Category
Decoders & CVs
Choosing and fitting decoders, plugs and sockets, addresses and configuration variables (CVs).
- How to fit a 21MTC, PluX or Next18 decoder Identify which modern direct-plug interface your loco has, choose a matching decoder and fit it without cables or soldering.
- How to fit a decoder to a loco with a 6-pin NEM 651 socket Swap the blanking plug in a 'DCC ready' 6-pin loco for a plug-in decoder, line up pin 1 correctly and test it safely on the programming track.
- How to fit a decoder to a loco with an 8-pin NEM 652 socket Fit a plug-in decoder to a 'DCC ready' OO or HO loco with the common 8-pin socket, getting pin 1 right first time and testing before you refit the bo…
- How to program a long (four-digit) DCC address Give a loco a four-digit address such as its running number, either through your command station's address menu or by working out CV17 and CV18 yours…
- How to reset a DCC decoder to factory settings Get a misbehaving decoder back to a known state by doing a factory reset, then check the address and settings before you start again.
- How to set CV29: direction, speed steps, analogue and long address Decode the bits of CV29, the decoder's main configuration register, and build the right value for direction, 28/128 speed steps, DC running, RailCom …
- How to speed match DCC locomotives Adjust start, mid and top speeds (and trims) so different locos run at the same speed for the same throttle setting – essential for double-heading an…
Decoders & CVs: parts and tools — the generic tools and parts these guides call for.