CVs, Decoders and Remapping at Chadwick Model Railway. | 112

CVs, Decoders and Remapping, the basics explained at Chadwick Model Railway.
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[@tmcg972]

I can see the SPROG will be sold out everywhere soon... 😀😇 Such a fantastic piece of kit for all the ESU, Zimo, TTS, xyz chips Again, a great video with a good and well presented approach to this very complex topic. Thank you so much,Charlie, and stay safe!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re too kind TM, regards Charlie.

[@johnkain8851]

HI CHARLIE I AM 72 AND I LIKE THE WAY YOU EXPLAN THINGS SO I CAN UNDER STAND THANK YOU.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re most welcome John, regards Charlie

[@stevedonald8815]

In true ESU style, the best features aren't documented and I had never heard of the uncouple shuffle. And it works as you showed so well. Brilliant!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes Steve ESU are like that. Hence the price really, so much more expensive than the standard Hornby and Bachmann decoders but so much better.

[@stevedonald8815]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Yep, I've been busy putting v5 Loksound decoders (58821 DCC Direct and 58420 DCC) in all my fleet of late, even if they had decoders in them already. I really like them. In fact I am waiting on some of that Black Tack from England too. More of your doing I think... the more I watch KZbin the more I go off to Ebay! And another thing, you are responsible for yet another purchase of mine (or soon to be)! The Digitrax DT602D based system. Being married to an English lass myself, I rather appreciate your sense of humour and you perhaps underestimate your persuaviness. It all makes sense.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Steve.

[@donsharpe5786]

I watched this with interest Charlie. With all this complexity and the continued inferior sound on steam locos makes me pleased that I have remained DC. Thanks for the video.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Each to our own Don.

[@donsharpe5786]

@@ChadwickModelRailway But at least I didn't turn it off. Computer operation is not my forte.

[@nephroid7]

I have been using an ESU Lok programmer for many years and as I model European railways I am able to download all my soundfiles free of charge from the ESU website. I have had no trouble reading or modifying decoders from Trix, zimo, Lenz, Fleischmann, Roco, Uhlenbrock, Piko or Hattons possibly as they are all of German manufacture. My layout uses three helixes, similar to what you are proposing. The boards are from Model Railway Solutions of Poole and I have used Peco flexi track throughout. I found some very useful brass track clamps from Germany which allowed me to make my own set track in yard lengths and thus minimise the number of joints. Good luck with your own helixes. Regards Chris Hughes

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment Christopher, can you just elaborate, did our programmer read all the data back from the Lenz decoders?

[@nephroid7]

Chadwick Model Railway - sorry, I have to beg your pardon. I have been testing various non-ESU decoders this morning and you are quite correct, the Lokprogrammer will only read back comprehensive data from the ESU family of chips. As I normally only change address, speed steps and sometimes speed curves I have never tried to read the full data back from my locos. It reads and writes individual CV’s which thus far has been sufficient for my needs. I did find your video useful however as I had never tried to read back a comprehensive list of the data. It has given me an understanding so I shall certainly have a play with my many ESU fitted fleet. I am still unsure of what Function Mapping is all about though.

[@briansmith9946]

Complicated stuff, understandably explained. Well worth watching, thanks Charlie.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Bryan regards Charlie

[@BillySugger1965]

Charlie, thank you! Just what I needed. I’m just starting out with N Gauge, I’ve got three old, used, DC only locos and Lokpilot V5 decoders with a Sprog II. In the process of upgrading my Class 08 (sucker for punishment, me) to DCC and then I’ll be trying out the Sprog II. You have shown me exactly what I need to do to get started, that’s really helpful. And I appreciate your mental currency too 😉🥃

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thank you blue, for such a heartwarming comment. Regards, Charlie

[@roundel52]

Great video Charlie for a very complex area. Of course, you don't have to buy a SPROG if you already have a USB connection to your layout (for example by using a LocoBuffer USB to Loconet device or if you have a modern controller such as a Digijkeijs). So if you're already blessed with the right hardware, you can save the £45 and buy your two bottles of scotch :)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

But it can still be useful on the workbench environment John , regards Charlie

[@barryturner2916]

Even a DC dinosaur like me was able to follow and understand CVs, decoders and remapping for DCC as always a pleasure to watch.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Barry, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting

[@joevalentine2048]

Very good overview of DCC programming. I’ve used NCE since 2005 and programmed using the system. Decoder pro is on my laptop and provides almost every possible cv adjustment conceivable but one only needs to use the ones they feel necessary at the time. It’s like a buffet... no need to sample everything but it’s there if at some point you wish to further indulge

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A great comparison Joe, regards Charlie

[@IndigoDVW]

Hi Charlie, Courageous effort ploughing thru what could be termed a minefield for many. No less than Top Marks for this video. If I was in the UK I'd send a bottle of Scotch your way.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What a heartwarming comment Indigo. Many thanks Charlie

[@Synthematix]

Just bought a Lok Programmer, its amazing you can even make your own default settings (cv8=8) meaning you never have to touch the settings ever again, JMRI decoder pro works with all decoders

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m pleased that you enjoy it, it’s a great piece of kit regards, Charlie

[@Zebrails]

Excellent... I need a SPROG. You went through the steps nicely. I will work on wrapping my head around all the steps you presented with JMRI. While I have watched many British videos of real and model trains, I still find it interesting that your locomotives do not have bells but some of them have two step/two chime whistles. Most locomotives here have multi-chime whistles but they are blown all at once--- it's a single application. Generally in DCC, most defaults are "0" are Headlights, "1" is the Bell, "2" Whistle... beyond that, depending on Manufacturer, "3-28" have a variety of varibles. (Redundant in saying that?) Now, if you purchase a Rapido locomotive, (they have made at least two models for the English/British world) and they are sound equipped, Rapido's instructions mention (with some hilarity) "Button Sequences Not To Use... because your locomotive will either blow up or will disappear and show up back at their wharehouse." While their rollingstock is highly and accurately detailed, their humour can be just as welcoming. "Can be", I say. Their first run GMD-1 "Blow-up sequence Buttons" (For "STAR TREK fans) included on Function F17 has Scotty Exclaming "I've given 'er all she's got captain. If I push'er any harder, the whole thing'ill blow!!!" I may have said some time back, Buying Rapido products have raised my standards in buying high quality trains. I never doubt them and I surly praise their efforts... and laugh at their video advertising! Thanks for your video... Now, to get me one of those SPROGS... John EDIT: SPROG 3... $179 plus shipping... ugh. Big SIGH... But, you did explain about the (rightly put) plethora of chip/locomotive manufactures. And I do have at least eight different makes/manufacturers. My digressing ends here. Again, thank you.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What an excellent comment zebra rails. Stay safe, regards Charlie

[@johnbryson3348]

When I moved I packed up all my model railway that lived in my loft into boxes, but now I am going to get it running again, the trouble is that was forty years ago, I bought the first Zero 1 system but after many, many, hours on the phone to Hornby technical dept. because every time a train crossed a turnout other trains would shoot off out of control as the chips tried to read a contact spark, I threw the whole thing in the bin and went back to DC. But I think ( I hope ) things have moved on a lot since then and as you have inspired me to start again I will invest in new dcc equipment and try again. Anyone want a forty year old Hornby 125 HST one owner low mileage lol. Great video's Charlie, they have given me a lot of infomation

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good luck with DCC John, it’s a massive improvement.

[@SarykMoBa]

CVs and the Episode Number is the German Emergency Number - and then you talk about ESU and thier german branded chips... i see a connection there Charlie - and I like it. Cheers from Germany, Sarah

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Sarah, well that’s a sheer coincidence, regards Charlie

[@ainsleyperry5192]

Charlie, More and more of us are making one Decoder the standed for all their loco's. As soon as they make a new purchase get the loco home and before doing anything they replace the Decoder before doing anything else. Cheers, Chris Perry.,

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good solid practice, consistency will pay dividends, regards Charlie

[@tonyslight826]

Clever man Charlie. I will have to run this video a few times to try and grasp it plus the video on cv's very good i enjoyed it .Thank you.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s the way to learn your craft Tony.

[@ldifalco2010]

Excellent video Charlie. I recently converted over to DCC after 30 years of DC (N scale). I have to say, DCC is a lot more fun and adds more realism to operating your locos. Very informative video.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Lou. It’s such a shame that not everyone sees it the same way as you do. Regards Charlie

[@rickbear7249]

Thank you for your two explanatory videos, Charlie. -- Rick

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Rick

[@andrewgamble7518]

Another incredible and helpful video Charlie. You are simply the best KZbinr on model railways and your videos are insightful and full of humour. Keep going mate. Brilliant!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What a heartwarming comment Andrew, regards Charlie

[@hovermotion]

Lol...decoder snob😅... I think I am one of them...i"ve not tried any Esu v5 decoders yet... The Esu built in programmer in the Esu command station is very good too as it wil also read and program other makes of decoders...great demo Charlie...

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks mate, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it, regards Charlie

[@davidrees3625]

Well done Charlie with your attempt to explain the Dark Arts of DCC programming. Very brave of you, just about carried it off, I learnt quite a bit. Hats off to you, another informative and entertaining video. Keep up the good work!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

David I'm so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@DAVIDJGLOVER1952]

Another excellent, informative video. Many thanks Charlie. when I joined the RAF as an apprentice in 1968 we were called "Sprogs"!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Same with me as a young sailor.

[@patmccarthy1624]

Well done, Charlie. A very complicated subject, and of course, you've just scratched the surface. But - you've covered a log of ground getting a novice well along the way to understanding what is needed to start the journey to mastering the programming of decoders. I use JMRI, through the NCE system; most of my decoders are SoundTraxx, and I've found JMRI to be very useful. It does have a learning curve, however. Thanks for the lesson; I always enjoy getting your take on these subjects.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Pat. As you say, the learning curve is quite steep, especially for the newcomer. Regards Charlie

[@SailorDon]

Thank you for the warning. See you in two weeks. Keep up the good work.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Don, it’s a date, regards Charlie

[@gregoryhale2202]

Hi Charlie, a great informative video for which you are to be congratulated, so for anyone jumping from DC to DCC they would have found this video of great assistance, well done, Cheers Greg

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What a heartwarming comment Greg, regards Charlie

[@bryanlane62]

Thanks Charlie, that was really very interesting. I’ve managed to acquire a “plethora” of decoders already and I’ve only been back on the model railway scene for a couple of years !

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Bryan, regards Charlie

[@freightuk]

Interesting video, thanks. Admittedly I am not into sound but I use the Lenz system which happily couples to the JMRI tools which makes archiving settings for many locos manageable. The Teddy steps were designed to be broken off, I have even had damaged new ones, I refit them with the aid of Plastruct angle to the underside of the cab plate to achieve a much stronger fixing, and doesn't look out of place.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes those steps are a real challenge! Regards Charlie

[@geoffgardner7945]

A brilliant video Charlie. One of your best. I use Lenz decodes generally, Zimo for steam loco sound chips and ESU-Loksound for diesels. That drives me down the SPROG route to check and change my CVs. Interesting in your comments that the "uncouple shuffle" was not available on DCC Concepts decoders, as I was going to try their Zen Black, but now I'll be giving that a miss, unless I use a Zen Black on something that doesn't need to uncouple.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Indeed Geoff, it is not a level playing field, regards Charlie

[@garylewis3815]

Hi Charlie, great video and very helpful. As you mentioned , my loco's all have different decoders, both sound and non sound versions. Some loco's I too have not got information on the decoders fitted. I have a Gaugemaster Prodigy system on my loft layout. Great for programming/reading the main set of cv's but would take a long time to individually read/alter all the other cv's ..!!! So after watching the video I went and ordered a Sprog2 from DCC Train Automation and will have a go at using the JMRI on my laptop just as you have soon in the video..😀👍cheers and stay safe. Gary

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great news Gary, and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video, regards Charlie

[@aptechnicalservices]

Brilliant. Learnt loads. Very helpful. Andrew

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Andrew, regards Charlie

[@LHoriginal]

Great video mate! I had a little smile at the beginning when you said "sprog" because that's what my dad used to call me

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Was he ex-military?

[@LHoriginal]

@@ChadwickModelRailway he was part of the raf cadets and he signed up to be in the raf but never got in

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I thought as much, it’s always known as a military term for a young recruit

[@LHoriginal]

@@ChadwickModelRailway cool

[@willp358]

"Helices" What a wonderful spirally type of word. In a roundabout sort of way.. RTFM is such a brilliant acronym and your very explanative and informative demonstration is a masterclass of how to deal with the myriad of chips on the market was really interesting. Charlie, I know you say you are not an expert in this area but you quite obviously do a great deal of research and put forward your ideas in an interesting and unassuming way and give a very clear explanation of your preferences and views on a really technical subject. This is really appreciated thank you. Cheers Will

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Will, that’s a very heartwarming comment and I do appreciate it, regards Charlie

[@jedlahaye4765]

Yes you were right, I am DC, but found this very interesting, as I make my own controllers some of this is applicable to me, using different chips etc., great video Charlie, I have learnt a lot, thanks,and keep safe and well

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Jed, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video, regards Charlie

[@Mookie1340]

Great info on the SPROG.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it useful. Regards Charlie

[@allanhillery-jones9743]

Hi Charlie, thanks for another very instructive interface. I use an NCE Powercab with a PC interface which works with JMRI to replicate SPROG and can be used with throttles on the PC.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Allan. Stay safe. Regards Charlie

[@MrMagandy]

Very useful and informative Video Charlie. Thank you.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Andy.

[@richardharrison5192]

Hi Charlie, another very informative video presentation which gave me the confidence to have a go at remapping some of my decoders. I thought I would have a a look at a couple of my "poorer" performing locomotives. Having identified the makes of decoder I downloaded from the manufacturers the complete CV mapping for their products, very useful it has been too. Then using your video and information on various forums I went through and changed a number of the factory settings on the decoders. Goodness what a difference it has made. One of my Dapol locomotives ( N gauge tender driven) always sounded like a coffee grinder going around the track. Once I remapped a number of the CV's what a difference, it has made, yes it still makes more noise than say my Union mills but it is definitely much much quieter and smoother on the track now. So thank you so much for providing the information in this video and showing that with a bit of patience and care you can actually improve the performance of your DCC locomotives.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Richard, I'm so pleased that you found the video so useful. Regards Charlie

[@hwebster5087]

Thank you Charlie ,on a well presented video on what can be such a complex subject. Enjoy the tip. Howard

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Howard.

[@johnchesworth4371]

Very helpful and informative video Charlie - Thank You

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it John. Stay safe. Regards Charlie

[@zodzod9378]

Absolutely sproging great mate ! A hard subject but most wanted by many to tackle ! Done with accurate finesse and easy to understand ! All made sense ! Marvelous Charlie well done ! I myself truly needed to know that and you gave it to me thanks !!!!!!!!!!!!! John from Chichester.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What a heartwarming comment John, and I really appreciate it, regards Charlie

[@andrewharris6951]

Thanks Charlie for another great video keep up the good work.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Andrew, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting. Regards Charlie

[@SammoKarm]

Hi Charlie, I have only just seen this video, I must have missed it when you first put it up. I have been into programming now for a few years, but only doing it now and then means I tend to forget what I have learnt, and although I purchased the ESU programmer, I have always been interested in making all of my Diesel loco mappings identical to enable me to only have to look at 1 sheet as opposed to say 7 different Function sheets. This has been an excellent video, thank you. I have purchased the sprog 3. I am already using JMRI so hopefully this sprog will be an asset.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great news Sam, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@onnomulder9775]

Awesome how to Charlie! I saved this video. Thank for sharing it. Cheers Onno.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great to have you onboard Onno.

[@wamgoc]

Thanks for the video. I have a SPROG 3 and have found it very useful, and if you do go into more detail about JMRI at sometime, I for one would find it very interesting. Thanks again.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You might know more about it than I do, so perhaps you should do the video?

[@2010ditta]

I'm not going Charlie..lol I haven't a clue what you are on about, but I always like your video's and find them interesting and funny at times. All the best.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Tim, it’s great to have you onboard

[@hythekent]

Such a thorough video this one, you do us all proud Charlie. You’re a walking talking manual

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

If only HK, regards Charlie

[@dallasthomas9298]

Very useful video Charlie many thanks you provide excellent information, many thnaks. Dallas

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thomas I'm so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@phillbiggerstaff6984]

Well Charlie, another brilliant presentation and explained so well even a novice like me enjoyed it. I've just started to build my layout room and I await your next video. Kind regards from Phill in Australia.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Phill, it’s great to have you onboard

[@chriswalker2858]

Hi Charlie, I'm slowly picking up the info to understand dcc, playing with cvs etc, so this vid was very informative, cheers much appreciated. Stay safe

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Chris I’m so pleased that you found it interesting, regards Charlie

[@jonathanlawton710]

A really interesting, informative and very well presented video. Relatively new to DCC and finding myself bogged down with it all. Thanks so much for simplifying it.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

So pleased that I could help JL

[@rozzabuc]

RTFM - Read the Furnished Materials, obviously. Just discovered this channel, and it has inspired me to get back into the hobby after having put the layout I received from a family friend into storage 10 years ago. Thanks for the inspiration, slowly working my way through all the videos

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great news mate.

[@kenshores9900]

Charlie: We use RTFM here as well! Good video. I am one of those DC guys you talked about but I watched anyway because I want to learn. All of this stuff is relatively new for N scale (obviously because of the size of the scale). I do have a command control cab that allows prototypical speeds but no sounds. I can see how the sound adds another dimension to the realism. Thanks for all you do. Keep on tracking!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Ken I’m so pleased that you enjoy my videos, regards Charlie

[@barrywest8944]

Hi Charlie, I’m just getting into DCC so well worth the watch. Just as an aside I have baseboards down I’m so excited. Stay safe see you in 2 weeks.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It’s great to have you on-board Barry, and good luck with your layout too.

[@christopher-2000]

great video charlie i always use CV3 and 4 to control the exhilaration and Dexhilaration on my Locomotives i let my mum have a try to have a go programing CV,S ON MY DIgitrax transformer and she couldnt figure out what to do but my mum knows how to do it now though .

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment Christopher

[@stewarteadie6769]

Really enjoyable video Charlie, informative and straight down the middle insight and analysis.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Stewart, Regards Charlie

[@GDGRailway47712]

I use a SPROG3 for programming and controlling. Its a good piece of kit. The difference between the SPROG2 and 3 is mainly power output. The 2 has enough power to operate a couple of locos only as it is a low power programmer; the 3 is 3amp so is capable of running a medium layout with a few more trains on it. I'm planning on using wifi throttles with it but not got there yet. For £20 extra over the SPROG2, the 3 is about the cheapest way into a full DCC system, if a little more involved to get into than a "proper" controller.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good for you CMJ, you clearly have found a less expensive option that works, regards Charlie

[@richardandrews6754]

Excellent video Charlie, think it may take a few watching to grasp it all. keep up the good work, keep safe, Rich

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Richard

[@eddyweller4503]

Morning Charlie, I've only ever had DC so almost turned off but curiosity took over, I do like to know how things work so stuck with it!! Its brilliant to see how controllable some of these chips are, what a difference they make to the operation of the railway, as far as I'm concerned it's all a bit like my French I understand just a bit more than I can speak if you talk slowly and use your hands a lot. Think I'll stay where I'm at, and watch and learn from the master your right up there for me Charlie keep doing what you're good at and I'll try to learn. Stay safe see you on the next one Eddy xx

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What a heartwarming comment Eddy. You’re too kind, regards Charlie

[@Parkendnorth]

This was perfect timing I’ve been wanting to up my game with dcc. Great video and you did make it look easy. Will be looking it to this

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting, regards Charlie

[@garybeard6483]

An interesting and informative, not to mention amusing, video once again. Many thanks Charlie !

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Gary I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it, regards Charlie

[@Kevin-mm5ix4dc7y]

Thanks Charlie, very informative. Good luck at the tip and the new build

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Kevin, regards Charlie

[@pierre-de-standing]

Before rushing out and buying a Sprog, it is worth checking if your existing DC system interfaces with JMRI as JMRI has extensive "drivers" already. My z21 does and so will the Hornby Elite, your Digitrax system too. I like JMRI, its Decoder Pro is excellent for handling CVs, I also use its throttles in preference to using the z21 software on a tablet. JMRI can do fantastic things and Decoder Pro is just scratching at the surface. You can do consists (double heading), routes and even more I dare say it will do pretty much complete automation if you wanted. Many thanks for yet another great thought provoking video Charlie, you have one of the best streams out there on KZbin land.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Jane. The sprog is also useful for using on your workbench away from the layout, to prep locos prior to putting them into service. Regards Charlie

[@Tez_Thorn1405]

Love a good old geekspeak video,i actually find it quite interesting

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Tez /NEwarrior-1405 I'm so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@Tez_Thorn1405]

@@ChadwickModelRailway i did, i dont have the space to run a model railway layout myself,but theyve always interested me since i was about 5/6 years old (now im 27), but sometimes its nice to sit back and learn the guts of a layout through your videos, your living proof that you are never too old to do something you enjoy, and that deserves absolute credit, keep up the great work, and most importantly, stay safe,all the best Tez 🙂

[@RandomTom92]

Charlie, I have recently discovered your channel and have been inspired to dig-out my Hornby set from when I was younger. Love the channel, although I have to question your taste in scotch! - happy to recommend some - keep up the great work!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Actually Tom, I’m a Laphroaig enthusiast!

[@garylaker4335]

Thanks Charlie. Another informative one👍. I have an eclectic bunch of decoders so I can see a Sprog on the horizon!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good for you Gary.

[@gibsonethirty2836]

G'Day Charlie When I decided to get back into model rail road after many years being busy with life I decided that the first thing I'd do was some research. Now back in the day I was like most who had a plain old DC run layout and I had built my own PWM DC Throttles (yeah PWM, same as a DCC throttle), did all the normal switch changing of lines and blocks to run multiple trains all done via relays and basic electronic PCB that I knocked up. It was a spaghetti western under that layout I can tell you, but I didn't have sound and I had to be very careful of what trains ran where and what direction. So this time I was keen to get the most out of my layout, with all the fruit of sounds and lights and as close to the real deal as possible with running and controlling my trains. So I did some digging on the net and like you decided on DigiTrax for the Command and Control bit. A lot more digging and I decided that where ever possible I'd use only one Sound decoder, that decoder ended up being a SoundTraxx Tsunami2. So with that in mind I only buy DC Loco's and I install into each one a Tsunami2 decoder. However a few of my Loco's now have more than one decoder installed into them, but the main C+C decoder will always be the Tsunami2. So I suppose you could say I now run DC+C+C+E+C+T. (wth) lol All of these Loco's CV's I can adjust via my DigiTrax Throttle or with Railroad & Co's TrainProgrammer, the only sticky bit is I must unplug any extra decoders in any of the multiple decoder loco's so as to only adjust one decoder at a time. When all CV's have been 'corrected', TrainProgrammer like JMI allows for storing of the info. Then the multiple decoders are all addressed the same and run as one. So why did I choose Railroad & Co's programmer over JMI's programmer, well RR&C's programmer has a more windows look to the interface in my opinion and feels more comfortable for me to use, I did try both and RR&C's was the one that did it for me. Plus I had intended to get their Bronze version of TrainController later on so as to be seamless, but thanks to you I'm now thinking Silver at least!!(thanks!) lol PS: I also use their TrainAnimator, helps a lot as well.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What an interesting journey G130. Good luck on your adventure. Regards Charlie

[@RTM-fan]

Great educational video again Charlie, a friend of my has the Sprog and JMRI, but the version he has does not work super with reading ESU decoders, takes a big time, but this is due to updating the Sprog, not sure which version he has. In general I'm also an ESU guy. I love the fact that you can alter or make soundfiles, so every loco can have his or hers own identity. Americans swear with Tsunami, sorry but Tsunami is stoneage compared to ESU. And ESU is for Europeans better available and thus cheaper then Tsunami, cannot say anything about other decoder brands because I have experience with them. Right now I'm working on the shay soundfile with sounds taken from KZbin videos to put into the ESU soundfile, thats the great advantage of ESU, the sugarcube speakers that come with V5 decoders are unmatched if you install them correctly.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment CHLC, I’m on your side with ESU, the best decoders available. They do take a while to read but that’s because of their complexity, regards Charlie

[@paulnorval9646]

As always Charlie, lots of good information for all.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Paul, regards Charlie

[@stevechilders2425]

Great video Charlie. Just a note that the "Sprog" option also allows for all of the other JMRI options including "Panel Pro" which can help to automate points and block detection and lighting..

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good point Steve but this was meant as a taster.

[@1952TonyC]

Thank you so much Charlie. More like this would be most welcome, especially on the JMRI-SPROG combination. I use a SPROG but, because I like the YouChoos Immersive driving I have invested in their Tweak and Drive which is used to program Zimo decoders and works with my SPROG 3.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Tony, and I will certainly produce another SPROG/JMRI video once I’ve become more conversant with the system. Regards Charlie

[@mattjackson8226]

Grest video thanks for doing a video on chips and how to program them. For me as an DC modeller I find it interesting to see. I do have some basic DCC so I enjoyed watching.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great Matt. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Regards Charlie

[@alecralph6667]

I to am a DC user but the video was still interesting but definitely "mind boggling"! Thank you.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Alec

[@robstrains8711]

Excellent video I myself predominantly use ESU and have the programmer for it which is awesome I especially like the auto fine tune ability it works every time.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

We both sing from the same song sheet Rob.

[@cliveking9775]

Thank you Charlie. Looks like the sprog is for me. Very interesting video.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Clive.

[@philipholt9112]

Hi, like your class 9f and 47 I did 50yrs on the footplate 8yrs on steam i started at edgeley shed in in 1961 in 1962 I was made a fireman I finished my time out at longsight as a driver Regard Phil.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great memories Phil, I take my hat off to you. Regards Charlie

[@ChrisMarshallUS]

Thanks Charlie, going to have to watch again as that was a lot of information to absorb but very helpful

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Chris

[@onkyonky4740]

Thank you Charlie

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Most welcome, regards Charlie

[@peterdawson7701]

Thank you Charlie, I was prompted to look at the earlier video (CVs for Dummies) and I have learnt a lot from watching both. I doubt I can resist the temptation to buy a SPROG!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Peter, I’m so pleased that you found it somewhat intriguing. Regards Charlie

[@barryarnold389]

Great video Charlie. I would just like to add that JMRI will work will most systems, you just need your chosen systems USB interface. If your system has Railcom you can even program many CVs while on the main layout. When resetting decoders CV8=8, do remember that the loco address is also reset to 3 usually. I thought I'd wiped my Zimo when I first reset it, until John at Youchoos kindly reminded me to change to address 3, Doh! Regards Barry

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That truly was a schoolboy error Barry! Regards Charlie

[@RGBSenex]

Really good Charlie - still having thoughts about DCC. This was useful stuff. Thank you

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting RG. Regards Charlie

[@LordInter]

I have the lenz 10231 in everything, everything works the same, same functions, if one goes wrong I wipe it and start it again, nothing has sound, a few have lights, coding is easy for me as GWR steam trains have unique 4 digit number codes 😁 this is so much more advanced and useful for me in the future!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

We have the same strategy, except I use ESU. Regards Charlie

[@davidcurrie8429]

Hi Charlie, A very informative video, I have been using JMRI to program my decoders via my Lenz system using there USB interface and have also tried operating it via the JMRI wifi throttle using the "Engine Driver" app on my andriod phone. I would advise people not to rush off and buy a SPROG if they have a USB interface with there DCC system or one is available (Pricing varies). Regards, David.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

But one other point David, it is worth having the sprog if you’re setting yourself up with a workstation away from the main layout. Regards Charlie

[@davidcurrie8429]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Hi Charlie, If your budget allows then a SPROG would be a useful addition. I do think the use of computers in this wonderful hobby is a great way to get the younger generation interested. Regards, David.

[@bobhordern5139]

Informative AND accessible as ever. As I'm converting to DCC just now this is helpful. Most of my decoders have similar F buttons but a few are different. Should say that Powercab lets you alter CVs from the throttle, though in fairness it's a pretty naff matrix screen!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

But if it works for you Bob ....

[@vincentweatherly9991]

I’ve only ever had dc but want dcc and have an interest in this area of dcc so no, I won’t leave

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good man Vincent

[@leonardlea8740]

Absolutely fascinating. Thank you Charlie.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Leonard

[@ryandixon6482]

Thanks for this video Charlie, I'm about to make the jump into to dcc and this, amongst some of your other dcc vids, is really useful. Keep it up :)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Ryan

[@Rob-bl5ik]

Thank you Charlie for another informative video as always.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Rob. Take care mate, regards Charlie

[@joelirl6764]

Hi Charlie, I like to use "Read The FRIENDLY Manual" for RTFM. Much better than the original IMHO! 🤓 but you do you it's all good.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An interesting option Joe, regards Charlie

[@BritishRailProductions]

I'm DC. Still here, got to remember the entertainment value as well. 👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it entertaining BRP

[@nigelcarter9503]

Nice one Charlie.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Nigel.

[@brucenelson7451]

brilliant again. I am just installing a DCC++ system that uses a standard Arduino and Motor shield as a sub £50 alternative to my expensive NCE kit. Being an Arduino it is totally open so could be interesting in the future. However, the point of this is that it works just like the Sprog and I also use Decoder Pro to set up my 100 plus Zimo sound decoders. even top end decoders can have problems with different function being assigned differently by the guy who created the sound file to different locos. The decoders from DigiTrains are not bad but I have had to move a few functions between various steam locos so they match across my fleet. It can be done manually but Decoder Pro makes the jobs a breeze, there is a bit of a learning curve due to the huge number of options that a decoder such as the zimo allows but once you have got us to it it is very productive. I am definately NOT a DCC CV novice but still enjoyed your excellent description/demonstration, for those who are not too familiar with changeing and tuning CVs it will help them start to get to grips with a very facinating subject. When you start to get into complex areas such as speed matching a double header using two different locos from two different manufactures with two different sound chips then Decode Pro makes it breeze to do. That is when the complexity of Decoder Pro really helps. Once again, many thanks for an enjoyable 30 odd minutes.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Excellent comment Bruce. Only one problem, you clearly know more about it than I do, I would really appreciate you producing a video showing the remapping within decoder pro, regards Charlie

[@brucenelson7451]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Ah now making a video is where you definately know a lot more than me, never made one. But you have definitely got me thinking as decoder remapping can be so, so useful in particular when like me the layout is configured to do lots of sound things automatically. I use my own brewed automatic block and signal control using various micro-controllers. I model the transition period, steam and early diesels. When a steam loco stops at a Block protecgtion signal I have a pre-definned sound sequence that will continue until the signal clears, at which point there are other sound to add some realism. The only practical way to achieve this is if all steam locos have the same function settings. For my DMUs, once they arrive at a station, in my case normally a terminus, there is a lot of sound that can be used such as doors opening and closing which will continue for a few moments after arrival, then more opening and closing of door, before departure plus guards whistle and guard/driver buzzers etc. A lot of different sound functions, far too many for manual control but very easy with an Arduino acting as a DCC controller. However, if the function codes do not match from decoder to decoder there is just choas. So you never know I may well fire up my digital Nikon and make a video. Guess I better look at your other channel first before attempting to get my feet wet.

[@harveydog1002]

Hi Charlie Thanks for the great review. Sprog is a superb piece of kit. I use a Sprog 3 to control my layout via JMRI and WI-FI throttle. Use mobile phone or tablet to control locos and all functions. JMRI Panel Pro to design layout, and control points. Cheers.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It appears that I am the last person on the planet to try out this little gizmo!

[@MrRustybus]

Hi Charlie. I have JMRI on a laptop and run my layout through an arduino, it is a little complicated to set up but I have all my locos chipped and running (sadly I can only afford basic chips), Programming is quite easy using JMRI as nearly all available chips are in the program. PS. Keep up the good work as I have garnered a lot of useful information from your channel.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting MRB

[@alanswallow9033]

Bottles of scotch sound a lot better than pieces of eight cheers!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I think you’re right Alan, regards Charlie

[@peterheppenstall654]

Very Helpful - Sprog ordered

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A good move Peter. Regards Charlie

[@barelanestephenprice7043]

Great video. Very informative, answered a few questions Charlie. Thankyou.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so please that you find it interesting Stephen

[@sprogdcc]

When setting up a new decoder I would recommend you "read full sheet" before making any changes on each sheet. That way you will be editing what's actually in the decoder, rather than what the defaults are set to in JMRI (sometimes errors creep in or manufacturers make changes). I would avoid "read all sheets" as it can take a long time, especially with complex sound decoders (even a single sheet may take a while). Andrew (SPROG DCC Ltd).

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Andrew, much appreciated. Regards Charlie.

[@MrMarshalbeej]

You can only do this when using a programming track. Also Decoder Pro supports many command stations so chances are if you already have computer access to your command station you can use DeCoder Pro

[@bobainsworth5057]

If you have a sprog, and one of your locos looses is mind for some reason ( it is dcc after all) you can put loco on programming track find it in your roster, click on it and write full page and your back in business. You can also print you roster list and you'll have all pertinent info you can file for future reference incase your computer does what computers do at times.😁

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m unsure on that one Bob. You can certainly save all the CV setting. But what you’re asking is, can you save all the sound files and I’m unsure. Regards Charlie

[@brokeastronomer]

Good video Charlie. Perhaps you would consider doing a future video on advanced consisting?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

One step at a time mate please! Regards