These videos are golden! I've got zero experience with digital Märklin, and the informative presentation here is exactly what a noob needs. Things have changed quite a lot since I got to operate my friends dad's huuuge setup as a 11-12 year old (brave man indeed), and I'm finally getting into all of this again as an adult.
I am glad you find the videos useful. Do you already have some model trains or are you looking to get started. The very first on this channel shows you how to get started with Märklin digital: th-cam.com/video/slJZoMWZ248/w-d-xo.html Hope you enjoy and have fun ;-)
A video for running a shadow station/yard would be appreciated. For the rest, awesome work. I have learned so much since discovering your channel and am looking forward to future videos.
Hi Pieta, I am looking into making some automation around the shadow station. I intend to look at electrical automation using the m84 and later with events in the CS3. Will make these videos over the next few months. Hope this will meet your expectations! Enjoy ;-)
Dear Paul ,many thanks for all your videos. A small correction at 4'20 the 'F'. Language on the manual is French and not Finish as mentioned. ...😀. M84 decoder is indeed very useful. The black one is the one to buy if you have none in house, but the old ones M84 and from other brands that are cheaper are working as well in most cases. Thanks again . Please also think , or mention the track K and how best to use it.
Hi Emmanuel, Indeed F is French ;-) This video also covers the white M84. I agree that you can also use accessories from other brands and I encourage you to experiment with these ones as well. However, if you are not an expert consider staying within same system as the accessories work the same way and what you learn on one you can re-use on another. Furthermore, each brand also makes sure that accessories are compatible within the brand. If you are an expert - go ahead and mix and match as each brand has some advantages and disadvantages. Some brands mix wel while others do not. For most accessories it is easy, but be careful with accessories such as boosters. K-track? Unfortunately I do not have a lot of experience with it as I mostly do temporary layouts... Enjoy ;-) Bo
Just a question , in order to maximise the use of the decoder , what mode should I use to regulate a shadow station , to replace signals , mode 0-1-2? Using CS3 Many thanks
Hi Bernard, I am assuming you are asking what mode to choose when you want to use the M84 for turning on/off power to the track (stop track). If this is what you are looking for, then use Mode 2. Basically, same as the lights in this video - just use "B" from the track and insulate as a stop track. Did this help? Enjoy ;-) Bo
Hi ModelTrainFun, these videos are very informative - thank you for making them! Do you have any book recommendations for electrical wiring with Marklin layouts by any chance?
Glad you like the videos. As for a book on wiring - unfortunately I do not know one. I was actually recently think the same - what is good practice for wiring your layout? I only make temporary layouts, so I do not have much experience. The general trend I see with other model railroaders when they build layouts is to have "bus wires" through out your layout. A bus wire is a thick wire with main power throughout the layout - it is thick to hinder loss of power and max power can flow through it. Typically you have bus wires for each booster section, but also bus wires for light and other things. Then feeder wires are connected from the bus wires to the track at regular intervals and to light sections. I would try and ask the question on one of the Märklin facebook groups or on a forum. Try: - facebook.com/groups/Maerklin.H0.Forum - www.marklin-users.net Let me know if you find a good overview of wiring - I am also interested. Enjoy ;-)
Hello. Great, informative and perfect pedagogy. An additional video would be to explain all the other modes. I do not have a m84 and would like to know. And the detailled programming on each cv was a little confusing. Actually, i would like to know if it is possible to use an older crane with m84. It should be using 6 addresses (1 and 2 as latches, 3 and 4 as 4 independant switches) and use 2 switch outputs to feed 2 latche power input for rotating or moving the rope.
Glad you liked the video! I have not tried making a crane move. Everytime I have seen somebody do it they have used a locomotive decoder. To me this makes more sense as a locomotive decoder is optimized for wheeled movement. I did find one video that might interest you on this from @marklinofsweden: th-cam.com/video/g0eYbtyRD6U/w-d-xo.html As for the other CV79 m84 60842 modes you can find this in the 60842 manual on page 18: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/a5/7d/a57d1381cfd17d74e7434cb76db190ed1566485190.pdf The CV programming I figured out by reading the description in the CS3 and trial'n'error. My intent in this video was not to go into details of every CV in the m84. I might look into the other modes and more CV programming in future videos. Enjoy and happy model trains ;-)
Thankyou very much for your reply to my previous comment. If i may i am still having problems with my turnouts using my mobile station. I am using the m84 for switching of turnouts so far. I have set three sets of turnouts to 1,2, & 3 on my m84 using the 74491.The other four turnouts are set to 10,11,12,& 13 but this time i am using the digtal decoder for these four using 74462 with the appropriate dip switch settings. My problem is that 1,2, & 3, work on the m84 (lights change over on the m84) but the turnouts themselves do not move even though i ensured i wired them correctly as in your video. The turnouts 10,11,12 & 13 work perfecly well. please can you advise me if i am doing something wrong.
Hi Alf, It is important to distinguish between then how to use the m83 and how to use the m84. The m84 is for permanently turning something on and off - like a light. The m83 is for activating something momentarily - like a turnout. A turnout is only activated shortly while the turnout changes. You can use the m84 for turnouts and the m83 for lights, but this require advanced programming. Furthermore, the m83 is cheaper than the m84 - so I highly recommend it for turnouts. I suggest you used the m83 for turnouts as illustrated in this video: th-cam.com/video/eGexwTEeFZE/w-d-xo.html If you have C-track you may also consider using the decoders that can be hidden under the track as illustrated in this video: th-cam.com/video/_6lGKQ3Vj2Q/w-d-xo.html There is also a video on the three-way turnout as well. Don't forget you can search by going on the channel home page and selecting the "search" button furthest to the right next to the "About": www.youtube.com/@ModelTrainFun Here you can search for specific videos on this channel. There might already be a video for you. Generally, I would suggest starting with the Märklin Beginner playlist: th-cam.com/play/PLYAhs-Pox3sG31NwCfqIuk6IvI19q2czn.html More playlists are available on the channel page and you can see where to find what on the Model Train Fun channel in this video: th-cam.com/video/_9ZlgohukIY/w-d-xo.html Hope this helps. Enjoy ;-)
Hello Model Train Fun. I love your videos which are really easy to follow and very informative. Having watched this one, I saw that it came really close to a question I need to find the answer to. From your closing sentences, it seems it may already be the subject of your next video, but just to make sure, my question is, how to connect a 3-way Viesmann signal (a dumb signal I suppose-with no decoders) and make it work with the 3-way signal icon of the CS3? I already tried to connect the cables of the red and green LEDs to-let's say address 9, and the cable of the yellow LED to address 10. When I change the icon of the address 9 to a 3-way signal icon, the accessory at the address 10 dissapears and then there is no control on the yellow LED. The 3-way icon only controls the red and green, but the 3rd has no function at all. I tried to assign a second address to the 3-way signal accessory, but the CS3 does not seem to accept a second address for one accessory. Thank you in advance. Vedat
Glad you like the video! I intend to conver the Viessmann 4011, 4012 and 4013 signals in a future video. I expect to receive them soon so I can experinment. Enjoy ;-)
Thanks a lot for your nice videos. It helps a lot. Anyway there is something which I didn´t understand well. I have a M83 for the turnouts and I have just bought a M84 for the lights . I have one power supply for the Mobil Station, but do I need another power supply for the lights ?? If I put together M83 and M84 , can´t I use the same power supply for all ? Sorry my ignorance but I am a beginner with the trains. Thanks for your reply !
Hi Simm, I am glad you liked the video! As a rule of thumb the m83 is good for switching stuff like turnouts. The m84 is good for turning something on/off like lights. The benefit of the m84 is that you can use another power supply so you can save the track power and use it for locomotives and trains. In addition to that you can use any power supply that fits with your lights. Finally, you can use DC to power lights which removes flickering of the light (noticeable on videos). You can also power your lights from the track power if you have lights that are compatible with the power from the track - be careful as most lights are not. You can see in the video I use the Viessmann clock with AC power: th-cam.com/video/eo65jHaoWqE/w-d-xo.html If you have a light that can use track power you can connect the red "B" from the track to the center like the yellow is connected to the transformer in the video and the return to the brown "0" on the track. This will actually work for the clock I use in the video as it also handles track power. Another method is to reprogram the m83 as it can actually also handle lights. In this case they will be powered from the track, so remember to use lights that are compatible with track power. The black m83 can be programmed like you see the black m84 in the video : th-cam.com/video/eo65jHaoWqE/w-d-xo.html You just have some other modes (1-5) as you can see in the technical manual on page 18: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/3b/44/3b44f7c3c18c5d0a2b0c3e377f3df7281570606458.pdf Then you connect the light to the center and the side of the m83 group. Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-)
Hi Frans, If you want an external decoder I recommend using the m83. The m83 is built for this purpose - check out this video: th-cam.com/video/eGexwTEeFZE/w-d-xo.html The m84 is good for continuos power like turning on/off lights. The m83 is good for pulses for accessoires like turnouts and the uncoupler track. In theory I believe you could program the m84 for turnouts, but the m83 is cheaper and ready to use for this purpose. Enjoy ;-)
I tried this when 1 M84 was connected in series with 6 M83 decoders. I could not reprogram the M84 in this setup as shown in de video. It only works when only the M84 is connected to the Mobile Station.
Hi Bert, I have heard from others about this issue as well. Good to know that programming needs to be done with one when using the MS2. Unsure if this is also the case with the CS3? Enjoy ;-)
Your video showed you using a power source to the centre connection. I do not have a power source so how do I get around that as so far I have not purchased a central station. I only have the mobile station. I am not sure how to get the green lights to work on my m84 with only my mobile station. Please can you help me
Hi Alf, I would choose to use the m84 when I have another power source for the light. However, you could use the track power as well. If you have a light that can be powered from the track you can use the track power. First test your light by connecting it to the track one wire to the rail and one to the center studs - if it does not work try the other way around (dont forget to go out of stop mode). If this works connect red from the track (or brown) to the center and return after the light to the track with the color you did not use. Before you try it out - double check that the light works with track power. You can damage the light - or in rare instances the MS2. However, the MS2 will probably just trigger the short circuit detection and enter STOP mode. However, be sure before you try. You can use the m84 for this. However, if you intend to use track power for light, then using the m83 is cheaper. This will require a little of programming - unfortunately, I do not have a video showing this. However, if you have the black m83 (Märklin 60832), then look in the technical manual. It looks like you can choose mode 2-5 as described on page 18 - or program the CVs as illustrated on page 24: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/3b/44/3b44f7c3c18c5d0a2b0c3e377f3df7281570606458.pdf You can also see how to connect light to the m83 on page 24 (this is different from the m84 light connection). I have not tried it with the m83 myself, but it should work. Hope this helps. Enjoy ;-)
Thank you for your detailed videos! I tried programming the "white" m84 (60841) to take 8 different addresses, but unfortunately it did not work. It may have worked on your example because you were using a 60842, and somehow its improved architecture allows the separation of the switches (Schaltgruppe = 0).
Hi Armando, thanks for your feedback - I have tried to purchase a 60841 to try it out but have not found one available. I will see if I can add some text to this video to help viewers. Thanks! Enjoy ;-) Bo
Really nice video.when will you comment on how to use m84 for ghost station?How many light mast for example can I join for each red or green dot on M84?
Hi Vito, Glad you liked this video! I am not sure that I get the question on the "ghost station". How many lights you can connect? This depends on your power source and the power consumption of the lights. On the Märklin 60842 the maximum current load per group (red/green) is 5 amps. The Viessmann 5080 clock in this video is specified as 10 mA and I assume the Faller 180110 is about the same. Hence, if you have a power supply that can supply the max 5 amps, then you can theoretically have approx 500 clocks or lights per re/green group. However, the length of wire will also influence this - and any resistor you add would also have to subtract this, then you might only be able to have 100-200 lights? You have to try it out, but you using LEDs you can power a considerable amount of lights. Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-) Bo
Sorry I completely got the question wrong. I wanted to know how many groups of light poles, for example, can be placed on each exit of the m84, i.e. how many exit 1 can support, how many exit 2 etc. I hope I was clear this time. thanks@@ModelTrainFun
It was a very proffessional explanation top. Thanks. I have one question: I heard it is possible to change the uncouplingtime longer for a uncouplingrail by the MS 2. Is it possible to explain that one time ?
You would use the uncoupler track with the m83. You can change the pulse time with the m83. If you have the 60832 (black edition), then you can change it directly under the configuration. If you are using MS2 or the 60831 (white edition), then you can change CV114 for the Red 1, CV117 for the Green 2, and so on. I believe Märklin recommends the value 15 for the period. I do intende to make a video on the uncoupler track in the near future. Enjoy ;-)
Hi Earl, Great little servo - I did not know of this one. It is new to me, so I do not know how to install it. Normally, servos are connected using the M83 (Märklin 60831 or Märklin 60832) with the Märklin 60821 accessory set. However, the MTB MPx series seems more versatile. Unfortunately, I have no experience with them, but I did look a little around on the MTP website (www.mtb-model.com/?lang=en) and the internet... You can find the descriptions of the MTB MP1 & MP5 here: - MP1: www.mtb-model.com/pages/mp1.php?lang=en - MP5: www.mtb-model.com/pages/mp5.php?lang=en Reading this it seems the MTB MPx can connect directly to the M83. To me it also seems like you do not need the more complicated versions - the basic MP1 should be enough for Märklin. However, the MP5 is a stronger engine - although I do not see the need for the relay (for DCC turnout electro frog). I found the following that indicates how to connect the MTB MP1 to a standard switch decoder - this further strengthen the belief it can just be connected (as do the videos below): www.marklin-users.net/forum/posts/t37002-Turnout-motors---anyone-familiar-with-mtb-MT1 These video shows how to connect it to the DR4018 - the DR4018 is essentially a M83 from Digikeijs: - th-cam.com/video/DrcNJhlepJU/w-d-xo.html - th-cam.com/video/fT906-SgICo/w-d-xo.html Summary: It seems it connects directly to the M83 - but I have not tried it myself. If you have C-track another option is the Viessmann 4568 that installs directly under the track (is more expensive than the MTB MPx, but comes with decoder). I have a video on this here: th-cam.com/video/GlNdqowq2VE/w-d-xo.html I hope this helps. Let me know of your experiences with the MTB MPx - I am really interested in this one - looks like a cool turnout servo. Enjoy ;-)
Hello and thank you for good and informative videos. Have a question about the M84 (the black one) regarding programming to 8 addresses and outputs and connection to CS3 as well as controlling the ports on/off using contacts via Events. Have no problems programming the M84 to 8 ports/addresses and can post 1 Event in the CS3 but when I post the next Event it doesn't work and the first Event has also stopped working. Do you have any experience or thoughts and ideas on solving this problem? Thanks in advance, Magnus
Hi Magnus, I am not sure what issue you are facing... What are you trying to do? Use an event to turn on/off lights? Control lights in a certain way? What do you mean by post events? Trigger based on something else? Are you using the light icons? Enjoy ;-)
Hello again, Thanks for your reply. I'll see if I can clarify. In your movie Beginners episode 8a you have programmed the M84 to have 8 outputs and addresses. In the movie, you control these manually via your CS3. If instead you want to control each port automatically using headers and S88 and do this as an Event in CS3, can you make it work? Eg: In your video, the lamp on port 1 should go out when you pass contact number 1 and light 2. When the locomotive passes contact no. 2, light no. 2 should be turned off and the clock's light on port no. 4 should be lit. When I try to automate this, the first Event can be done without problems. Lamp 1 goes out and lamp 2 lights up. But when I do event number 2, both the new Event and the first Event stop working....
@@magnusstadelmann2651 This should be possible - one thing that comes to mind is that the contact tracks might be too short, but I am not sure. I suggest you send me an email (see "About" on the channel page) and give a photo or a short description of that part of the layout. If you know how to take a screen shot of the events from the CS3, then please add these. Otherwise, I can try to make the events as I see they should be made. Enjoy ;-)
Hello again, I've been busy with something else the last week so I haven't dealt with my Märklin problem. But I think I'll skip the attempt to program the M84 with 8 outputs and run on the standard 4 ports instead. Thank you for your dedication. Looking forward to your new upcoming movies. Best regards Magnus
Hi Yamon, Glad you liked the video. The M84 is powered by the track power. The M84 is just a relay, which means you need to get a power supply that matches the lights you control. This can be AC or DC depending on your lights. Typically, you find the lights in 12-20v from various model manufactors (some LEDs even lower). Max load per M84 group is 5 amp. Consider using DC lights if you want to make videos as this will create a flicker-free light on the video. Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-) Bo
you said that m84 does not take pwer from the tracks, but if I connect it to m83 does it take power from this or does it always need its own power sup?
Hi Vito, both the m84 and m83 connect to the track power in order to power the electronics. However, the m84 can take power from another power source (as shown in this video) for the accessory you connect to the m84 output. The m83 will always use track power for the accessory connected to the output. You can connect m83s and m84s together to power the electronics of them all (chain them) and still have an alternative power for the m84 accessoires. Enjoy ;-) Bo
Hey nice videos can i ask a "noob" question? Since am about to go into this hobby and probably spent a lot of money, my question is: Since am about to buy marklin starting set (Model train "ICE 2" Digital Starter Set) can i run PIKO trains on c-gauge tracks?
This is one of the most import questions for beginners as it is important what fits together. Many models from other manufactors can work on Märklin. The key is that Märklin is a 3-rail system - you have the normal 2 rails + a center rail. The locomotives pick up power from the wheels and a "slider" mounted under the locomotives. What is important is to have a digital locomotive with slider. All digital locomotives with slides fit with the Märklin digital system. Manufactors and shops often mark it as AC Digital. Märklin digital supports MM, MFX and DCC 3-rail locomotives. The other system is the 2-rail system. The tracks do not have the center rail. 2- rail locomotives do not have a center pickup and cannot run on Märklin 3-rail tracks. The 2-rail system uses DCC protocol for digital locomotives. As a beginner it is important to choose one or the other. Märklin 3-rail is supported by fewer manufactors outside Germany. However, Brawa, Roco, Piko makes 3-rail locomotives. If you are into US consider 2-rail. I like Märklin/3-rail because it is good quality (nice/detailed), built to last and easy to use (MFX, 3rd rail, electronics, ...). Some people do not like the view of the "3rd rail" - I do not mind as it makes my life easier. You can do everything on 2-rail or 3-rail, but unfortunately it is a basic choice. When choosing consider where you can get help - from clubs, friends or shops. It is often easier when you can get help. When getting started with model trains consider a starter set as it comes ready to run. Märklin currently has a promotion and you can see a video on "Getting Started" on this channel. Getting Started: th-cam.com/video/slJZoMWZ248/w-d-xo.html Märklin promotion Winter 2021/22: www.maerklin.de/en/lp/2021/christmas-2021 Hope this helps and welcom to model rail roading. Enjoy ;-)
@@pticurina Are you talking about AC as I mentioned above? If you are looking at trainworld - I believe this is a US store. If you are looking for US trains, then you only find very few that will work on 3-rail. If US locomotives and trains is your passion, then I would consider 2-rail/DCC instead.
@@ModelTrainFun No am in Europe and Europe oriented towards trains :) And yes am only interested in dcc, aint no fun if train cant do the chu chu thingy :)
@@pticurina If you are interested in european trains then you can find lots that work with Märklin from manufactors like Roco, Brawa or Piko. Locomotives need the slider (often marked AC or 3-rail - sometimes AC digital). Many online stores provide filters e.g Haertle has "Betriebsart=3-Leiter Wechselstrom". If in doubt look up the model number on the manufactor website and read in english. I think by DCC you mean digital - for Märklin you can look for locomotives that can do MM, MFX or DCC. All run on Märklin if they have the slider. Freight or passenger cars you can buy from any manufactor. Enjoy ;-)
one more question, did I understand it right that if I have i.e. 12 lights that I want to turen on at the same time then I can Connect all 12 lamps to one adress ?
Hi Michael, yes you can connect multiple lights to each output. Just keep in mind that the maximum current load per group is 5 amps. Which also means you can connect a lot of lamps. Enjoy ;-) Bo
Hi Michael, the M84 needs to be connected to the digital signal (track power) so it can receive commands. Each output group can be powered by a separate power supply. According to the manual you can also "The decoder can also be connected to the 66360/66365 switched mode power pack (only in conjunction with 60822) (here power is not taken from the track and the power demanded from the track is thereby less). ". I have not tried to connect it like this, but it should work. Enjoy ;-) Bo
You use the m83 for momentary connections and m84 for continous connections. Hence, the m83 is good for turnouts and uncouple tracks while the m84 is good for light, signals and stop track. The L88 is used for train detection through contact tracks, circuit tracks or reed contacts. You can see how to use L88 here: th-cam.com/video/asgop7QRIK8/w-d-xo.html The m84 does have some inputs - however, these can only be used to change the connectors on the m84 in a simple way. In this way you can make some simple electrical automation without a control station. As an example the CS3 cannot read or react to the inputs of the m84. Did this help? Enjoy ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun Hi there! I apologize about a noob question, but when you mentioned using uncoupling track with m83, why wouldn't you use that with m84 instead and have it set to either continuously on (uncouple everything that passes by) or off? Seems like if you use momentary connection you literally will have to catch the couplers as they pass over the uncoupler to disengage them. Could you clarify please?
@@AlexNYC961 The problem is that the uncoupler track uses a solenoid (electrical magnet). The solenoid will burn out if continously turned on. Hence, better to momentary turn it on. The idea is to set a period that is long, but not too long. I believe the modern uncoupler tracks also has protection against continous uncoupling, so it will automatically turn off anyways. Beware older versions might not have the protection... The method for uncoupling is drive the locomotive until it is on the uncoupler and stop, then uncouple. This will already uncouple if there is no strain on the couplers and it is the better couplers (Märklin close couplers are best - Relex are more sticky). Alternatively stop locomotive with the couplers to uncouple just before the uncoupler then uncouple while driving locomotive forward over the uncoupler. Enjoy ;-)
These videos are golden! I've got zero experience with digital Märklin, and the informative presentation here is exactly what a noob needs.
Things have changed quite a lot since I got to operate my friends dad's huuuge setup as a 11-12 year old (brave man indeed), and I'm finally getting into all of this again as an adult.
I am glad you find the videos useful. Do you already have some model trains or are you looking to get started. The very first on this channel shows you how to get started with Märklin digital: th-cam.com/video/slJZoMWZ248/w-d-xo.html
Hope you enjoy and have fun ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun I'm in the planning stage :) I did see the 4-5 first videos, and have the following on my list. Very useful stuff, good job!
Thanks again for helping making it easy to understand the digital jungle. I almost feel like an expert after every videos.
Glad to help! I hope it helps you build your layout. Enjoy ;-)
An insightful video. You gave a wonderful introduction in to the M84 and a lot of its purposes to use it. Thank you very well!
Hi Peter, glad it was helpful! hope you have fun with the M84. Enjoy ;-)
A video for running a shadow station/yard would be appreciated. For the rest, awesome work. I have learned so much since discovering your channel and am looking forward to future videos.
Hi Pieta, I am looking into making some automation around the shadow station. I intend to look at electrical automation using the m84 and later with events in the CS3. Will make these videos over the next few months. Hope this will meet your expectations! Enjoy ;-)
Thanks again Bo really great also this further video you are really great!
Greetings from Italy
Hi Lorenzo, glad you liked the video - hope you will have fun with lights. Enjoy ;-)
Intresting vid .
Hi, Glad you liked it! Enjoy ;-) Bo
Thanks for this great video. Your work helps me a lot for my network. High class ! 🙏👌👍👍👍
Hi Principauté, Glad it helps. Enjoy ;-)
Dear Paul ,many thanks for all your videos. A small correction at 4'20 the 'F'. Language on the manual is French and not Finish as mentioned. ...😀. M84 decoder is indeed very useful. The black one is the one to buy if you have none in house, but the old ones M84 and from other brands that are cheaper are working as well in most cases. Thanks again . Please also think , or mention the track K and how best to use it.
Hi Emmanuel,
Indeed F is French ;-) This video also covers the white M84.
I agree that you can also use accessories from other brands and I encourage you to experiment with these ones as well. However, if you are not an expert consider staying within same system as the accessories work the same way and what you learn on one you can re-use on another. Furthermore, each brand also makes sure that accessories are compatible within the brand. If you are an expert - go ahead and mix and match as each brand has some advantages and disadvantages. Some brands mix wel while others do not. For most accessories it is easy, but be careful with accessories such as boosters.
K-track? Unfortunately I do not have a lot of experience with it as I mostly do temporary layouts...
Enjoy ;-) Bo
A true Masterclass, thank you
Just a question , in order to maximise the use of the decoder , what mode should I use to regulate a shadow station , to replace signals , mode 0-1-2?
Using CS3
Many thanks
Hi Bernard, Thank you! Enjoy ;-) Bo
@@ModelTrainFun Hi Bo, could you answer my question concerning the mode to be used in a shadow station?
Thanks
Hi Bernard, I am assuming you are asking what mode to choose when you want to use the M84 for turning on/off power to the track (stop track). If this is what you are looking for, then use Mode 2. Basically, same as the lights in this video - just use "B" from the track and insulate as a stop track. Did this help? Enjoy ;-) Bo
@@ModelTrainFun you got my point , tkx
Merci beaucoup pour toutes ces explication, Débutant sur du Minitrix vos vidéo m'intéresse beaucoup pour la partie digitale. Like like like
Hi Jeff, I am glad you are liking the videos - I hope they help you with your layout. Enjoy ;-) Bo
Hi ModelTrainFun, these videos are very informative - thank you for making them! Do you have any book recommendations for electrical wiring with Marklin layouts by any chance?
Glad you like the videos. As for a book on wiring - unfortunately I do not know one. I was actually recently think the same - what is good practice for wiring your layout? I only make temporary layouts, so I do not have much experience.
The general trend I see with other model railroaders when they build layouts is to have "bus wires" through out your layout. A bus wire is a thick wire with main power throughout the layout - it is thick to hinder loss of power and max power can flow through it. Typically you have bus wires for each booster section, but also bus wires for light and other things. Then feeder wires are connected from the bus wires to the track at regular intervals and to light sections.
I would try and ask the question on one of the Märklin facebook groups or on a forum. Try:
- facebook.com/groups/Maerklin.H0.Forum
- www.marklin-users.net
Let me know if you find a good overview of wiring - I am also interested. Enjoy ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun Thank you for this informative reply with the links, I’ll be sure to take a look at these.
Hello. Great, informative and perfect pedagogy. An additional video would be to explain all the other modes. I do not have a m84 and would like to know. And the detailled programming on each cv was a little confusing. Actually, i would like to know if it is possible to use an older crane with m84. It should be using 6 addresses (1 and 2 as latches, 3 and 4 as 4 independant switches) and use 2 switch outputs to feed 2 latche power input for rotating or moving the rope.
Glad you liked the video!
I have not tried making a crane move. Everytime I have seen somebody do it they have used a locomotive decoder. To me this makes more sense as a locomotive decoder is optimized for wheeled movement. I did find one video that might interest you on this from @marklinofsweden: th-cam.com/video/g0eYbtyRD6U/w-d-xo.html
As for the other CV79 m84 60842 modes you can find this in the 60842 manual on page 18: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/a5/7d/a57d1381cfd17d74e7434cb76db190ed1566485190.pdf
The CV programming I figured out by reading the description in the CS3 and trial'n'error. My intent in this video was not to go into details of every CV in the m84. I might look into the other modes and more CV programming in future videos.
Enjoy and happy model trains ;-)
Thankyou very much for your reply to my previous comment. If i may i am still having problems with my turnouts using my mobile station. I am using the m84 for switching of turnouts so far. I have set three sets of turnouts to 1,2, & 3 on my m84 using the 74491.The other four turnouts are set to 10,11,12,& 13 but this time i am using the digtal decoder for these four using 74462 with the appropriate dip switch settings. My problem is that 1,2, & 3, work on the m84 (lights change over on the m84) but the turnouts themselves do not move even though i ensured i wired them correctly as in your video. The turnouts 10,11,12 & 13 work perfecly well. please can you advise me if i am doing something wrong.
Hi Alf,
It is important to distinguish between then how to use the m83 and how to use the m84. The m84 is for permanently turning something on and off - like a light. The m83 is for activating something momentarily - like a turnout. A turnout is only activated shortly while the turnout changes. You can use the m84 for turnouts and the m83 for lights, but this require advanced programming. Furthermore, the m83 is cheaper than the m84 - so I highly recommend it for turnouts.
I suggest you used the m83 for turnouts as illustrated in this video: th-cam.com/video/eGexwTEeFZE/w-d-xo.html
If you have C-track you may also consider using the decoders that can be hidden under the track as illustrated in this video: th-cam.com/video/_6lGKQ3Vj2Q/w-d-xo.html
There is also a video on the three-way turnout as well.
Don't forget you can search by going on the channel home page and selecting the "search" button furthest to the right next to the "About": www.youtube.com/@ModelTrainFun
Here you can search for specific videos on this channel. There might already be a video for you. Generally, I would suggest starting with the Märklin Beginner playlist: th-cam.com/play/PLYAhs-Pox3sG31NwCfqIuk6IvI19q2czn.html
More playlists are available on the channel page and you can see where to find what on the Model Train Fun channel in this video: th-cam.com/video/_9ZlgohukIY/w-d-xo.html
Hope this helps. Enjoy ;-)
Hello Model Train Fun. I love your videos which are really easy to follow and very informative. Having watched this one, I saw that it came really close to a question I need to find the answer to.
From your closing sentences, it seems it may already be the subject of your next video, but just to make sure, my question is, how to connect a 3-way Viesmann signal (a dumb signal I suppose-with no decoders) and make it work with the 3-way signal icon of the CS3? I already tried to connect the cables of the red and green LEDs to-let's say address 9, and the cable of the yellow LED to address 10. When I change the icon of the address 9 to a 3-way signal icon, the accessory at the address 10 dissapears and then there is no control on the yellow LED. The 3-way icon only controls the red and green, but the 3rd has no function at all. I tried to assign a second address to the 3-way signal accessory, but the CS3 does not seem to accept a second address for one accessory.
Thank you in advance.
Vedat
Glad you like the video! I intend to conver the Viessmann 4011, 4012 and 4013 signals in a future video. I expect to receive them soon so I can experinment. Enjoy ;-)
Thanks a lot for your nice videos. It helps a lot. Anyway there is something which I didn´t understand well. I have a M83 for the turnouts and I have just bought a M84 for the lights . I have one power supply for the Mobil Station, but do I need another power supply for the lights ?? If I put together M83 and M84 , can´t I use the same power supply for all ? Sorry my ignorance but I am a beginner with the trains. Thanks for your reply !
Hi Simm,
I am glad you liked the video!
As a rule of thumb the m83 is good for switching stuff like turnouts. The m84 is good for turning something on/off like lights.
The benefit of the m84 is that you can use another power supply so you can save the track power and use it for locomotives and trains. In addition to that you can use any power supply that fits with your lights. Finally, you can use DC to power lights which removes flickering of the light (noticeable on videos).
You can also power your lights from the track power if you have lights that are compatible with the power from the track - be careful as most lights are not. You can see in the video I use the Viessmann clock with AC power: th-cam.com/video/eo65jHaoWqE/w-d-xo.html If you have a light that can use track power you can connect the red "B" from the track to the center like the yellow is connected to the transformer in the video and the return to the brown "0" on the track. This will actually work for the clock I use in the video as it also handles track power.
Another method is to reprogram the m83 as it can actually also handle lights. In this case they will be powered from the track, so remember to use lights that are compatible with track power. The black m83 can be programmed like you see the black m84 in the video : th-cam.com/video/eo65jHaoWqE/w-d-xo.html You just have some other modes (1-5) as you can see in the technical manual on page 18: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/3b/44/3b44f7c3c18c5d0a2b0c3e377f3df7281570606458.pdf Then you connect the light to the center and the side of the m83 group.
Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-)
Hello, is it possible to switch the turnouts with the M84 without a decoder in the turnout?
Hi Frans,
If you want an external decoder I recommend using the m83. The m83 is built for this purpose - check out this video: th-cam.com/video/eGexwTEeFZE/w-d-xo.html The m84 is good for continuos power like turning on/off lights. The m83 is good for pulses for accessoires like turnouts and the uncoupler track. In theory I believe you could program the m84 for turnouts, but the m83 is cheaper and ready to use for this purpose.
Enjoy ;-)
I tried this when 1 M84 was connected in series with 6 M83 decoders. I could not reprogram the M84 in this setup as shown in de video. It only works when only the M84 is connected to the Mobile Station.
Hi Bert, I have heard from others about this issue as well. Good to know that programming needs to be done with one when using the MS2. Unsure if this is also the case with the CS3? Enjoy ;-)
Your video showed you using a power source to the centre connection. I do not have a power source so how do I get around that as so far I have not purchased a central station. I only have the mobile station. I am not sure how to get the green lights to work on my m84 with only my mobile station. Please can you help me
Hi Alf,
I would choose to use the m84 when I have another power source for the light. However, you could use the track power as well.
If you have a light that can be powered from the track you can use the track power. First test your light by connecting it to the track one wire to the rail and one to the center studs - if it does not work try the other way around (dont forget to go out of stop mode). If this works connect red from the track (or brown) to the center and return after the light to the track with the color you did not use.
Before you try it out - double check that the light works with track power. You can damage the light - or in rare instances the MS2. However, the MS2 will probably just trigger the short circuit detection and enter STOP mode. However, be sure before you try.
You can use the m84 for this. However, if you intend to use track power for light, then using the m83 is cheaper. This will require a little of programming - unfortunately, I do not have a video showing this. However, if you have the black m83 (Märklin 60832), then look in the technical manual. It looks like you can choose mode 2-5 as described on page 18 - or program the CVs as illustrated on page 24: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/3b/44/3b44f7c3c18c5d0a2b0c3e377f3df7281570606458.pdf
You can also see how to connect light to the m83 on page 24 (this is different from the m84 light connection). I have not tried it with the m83 myself, but it should work.
Hope this helps. Enjoy ;-)
Thank you for your detailed videos! I tried programming the "white" m84 (60841) to take 8 different addresses, but unfortunately it did not work. It may have worked on your example because you were using a 60842, and somehow its improved architecture allows the separation of the switches (Schaltgruppe = 0).
Hi Armando, thanks for your feedback - I have tried to purchase a 60841 to try it out but have not found one available. I will see if I can add some text to this video to help viewers. Thanks! Enjoy ;-) Bo
Really nice video.when will you comment on how to use m84 for ghost station?How many light mast for example can I join for each red or green dot on M84?
Hi Vito, Glad you liked this video! I am not sure that I get the question on the "ghost station".
How many lights you can connect? This depends on your power source and the power consumption of the lights. On the Märklin 60842 the maximum current load per group (red/green) is 5 amps. The Viessmann 5080 clock in this video is specified as 10 mA and I assume the Faller 180110 is about the same. Hence, if you have a power supply that can supply the max 5 amps, then you can theoretically have approx 500 clocks or lights per re/green group. However, the length of wire will also influence this - and any resistor you add would also have to subtract this, then you might only be able to have 100-200 lights? You have to try it out, but you using LEDs you can power a considerable amount of lights.
Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-) Bo
Sorry I completely got the question wrong. I wanted to know how many groups of light poles, for example, can be placed on each exit of the m84, i.e. how many exit 1 can support, how many exit 2 etc. I hope I was clear this time. thanks@@ModelTrainFun
It was a very proffessional explanation top. Thanks. I have one question: I heard it is possible to change the uncouplingtime longer for a uncouplingrail by the MS 2. Is it possible to explain that one time ?
You would use the uncoupler track with the m83. You can change the pulse time with the m83. If you have the 60832 (black edition), then you can change it directly under the configuration. If you are using MS2 or the 60831 (white edition), then you can change CV114 for the Red 1, CV117 for the Green 2, and so on. I believe Märklin recommends the value 15 for the period.
I do intende to make a video on the uncoupler track in the near future. Enjoy ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun Thank you for the answer. I shall tray to fix it.
I have succeeded i extending the switchingtime of the uncouplerrail via the MS2. Thanks for the tip.
@@erichendrikse2946 Excellent - I am glad you succeeded. Enjoy ;-)
Which decoder would you use to control a mtb MP1 or MP5 turnout servo type motors?
Hi Earl,
Great little servo - I did not know of this one. It is new to me, so I do not know how to install it. Normally, servos are connected using the M83 (Märklin 60831 or Märklin 60832) with the Märklin 60821 accessory set. However, the MTB MPx series seems more versatile. Unfortunately, I have no experience with them, but I did look a little around on the MTP website (www.mtb-model.com/?lang=en) and the internet...
You can find the descriptions of the MTB MP1 & MP5 here:
- MP1: www.mtb-model.com/pages/mp1.php?lang=en
- MP5: www.mtb-model.com/pages/mp5.php?lang=en
Reading this it seems the MTB MPx can connect directly to the M83. To me it also seems like you do not need the more complicated versions - the basic MP1 should be enough for Märklin. However, the MP5 is a stronger engine - although I do not see the need for the relay (for DCC turnout electro frog).
I found the following that indicates how to connect the MTB MP1 to a standard switch decoder - this further strengthen the belief it can just be connected (as do the videos below): www.marklin-users.net/forum/posts/t37002-Turnout-motors---anyone-familiar-with-mtb-MT1
These video shows how to connect it to the DR4018 - the DR4018 is essentially a M83 from Digikeijs:
- th-cam.com/video/DrcNJhlepJU/w-d-xo.html
- th-cam.com/video/fT906-SgICo/w-d-xo.html
Summary: It seems it connects directly to the M83 - but I have not tried it myself. If you have C-track another option is the Viessmann 4568 that installs directly under the track (is more expensive than the MTB MPx, but comes with decoder). I have a video on this here: th-cam.com/video/GlNdqowq2VE/w-d-xo.html
I hope this helps. Let me know of your experiences with the MTB MPx - I am really interested in this one - looks like a cool turnout servo.
Enjoy ;-)
Hello and thank you for good and informative videos. Have a question about the M84 (the black one) regarding programming to 8 addresses and outputs and connection to CS3 as well as controlling the ports on/off using contacts via Events. Have no problems programming the M84 to 8 ports/addresses and can post 1 Event in the CS3 but when I post the next Event it doesn't work and the first Event has also stopped working. Do you have any experience or thoughts and ideas on solving this problem? Thanks in advance, Magnus
Hi Magnus, I am not sure what issue you are facing... What are you trying to do? Use an event to turn on/off lights? Control lights in a certain way? What do you mean by post events? Trigger based on something else? Are you using the light icons? Enjoy ;-)
Hello again, Thanks for your reply.
I'll see if I can clarify. In your movie Beginners episode 8a you have programmed the M84 to have 8 outputs and addresses. In the movie, you control these manually via your CS3.
If instead you want to control each port automatically using headers and S88 and do this as an Event in CS3, can you make it work?
Eg: In your video, the lamp on port 1 should go out when you pass contact number 1 and light 2. When the locomotive passes contact no. 2, light no. 2 should be turned off and the clock's light on port no. 4 should be lit.
When I try to automate this, the first Event can be done without problems. Lamp 1 goes out and lamp 2 lights up. But when I do event number 2, both the new Event and the first Event stop working....
@@magnusstadelmann2651 This should be possible - one thing that comes to mind is that the contact tracks might be too short, but I am not sure. I suggest you send me an email (see "About" on the channel page) and give a photo or a short description of that part of the layout. If you know how to take a screen shot of the events from the CS3, then please add these. Otherwise, I can try to make the events as I see they should be made. Enjoy ;-)
Hello again, I've been busy with something else the last week so I haven't dealt with my Märklin problem. But I think I'll skip the attempt to program the M84 with 8 outputs and run on the standard 4 ports instead. Thank you for your dedication. Looking forward to your new upcoming movies. Best regards Magnus
👍👍
Hi Sulaiman, glad you like the video. Enjoy ;-)
thank you very much but what is the power supply and how many volt ACor DC ؟
Hi Yamon,
Glad you liked the video. The M84 is powered by the track power. The M84 is just a relay, which means you need to get a power supply that matches the lights you control. This can be AC or DC depending on your lights. Typically, you find the lights in 12-20v from various model manufactors (some LEDs even lower). Max load per M84 group is 5 amp. Consider using DC lights if you want to make videos as this will create a flicker-free light on the video.
Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-) Bo
you said that m84 does not take pwer from the tracks, but if I connect it to m83 does it take power from this or does it always need its own power sup?
Hi Vito, both the m84 and m83 connect to the track power in order to power the electronics. However, the m84 can take power from another power source (as shown in this video) for the accessory you connect to the m84 output. The m83 will always use track power for the accessory connected to the output. You can connect m83s and m84s together to power the electronics of them all (chain them) and still have an alternative power for the m84 accessoires. Enjoy ;-) Bo
Hey nice videos can i ask a "noob" question?
Since am about to go into this hobby and probably spent a lot of money, my question is:
Since am about to buy marklin starting set (Model train "ICE 2" Digital Starter Set) can i run PIKO trains on c-gauge tracks?
This is one of the most import questions for beginners as it is important what fits together. Many models from other manufactors can work on Märklin. The key is that Märklin is a 3-rail system - you have the normal 2 rails + a center rail. The locomotives pick up power from the wheels and a "slider" mounted under the locomotives. What is important is to have a digital locomotive with slider. All digital locomotives with slides fit with the Märklin digital system. Manufactors and shops often mark it as AC Digital. Märklin digital supports MM, MFX and DCC 3-rail locomotives.
The other system is the 2-rail system. The tracks do not have the center rail. 2- rail locomotives do not have a center pickup and cannot run on Märklin 3-rail tracks. The 2-rail system uses DCC protocol for digital locomotives.
As a beginner it is important to choose one or the other. Märklin 3-rail is supported by fewer manufactors outside Germany. However, Brawa, Roco, Piko makes 3-rail locomotives. If you are into US consider 2-rail. I like Märklin/3-rail because it is good quality (nice/detailed), built to last and easy to use (MFX, 3rd rail, electronics, ...). Some people do not like the view of the "3rd rail" - I do not mind as it makes my life easier. You can do everything on 2-rail or 3-rail, but unfortunately it is a basic choice. When choosing consider where you can get help - from clubs, friends or shops. It is often easier when you can get help.
When getting started with model trains consider a starter set as it comes ready to run. Märklin currently has a promotion and you can see a video on "Getting Started" on this channel.
Getting Started: th-cam.com/video/slJZoMWZ248/w-d-xo.html
Märklin promotion Winter 2021/22: www.maerklin.de/en/lp/2021/christmas-2021
Hope this helps and welcom to model rail roading. Enjoy ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun Thanks for the info really helps! So now i have another question how to recognize on lets say trainworld what loco uses what system ?
@@pticurina Are you talking about AC as I mentioned above?
If you are looking at trainworld - I believe this is a US store. If you are looking for US trains, then you only find very few that will work on 3-rail. If US locomotives and trains is your passion, then I would consider 2-rail/DCC instead.
@@ModelTrainFun No am in Europe and Europe oriented towards trains :) And yes am only interested in dcc, aint no fun if train cant do the chu chu thingy :)
@@pticurina If you are interested in european trains then you can find lots that work with Märklin from manufactors like Roco, Brawa or Piko. Locomotives need the slider (often marked AC or 3-rail - sometimes AC digital). Many online stores provide filters e.g Haertle has "Betriebsart=3-Leiter Wechselstrom". If in doubt look up the model number on the manufactor website and read in english.
I think by DCC you mean digital - for Märklin you can look for locomotives that can do MM, MFX or DCC. All run on Märklin if they have the slider. Freight or passenger cars you can buy from any manufactor.
Enjoy ;-)
one more question, did I understand it right that if I have i.e. 12 lights that I want to turen on at the same time then I can Connect all 12 lamps to one adress ?
Hi Michael, yes you can connect multiple lights to each output. Just keep in mind that the maximum current load per group is 5 amps. Which also means you can connect a lot of lamps. Enjoy ;-) Bo
I keep wondering, is it nessecary to Connect to track Power if you have a transformer ? should that not be able to do it on its own ?
Hi Michael, the M84 needs to be connected to the digital signal (track power) so it can receive commands. Each output group can be powered by a separate power supply. According to the manual you can also "The decoder can also be connected to the 66360/66365 switched mode power pack (only in conjunction with 60822) (here power is not taken from the track and the power demanded from the track is thereby less). ". I have not tried to connect it like this, but it should work. Enjoy ;-) Bo
What is the difference between m84 and l88? When should I chose which?
You use the m83 for momentary connections and m84 for continous connections. Hence, the m83 is good for turnouts and uncouple tracks while the m84 is good for light, signals and stop track. The L88 is used for train detection through contact tracks, circuit tracks or reed contacts. You can see how to use L88 here: th-cam.com/video/asgop7QRIK8/w-d-xo.html
The m84 does have some inputs - however, these can only be used to change the connectors on the m84 in a simple way. In this way you can make some simple electrical automation without a control station. As an example the CS3 cannot read or react to the inputs of the m84.
Did this help? Enjoy ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun Thanks a lot for your very informative and detailed answer!
@@ModelTrainFun Hi there! I apologize about a noob question, but when you mentioned using uncoupling track with m83, why wouldn't you use that with m84 instead and have it set to either continuously on (uncouple everything that passes by) or off? Seems like if you use momentary connection you literally will have to catch the couplers as they pass over the uncoupler to disengage them. Could you clarify please?
@@AlexNYC961 The problem is that the uncoupler track uses a solenoid (electrical magnet). The solenoid will burn out if continously turned on. Hence, better to momentary turn it on. The idea is to set a period that is long, but not too long. I believe the modern uncoupler tracks also has protection against continous uncoupling, so it will automatically turn off anyways. Beware older versions might not have the protection...
The method for uncoupling is drive the locomotive until it is on the uncoupler and stop, then uncouple. This will already uncouple if there is no strain on the couplers and it is the better couplers (Märklin close couplers are best - Relex are more sticky). Alternatively stop locomotive with the couplers to uncouple just before the uncoupler then uncouple while driving locomotive forward over the uncoupler.
Enjoy ;-)
@@ModelTrainFun thank you so much for a quick reply and a detailed explanation! Cheers!
1st comment. Can’t wait till I’ve watched it - every other video had been great 👍
LOL - I hope you like the video when you get aroung to watching it.
Just watching now as i wait for my latest video to save to my computer before upload 👍
Like, like, like, like
Hi Chen, Happy you enjoyed the video! Have fun with trains ;-) Bo