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just starting dcc HELP

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  • Member since
    January 2017
  • 2 posts
just starting dcc HELP
Posted by skip e. on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 10:17 PM

just starting to use dcc. trying to figure out why my loco will not run when using the mrc prodigy. but works using my old dc power pack. the lights will turn on, and power obviously. just wont run. thank you for any and all help.

thinking im too old to learn as more questions will follow.

 

skip (back the blue)

  • Member since
    January 2009
  • From: Bakersfield, CA 93308
  • 6,526 posts
Posted by RR_Mel on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 10:21 AM

Welcome

Welcome to the Forum Skip!
 
A couple of things to check: 1) Make sure the track connections go to the green connector pins on the left (Main Track). 2) The Cab Select switch should be to the right (Cab #1 to #8).  3) The controller must be plugged into one of the three jacks labeled "Cab Jacks". 4) If the locomotive has not been programmed it should respond to the locomotive address 0003.
 
 
 
Mel
 
Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951
 
My Model Railroad   
 
Bakersfield, California
 
I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.
  • Member since
    December 2004
  • From: Pa.
  • 3,354 posts
Posted by DigitalGriffin on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 10:45 AM

1.  Most obvious question: Is your loco DCC or DCC ready?  The later implies you still need a decoder.  DCC ready just 1) supplies a socket (usually) 2) required lighting resistence for a typical DCC power supply voltage along and 3) motor isolation.

2.  Does the train respond on the programming track.  Can the throttle "find" the engine in question?  Does it respond to commands?  (each command on programming track will notch the loco forward a little bit)  If not and you have DCC, do you have DCC with sound?  DCC with sound may require a booster.  (Not entirely sure with prodigy...but most DCC systems you do.)

Don - Specializing in layout DC->DCC conversions

Modeling C&O transition era and steel industries There's Nothing Like Big Steam!

  • Member since
    January 2009
  • From: Bakersfield, CA 93308
  • 6,526 posts
Posted by RR_Mel on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 3:01 PM

Don is correct about making sure your locomotive has a decoder installed, it could be DCC ready and has a jumper plug installed in lieu of a decoder.
 
With the locomotive lights working I would suspect it doesn’t have a decoder installed.
 
I can run four sound equipped locomotives with my Prodigy without a booster so that shouldn’t be the problem.  My DCC is a Prodigy Advance ² #0001414 3.5 Amp.
 
 
 
Mel
 
Modeling the early to mid 1950s SP in HO scale since 1951
 
My Model Railroad   
 
Bakersfield, California
 
I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps.
 
  • Member since
    October 2006
  • From: Western, MA
  • 8,571 posts
Posted by richg1998 on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 3:23 PM

Welcome.

No idea of your level of DCC knowledge but below is a link for Novices.

Start at the upper left.There are many variables in DCC.

http://www.members.optusnet.com.au/nswmn2/DCC.htm

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.

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