FUNCTION MODE
Like most DCC systems,
E-Z Command
features a function mode that enables you to control feature options that some manufacturers
include with their DCC locomotive or decoder products.
To activate sound and lighting features, begin by pressing the “Function” button (figure 16). The LED next to the locomotive address
button that is currently active (number “2,” for example) will blink, indicating that you are now in the function mode. You will still
be able to control the speed and direction of the active locomotive, but in function mode, address buttons 1 through 8 (identified here
as F1 through F8 to indicate operation in function mode) will allow you to control the optional sound and lighting features that may
be included with your decoder. F10 controls the lights on your locomotive. It’s important to remember that while you have the
E-Z Command
controller in function mode, you will NOT be able to program any new locomotive addresses. To exit the function
mode, simply press the “Function” button again.
NOTE: DUE TO THE ARRAY OF DCC DECODERS AND VARYING LEVELS OF SOPHISTICATION, CONTROL OF
SOME FUNCTIONS MAY BE LIMITED. CONSULT THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS THAT CAME WITH
YOUR DECODER TO DETERMINE WHICH FUNCTIONS ARE CONTROLLED BY WHICH NUMBER BUTTONS.
STANDARD DC LOCOMOTIVE OPERATION
E-Z Command
allows you to control up to nine digital locomotives and will also accommodate your favorite non-digital DC
locomotives (without DCC decoders). However, only ONE DC locomotive can be run at any one time on address button 10.
To operate a DC locomotive through your
E-Z Command
system, place a standard non-digital locomotive on the track. Next, press
address button number 10 button (figure 17) to activate the DC locomotive and begin operation.
NOTE: WHEN OPERATING A DC LOCOMOTIVE ON ADDRESS "
10,
" BE SURE TO MONITOR IT CLOSELY. SOME DC
MOTORS ARE SUBJECT TO OVERHEATING AND DAMAGE WHEN OPERATING FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME
ON DCC SYSTEMS.
Using the black interconnecting power cable provided, you can also connect a Bachmann DC controller to your
E-Z Command
Control
Center as shown in figure 18. When connected, address 10 automatically converts from its original DC (analog) assignment to DCC
(digital). Thus, a tenth digital address becomes available, and the connected DC controller will allow you or a friend to control a DC
locomotive in conjunction with your
E-Z Command
system. The Bachmann #44212 power pack, available from hobby retailers, is
ideally suited to this application (figure 19).
NOTE: MAKE ALL THE CONNECTIONS BETWEEN YOUR DC CONTROLLER, THE
E-Z COMMAND
CONTROL
CENTER AND THE TRACK BEFORE CONNECTING THE WALL PACK POWER SUPPLY. AS THERE IS CONSTANT
AC POWER TO THE TRACK, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU DO NOT LEAVE A DC LOCOMOTIVE STATIONARY
ON THE LAYOUT FOR EXTENDED PERIODS.
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16
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