Identify Decoder

[starman]

Is there any way to determine what type of decoder an engine has without taking the engine apart to physically look at the decoder?  Thanks!

[jjdamnit]

Hello All,

If it's an O.E.M. (Original Equipment Manufacturer [factory installed]) decoder you can contact the manufacturer.

An after-market decoder is a bit trickier...

You can try using JMRI DecoderPro.

For this, you will need:

• A computer; laptop or desktop
• Download JMRI DecoderPro Mac or PC
• Have Java installed (see installation notes on the JMRI web page)
• An interface unit like a Digitrax PR 3/4 or similar device with the appropriate USB cable
• A short section of stand-alone track wired to the interface unit

Put the locomotive in question on the track, open DecoderPro and click the "New Loco" button (upper left corner).

In the new screen click "Read type from decoder" (bottom center).

This will call up a list of all possible decoders by manufacturer.

Unfortunately, with some manufacturers, multiple decoders will be highlighted with no clear answers.

Or, you can buy a set of jewelers screwdrivers, open the shell and get "eyes on" the decoder.

Hope this helps.

[starman]

Thanks!  I really appreciate your reply, but I think the jewelers screwdrivers are the way I am going to go. 

[jjdamnit]

Hello All,

starman

I think the jewelers (SIC) screwdrivers are the way I am going to go.

If you are going that route- -definitely the least expensive- -do some research on how the shell is attached/removed.

Recently, while trying to remove the shell on an Athearn "Ready To Roll" RS-3, I didn't "review"  the instructions and inadvertently separated the shell from the walkway and handrails, and stripped a mounting point in the process.

Most manufacturers offer exploded diagrams on their websites, or you can post the particular locomotive you are working with and the great folks on these forums might be able to provide one.

Hope this helps.

[wrench567]

Read CV7. This will give you a manufacturer code. Then match the number to the NMRA decoder manufacturer list.

   Pete.

[maxman]

starman

Is there any way to determine what type of decoder an engine has without taking the engine apart to physically look at the decoder?  Thanks!

 

What engine is it and who made the model?

Sometimes that information alone will allow someone here to give you the answer.

[alcors350]

CV8 contains the NMRA manufacturer ID, see appendix A at 

https://www.nmra.org/manufacturer-id-numbers

CV7 contains the product family.

for example, CV8 = 141 for Soundtraxx, and CV7 = 64 for a Tsunami TSU-PNP