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The Command Station automatically sends the function commands to the advanced consist
address. This is a benefit because it provides a convenient way to customize how each consisted
locomotive is to respond to the function command. For example, you might want only lead unit
to be the only unit that sounds the horn but you want all units to have their dynamic brakes turned
on when that function is enabled.
Another feature of advanced consists is that each locomotive in the consist can have its
acceleration and deceleration rate fine tuned for optimum performance while in a consist. All of
this flexibility is provided through the use of four configuration variables (CV) that are only used
when the locomotive is in part of an advanced consist.
CV-21 controls whether the decoder's F1, F8 functions are controlled by the consist address or
the primary address.
CV-22 controls the locomotive's response to the light commands. This is the F0 or FL function as
well as the F9 through F12 functions.
CV-23 controls the locomotive's rate of acceleration when used in an advanced consist.. This rate
is separate and distinct from the value used in CV-3.
CV-24 controls the locomotive's rate of deceleration when used in an advanced consist. This
overrides the locomotives CV-4 value.
The values stored in these four CVs remain, even if power is removed or the locomotive is moved
to another layout. The values are programmed via mainline or OPS programming. The
programming can take place prior to or after the advanced consist is created. In all cases, the
locomotive must be on the rails and powered.
Step-By-Step Example
The previously built advanced consist #91 will be used to illustrate how to setup each locomotive
to respond to the function commands. The first step is to determine how each locomotive is to
respond to each desired function command. For this simple example, the lead locomotive is
1891. It helps to fill out chart for each available function (as offered by the decoder) and if the
locomotive is to respond or not respond.
Customizing Decoder Functions In An Advanced Consist
NormalNormal
Reverse
Lead UnitTrailing Unit
#2841 #51 #1891
Recall that a CV contains 8 bits numbered from 0 through 7 with each bit controlling a function
on the decoder. By using a little arithmetic, it is much easier to load a single decimal value into the
CV than 8 separate binary values. Either method will work so choose the one that is easiest for
you to understand. The decimal value method will be used for the example.
Build A Simple Chart
The first step is to build a chart, like the one on the next page, that shows all of the desired
functions found on your decoder. For this example, the older DSX sound decoder is used. If you
have made any modifications to the decoder function mapping, then the key and its associated
function may be different.
continued on next page
Check Your Decoder's Documentation
Decoders are becoming more and more complicated and many manufacturers
do not follow all of the NMMRA-DCC standards and recommended practices
(RP) for CV21 and CV22. Always refer to the decoder's documentation to
determine its capabilities and special requirements. If you have a decoder
question, please contact the decoder manufacturer first because they are the
only people that can help you with a decoder specific question.
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