Decoders - 4 Function vs 5 vs 6

[Doughless]

What's the difference, specifically, what does the 5 do?  

Thanks

[cacole]

The number of functions primarily determines how many lights the decoder can control within its overall function current rating.  By that, we mean that a decoder rated at 250mA output can handle no more than 250mA of current flow IN TOTAL when all the functions are added together.

[Doughless]

I think the 6 usually pertains to supporting ditch lights.  Does that imply that the 6 supports ditch lights on both ends of the locomotive where as the 5 would only support ditch lights on one end?  I'm a diesel guy, not steam, so that's my perspective.

[Jacktal]

Typically,right out of the package,F5 will control one ditch lights (Tsunami) and F6 the other but then enters CV configuration...they'll be set to work together as "steady on" and/or blinking alternatively when you blow the wistle,etc.There's no definitive use of most functions as most can be "re-mapped" through CV configuration to suit particular needs or desires.However,re-mapping is not an unlimited feature to all functions as some can be re-mapped to only a few features.

F5,for one,can be set to control a beacon or some other light feature but can't be re-mapped for just anything like sounds,etc.

Then,this function re-mapping possibility differs from decoder brands.While Tsunamis and Paragon 2 decoders offer basically the same features,they don't re-mapped the same way,so that,let's say F5,will not necessarily have the same results.

[Doughless]

Ah, yes...beacons too.  I see.  There are just more opportunities to do more things with more lights with a 6 function as oppossed to a 4 or 5.   Thanks

[rrinker]

 Usually the front and rear headlights count as 2, so a 2 function decoder will have just the front and rear lights, a 3 function decoder will have one extra for a beacon or Mars light, a 4 function will have 2 extras, enough for ditch lights, and so forth. If you model the SP in the 70's with the Christmas tree lights, you might need a 20 function decoder

 For alternating ditch lights, plus headlights, you need at least 4 function outputs total. If you do not need the citch lights to alternate, you cna get by with 3 total.

                --Randy