Digitrax Zephyr Express DCS52 - 22 Connecting the DCS52 to a Computer; Updating the DCS52 to the Latest Firmware; 23 Loconet: the Digitrax Difference; System Architecture

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22.0 Connecting the DCS52 to a Computer
The DCS52 can be connected to a computer using the USB plug on the back.
It provides all the same functionality as a PR4 giving you access to Digitrax
SoundLoader II and other computer utility programs. It can also be used as an
interface for other compatible layout control software. For complete informa-
tion visit www.digitrax.com.
22.1 Updating the DCS52 to the latest firmware
Occasionally Digitrax makes updates and improvements to the operational
code of its products. In order to update your DCS52 you will need to have the
DigiIPLII utility installed on a computer connected to your LocoNet and the
latest rmware (.dmf) le. The DCS52 can be updated either directly using its
USB connection or via LocoNet using a PR4 or other computer to LocoNet
interface. When updating via USB & LocoNet the display will dim and the
keypad will ash green. For complete instructions and the latest rmware les
visit www.digitrax.com/downloads/.
23.0 LocoNet: The Digitrax Difference!
23.1 System Architecture
System architecture is the biggest dierence among layout con-
trol systems. System architecture is the way the components
of a control system communicate among themselves. Digitrax
LocoNet is a Peer to Peer local area network (LAN) designed
specically for model railroad operation. LocoNet wiring is
cost eective, exible and expandable to accommodate almost
anything you want to do with your railroad today and in the future.
The system architecture used for communication within DCC and other control
systems is not standardized. Therefore DCC compatibility encompasses only
decoders, command stations and boosters but not throttles and other devices.
In addition, devices that require feedback and other types of signals that are
outside the domain of DCC, such as detection systems and transponding, are
not standardized. LocoNet is a hybrid system that incorporates DCC and other
technologies to expand the capabilities of your system. Your Digitrax system
gives you the best of both worlds with a system that is compatible with today’s
DCC standards and also goes beyond those standards to deliver enhanced sys-
tem performance and advanced features that are far beyond the scope of DCC.
With Digitrax, you get Complete Train Control
®
!
23.2 LocoNet Expansion for Complete Train Control
Your DCS52 is compatible with any other LocoNet device. The DCS52 oers
you the ability customize your layout and add the features you want. Many dif-
ferent combinations of hardware will work, not all combinations will have all
features available. With LocoNet some of the things you can add are:
• More boosters to give you more power to let you run more trains
• More throttles for more operators
• Different types of throttles