PROGRAMMING A USER-INSTALLED DCC DECODER WITH A PROGRAMMING TRACK
While locomotives purchased with DCC decoders installed can be programmed on the main
track, a separate low-current programming track is required for programming locomotives
with user-installed decoders. The low current of the programming track will protect the
decoder if the installation was performed incorrectly.
To create a programming track, connect a resistor in series with one track wire to an
isolated section of track. A 100ohm 10W 5% Wire-wound Resistor is recommended.
Once you’ve constructed your isolated programming track, you’re ready to program your
locomotives with user-installed NMRA-compliant DCC decoders, using the same process
as described in the PROGRAMMING A LOCOMOTIVE TO A SPECIFIC ADDRESS
section.
FUNCTION MODE
Like most DCC systems,
E-Z Command®
Plus
features a function mode that enables you to control extra features such as sound and
lighting effects that may be included with DCC locomotive or decoder products. There are 28 possible functions (plus headlight control)
that can be activated for locomotive addresses 1 through 8, with 8 possible functions when operating under address 9 (plus headlight
control). The number of usable functions will vary depending on the locomotive or decoder. See the back cover for a function chart.
To activate sound and lighting features, begin by pressing the FUNCTION button. The locomotive address which is currently active will
blink, indicating that you are now in function mode. You will still be able to control the speed and direction of the active locomotive while
in this mode.
You can now use the address buttons to select the various functions that may be available on your locomotive. If you are unsure which
button activates the feature you are looking for, consult the instructions included with
your locomotive.
There are three function pages, each denoted by a different color of the function button.
The button will light up either green, blue, or red, depending on the selected page. If
the function you are looking for has a value higher than 9, you can press and release the
button up to three times to cycle through each page.
If the function you wish to use is assigned to the same number as the locomotive you are
operating, you can still access this function. Once the master FUNCTION button has
been pressed, you can select the same number button as assigned to the locomotive to
access the function associated with it. The button will begin to flash between bright and
dim, indicating that you are now using the function, in addition to the locomotive assigned to this number.
Please note that you will not be able to program a new locomotive or switch control to a different locomotive while in function mode. To exit
function mode, press and release the FUNCTION button to scroll through the three colors until the light is OFF.
STANDARD DC LOCOMOTIVE OPERATION
E-Z Command®
Plus
allows you to control up to nine DCC-equipped locomotives at the same time, and will also accommodate one of
your favorite DC (analog) locomotives at a time. To operate a DC locomotive through your
E-Z Command®
Plus
system, place it on the
track, press address button 0 to activate it, and begin operation.
Please note: Only one DC (analog) locomotive can be operated at a time. Be sure to monitor this locomotive closely, as some DC motors can be
subject to overheating and potential damage when operated for long periods of time on DCC systems. Once you have finished operating your
DC locomotive, it should be removed from your layout as it will continue to draw current and may overheat if left on the track. All lights on the
model will be illuminated at all speeds, regardless of direction, while under
E-Z Command®
control.
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