So here's the deal. I haven't soldered the tortoises to the turnouts yet, all I've done is screw them down and solder on the wires to terminals 1 and 8, perfectly according to instructions. I'm doing them in an odd order because these two are the easiest to get at (tabletop mounted because of clearance issues on the underside). I installed one, #7, on the proper terminals and fiddled with it because it would only throw one way. As I installed #8, the same thing happened. You could push the throw over (Forcefully but carefully) but it would go straight back. I tried a ton of addresses trying to get 7 to respond, but when 8 wouldn't, I decided to try reprogramming the decoder. That's when I read the instructions and realized... ....The programming jumper came on the decoder. Anyway, fast forward 5 minutes, and #8 will throw but for some reason #7 reprogrammed itself to address #2. When I put the programming jumper on and follow the instructions supplies (Using a power cab) the programming doesn't seem to do anything. I do have the rotary switch in the right place, and everything's still attached well. HELP?
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I suggest that you follow the steps on page 3 of the instructions (http://www.ncedcc.com/images/stories/manuals/switch_8.pdf) exactly first before you do anything else. I say this because you apparently didn't read them the first time (I think that's a guy thing). Maybe you missed a step the first time through the set up.
Also, you are removing the programming jumper after each time you program the outputs, correct?
And you are using the program accessory function on the PowerCab, not the program loco function, correct?
Believe me, I've practically had the manual glued to the wall on that page! I simply ignored the programming instructions because I'm using it for addresses 1-8, as is default. Problem was, it didn't mention the programming jumper outside of the programming section. I've been trying the programming jumper in various rotations, even just wrapping a piece of wire around the pins, but to no avail.
OK, since you're doing the last two first, I assume you have Tortoise #7 connected to screw terminals 13 and 14 on the Switch-8, and Tortoise 8 connected to terminals 15 and 16. All per instructions. And the two terminals marked DCC are conected to your track power.
You do NOT use Program Accessory mode, you simply use Select Accessory. First, witht he jumper OFF, turn the rotary selector to 8. The put on the jumper. Use Select Accy to pick an address, hit Enter, then 1. Remove jumper. Turn switch to 7, install jumper, use Select ACCy to piuck a different number, Enter, 1, remove jumper.
--Randy
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rrinker You do NOT use Program Accessory mode, you simply use Select Accessory.
You do NOT use Program Accessory mode, you simply use Select Accessory.
Sorry. Yes, that's what I meant. I was trying to differentiate between the select loco and select accessory buttons on the handset and called it the wrong name.
I'd be inclined to contact NCE and see if they can either explain what could be going on or walk you through everything to make sure nothing's being overlooked that could adversely affect decoder operation. I installed a Switch-8 not too long ago and it worked perfectly the first time on all addressing. It didn't seem there's anything you could accidentally do to the programming that would be irreparable, so expect something simple.
Are you checking all the input and output with a multi-meter to ensure the decoder is getting the proper input voltage, and that the output is reading correctly for each set of terminals? You may have a wiring issue away from the Switch-8 someplace if the decoder terminals themselves read OK.
Rob Spangler
I sent an email off to NCE, but they haven't responded yet, and I'd love to get on with my layout! I haven't checked the input and output, but I doubt that's the problem. The decoder's wired straight into a 12 gauge bus that in turn goes all of 4 feet to the power cab. Current draw can't be an issue as there were no running or sound locos on the layout, and only the two tortoises drawing power. Interestingly enough, they do both throw fine, programming seems to be the only issue.
Have you got this straightened out yet? I found a youtube video showing the switch 8 programming process that you might find helpful: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaYYFaqvo1M