DCC Impulses Column - 7
same data in it as the locomotive. Saving this file makes sure
that the computer retains the same data.
Finally, I go to POMmode (with the PowerCab, it is as simple
as changing modes in DecoderPro and opening the saved file).
This allows me to fiddle with speeds, sounds, momentum, and
all. As long as I do all the adjustments in DecoderPro, the copy I
save onto the computer represents what is actually in the loco.
Programming track on the layout
Lots of folks say that they want to be able to read from their decod-
ers without having to remove the loco from the layout. To do so,
you need a place on the layout where you can run a loco into a
track that can be isolated from the rest of the layout and con-
nected to the command station programming track output. This is
a great place to insert a PTB between your command station and
the programming track itself. The programming track needs to be
longer than your longest locomotive, so that all of it is on the track.
Given that locos can move when the ACK current pulses through
the motor, the longer the better. The isolation section(s) need to be
longer than your loco, too. When the programming track is active,
the isolation sections need to be dead--nothing connected to them.
7. Programming track surrounded by isolation tracks with
connections to the layout on both sides.
7
That way, if a loco runs off the end of the programming track, it will
be contained within the isolation track and not bridge to the DCC
track. This prevents DCC power from being fed back into your pro-
gramming track output or your PTB and damaging them. See [7].
If your programming track is in the middle of a run, you’ll want iso-
lation sections on both sides of it. If it is at the end of a run, you
only need an isolation section on one side.
What makes for a good programming track on the layout? I like:
Convenient location where a loco can be put on / taken off easily
Able to be electrically isolated from the rest of the layout
Close to the main track or the center of the action
The switch that selects the program or run mode needs to have
four poles, be double throw and handle the DCC current with a
break-before-make design. A center-off style switch automatically
is a break-before-make style. Check out your local auto parts store
for these. It may be difficult (and pricey) to locate with an appropri-
ate (5 - 10 amp) rating.
For a method of achieving this isolation with readily available parts,
see the Mr. DCC’s Workbench after this column.
Now, if you have read the entire column, tell me that you
didn’t learn one thing, no matter what level of DCC expertise
you have. I know I learned a few new things researching the
column. If you found this column helpful, please click on the
Reader Feedback link here and rate it awesome. Please join in
the conversation that invariably
develops there.
Check back next month. Until
then, I wish you green boards.
MRH-May 2014
