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Welcome message and overview of the Prodigy Advance² DCC system's capabilities.
Explains the fundamental principles of Digital Command Control (DCC) for model railroads.
Provides essential first steps for setting up and operating the DCC system and locos.
Detailed instructions on acquiring, controlling speed, direction, and headlights of a locomotive.
Instructions for assigning unique addresses to multiple cabs for proper system communication.
Information on expanding the system with additional cabs using extension plates.
Restricts programming rights on the main track to designated cabs.
Defines key terms related to locomotive decoders and their programming parameters.
Step-by-step instructions for programming loco settings on a dedicated program track.
Instructions for programming decoders directly on the main layout track.
Method for reading decoder configuration variables (CVs) from a loco.
Explanation of Configuration Variables (CVs) and their importance in decoder customization.
Lists frequently used CVs and their functions for advanced decoder tuning.
Instructions for creating consists using CV19 for modern decoders.
Step-by-step process for setting up advanced consists and adding locomotives.
How to operate a consist that has been programmed using the advanced method.
Procedure for dismantling an advanced consist and returning locos to individual control.
Method for creating consists with older decoders lacking CV19 support.
Steps to set up consists for older decoders using the lead loco's address.
Instructions for setting the time, time ratio, and AM/PM or military format.
Procedure to set the current time on the system's fast clock.
Adjusting the fast clock's speed relative to real-world time.
Selecting the desired time display format for the fast clock.
Steps to assign addresses to accessory decoders using CV #513.
How to select and operate individual accessory outputs.
Procedure for defining routes by adding accessories and specifying their actions.
How to activate a pre-programmed accessory route.
Initial check for base unit power and pilot light status.
Diagnosing potential short circuits by observing light patterns.
Verifying the main track's electrical output using a test loco or light.
Troubleshooting issues with the cab's LCD display and cable connections.
Diagnosing why the cab display remains blank while the base unit is powered.
Explains causes for headlights turning off unexpectedly and potential fixes.
Troubleshooting steps when all locomotives on the layout cease to function.
Resolving issues preventing programming operations on the program track.
Welcome message and overview of the Prodigy Advance² DCC system's capabilities.
Explains the fundamental principles of Digital Command Control (DCC) for model railroads.
Provides essential first steps for setting up and operating the DCC system and locos.
Detailed instructions on acquiring, controlling speed, direction, and headlights of a locomotive.
Instructions for assigning unique addresses to multiple cabs for proper system communication.
Information on expanding the system with additional cabs using extension plates.
Restricts programming rights on the main track to designated cabs.
Defines key terms related to locomotive decoders and their programming parameters.
Step-by-step instructions for programming loco settings on a dedicated program track.
Instructions for programming decoders directly on the main layout track.
Method for reading decoder configuration variables (CVs) from a loco.
Explanation of Configuration Variables (CVs) and their importance in decoder customization.
Lists frequently used CVs and their functions for advanced decoder tuning.
Instructions for creating consists using CV19 for modern decoders.
Step-by-step process for setting up advanced consists and adding locomotives.
How to operate a consist that has been programmed using the advanced method.
Procedure for dismantling an advanced consist and returning locos to individual control.
Method for creating consists with older decoders lacking CV19 support.
Steps to set up consists for older decoders using the lead loco's address.
Instructions for setting the time, time ratio, and AM/PM or military format.
Procedure to set the current time on the system's fast clock.
Adjusting the fast clock's speed relative to real-world time.
Selecting the desired time display format for the fast clock.
Steps to assign addresses to accessory decoders using CV #513.
How to select and operate individual accessory outputs.
Procedure for defining routes by adding accessories and specifying their actions.
How to activate a pre-programmed accessory route.
Initial check for base unit power and pilot light status.
Diagnosing potential short circuits by observing light patterns.
Verifying the main track's electrical output using a test loco or light.
Troubleshooting issues with the cab's LCD display and cable connections.
Diagnosing why the cab display remains blank while the base unit is powered.
Explains causes for headlights turning off unexpectedly and potential fixes.
Troubleshooting steps when all locomotives on the layout cease to function.
Resolving issues preventing programming operations on the program track.
The MRC Prodigy Advance² DCC (Digital Command Control) System is an advanced, user-friendly system designed to enhance the enjoyment of model train layouts. It comes as a complete package, including a Command Station (base unit), a power supply, and an LCD Cab/Handheld with a cable.
The Prodigy Advance² DCC system operates by sending DCC commands from the Command Station to DCC decoders installed in locomotives. Each decoder-equipped loco has a unique address and responds only to commands matching its address. This eliminates the need for multiple blocks and power packs, allowing different locos to run at varying speeds and directions on the same track. The system also supports turning on/off locomotive headlights and activating sounds for locos equipped with sound decoders.
The system supports up to 99 Cabs, each requiring a unique address. Cab #1 is designated as the Master Cab, capable of performing all system functions. Additional Cabs must have their addresses changed from the default #1 to unique numbers, ideally in sequential order. The system's response time can be optimized by setting the total number of operational Cabs, as the base unit communicates with only one Cab at a time.
Programming decoders is a core feature, with the system guiding users step-by-step. Decoders can be programmed on a separate Program Track or directly on the Main Track layout without affecting other running locos. The Program Track is exclusively for programming and reading decoders; locos will not run on it. The system allows programming of loco addresses (2-digit: 1-127 or 4-digit: 128-9999), Start Voltage (SV), Acceleration Rate (Acc), Deceleration Rate (dEc), and Top Voltage (TV). It also supports programming Configuration Variables (CVs) for custom tailoring decoders or selecting specific functions. A crucial feature is the ability to read back CV values from a decoder-equipped loco on the Program Track, useful for recalling unknown addresses or settings.
Consisting, or grouping multiple locos to haul heavy loads, is supported through two methods: Advanced Consisting and Universal (Old-Style) Consisting. Advanced Consisting programs a consist number into the decoder's CV19, overriding its original address. These locos then respond to the consist number until cleared. Universal Consisting stores consist information in the base unit, allowing older decoders without CV19 support to be grouped. In this method, the base unit distributes speed commands to individual locos within the consist. One Universal Consist per system is supported, and it persists even after power-off until manually cleared.
Accessory functions (F0-F28) can be controlled, including headlights (F0). The system also supports accessory decoders for operating turnouts, building lights, and signals. Accessory decoders have unique addresses (CV #513) and can operate independently of loco decoders. Accessory routes, which group turnouts or accessories, can be created, with up to 31 routes and 8 accessories per route.
A Fast Clock feature allows users to set and display a simulated time, time ratio, and AM/PM or military (24hr) format. This time information is stored in the base unit and transmitted to all Cabs, aiding in maintaining railroad schedules.
General| Brand | MRC |
|---|---|
| Model | Prodigy Advance 2 |
| Category | Control Systems |
| Language | English |
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