Decoder CV Values

[westerninvader]

I'm new to DCC sound fitted loco's and would like to change the CV Values in relation to engine idling and powering up on some of the loco's I have. I only have a very basic DCC controller at the moment and isn't capable of achieving this.
Would like some advice on controllers (not too expensive) capable of allowing me to alter CV values, i.e NCE Powercab for example, and is it easy to do ?

Many thanks
WI

[Flashbang]

I'm new to DCC sound fitted loco's and would like to change the CV Values in relation to engine idling and powering up on some of the loco's I have. I only have a very basic DCC controller at the moment and isn't capable of achieving this.
Would like some advice on controllers (not too expensive) capable of allowing me to alter CV values, i.e NCE Powercab for example, and is it easy to do ?

Many thanks
WI
Hi
I feel you should be looking a DCC system that can both set (write) CVs and read them too.
The PowerCab, Hornby Elite, MRC / Gaugemaster Prodigy Advanced2 and many others too e.g. many of those from the Digitrax, Lenz stables along with many other mid to top end price range consoles will all do this - Check each manufactures spec. sheets.

You could remain with your existing system, or an upgraded system, and simply purchase a SPROG2 system which will allow you to not only read/write CVs but do so via a PC interface. sprog shop (http://www.sprog-dcc.co.uk/shop.html)

If you can read a CVs setting and note that setting down you can always go back to it if what your doing doesn't work! Without knowing the original CV setting you may not be able to this!

[westerninvader]

Many thanks for your reply and advice Flash, the SPROG2 system is certainly worth thinking about, but as my E-Z Command was ok to start me off, will only command 9 loco's with sound and is limited to basic controls, I may look at a better controller.
I'll need to look at a few of your suggestions and pick one that suits my needs the best.

Once again, many thanks.

[Flashbang]

Many thanks for your reply and advice Flash, the SPROG2 system is certainly worth thinking about, but as my E-Z Command was ok to start me off, will only command 9 loco's with sound and is limited to basic controls, I may look at a better controller.
I'll need to look at a few of your suggestions and pick one that suits my needs the best.

Once again, many thanks.

Hi
While I dont own one the NCE PowerCab starter set will take some beating on its performance and price.
Of all the reviews and users I have come into contact with not one has ever said it was a poor buy and all are highly pleased with it. It can easily be upgraded to the Power Pro sec too. :)
Example of NCE PowerCab (http://www.bromsgrovemodels.co.uk/pd-670066615.htm?categoryId=85)

[westerninvader]

Great, thanks. That's the one i'm tempted towards :-)

[501STREET]

hi flash, Ive taken your advice. The powercab is more suited to me than the ztc 505, as the powercab is much simpler to use and cv friendly.So the ztc no ,the powercab yes.

[501STREET]

Oh, just to ad flash ,is there a difference between programing on the main to programing track ?

[Flashbang]

Oh, just to ad flash ,is there a difference between programing on the main to programing track ?
Yes, very much so.
The programming track output from a console that has a dedicated 'Programming' set of rail connections is normally at a reduced current, thereby helping to prevent possible destruction of the decoder should there be a problem with the wiring or lack of isolation loco chassis to decoder etc.

POM if not done carefully could lead to all locos on the main tracks being sent the same information and all becoming effected - e.g. all having the same address number etc. If POM is to be used, I would recommend removing all other DCC locos!

So its always wise to use the programming track where only one loco would be on the programming rails and adjusted.