19
Programming Track Hookup
The programming track is nothing more than an isolated and electrically insulated section of
track. We recommend you use a piece of flex track mounted in a convenient location near the
Command Station.
Use #18 gauge wire to make the connection between the Programming Track terminals and the
track. Solder the wire to the track. Limit the wire length to no more than about 5 feet.
Locomotives depend on their wheels and clean track in order for programming commands to
reach the decoder. Keep the track clean. Keep locomotive wheels clean.
Only one locomotive can use the programming track at a time. Therefore the track can be as short
as your longest locomotive.
Programming Track Is Not For Running Locomotives
The programming track cannot be used to run locomotives. It is only used to program decoders.
Except during locomotive programming, the programming track is dead.
When not in use, keep metal objects away from the programming track. Although it is dead when
not being used, it should be kept clear of anything that might accidentally short it out.
Sound Decoders - Using A Programming Track Booster
Your Command Station can program any NMRA-DCC compliant decoder. However, a sound
decoder has a unique and troublesome characteristic - it consumes a huge amount of current
when power is first applied. Because of this, attempting to verify or “read” what is programmed
into a sound decoder can be a problem.
Add A Programming Track Booster. One of the best solutions to this problem is to add a
programming track booster. We recommend the PTB-100 available from SoundTraxx. Once
added, most sound decoders can be programmed and verified without difficulty.
Hooking Up The PTB-100 Programming Track Booster. Do not connect the PTB-100 to the
Command Station’s 12VAC transformer. You must use an additional transformer. We
recommend our inexpensive 12NVT transformer. It has a 12VAC output rated at 1 Amp; more
than sufficient power for the PTB-100. If the PTB-100 wires are too short, splice in some extra
wire. Be sure to insulate the splice with heatshrink tubing. The yellow wires connect to the
Command Station’s Programming Track terminals and the orange wires connect to the
programming track. For more information on the PTB-100, see the accompanying manual
and/or download a copy from the SoundTraxx website.
Heatshrink Tubing
12VAC Transformer
Programming Track
Yellow
Orange
We strongly recommend keeping the programming track
physically separate from the mainline. Accidentally bridging
across gaps between the programming track and the mainline
track will damage the Command Station.
Separate Programming Track
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General