natiman1345 I am glad you found this helpful!

WeMustRebel Thank you, I really appreciate the comments. The fact that people appreciate what I do is why I continue to do it!

Thanks, Harry! Yes, you will be able to consist locomotives with this starter set. Just remember this is a 3amp unit. The latest HO sound decoders (e.g., a Tsunami 2 diesel sound decoder) pull ~ 1 amp of current. You will only be able to run 3 sound locomotives without maxing out the command station. Non-sound decoders typically draw less so you can run a few more non-sound. Just making sure you know the limitations of this system.

This system is actually easy to use and set up.

Are you thinking about Digitrax turnout decoder? What kind of model?

Did it max at 6 locos?

@@KatoOnTheTrack1 I actually ended up with. Power Cab because I found a gently used one on Ebay that a guy was willing to part with for less than $100. That system will easily handle 5 non sound N scale locomotives though.

Interesting observation. I am not ever sure that I noticed that power needs to be off. I appreciate you signaling this step in the process.

I still think it’s a lot of mucking around to run a model train! Too many functions and of course the dcc models and controllers are much more expensive!!

Joe Danna email me at ck7813 @ yahoo.com

Yes, it was a COM port issue that I resolved shortly after filming the video.

Thanks, Andrew. That is too bad they don’t send those anymore. We have pretty much done the same thing at my job and made all paperwork digital. Print material is obsolete as soon as you put it in a box. It may be a difficult change but if you access the manual digitally, you should be getting the latest version. Even with a print manual I use the digital one first since there have been significant firmware updates since I bought this.

ifihadaboat85 yes, that is exactly how to do it, hook the bus wires directly to the back of the Zephyr

Thanks, Isaac. I probably should clarify, yes I am building a layout but it is intended to be more of a demonstration unit rather than a functional layout. Yes, it will certainly have the ability to run trains and do some limited switching of cars, but it is more intended to serve as a “how to” for people to see that utilizing DCC to its full potential is not as difficult as it might initially appear. I am afraid it is gets much bigger than 3’ to 4’, it will become big and clumsy to move and store. I still have my “real” layout to have more extensive ops sessions.

Hi David. I don't know how much help I will be. The main question is what type of locomotives does your friend have, meaning, what year were there made, the manufacturer (Athearn, Intermountain, etc.) and if they are sound units or not. The National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) has standards that make DCC decoders and systems compatible no matter what brands you are using. Your best bet now would be to contact Digitrax support through their webpage.

@@ck7813 thanks. I believe the trains are simply not DCC compliant. That's the issue. Cheers.

Hi Krypton, I don’t know if I am completely understanding your question. When I made this video, there was a known issues with the Firmware of the DCS 52 which resulted in an erroneous operation of one of the function keys (F9). If your system is new, that should have been solved for by the factory before it shipped. If you are typing in the address of your locomotive, you need to confirm that the locomotive is programmed for that address (e.g., in my video it is 8120). If the locomotive address has not be programmed, try entering an address of 3 (hit the loco key, type 3, hit the loco key) and try it. If you know the locomotive works on a different DCC system, then you might have your system setup incorrectly (ensure your RAIL A and RAIL B outputs are properly connected). If you confirm that it is setup correct, then it is likely an issue with the Zephyr in which case you will need to contact Digitrax Support.

is it simple to wire up? I am thinking about getting this for my HO Layout with Kato Unitrack

​@@connecticutrailfanningprod8183 Just setup the Zephyr with Kato HO track and for basic setup its super easy, all you gotta do is chop the mini tamiya plug off the power feeder track/terminal uni-joiner and connect the two wires to rail A/B ports. Best of luck!!!

@@bahmtek8508 So all you have to do is pretty much just take the regular track connector and cut it off into the two wires? New to the DCC stuff. Thank you !

​@@johncanillas8939 No problem glad to share what I have learned via my own foray into DCC, but yes you can simply remove the original connector and directly connect to Rail A and Rail B ports (wire orientation does not matter). You also have the option of using the Kato terminal adapter part#:KAT24843 with the 3 way adapter Part#:kat24827, this will allow you to connect multiple feeder track without chopping the plugs. You will still need to cut off the original power supply contacts on the "terminal adapter" since you need raw wire to feed into the zephyr plug. I hope this helps clear things up a little bit, if you have any other questions feel free to ask. All the best!!!

@@bahmtek8508 thank you! Merry Christmas

John Wilson Thanks, John. If you wired everything according to the instructions, there will not be power going to the programming track. It is specifically designed to program decoders and you cannot run locomotives on it. To know if it works or not, put a decoder on it and try to read a CV (the manual will instruct you on how to read a CV). If it reads the CV, you have it hooked up correctly.

I will do my best to answer your questions. For running multiple locomotives, technically yes, you can run more than one; however, you only have one throttle knob so you only have control over one locomotive at a time. To run two, you would need to start one locomotive, leave it run, select a second locomotive and run it. The problem is, you have no control over the first locomotive until your reselect it. This would work fine if you just wanted to run it at a constant speed around a loop where there is no chance of a collision. Otherwise, to run and control more than one locomotive, you would need an additional Throttle, which Digitrax sells (I would recommend the UT6, I have a review of that throttle on my page). Unfortunately, I have no knowledge of European models. It likely will depend on the decoder in the locomotive. Digitrax does produces products for Europe, the best advice I can give is to contact Digitrax Help Desk for assistance.

@@ck7813 thank you very very much for responding, which cleared many things up. about the UT6 can i just plug that into the zephyr like you did with your DT42 hand throttle using the loco net cable? i assume the cable is already connected to any throttle that you buy.

@@poteznyczar Correct, the UT6 can plug directly into the back of the Zephyr Express. The UT6 comes with a Loconet cable so you will have everything you need. You can purchase a UP5 (utility panel) which is a port to plug in a throttle, but that connects directly to the Zephyr via a Loconet cable. The UP5 is needed when you want to have a throttle plug in port a distance away from your control panel.

Thanks, Mike. Absolutely you can get sound-equipped DCC, N scale locomotives from most of the major manufacturers. You have to decide what model and roadname to buy. Best advice is to visit your local hobby shop.

It depends on what they are programmed to on your locomotive decoder, typically they are F5; however, you need to consult the manual/documentation that came with your locomotive to see which function they are assigned to.

Thank you, if I am understanding your question correctly, yes it is possible to lashup locomotives with different decoders if they are speed matched. You need to be aware of the capabilities of the decoders to support either simple or advanced consisting.

Hi Stephen, you technically don’t set the speed settings with the DCS52. All of the speed settings are made to changes on the locomotive’s decoder. You can certainly use the DCS52 to program decoders but there are no changes you make to the actual command station. There are several videos and articles on adjusting speed settings for the various decoders (ESU, Tsunami, etc.). I would recommend starting with an internet search and you will get plenty of information!

Thanks, Elliott. The flashing lights is a frame rate issue with the video camera I used. There is no flash to the naked eye.

@@ck7813 Ok thanks! definitely going to get this controller!

Hi James, yes you can program on the main, if you have an extended packet decoder (most newer decoders have this capabilities, if you have older locomotives you might have issues). Digitrax has a great step-by-step guide that starts on page 26 of the Zephyr express manual (you can get the manual on their webpage if you misplaced your copy). Another possibility is for the time you plan on programming, just unhook your two wires from Rail A and Rail B and connect them to Programming A and B, do your programming, and switch back. Good luck.

@@ck7813 Hi again and thanks for getting back to me. One more quick question will other dcc fitted locomotives from other companies besides digitrax work with the DCS52

@@jamesgrzonek yes, I have a combination of Soundtraxx, ESU and Broadway Limited Paragon decoders. All are compatible as designated by the National Model Railroad Association standards.

eXtremeFX2010 unfortunately I cannot check, my brother is currently using my Zephyr Express. Maybe another user can help.

I realize this is old but FWIW I would guess the 6.81v your seeing straight from the unit is the base voltage to get the logic analyzer on the loco's DCC chip to power up since 5.0v is the general min voltage requirement. Try putting your DSC52 into DC mode and see what it outputs to rail A/B ports. I am rather curious, so I will test my DCS52 later tonight when I get home. All the best.

KeeganHedley Vlogs if you are referring to resetting the CVs the general rule of thumb is to set CV8 to a value of 8. This is true for most major decoders. Check your decoder manufacturer’s website for instructions.

Thanks, Clayton. In theory, yes you can run a train on the main while shunting with the following limitations. Since the DCS 52 only allows you to run one train at a time (one throttle knob), you would have to set the locomotive you want on the main to the active throttle address, get it moving as to whatever speed you want and leave it running while you select a different locomotive to be the active address. If you have a continuous loop, you could just let the train run on the outer loop but you wouldn’t have any direct controls over it until you re-select it as the active locomotive address. A possible solution is to check eBay for a Digitrax UT4 throttle (very basic throttle) which could be connected tot he DCS 52 so you have the ability to have two active addresses.

@@ck7813 thankyou for your detailed reply

Thanks, David. They key to your sentence is “some” locomotives don’t respond. This leads me to believe that it is related to the locomotive and not the equipment. Logical explanation is that he doesn’t have the correct locomotive address selected. I would recommend reading the locomotive CV. The instructions are on page 20 of this manual www.digitrax.com/media/apps/products/starter-sets/dcs52/documents/DCS52_rev.1.pdf

Thanks, Dick. You need to contact Digitrax support (through their website) to answer this. I do not want to give you an answer that could potentially damage your electronics.

I have not tried this to give a first-hand testimonial but there is no reason why it would not work. If you want confirmation I would recommend you reach out to Digitrax customer support and they can confirm if it is compatible.

Thanks, Will. I think I understand your question, but I am not 100% sure I get your question. The short answer is no, you cannot program DC locomotives. What allows for programming of DCC locomotives is the decoder contained within the locomotive. You do not need to purchase a DCC starter set (like the Zephyr Express) if you only have DC locomotives. I do know you can get some sound function with DC locomotives, but I have no experience using them and cannot provide feedback for how they work.

@@ck7813 ah ok well I hope I can still run dc locomotives with that controller

@@csxrailfanfoamer8118 Technically, you can run a DC locomotive with this system. Personally, I wouldn’t recommend it. You can get a DC throttle for the fraction of the price of a DCC starter set. I would recommend consulting the Zephyr Express manual (found in the downloads section of the Digitrax website). Running a non-DCC locomotive instructions are on page 8. Good luck.

Short answer, yes! Long answer is, it requires a Digitrax stationary decoder (e.g., a DS64 or SE8C) wired to a switch machine (e.g., a Tortoise slow motion machine). I am working on a video series that I will have posted on or near January 1 that will showcase this starter set controlling the turnouts. Stay tuned!

@@ck7813 Thank you!

Hi Jeffrey. Do this at your own risk. There is a reset button on the back of the unit (see p. 37 of the Zephyr Express manual, you can find online at Digitrax website). If that don’t work set OpSw 40 to “closed”. You can find the OpSw instructions on p. 36 of the manual. If this all fails, contact Digitrax, you may need to send it in for repairs. Good luck and let me know if you get it fixed.

@@ck7813 I talked to someone and Digitrax and he walked me through them steps and it didn’t fix it and since I just got it today I am sending it in for repair or replacement. I did buy it because of watching your video. So I hope when I get it back it’s in working order

Bubba Cy With this being a 3 amp system, you can run 3-4 HO scale sound locomotives with no problem and about 5-6 non-sound DCC locomotives

Chris Shonamon Sorry, Chris. I do not have any experience with G scale. The best advice I can give you is to contact Digitrax or look up the Zephyr Express manual on their webpage.

Search for the seller: YankeeDabbler (he has a website too). Very competitive prices, I have purchased several things from him and probably will in the future as I work on my new portable layout project.

@@ck7813 They are also a brick and mortar hobby shop in the New Jersey suburbs of Philadelphia!

Mine was just delivered and I got if from Bobthetrainguy on Ebay. $194.98 incl shipping

Hi Andrew, do you know what kind of decoder is in your F40PH? You need this info and you can check the decoder documentation (you can get this easily online) and see what CV controls the master volume and adjust it as described in this video. What brand is your locomotive? What year was it released? Is it the factory installed decoder or did someone install one after purchase? That is the critical info you need and once you have it, changing volume CV is easy.

@@ck7813 hey! So I have an DCC/Sound HO F40PH Ph3 non-dynamic: MBTA #1014 (083624). I got it brand new from rapido trains. I’m just struggling figuring out the steps on how to adjust the volume. I’ll have a friend help me if I can’t figure it out.

@@andrewcoleman8356 email me at ck7813 @ yahoo.com (no spaces). That locomotive has a Loksound 5, I have the fix but it is too long to type here.

@@ck7813 got it. Get my email?

eXtremeFX2010 I will be honest, I have never worked with MTH/protosound decoders so I will not be much help. There is a Digitrax online forum in the groups.io forum. Just go to groups.io and search for Digitrax and post your issue on that message board. Someone should be able to help you.

@@ck7813 Hi...thanks for replying...I did eventually figure it out...Yes MTH is Definitely Unique...

Kyle Stirling Hi, Kyle. I haven’t tried it but this is what the Digitrax support page says: “Can I add a booster to my Zephyr? A: Yes. Since the DCS51 Zephyr Xtra and DCS50 Zephyr are equipped with LocoNet, adding additional boosters is easy; you simply divide your railroad up into power districts and add the boosters and their individual power supplies.” Even though the Zephyr Express is a DCS52, it does have LocoNet so it should work. Please check with Digitrax for further information: helpdesk.digitrax.com

What digitrax dcc system is best for a small n scale layout (approx 30ft of track)? Running 2 locos both with sound.

Hi, Juan. I will be honest, I do not know. I haven never used Hornby trains. It will all depend on the decoder in the train. My guess is that it will if it in a standard DCC protocol. The best advice is to refer to the Hornby manufacturer's instructions for additional assistance.

@@ck7813 ok thanks i would like to have those csx models

Bud Vivian Sorry, Bud. I am confused. Do you have a Zephyr (DCS50) or a Zephyr Express (DCS52)? If you have a DCS50, the c - key is the button on the bottom, right of all the keys. If you have a Zephyr Express DCS52 you need to refer to page 18 of the manual which can be found on the Digitrax webpage in the “downloads” tab. Hope this helps!

Bud Vivian on the DCS50 the “c -“ button is also the “CV-WR” button.

FrightRisk Absolutely! Intermountain made them about 3 years ago. I have a total of 7 of them. Intermountain has had their supplier issues, so I doubt we will ever see these produced again. If you want some, get on eBay soon, they are still available.

No, you do not need a computer for anything to use this command station. You can run trains and program decoders without a computer. You need a computer if you want to run JMRI software to program trains.

Russell Loomis Hi Russell, I am having a bit of trouble understanding your questions so please feel reply if I don’t get your questions answered. Yes, you can program a 4 digit address right away, as long as your decoder supports it. (All of the newer decoders support 4 digit address). The F9 button situation needs to be addressed. I don’t know exactly what F9 does, I just know it doesn’t activate F9. Yours might have the updated firmware already if you just got your Zephyr (Digitrax updated the firmware before it left the factory). The only way to know is to activate F9 on a sound-equipped locomotive and see if it works. Hope this helps!

Thanks, Greg. As far as running trains goes, no it is very similar to the Zephyr Extra. Everything else is an upgrade, the size of the buttons, the size of the LED screen, etc. In my opinion, it makes some things easier, like programming decoders. The menu is much more intuitive since more information can be displayed on the screen. If you have the choice between the two, I would get the Express. If you are running a Extra and are thinking of upgrading, you won’t notice a difference in how the trains run, just how you interact with the system.

Yes! There is a whole section in the manual (found on Digitrax’s website) about multiple unit (MU) consists. As with any consist originating from a command station, it is a “simple” consist meaning certain functions are only available on the lead locomotive. The main decoders like Soundtrax Tsunami and ESU Loksound support advance consisting which allows for more realistic operations. Google search advanced consisting for more info!

ck7813 great! I’m sold then! :)

HO

Thanks, Leo. Great question. DCC decoders have both a short address (between 0 and 127) and a long address (between 128 and 9999) and when you modify CVs, it determines if the DCC system is reading the short or long address. You can leave the “0003” as the short address but the DCC system will read the long address of 8120. They are controlled by two different CVs.

**Full disclaimer, I have not ever tried this so proceed at your own risk.**. Yes, the EZ track will work with any DCC system. If the track is in good shape and you have good electrical connectivity, it should be fine. The best option for trouble free DCC operation are feeder wires off of every 2-3 feet of track. Relying on one terminal connection on EZ track might not lead to reliable operation. The bottom line though is that it should work.

I use this controller and my layout is made of ez track (for now) and it works fine

Hi Janarthanam, the best answer I can give you is that you need to contact Digitrax support. I am afraid that switching a power supply may void any warranty. You really need to consult with them so you get the best information. I do not have any experience with G scale so I cannot help.

Anders Gullberg Hi Anders. The best answer I can give you is I do not know if you can connect via a Mac. I have not tried. Looking at the information the DigiIPL software needs Microsoft C++ to operate. You can try downloading the Soundloader program on your Mac and see if it installs (digitrax.com/downloads) or contacting Digitrax support.

Hi Russell, I do not have a video on how to program on the mainline with the DCS52. The instruction manual for the Zephyr Express describes the process on how to program on the main starting at the bottom of page 26 (top 27). You can find the manual online on the Digitrax website (go to downloads page then "manuals" then "starter set" and select the Zephyr Express. Another suggestion is to take a small piece of straight track with long feeders soldered to it and temporarily connect it to the programming inputs on the back of Zephyr, do your programming, and the unhook it until you need it again.

Daniel E. Markle Thanks, Daniel. You bring up a good point. The Digitrax interface was very similar between the old Zephyr and the 400/500 series throttles. From my perspective the new Zephyr Express interface is a massive upgrade and I wonder if this was a test run before introduced a new hand throttle. Time will tell....

You can not only set the overall volume of sound in a decoder but you can also set sound levels individually.

Brian E Hi, Brian. I am sorry, I can’t answer that because I am not sure. My advice is to go to helpdesk.digitrax.com/ and ask them what they think.

Hello Brian I just recently bought one of these thru www.tonystrains.com and unless I'm mistaken, I believe they had a few options for different European countries. Good luck!

Dan Glawson Hi Dan. Many thanks for that. I have actually found a supplier in the UK who imports direct from Digitrax via a friend who has a huge layout and lots of contacts as he’s been a modeller for about 30 years or so. I did contact Digitrax but they were not at all helpful. Thanks again

Sorry, Railfan. This video was not commissioned by Digitrax so they won't link it with any of their material. I am just trying to be a good modeler and helping people out!

@@ck7813 , I know , it was a good video , I was making a joke

F G Hi, F G. I am sorry you are having difficulty programming Loksound decoders. I have not tried programming any Loksound decoders with my Zephyr Express. There is a Digitrax forum on GroupsIO (just google groups IO (“i” “o”) and search for Digitrax. My only recommendation is to make sure the firmware on your Zephyr is up-to-date and contact Digitrax.