Digitrax Accessory Decoders
Summary: Digitrax Accessory Decoders hints, tips, suggested uses, and comparisons page
DS64 Quad or DS54
Here are some differences between the Digitrax DS54 and the DS64.
1:
- DS54 - difficult to program - must set on board jumper and for some functions must be disconnected from track and connected to a programming track
- DS64 - push button programming and after board address is set you can use Decoder Pro to program it.
2:
- DS54 - Switch addresses set by board address and are consecutive in groups of four.
- DS64 - Switch addresses can be set individually and do not have to be in consecutive order.
3:
- DS54 - each output can be set for different type of switch motor.
- DS64 - all outputs must be the same type of motor (selenoid or Slo–mo)
4:
- DS54 - an external switch must be wired for turnout position reporting to computer.
- DS64 - OPSW 21 set to closed automatically reports turnout position.
- The DS54 has been discontinued by Digitrax.
DS 64 Power
It is recommended to power each DS64 individually. Attempting to power multiple DS64s from one power supply can result in erratic operation.
DM1
DC Motor adaptor for the DS54
SE8C
SE8C Plug 'N Play Signal Decoder makes it easy to add prototypical signaling to your layout.
- The SE8C can drive as many as 32 signal heads with many popular LED signal types.
- It can also be used to control up to 8 slow motion turnout machines as either turnout control or control for semaphore type signals.
- The SEC8C requires another device to function.
DS44
Basic Quad accessory decoder for slow motion turnout motors.
DS51K1
For single Kato turnouts.
DS52
Dual, for solenoid or slow motion turnout motors.
Troubleshooting
Important: Always set the Board ID, do not leave it at its default of 1. Should the decoder's memory be corrupted the device will initiate a reset and clear its memory. Attempting to troubleshoot or restore the decoder will be frustrating if two decoders share the same Board ID.
If the decoder becomes unresponsive it will be easy to find it, as it will reset to the default ID. Also eliminates conflicts when a new decoder is added.