Being at best a computer user,programming is nightmare to me.I can handle difficult installation so installing a decoder is within my possibilities.I've done a few successful DCC conversions so far so I think I can handle a sound decoder just the same.However,the software part has to be fairly simple.
I'm planning to purchase a few sound decoders (N scale steam) but before I do so,I'd like to know what I'll need to complete the job.I understand that Loksound require their own programmer/booster so that adds up substantially to the installation costs.Is it the case with Micro-Tsunamis?Can they be programmed with a Digitrax (DCS200/DT400 combo) system alone?I also have the computer option with a PR3 I purchased a while ago but that's all the hardware I have and don't feel much about purchasing any more.Do I have what I'll need or do I have to purchase another booster of any kind?
Programming to me is pretty much limited to changing the adress as I'm not researching any specific performance.I may wish to toy with different sound options if not too complicated but if loco runs reasonably well,I'm generally happy.Thanks.
Some of your assumptions are wrong concerning the LokSound, Tsunami, and other sound decoders. When you place your order from someone like Litchfield Station, Tony's Train Exchange, or Ulrich Models, you pick and choose the sounds you want in the decoder and they program it for you. The only thing you have to do after installation is change the address. And if you ask them, they might even do that for you before shipping the decoder.
Indeed I know that most sellers will kindly enter the proper programming for me,and this at little cost if any.And I'm not one to tweak with satisfying setups either.So basically I shouldn't worry about decoder programming other than changing the adress and even this could be done by the seller.But I've had a loco that reset itself to adress 03 after someone else had created a short on the club's layout and had to reset the adress again.I know it's not normal but it has happened to me and I wouldn't like that to happen again and not being able to fix the problem.This is why I'd like to know if I have this possibility with my actual equipment.