Blowing Lights

[ktop]

I just got a Proto 2000 GP20 and converted it to DCC with a DH123 decoder.  When I put it on the track the lights blew out.  Are there special lights for DCC or do I need to put resistors between the decoder and the lights?  If I need resistors can I put them on the common wires for the lights?  Thanks for the help.

 Nick

 

[cacole]

When you installed the decoder, was it a simple plug-in or did you remove the P2K constant lighting board?  If you removed the board, the decoder put 12 Volts to the bulbs and they are probably only 1.5 Volt bulbs.  Replace the bulb(s) with LEDs wired through a 1K Ohm resistor and they should never burn out.

[ktop]

Thanks for the tip.  I will get some LEDs and try it.

 

[wholeman]

I suggest you either get sunny white or golden white LEDs.  Don't get the plain white.  The plain white is good for replicating flourescent lighting which locos don't use for headlights.

[rrinker]

One LED for the front, one LED for the back, with a resistor on each one - 2 resistors, NOT 1. Use a 1K resistor.

                                   --Randy

[ktop]

Thanks for all the help.  I understand how it works now.

 Nick