DCC Programming Lenz

[Anonymous]

Hello:

I am beginning to enter the DCC arena. I have purchased the Lenz system and am trying to get these engines running.

I can successfully get them to run and consist, but the fine tuning ot the lights is quite problematic. Is there a general source of settings for each decoder for each brand and model engine, or just trial and error? The Lenz manual is not that concise, neither is the booklet with the decoder. I am using Proto 2000 engines with various decoders. (mostly Digitrax)

Do the software programs, such as from KAM industries, "dummy proof" this process?

Also, I have considered going wireless with Windows CE type "palm pilots" but am not sure this would help 9 year olds run the system or just add more headaches for me.

Any grand suggestions appreciated.

Bob

[cacole]

The following information is from the Digitrax Mobile Decoder User Manual and applies to nearly every Digitrax decoder:

Automatic headlight reversing: All Digitrax decoders are shipped with automatic reversing headlight operation as the default mode of operation.

Manual headlight operation: If you do not want automatic reversing headlight operation most Digitrax decoders can be set up so that the white lead (forward light) operates on F0 (Function 0) and the yellow lead (reverse light) operates on F4 (function 4) by programming CV61 to a value of 01.

Loco with only one lamp: If the locomotive has only one lamp, connect both directional light outputs (white and yellow) together. In this case, the single light will be on if the F0, the light function, is turned ON.

Connecting additional function leads: Connect F1-F6, the other function outputs, to the functions you wi***o control. Be sure not to exceed the total output current rating of the function leads for the decoder you are using (125 ma for DZ and DN series, 200 ma for DH series, and 1 amp for DG series.

I hope this is what you are looking for.

Despite all of the literature to the contrary, I have never been able to get any decoder to operate the lights correctly when running in a consist. The only decoder I have that even mentions the programming of lights for consist operation is the QSI sound system in a Broadway Limited locomotive. Apparently, they are the only brand that supports consist lighting.

[lupo]

[#welcome] to the forum, Bob !
there is also a yahoo group with lots DCC & LENZ info:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DigitalPlusbyLenz/

[Anonymous]

You stated that you are using Proto 2000 engines and you are having trouble with lighting. If you did not install resistors in-line with the lights, you have burned them out and therefore they will not work. Proto 2000 engines and DCC can be a little tricky. Also, Digitrax does not mention that resistors are required for the installation.

This may be the source of your problem.