Easy DCC Decoder Testing! drM Digital Decoder DCC Chip Tester

[@mickedgeleyparkstation5391]

I have the esu version,a very useful handy piece of equipment.👍

[@DavidBrown-lh1vf]

Hi Jenny.. Very interesting and informative video as usual. I’ve been using the ESU 53900 tester and likewise only the first four outputs are at “power” level as per the NMRA spec. Aux3 and above are all logic level 5 volts. Just be aware that not all the outputs may appear to work as it’s usually necessary to configure the Aux out depending on what it’s going to be, i.e. “Mars light”, flickering firebox, servo drive etc. In the case of ESU V5 decoders, you need to enable the output and allocate which “F” button is going to activate it so it may appear you have a dead output when it just needs to be told what it is. Also, depending on which Aux you’re using, the indicator LEDs on the tester give a false trigger. In my case, I wanted to use Aux10 as an input trigger on a LokSound V5 which looks for a zero volt input ( negative ). Having set up all the necessary CVs, the input was permanently “on” due to the LED interface on the decoder test stand so don’t always assume it’s the decoder that’s at fault. All the same, a great piece of kit and glad you decided to do a video on how and what these units are capable of. 👍🤓

[@HumancityJunction]

I have a few of the DrM products, they have all worked as expected.

[@120ingram]

This is really useful. Thank you.

[@1701_FyldeFlyer]

Good reviewJen but could you explain what you mean by 'logic functions' and full power functions lighting the leds and difference between the two? Sorry if I missed it in the vid. Would have been a useful if they'd included a main ON \ OFF switch on the board although appreciate space would be a factor.

[@DavidBrown-lh1vf]

Interesting you ask about “logic” outputs. As far as “powered” outputs go for the most part only F0f, F0r, Aux1 and Aux2 give a zero volts ( negative voltage ) output. That is your lighting etc is fed with the common positive from the decoder ( usually the Blue wire ) and the switch wire provides the negative return. Aux3 and above are almost always “logic level”, that is they output standard computer logic at 5 volts. You should note that some decoders, Zimo for example can be programmed for “power” as well as “logic” on Aux3 and above but for the most part it’s logic only. All is not lost as you can use a buffer circuit to convert the logic outputs to power. I recently fitted an ESU LokSound V5 into a Bachmann class 66 with the Illuminated Models upgraded lights boards enabling all possible lighting functions. I used is a ULN2804A Octal darlington driver rated at up to 500mA each output. The inputs are designed to connect directly to logic level so wiring is as simple as it can by. If you’re powering LEDs, you’ll need to provide resistors with each output to limit the drive current. Incandescent / grain of wheat lamps can be connected directly. Sorry if this reply is a bit long winded but hopefully I’ve been able to answer your question. dB..

[@DavidBrown-lh1vf]

Just as a postscript. You will find some manufacturers such as DCC Concepts produce a 218 decoder ( 21pin with an adapter harness for 8pin connectors ). Some of these have 6 powered outputs giving you F0f, F0r, and Aux1 to Aux4. There’s nothing to stop you connecting the decoder to the standard 21pin header in the loco and use the harness to access any or all of the outputs from there. I believe Hattons and Rails of Sheffield have their own brands of 218 decoders available but I would check their websites to confirm the number of outputs before purchasing and I’m sure there must be others out there as well. dB..

[@adrianolsen-woodhamwoodtur4980]

Hi Jenny, on your recommendation, I’ve purchased one of these test boards, but the instructions are not very comprehensive. I’m not clear whether I power the test board using my Programming Track connector or the Main Line connector (Digitrax). Are you able to clarify this, please?

[@JenniferEKirk]

You would use the programming track connector.

[@mels1811]

Wonderful video

[@johnhinds-m0eou]

hi jennie im just returning to the hobby after a long break in this vide you metioned about susi what is this please john

[@moorlandmodelrailwayandy]

Thanks Jenny very informative atb Andy

[@bobainsworth5057]

Brilliant! Will it work for US decoders? Sorry if that is dumb question. Can we get this unit over here?

[@JenniferEKirk]

It works with all NMRA standard decoders.

[@bobainsworth5057]

@@JenniferEKirk Thank you! Good video.

[@melchestermodelrailway]

Who is suzzie?

[@JenniferEKirk]

SUSI - an interface used for add on modules and high speed programming.

[@hamshackleton]

I have the ESU Loksound version.

[@brucewoods9377]

I have had at least 2 Hornby 8-pin decoders go duff

[@tonyburgess7773]

(both the decoders tested which didn't behave as expected were by Hornby..)

[@Gilsreptiles]

👍🚂🚞🚞🚞🚞👍