Here's a link that shows how to tell what you have:
http://www.qsisolutions.com/pdf/htrqsi_dcc.pdf
Springfield PA
The upgraded chips should have a different version in CV7. Compare what you have to what the QSI web site says. They may also reference the number on the chip itself (have to open the loco to see that).
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Generally, any QSI decoders manufactured prior to 2006 will most assuredly require an upgrade chip. At least, for BLI engines from around 2003 - 2006, they didn't have the BEMF capability due to litigation between QSI and MTH. The upgrades, which included improved sound files in some cases, became available in the second half of 2006, if I recall. Whether or not your decoder's have the updated chips is something to determine with QSI, probably, or with Walthers.
-Crandell
hey all ,been serching old post on QSI upgrade chips ? I have some of the newer p2k f7s (great northen EB) and love the running & sound of there OEM boards but on the other hand I have 2, a little older run of gp7 II and they dont sound or have the running character of the f7s. so Ive been kickin the idea of upgrade chips for the gp7s ,but after doing some reserch Im confused on what needs upgrade and whats already upgraded. I thought the newer f7s were allready upgraded ,now Im not sure....a bit confused ...Jerry oh the book w/ gp-7 says ---q1a 145v7-8-0 if that means anything an the f7s are a bit more complicated Ithink its 158-1v7-22-0...