This video helped me a lot to program my first DCC locomotive. Your videos on the digitrax system are great. I found a CV calculator on the Digitrax website. Just plug your cab number in, and it gives you CV17 and 18.
What an excellent video. I am just starting out in to DCC and your video is so good I will use it as an instructional reference as it is so detailed. Many thanks, keep them coming.
There's a lot to take in about DCC, however, if you just keep at it, it all makes sense eventually. If there's ever a question you have, comment on any one of my videos and I'll see if I can make a how-to video for you!
There's several main brands of systems out there. I use Digitrax, just because that was what other people in my area were already using. NCE, Digitrax, ESU, and MRC all seem like common systems people use. They all have pros and cons.
When I first got my DCS100 someone suggested setting CV65 to 4. This is your Kickstart range. Different than your starting number in CV2. It gets the loco started and then CV2 takes over. I will continue to use my DT500 for programing the CV and setting the address. I do have DT602D and the UT6D radio throttles but do not understand how to program or consist locos. Even though you explained it very well I still can't get it to work. Another thing the manual does not tell you - you have to rock the power button sideways to turn power on or off. Pressing it downward brings up a totally different menu above soft buttons A-B-C. Manual is misleading.
Hi there, Using the ‘Quick Decoder Setup’ I would want to use a 4 digit number say 7810, do I type in that number directly and the Digitrax will automatically choose the entries for CV17 & CV18 which equate to the same numbers using the online calculator. I don’t understand in Pd Mode 3- CV29/7 Speed Table the choice seems to be either ON/OFF. What the does control do when it’s OFF and What does it do when it’s ON? However it seems to me now I’m aware of the online address calculator it’s much easier to use 2-Pd; Direct Prg Trk mode and enter all the relevant CVs regarding basic locomotive control. Very good video I learnt a lot. Roy (UK)
Im not sure if decoders have the same options for European version vs. US versions. But in the US many modelers use speed tables in their decoders for speed matching than CV2, 5 & 6. But the bit in CV29 has to be on for the decoder to follow the table CV's 67-94. As for the quick decoder setup, yes this will automatically set CV29 to use 4-digit, and set the CV17 & 18 to what it needs to be for a 4-digit address. To confirm, you could always read the individual CV's after using the quick decoder setup and verify they match the values needed for 4-digit operation.
Thanks for making these videos. Im curious why you don’t do all your programming on the Programming Track? Thanks. I commented on another one of your videos letting you know how to keep the screen on the dt602d from going dark.
We have JMRI Decoder Pro on the computer in the crew lounge. It has its own dedicated programming track. The programming track on the layout rarely gets used because of that.
Hi Steve My name is James I live in New Zealand and I am having difficulty in getting information on how to PROGRAMME my new Digitrax 602D to accept Cobalt IP turnout motors. I have just been watching the above video and found it most informative. Any information you have on programming Cobalt IP motors would be very much appreciated. I will now be subscribing to you channel for more information as I need to learn a lot more about my Digitrax system. Regards James Sewell Facit Station New Zealand
Hi James! I hope all is well in New Zealand. The Cobalt motors are new to me. I have never worked with them personally. I wonder if they are similar to the new Walthers switch motors. They may be programmed from the track bus, using some kind of jumper to put each motor into programming mode? If some, then once each motor is programmed with a unique DCC accessory address, then you would control it with the 602 throttle much the same as any other turnout, pressing the "S" to enter switch menu, clicked the button under either Throw or Close.
Thanks for making this video. Can I change my engine default address of "3" to the 4 digit address on the Mainline or do I need to set up a designated programming track to do that?
I personally would not try to change an address on the main. But if you're going to, then write CV 17 & 18 first, THEN change CV 29 to switch it to to the 4 digit address. CV 29 toggles the decoder between 2 and 4 digit (among other settings), and the decoder will respond to what's in CV 1 or 17/18 based on CV 29. By doing the address on the main, there's always the risk of accidentally changing ALL the addresses on the layout! Big oops. For those people with an older command station like the DB150, they could run the track wires through a toggle switch, with one output going to the layout for normal running, the other going to a programming track that is isolated from the layout.
I don't disagree with you. I recall a few months after I made this video, we had a large group of friends over to run trains. One guy brought some engines he wanted MU'ed. I tried MUing them with the 602 throttle, but it wasn't working. I started getting flustered because of so many people needing my help (that's what a good host does right?). One guy said "just use an old 402 throttle." It frustrated me in the moment because I had literally just made this how-to video on how to consist with the 602 throttle! I caved and used the 402 just to get him running, but then when I had a moment I went back and watched my own how-to video lol, and realized what I was doing wrong... I haven't had any trouble since. But I think it comes down to having learned how to consist with the old throttles, then trying to re-teach yourself for the new ones, vs. learning fresh on the 602's.
Update. I can not get my locomotive to respond when switched to the cab number. If I set to AD4 and CV17 and 18 it won't work. If I reset it to factory its fine. It's a ESU Decoder. Any ideas?
Unfortunately, no sorry. Keep in mind, that ESU is different when it comes to "factory default". There really isnt one. I guess an original file form ESU's download page could be considered a default. But when you use a lokprogrammer to change CV's, THAT becomes the default. So if you try to use CV8 to 8, that's what it will be reset to. You may want to download a fresh file from ESU, then use a lokprogrammer to write it to the decoder.
I have my 210+ setup exactly as it’s supposed to be with the wires going to a dedicated programming track and the track is not receiving power. I’m not even reading power at the terminals themselves. I’m trying to set up a program track alone by itself to start out.
@ So if I set an engine on the track it won’t have power to turn it on but it will program it? If so that’s good to know. I’m struggling with my set up so far.
@signalupproductions Hmm, I have digitraxx dcs 210+ and I am trying to adjust the voltage on it for g scale. I go through digitraxx Manuel to try to adjust and my dt602d has no control, when I plug the control straight to the command center.
Do I need a specific type of track so it can be programmed? I just have two oval KATO track sets. Are they programmed tracks, or do I need another type of track?
Any brand or type of track works fine. With DCC, programming or for running, it's a good idea to have a circle or oval track with plastic insulator rail joiners to avoid having an "electrical loop".
You should not have to. Address changing using this method is similar across different brands because of the NMRA DCC standards. I just used a digitrax equipped engine because it was the most handy. Some things I would check, make sure you have the throttle selecting the correct programming mode (i.e. Pg or Pd). Are you using a separate programming track? Also, if you're setting up engines for 4-digit addressing, double check CV29. It controls many things, including if the decoder uses the values in CV17/18 or CV1.
I think I may have a defective DT602D...I am trying to assign a road number to an Atlas Masterline SD35. I followed your steps and they did not work. Any thoughts? I have tried using your steps to program ESU, Sound Value and QSI decoders, with no luck. Any suggestions before I go buy a whole new dccc system?
At the UPSF Layout (my friend's layout where I record most of my videos) he is using the DCS100 Super Chief and 5 DB150 boosters. In my basement workshop (and future layout!) I have a 210+.
Sorry to hear this. The Digitrax manuals leave a little to be desired, that's one reason I make the videos on how to use their stuff. What specific task are you trying to do? Acquire a locomotive, throw a switch, consist or turn on track power?
At 24 minutes long, I feel I was pretty thorough. Programming DCC decoders is not a task most new model railroaders should attempt. Are you needing a video on the setup and basic use of a DCC system? I can get something together that focuses more on the fundamentals.
Yes, while I did not specifically address this in the video, in the description of the video I explain that the programming track has to be connected to the programming terminals of the command station, labeled Program A and Program B.
@@signalupproductions I have the DT602 and I discovered that I had tracks turned off in the controller. The function might be usefull but I haven't worked out what for. I've ordered the full duplex version of the controller which allows 2 trains to be controlled on the setup.
Beware of this throttle!!! I have gotten 2 (had to return the first one) within a month and both throttles shorted out ! The second one did the same thing. Now I'm only 1000$$ later and still no product to use. By the way on the second order the booster I had also took a shit so that is in for repair !! Lets see if it even gets fixed correctly !! Digitrax is not what you think it is good luck !
This didgitrax stuff is completely obtuse, or maybe it’s me, but this stuff drives me nuts. All I want to do is make a 4 digit address, I give up. Good gosh I just wanna play trains ugh
Well, I guess we all know who did NOT watch the whole video before commenting! th-cam.com/video/TXvUawdEA6A/w-d-xo.htmlsi=wj99adYLWZ9kHbtj&t=1160 The video DOES show how to use the Quick Decoder Utility. Most real modelers want to understand what's going on with their DCC decoders. While the Quick Decoder Setup tool in the DT602 series throttle is handy, knowing how and why to change CV 29, and 17 & 18 individually improves a modeler's ability to then adjust those settings with other brands or throttles. Thanks for the comment!
This video helped me a lot to program my first DCC locomotive. Your videos on the digitrax system are great. I found a CV calculator on the Digitrax website. Just plug your cab number in, and it gives you CV17 and 18.
Fantastic video. I just ordered my first DCC loco and DT602 decoder and the video is extremely helpul.
Glad it was helpful!
Hello, I just ordered a Digitrax system. I find your video helpful and very educational.Keep up the great work.
Thank you! If you need any help figuring out something about your system, let me know & I will try to make a video!
@@signalupproductions thank you
What an excellent video. I am just starting out in to DCC and your video is so good I will use it as an instructional reference as it is so detailed. Many thanks, keep them coming.
There's a lot to take in about DCC, however, if you just keep at it, it all makes sense eventually. If there's ever a question you have, comment on any one of my videos and I'll see if I can make a how-to video for you!
Awesome video, and I dont even have a dcc system yet. Still doing my homework 😏
There's several main brands of systems out there. I use Digitrax, just because that was what other people in my area were already using. NCE, Digitrax, ESU, and MRC all seem like common systems people use. They all have pros and cons.
VERY helpful video, thanks!
When I first got my DCS100 someone suggested setting CV65 to 4. This is your Kickstart range. Different than your starting number in CV2. It gets the loco started and then CV2 takes over. I will continue to use my DT500 for programing the CV and setting the address. I do have DT602D and the UT6D radio throttles but do not understand how to program or consist locos. Even though you explained it very well I still can't get it to work. Another thing the manual does not tell you - you have to rock the power button sideways to turn power on or off. Pressing it downward brings up a totally different menu above soft buttons A-B-C. Manual is misleading.
Hi there, Using the ‘Quick Decoder Setup’ I would want to use a 4 digit number say 7810, do I type in that number directly and the Digitrax will automatically choose the entries for CV17 & CV18 which equate to the same numbers using the online calculator. I don’t understand in Pd Mode 3- CV29/7 Speed Table the choice seems to be either ON/OFF. What the does control do when it’s OFF and What does it do when it’s ON? However it seems to me now I’m aware of the online address calculator it’s much easier to use 2-Pd; Direct Prg Trk mode and enter all the relevant CVs regarding basic locomotive control. Very good video I learnt a lot. Roy (UK)
Im not sure if decoders have the same options for European version vs. US versions. But in the US many modelers use speed tables in their decoders for speed matching than CV2, 5 & 6. But the bit in CV29 has to be on for the decoder to follow the table CV's 67-94.
As for the quick decoder setup, yes this will automatically set CV29 to use 4-digit, and set the CV17 & 18 to what it needs to be for a 4-digit address.
To confirm, you could always read the individual CV's after using the quick decoder setup and verify they match the values needed for 4-digit operation.
Thanks for making these videos. Im curious why you don’t do all your programming on the Programming Track? Thanks.
I commented on another one of your videos letting you know how to keep the screen on the dt602d from going dark.
We have JMRI Decoder Pro on the computer in the crew lounge. It has its own dedicated programming track. The programming track on the layout rarely gets used because of that.
Hi Steve
My name is James I live in New Zealand and I am having difficulty in getting information on how to PROGRAMME my new Digitrax 602D to accept Cobalt IP turnout motors. I have just been watching the above video and found it most informative. Any information you have on programming Cobalt IP motors would be very much appreciated.
I will now be subscribing to you channel for more information as I need to learn a lot more about my Digitrax system.
Regards
James Sewell
Facit Station
New Zealand
Hi James! I hope all is well in New Zealand. The Cobalt motors are new to me. I have never worked with them personally. I wonder if they are similar to the new Walthers switch motors. They may be programmed from the track bus, using some kind of jumper to put each motor into programming mode?
If some, then once each motor is programmed with a unique DCC accessory address, then you would control it with the 602 throttle much the same as any other turnout, pressing the "S" to enter switch menu, clicked the button under either Throw or Close.
Thanks for making this video. Can I change my engine default address of "3" to the 4 digit address on the Mainline or do I need to set up a designated programming track to do that?
I personally would not try to change an address on the main. But if you're going to, then write CV 17 & 18 first, THEN change CV 29 to switch it to to the 4 digit address.
CV 29 toggles the decoder between 2 and 4 digit (among other settings), and the decoder will respond to what's in CV 1 or 17/18 based on CV 29.
By doing the address on the main, there's always the risk of accidentally changing ALL the addresses on the layout! Big oops.
For those people with an older command station like the DB150, they could run the track wires through a toggle switch, with one output going to the layout for normal running, the other going to a programming track that is isolated from the layout.
Thanks for your reply. I’m going to go ahead and make a designated programming track, stub ended, in my staging yard.
This was so much easier and more intuitive with the earlier DT 400 and DT 500 series throttles... a step back for Digitrax IMO.
I don't disagree with you. I recall a few months after I made this video, we had a large group of friends over to run trains. One guy brought some engines he wanted MU'ed. I tried MUing them with the 602 throttle, but it wasn't working. I started getting flustered because of so many people needing my help (that's what a good host does right?). One guy said "just use an old 402 throttle." It frustrated me in the moment because I had literally just made this how-to video on how to consist with the 602 throttle! I caved and used the 402 just to get him running, but then when I had a moment I went back and watched my own how-to video lol, and realized what I was doing wrong...
I haven't had any trouble since. But I think it comes down to having learned how to consist with the old throttles, then trying to re-teach yourself for the new ones, vs. learning fresh on the 602's.
Update. I can not get my locomotive to respond when switched to the cab number. If I set to AD4 and CV17 and 18 it won't work. If I reset it to factory its fine. It's a ESU Decoder. Any ideas?
Unfortunately, no sorry. Keep in mind, that ESU is different when it comes to "factory default". There really isnt one. I guess an original file form ESU's download page could be considered a default. But when you use a lokprogrammer to change CV's, THAT becomes the default. So if you try to use CV8 to 8, that's what it will be reset to.
You may want to download a fresh file from ESU, then use a lokprogrammer to write it to the decoder.
I have my 210+ setup exactly as it’s supposed to be with the wires going to a dedicated programming track and the track is not receiving power. I’m not even reading power at the terminals themselves. I’m trying to set up a program track alone by itself to start out.
The programming outputs only have bursts of power when actively programming.
@ So if I set an engine on the track it won’t have power to turn it on but it will program it? If so that’s good to know. I’m struggling with my set up so far.
Do you have any video's on How to adjust voltage from digitrax commander center?
I do not. It's not an issue I have needed to overcome.
@signalupproductions Hmm, I have digitraxx dcs 210+ and I am trying to adjust the voltage on it for g scale. I go through digitraxx Manuel to try to adjust and my dt602d has no control, when I plug the control straight to the command center.
Do I need a specific type of track so it can be programmed? I just have two oval KATO track sets. Are they programmed tracks, or do I need another type of track?
Any brand or type of track works fine. With DCC, programming or for running, it's a good idea to have a circle or oval track with plastic insulator rail joiners to avoid having an "electrical loop".
@ But is it a certain type of track I need. When I do the thing for programming it says “program track empty.” How can I fix that?
I also notice you said you were using a digitrax decoder. Do I have to replace my non-digitrax decoders in order to program them using the DT602D?
You should not have to. Address changing using this method is similar across different brands because of the NMRA DCC standards. I just used a digitrax equipped engine because it was the most handy. Some things I would check, make sure you have the throttle selecting the correct programming mode (i.e. Pg or Pd). Are you using a separate programming track?
Also, if you're setting up engines for 4-digit addressing, double check CV29. It controls many things, including if the decoder uses the values in CV17/18 or CV1.
I think I may have a defective DT602D...I am trying to assign a road number to an Atlas Masterline SD35. I followed your steps and they did not work. Any thoughts? I have tried using your steps to program ESU, Sound Value and QSI decoders, with no luck. Any suggestions before I go buy a whole new dccc system?
What command station are you using? 210+ ?
At the UPSF Layout (my friend's layout where I record most of my videos) he is using the DCS100 Super Chief and 5 DB150 boosters.
In my basement workshop (and future layout!) I have a 210+.
I didn’t know the steps you explain, I didn’t read any of it in the manual and now I’m confused beyond belief. 😒
Sorry to hear this. The Digitrax manuals leave a little to be desired, that's one reason I make the videos on how to use their stuff. What specific task are you trying to do? Acquire a locomotive, throw a switch, consist or turn on track power?
It’s going to be different for each locomotive so it’s not like you can follow the numbers exactly anyway.
Is there a more comprehensive set-up instruction out there. I think you have jumped to many basics.
At 24 minutes long, I feel I was pretty thorough. Programming DCC decoders is not a task most new model railroaders should attempt. Are you needing a video on the setup and basic use of a DCC system? I can get something together that focuses more on the fundamentals.
@@signalupproductions Actually, I've discovered that I needed to add tracks to the digitrax programer and it works quite well.
Yes, while I did not specifically address this in the video, in the description of the video I explain that the programming track has to be connected to the programming terminals of the command station, labeled Program A and Program B.
@@signalupproductions I have the DT602 and I discovered that I had tracks turned off in the controller. The function might be usefull but I haven't worked out what for. I've ordered the full duplex version of the controller which allows 2 trains to be controlled on the setup.
Beware of this throttle!!! I have gotten 2 (had to return the first one) within a month and both throttles shorted out ! The second one did the same thing. Now I'm only 1000$$ later and still no product to use. By the way on the second order the booster I had also took a shit so that is in for repair !! Lets see if it even gets fixed correctly !!
Digitrax is not what you think it is good luck !
This didgitrax stuff is completely obtuse, or maybe it’s me, but this stuff drives me nuts. All I want to do is make a 4 digit address, I give up. Good gosh I just wanna play trains ugh
Why not just use option 1, quick decoder setup for address, the way you show to do it was painful to watch. 😂
Well, I guess we all know who did NOT watch the whole video before commenting!
th-cam.com/video/TXvUawdEA6A/w-d-xo.htmlsi=wj99adYLWZ9kHbtj&t=1160
The video DOES show how to use the Quick Decoder Utility.
Most real modelers want to understand what's going on with their DCC decoders. While the Quick Decoder Setup tool in the DT602 series throttle is handy, knowing how and why to change CV 29, and 17 & 18 individually improves a modeler's ability to then adjust those settings with other brands or throttles.
Thanks for the comment!
great detailed video thank you much!