I just installed my Christmas-present TCS K0D8-D decoder into a Kato F3B (N-Scale) and it doesn't seem to be working quite right. I can talk to it on the programming track, assign an address, read and set CVs. It mostly runs on the main track, but it is not smooth, like it is not getting consistent power. Also, when it is stationary, on the main track, it has a slight hum or buzz. I do not have the problem with my other locomotives. Any ideas?
Richard
Remind us, Richard, which DCC system do you use, NCE, Digitrax, etc. ?
Rich
Alton Junction
Sorry -- Digitrax Zephyr
Also, having learned my lesson, the decoder was soldered to the leads.
RideonRoad,
Is this the install?
http://www.tcsdcc.com/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/N_Scale/Kato/EMD_F7B/EMD_F7B.html
Hum or Buzz? DC turned off?
Take Care!
Frank
Frank,
I used the F3B instructions,
http://www.tcsdcc.com/Customer_Content/Installation_Pictures/N_Scale/Kato/EMD_F3B/EMD_F3B.html
but they are basically the same instructions.
I took my son-in-law out in to the garage to listen, and we decided it was a buzz. It is very quite, but it is there. The buzz is there even if the direction on the Zephyr is set to "Brake." I did not change the DC switch on the decoder from whatever was set as the default. I will check it in the morning.
The only non-standard thing I did was to tape down the end of the decoder using Kapton tape, as it was a little bowed and not seating completely, but I don't think that should have an ill effect.
The good news is I am currently only disappointed, not frustrated, at least not yet. I am sure it is something simple, a novice mistake of some sort.
Richard:
It doesn't sound too good to me when you say the decoder "...was a little bowed...".
I would contact TCS about a replacement.
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
It seems I had multiple problems. The first was a decoder that was not completely seated on the pickup rails. This seems to have been the cause of the buzz. The second problem was a larger problem. It seems when I reset the momentum CVs, the decoder got confused. I replicated the cause and effect on another locomotive. A factory reset on both cleared the problem. Now, onto speed matching and consisting (I hope that is the right term).