I'm a little new to the sound decoders and am having a little trouble with one I bought. A SoundTraxx model is installed in an Atlas GP38. When I try to run it on DC I only get an engine idling sound and the train doesn't move. I'm assuming the decoder was set up for a DCC control. Is there a way to reset the SpundTraxx controller to allow it to run on DC?
Two things: you are not surpassing a minimum voltage to get the motor to work in DC. Often that takes place upwards of 5 volts. Or, you do need to have CV29 set to a value that permits dual mode operation. For most purposes, the value you would want would be "38". Unless there is an analog provision for making the engine dual mode, such as a switch, then you must get the engine to a DCC system.
One thing I do not know is why your engine would be making any sounds if it is not already set for dual mode operation.
-Crandell
Early SoundTraxx decoder will NOT run on DC; only DCC. Until the Tsunami was released, all SoundTraxx decoders were for DCC ONLY, so unless it's a recent Tsunami decoder resetting it will do you no good.
I have a DC unit that puts out 24 volts max so I know I am getting well beyond the 5 volt threshold. I have no manual and am not sure the exact model of SoundTraxx unit that I am dealing with. I don't know what you are referring to when you are discussing the CV29 and there are no switches on the unit. I am suspicious that this unit may be a DCC unit only but have no way of knowing. The seller said the engine worked fine but he is not confirming that he is using a DC system. Thanks for your input. I appreciate your help.
It looks like you may need to find someone with a DCC system that can read the decoder. If the decoder is the old DSD-090LC or DSD-100LC or any of the DSD series, those cannot run on DC as far as I know.
This is where, Buyer Beware comes into play. If you buy in the future, make sure the loco is ready to run under DC.
If the decoder is the Tsunami, there is a CV that can be modified but still need a DCC system to do this.
I also suggest joining the Yahoo SoundTraxx group where they specialize in SoundTraxx decoders.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/soundtraxx/
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.
On top of that, the older Soundtraxx decoders also do not handle more than 20 volts on the track. Do not continue to try and run it on a system that puts 24 volts to the track.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.