programming either at the desk or on the main. The programming track I had set up previously behind the backdrop on my layout is no longer in use, at least at the moment. I know I shouldn't rip it up if it's not causing any problems, but what are the advantages to keeping it in place?
Thanks in advance,
tbdanny
The Location: Forests of the Pacific Northwest, OregonThe Year: 1948The Scale: On30The Blog: http://bvlcorr.tumblr.com
tbdanny but what are the advantages to keeping it in place?
Thanks. I've come up with another use for it (a bit down the page).
Cheers all,
(With apologies to Jeff Foxworthy...)
Well, if you like the option of accidentally reprogramming all of your engines at once, then you don't need a programming track.
If you like picking up your highly-detailed engines and re-railing them constantly, then you don't need a programming track.
If your computer is located next to your layout, then you don't need a programming track.
If you always install your decoders perfectly the first time, and never make wiring errors, then you don't need a programming track.
If you want to spend the cost of a new engine on extra DCC components, then you don't need a programming track.
I've got a PR2, but frankly, it's more convenient to run an engine on to the programming track on my layout.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Danny, a possible use if it is attached to other track with a turnout would be to isolate it with a DPDT-CO switch wired for either track power or programming . add a building or something so you can use it as an industry or just a place to spot a car or two, maybe as a team track? That way it is still available for programming if the need arises, and you have added an operation spot. John
Mister Beasley,
The programming track is not connected to the track at all - I would have to pick up the loco to program it anyway. The PR3's 'identify decoder' feature tells me if the install's good or not. Also, being in IT, I have a natural preference for doing things via a computer. And when I said programming on the main, I should have been a bit clearer - I meant in 'ops mode'
John,
Thanks for the advice. I would do this if it were possible, however the programming track is not physically connected to the running trackage at all, and due to its position next to a staging turnout, it would be impossible to do so.
Thanks to everyone who replied.
tbdanny.
It is an advantage after you do a DCC install, especially if you hard wire the install. The program track option protects the decoder in case of a mis-wire. It is done that for me. A single strand of wire was poking out of a shrink tube connection. You are working with very small wire.
Some others who had a mis-wire or uninsulated wire hanging down to touch one rail or they did not completely isolate the motor. Some people can't wait to try out the loco.
Don't forget, those who say a DCC install is easy, have experience installing decoders.
Rich
If you ever fall over in public, pick yourself up and say “sorry it’s been a while since I inhabited a body.” And just walk away.
Rich,
I can understand that, and I've used it to test DCC installs in the past. What I meant is that the PR3 programming track can be used for exactly the same role. I have used it in this capacity for my last 2 out of 14 installations. Given that the PR3 is usually at my workbench, this is often more convenient for me.
Cheers,