I went back and reread the bLI loco manual.
IT might as well have been in Greek.
Then I reread my NCE PowerCab manual.
I found the answer to my problem there!
I forgot to push the number "1" button on my PowerCab to activate the new long address.
After I reset the short address from 3 to the loco cab side number 3768, the address was activated and it runs fine now!
Totally my mistake to begin with. When all else fails "read the instructions" !!!
Hello All,
As a married man, I am often wrong.
As much as "She Who Must Be Obeyed" disagrees- -I do admit it!
In my previous post, I stated that in the "Long Address" (Extended Address) mode all 4-digits need to be used, and that leading zeroes are not recognized.
After doing some address programming experimentation I realized...
I am wrong!
To clarify- -I am using the NCE DCC system; Wireless 5 Amp Power Pro, with mostly Digitrax decoders: DH126 and DH166 series, a few TCS, and OEM Bachmann.
I do use JMRI Decoder Pro powering a separate programming track through a Digitrax PR3 driven from a Mac.
For this "test" I used a Bachmann GP38-2 (diesel) with an OEM PCB decoder and the "Programming On The Main" function from the DCC system.
I also removed all locomotives on my pike before programming, to avoid any possible batch programming errors.
On my roster, this unit is assigned the 4-digit address 3524.
With the NCE system the prompts are as follows to change an existing address:
To confirm the new address I cycled through the direction with the lights (F0) enabled to confirm the new address and correct direction; F=Forward, R=Reverse.
When I ramped up the throttle (128 steps enabled) the loco responded.
Next, I stopped the locomotive, and called up the address through the keypad:
There are a couple of resources you can use to calculate CV values.
You can download JMRI Decoder Pro and use it as a standalone CV calculator.
Here's how...
After downloading, install, and open the program- -ignore the no port connection error.
In the roster window press the "New Loco" tab (upper left).
A list of folders with the decoder manufacturer's names will open in a separate window.
Toggle open the folder of the manufacturer. There may be sub-folders to toggle open to get to the decoder type selections.
Double-click on the decoder you are using.
This will open a new window with tabs along the upper edge.
Go to the second tab; "Basic" and choose the "Long Address" radio button.
Enter the address in the "Extended Address" field.
Click on the "CVs" tab.
This will show a list of CVs and their values according to what you entered in the "Extended Address" field. The highlighted CVs are the ones to change.
On your DCC system choose the CV programming mode and enter the CV(s) to be programmed and the Value(s) to the locomotive on the track.
For example, the "Extended Address" (Long Address) for a Bachmann OEM 2-function decoder is CV29=V29.
(Don't use my example as the actual value for your particular decoder might be different.)
Digitrax offers a CV calculator on their web page and as an app for your smartphone or tablet.
In the Search window enter "CV Calculator". This will generate a drop-down menu. Choose the CV Calculator.
On this page enter your pertinent information and it will do the CV calculations.
There is a myriad of options that might or might not pertain to your needs.
Enter the CV values into the locomotive with your DCC system as above.
Hope this helps.
"Uhh...I didn’t know it was 'impossible' I just made it work...sorry"
It's circumstances like these that make me think he should strongly consider JMRI. All this CV stuff (without explaining what the decimal numbers are doing to set binary digits as 'flags', no less!) is like programming a two-button watch using only your elbow. It helps to see everything on a screen, especially if your base system claims it 'cannot read CVs'.
I would try setting the short address (CV1) to 68 and see if that works. If it does, it means you are able to change the address (whether your system is able to read it back or not.)
Then try setting to some other long address, like 768. If it won't take that, then CV29 probably isn't set to allow long (128 or higher) addresses. Adjusting CV29 per the decoder manual should fix that.
Last, if it takes the three digit, try a four digit address but not 3768 - change one number, like 4768 or 3767. If that works, it could be that 3768 is part of a consist you set up in the past. That would prevent you from using it on it's own now.
If that's the case, your decoder system's manual should have instructions on how to clear out all consists in it's memory. Once you do that, then try programming it to the 3768 address again.
Vetteman67 to the forums.
Your first few posts will be moderated so there will be a delay in viewing them.
I use the NCE system so I am not familiar with the nuances of Digitrax control.
However, I do use Digitrax decoders in all my motive power.
Now back to Vetteman67s inquiry...
Vetteman67I use identification number 288 with ID4 enabled.
I am not familiar with "ID4."
By this do you mean enabling the 4-Digit "Long Address" function of the decoder?
When you enable this function you have to use all 4-digits- -exceptions noted below.
DCC decoders don't recognize leading zeros when the 4-digit "Long Address" function is enabled, eg. 0288.
I'm not sure how you got the locomotive to function using only 3-digits.
By "Identification Number" do you mean address?
Have you tried adding a trailing zero to the address- -2880?
Vetteman67When I use a lower number like 0004 (the factory default is 0003) the loco works perfect.
Do you mean that the unit comes to life and functions normally?
When you enter 0-0-0-4 the decoder only recognizes the last 2-digits as address 04 even in the "Long Address" mode.
Have you tried to reset the decoder; CV8=V8?
Does it then respond to address 03?
When you addressed the other locomotives was the unit in question on the track and could have inadvertently been programmed to one of the other addresses?
Answering these questions can help the great folks on these forums with your query.
TheK4Kid If I try programming it via CVs what CVs and values should I use? Think if I recall correctly that my Powercab came with it's own powewrsupply . I'll look for it.
If I try programming it via CVs what CVs and values should I use?
Think if I recall correctly that my Powercab came with it's own powewrsupply . I'll look for it.
CV Calculators (digitrax.com)
First you'll have to check the manual / website for the decoder in it, to see what value to put into CV29. It may be, now that you've restored the decoder to factory settings, that CV29 may not be set to allow for long addresses.
Just for fun, I'd try setting the short address (CV1) to the last two digits of the engine number, and see if it takes that OK. If so, it means you can change the ID number, it's just not accepting a long address.
Update
I couldn't find the Power Cab power supply, so I ordered a new one, should have it within 7 days then go from there.
I finally got around to pusing the reset button with a very small screw driver and that did the trick. IT works on factory code "3" but won'
t program to the loco number "3768".
I tried using just my NCE PowerCab but it keeps giving me a reading of can't read CV. I tried a Power Pax Booster I hooked in series with it. IT still won't program to the loco number, so for now all I can do is run it on factory code 3.
Any suggestions?
Vetteman67When I throttle up with sound on, it sounds normal like it should but no movement. I use identification number 288 with ID4 enabled. When I use a lower number like 0004 (the factory default is 0003) the loco works perfect. I just will not move if I set the identification number at 128 or higher.
If as you say the engine "works perfect" on a short address, but won't react when you program it to a long address, it obviously doesn't have a mechanical problem like power pickup, etc. It's just CV29 is set wrong so it's not allowing a long address.
This is apparently a Walthers Proto diesel, who made the decoder? I believe the most recent ones use LokSound from ESU. If yours is ESU, the default value for CV29 is 12. If you add 32 to make it 44, it should turn on long addresses. Note that entering numbers in CV17-18 won't do anything if you haven't changed CV29.
gmpullman yeah, BLI is very helpful because they have plenty (I.e. more than any other manufacture) of experience fixing their inferior stuff. Just think about over the last 10 years how often we have read threads about how their decoders don't work. And on it goes! TheK4Kid The cab number is 3768 which I was able to set when I received it new. Operated fine, all functios worked.Tried a factory reset using the instruction manual, it did not work. Did you do a "hard" reset using the pushbutton on the PC board? Don't forget you have to cycle track power on then off while holding the button down. I had several similar issues with the same engine using a Digitrax DCC system. BLI replaced the decoder and still problems persisted. Strange operation of the locomotive. No speed control and the engine would run at top speed forward. Switching to reverse the engine still ran forward. The only cure that worked was to use "short address" of 68. I added a "Go Pack" keep alive and that helped as well. Finally I ripped out all the BLI electronics, including the smoke maker, and installed a Soundtraxx Tsunami2 decoder. BLI_K4_SL_Parts by Edmund, on Flickr Everything in the above photo except the tender and loco shell was ripped out. Paragon 4 is "supposed" to cure some P3 anomolies, BLI says. BLI_Tender-Tsunami by Edmund, on Flickr I put better, hi-bass speakers in, too IF BLI hesitates to offer help (maybe they're on vacation there?) let me know as I believe I saved the decoder and Go Pack from my old K4 and you can have it if it will help. Generally, though, BLI has been very helpful with any of my repair issues, warranty or not. Good Luck, Ed
yeah, BLI is very helpful because they have plenty (I.e. more than any other manufacture) of experience fixing their inferior stuff. Just think about over the last 10 years how often we have read threads about how their decoders don't work. And on it goes!
TheK4Kid The cab number is 3768 which I was able to set when I received it new. Operated fine, all functios worked.Tried a factory reset using the instruction manual, it did not work.
Did you do a "hard" reset using the pushbutton on the PC board? Don't forget you have to cycle track power on then off while holding the button down.
I had several similar issues with the same engine using a Digitrax DCC system. BLI replaced the decoder and still problems persisted. Strange operation of the locomotive. No speed control and the engine would run at top speed forward. Switching to reverse the engine still ran forward.
The only cure that worked was to use "short address" of 68. I added a "Go Pack" keep alive and that helped as well. Finally I ripped out all the BLI electronics, including the smoke maker, and installed a Soundtraxx Tsunami2 decoder.
BLI_K4_SL_Parts by Edmund, on Flickr
Everything in the above photo except the tender and loco shell was ripped out. Paragon 4 is "supposed" to cure some P3 anomolies, BLI says.
BLI_Tender-Tsunami by Edmund, on Flickr
I put better, hi-bass speakers in, too
IF BLI hesitates to offer help (maybe they're on vacation there?) let me know as I believe I saved the decoder and Go Pack from my old K4 and you can have it if it will help. Generally, though, BLI has been very helpful with any of my repair issues, warranty or not.
Good Luck, Ed
TheK4KidWhich PC board are you referring to?
I guess you're asking me? Yes the one in the tender. I called it "the PC board" but it is the decoder itself.
(This is a different engine but it shows the reset button)
BLI_P2-reset by Edmund, on Flickr
The tender shell is easy to lift off.
Which PC board are you referring to? The one in the tender?
I'll get back to it when I get a chance. Another project precedes it, the ceiling exhaust fan in my main bathroom decided to go south, so it's my present repair project.
Yes all my other DCC locomotives work just fine.
TheK4KidThe cab number is 3768 which I was able to set when I received it new. Operated fine, all functios worked.Tried a factory reset using the instruction manual, it did not work.
I would have started a new thread. The OP is brand new to DCC.
Anyway. Check the tender plug first. Make sure the pins are not bent and the plug is properly seated. Any other locomotive working? If so that rules out the DCC system.
Pete.
I have the same problemwith a brand new BLI 4-6-2 1936 Streamline locomotive.
Worked fine straight out of the box. Then it set for a week while I was on vacation. Now will not move or respond at all, even to address 03.
Tried factory reset, no luck. I am trying it in on my NCE test track, using a new NCE SB5 power supply and a NCE Power Cab contoller.
I emailed BLI two times and called via phone during business hours. No one answered the phone and I have not received an email reply.Two weeks ago.
Anyone have any suggestions ?
The cab number is 3768 which I was able to set when I received it new. Operated fine, all functios worked.Tried a factory reset using the instruction manual, it did not work.
Yes, it appears that you cannot get your engine number programmed. I'm no expert, but I did succeed once by programming specific CVs. There is a neat site that calculates that for 4 digit engine number programming purposes:
https://www.ruppweb.org/Xray/comp/decoder.htm
It says first to:
set CV 29 to accept long addresses (usually that means setting bit 5 high)
So when I punch in 288 on that webpage, It says to program:
CV17 decimal value : 193
CV18 decimal value : 32
I have no clue if this works on all systems, but it works on my digitrax Zephyr.
When you turn the throttle up, does the sound change - i.e., does the diesel rumble or steam 'chuff' increase so it sounds like it's moving, but it doesn't move? Do the function buttons (horn, bell, lights) work?
If the idle sounds don't change, and the function buttons don't work, the decoder's ID isn't matching what you're entering into your DCC controller. Put the engine on your programming track and check CV29 - as noted, it has to be set to allow long addresses. (Not sure which Digitrax command station you're using - the DT602 is a handheld which I don't think can do programming? - but on my old Zephyr you can enter a long address and it automagically changes CV29 to allow it.)
BTW - not sure why, but I've found once a while my system won't recognize the long address unless the short address is left at 03. If it's anything else, it seems confused. Maybe make sure the short address is 03 or 003, then set the long address.
If the sound does ramp up, and F buttons work, then you may have accidently adjusted one of the CVs controlling movement - like set the momentum way too high or something. But since the engine works on a short address OK, I'd guess it's the CV29 deal.
Vetteman67 Hello. I have 3 Walthers Proto locos and a Digtrax DT602 controller. Everything has worked great until the other day. 1 loco will not move. I've trouble shooted the problem and found that all the sound and lights work. When I throttle up with sound on, it sounds normal like it should but no movement. I use identification number 288 with ID4 enabled. When I use a lower number like 0004 (the factory default is 0003) the loco works perfect. I just will not move if I set the identification number at 128 or higher. I've factory the loco and the problem continues. The other locos still work fine. I'm confused and at a loss. I'm pretty new to DCC and any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Hello.
I have 3 Walthers Proto locos and a Digtrax DT602 controller. Everything has worked great until the other day. 1 loco will not move. I've trouble shooted the problem and found that all the sound and lights work. When I throttle up with sound on, it sounds normal like it should but no movement. I use identification number 288 with ID4 enabled. When I use a lower number like 0004 (the factory default is 0003) the loco works perfect. I just will not move if I set the identification number at 128 or higher. I've factory the loco and the problem continues. The other locos still work fine.
I'm confused and at a loss. I'm pretty new to DCC and any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Digitrax doesn't support a short address with leading zeros. If you key in an address like 0003 it will not like it. An address of "3" should work after a reset.
There may also be a brake set or the locomotive is in "neutral", check the decoder instructions to see if there is a function key that activates a feature like that.
To use a long address a bit in CV29 must be set. When you set the long address the command station will set CV29 for you. But you must set a long address using a program track.
Welcome to the forums, Vetteman67.
Your first posts are moderated, which means they will not appear immediately, but after several posts that problem goes away.
We look forward to hearing from you and hope you solve this issue.
York1 John
I asked my doctor if I gave up delicious food and all alcohol, would I live longer? He said, "No, but it will seem longer."
Welcome to the world of DCC.
The locomotive decoders are set at the factory to run on DCC address 03. You can run it on 03 but most people address (change CVs) to the locomotive cab address. Decoders require the right address to run. Keep in mind that there are 2 digit and 4 digit addresses. If you have a manual for your Digitrax system. Adjusting decoder settings should be in there. Just don't get frustrated and if a CV setting is not functioning the way you expect, you can change it back or factory re-set the decoder.