I have a BLI Mikado that I have changed the address to 425. That was easy. Now I want to change the various sounds that are way too loud. Now, I am stuck.
I have a radio NCE power pro not yet connected to a program track. I could use a piece of flex and connect it to the program output of the command station if that is required to set the CVs.
Even so, I don't know where to start. Can I use the entire layout as a program track as long as there are NO other locos or decoders on the tracks?
73
Bruce in the Peg
I just picked up my first BLI Paragon - a K4 Pacific. CV133 is the master volume control. Page 8 of my manual shows the individual sound CV's if you want to change those.
I have a NCE Power Pro. I've managed to change CV133 in either ops mode or using the whole layout as a programming track, removing all other locos as you describe.
The preference for most sound decoders is to do the sound programming on the main, not on a program track. Use the NCE program on the main option, then select the CVs you want to change.
Also, I'd recommend that you plug your radio cab in when you are doing the programming. It will go a lot faster and probably a little more reliably.
Bruce,
You need to download the Paragon2 Steam and Diesel Technical Reference Manuals, which list all the CVs used by each type of decoder, including all the individual volume settings.
http://www.broadway-limited.com/supportdocumentation.aspx
It seems that every sound effect volume CV is set to a value of 128 as the factory default, which is apparently their maximum setting, so you can then decrease the CV values from there using Programming on the Main.
Sound volume settings should begin at CV 133 or 134, depending on whether it's steam or diesel.
I have a Paragon2 Mikado and NCE Power Cab. Programming sounds on main is really easy using JMRI.
Guy
Modeling CNR in the 50's
If you are wanting to change the overall or master volume, you should be able to do that manually with your BLI Mike. If it's like the Paragon Mikes, lift the water hatch on the tender and you should see a knob with a groove in it. This is the master volume. All you need is a flathead screwdriver to rotate the knob CCW to the volume level you desire. If you want to lower the volume of individual sounds, that you'll have to do via your NCE throttle.
As suggested, downloading the Paragon 2 manual from the BLI site is a good one. You can either leave it on your computer or print it out and place it into a binder.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
I have some BLI Paragon 2's and program my locos on the main in Ops mode (with other locos on the track). Using NCE Powerpro 5A system. But you need the manual to select the CVs you want to adjust. Good to learn Ops mode prgramming as that's a way to dial in 2 locos running separately for consisting. I haven't tackled JMRI / DecoderPro yet.
Paul
Modeling HO with a transition era UP bent
I know that different DCC systems have different instructions, but at least in the case of Digitrax they say to only change addresses in Paged or Broadcast Modes. All other CV inputs should take place in Ops or Programming on the Main.
My steps when I get a brand new locomotive:
Invert and slide smoke generator switch to 'off'.
Place on my programming track, and set address to the cab number. While it is sitting there, exit Page, re-enter programming and go to Ops Mode. Select CV for Master Volume and set it to half [1/2] of the max permissible value. Quite honestly, it often doesn't end up at that setting....it goes even lower!
Still in Ops, go through all the sound CV's and fiddle with their individual volumes. I turn hiss, blowdown, pop-off, and injector down by almost half again because they are annoying. I usually keep whistle up to the half-master volume level, but the bell I tune so that it is just audible with chuff happening. Imagine you really are on a hill about 400' away...you'd just be able to hear all those things.
The trick with sound locomotives, folks, is to cut down that Master Volume CV's setting right away. Your blood pressure will thank you.
I've had a BLI Mike in service on the BRVRR for nearly 8 years.
If you don't want to take the time now to set up your system, you can reduce the volume of all of the loco's sounds with the master volume control located under the watering hatch as tstage suggested. Just turn the screw CCW. A word of caution. It is best to make this adjustment with the tender body in place as it drastically increases the volume of the speakers.
Happy railroading.
Remember its your railroad
Allan
Track to the BRVRR Website: http://www.brvrr.com/
I just picked up a BLI Paragon 4-8-4 J class and the master volume is adjusted with a magnet supplied with the loco. I just hold it over the water hatch and the volume goes up or down and it says 'MAX' when you get to the full volume setting (which it was when I started). Remove the magnet and then put it back and it reverses the volume setting until you get to where you want. This is the easiest master volume adjustment I have seen so far. My other BLI locos have the screwdriver adjustment which is still very easy to do. My J must be an older version of the Paragon series locos (I got it on Ebay as used). I plan to make more adjustments using DecoderPro, but haven't taken the time to do it yet.
-Bob
Life is what happens while you are making other plans!
The original Paragon series were the ones with QSI decoders - they have either the potentiometer or magnetic wand. Paragon II are BLI's own decoder.
I think I know Bruce's problem: 425 isn;t a Mike, it's a Pacific
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
[...throws up his hands....]
Oh, well changes everything!!!
What's wrong with those people at BLI? That is an inexcusable error. I am devastated!!!
Randy posted the picture of a Reading & Northern engine. Yours is probably this one as your programmed as a #425:
If so, I don't understand what is devastating.
I was joking. I think Bruce got it.
Sorry Randy,
My English is not that good.
No, I think you understood the words just fine, it's that a typed message on the internet carries no inflection. So just knowing the meaning of the words, it could seem like Bruce was genuinely upset that BLI messed up the model. However, I took it with more a humorous slant, based on a) I think Bruce knows better and b) just years and years of experience on message boards and chat rooms, since, well, before there was an Internet. You kind of get a 'feel' for these things.
Otherwise, your English, like many others here for whom it is not their first language, is better than some who grew up speaking nothing but.