Build your own DCC decoder tester - check digital chips AND test loco LEDs for brightness

[@andrewstephenson3594]

Excellent

[@paterpracticus]

Thanks. Hope you found it useful.

[@charlieharris5254]

When you plug in the cable from master if the decoder is other than #3 will it show the one on the decoder, say 6 etc. That is without using the keypad on master.

[@paterpracticus]

Yes. The decoder behaves exactly the same as if it were in a loco.

[@ayurgal]

You mention to put the decoder on to the test rig and to make sure you get it the right way around. You didn't mention how to tell if it is the right way around and what happens if it is backwards.

[@paterpracticus]

There is a little ‘1’ on the top left corner of my decoder socket, and usually the chip (depending on the manufacturer) will have a mark in the same position. Some decoders are clearer than others. I accidentally fried a Hattons one recently as their markings are (were) really quite faint.

[@ayurgal]

@@paterpracticus looks like I fried a decoder. Thank you for the information. I’ll know what to look for next time.

[@paterpracticus]

​​⁠it is annoying how badly some decoders are labelled. Can’t help thinking it would be fairly simple to design them so they only go in one way. Perhaps a blank pin.

[@charlieharris5254]

Do you have web address?

[@paterpracticus]

I have a very basic website: paterpracticus.com/ - eventually I plan to add more support for more videos, but it is a start.