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4.0 BXP88 Installation Notes
The BXP88 is only compatible for use with Direct Home Layout wiring and re-
quires a LocoNet compatible system for Detection/Transponding Reporting. The
BXP88 is also not designed for use with Auto Reversing sections.
The BXP88 can be located for convenience and ease of installation. Consider
placing these units on swing-down panel(s) at the layout fascia to support a sec-
tion of close by tracks. This allows easy front access during construction, debug
and maintenance, without having to work upside down under the layout.
Ensure that booster and track feeds are sufficient to carry currents and detect
short circuits. We recommend at minimum 14AWG bus lines and 22AWG feeder
connections up to the rails.
When installing multiple BXP88s or BXP88s in conjunction with other devices
ensure that Rail A and Rail B are consistent between all Power Districts so rolling
stock can cross the double gaps without short circuits. Rail A and B inputs to the
BXP88 can be switched as needed to match existing wiring, the BXP88 automati-
cally sets railsync.
An LT5 tester is included with the BXP88, and optional fascia LED panels can be
constructed following the instructions in section 10.3 .
The BXP88 does not need to be externally powered. An optional auxiliary 9V
150ma DC power supply may be used to allow the BXP88 to remain on when
track power is lost. Multiple BXP88s can be powered from the same supply as
long as 150ma is available for each unit. The optional 9V DC supply should not
be shared with any other non-BXP88 devices.
The primary advantage to additional auxiliary powering of the BXP88 is the
BXP88 can default to report Detection Sections as occupied when track power
is lost. This allows for signal or computer logic to respond appropriately. Addi-
tionally, if the BXP88 is auxiliary powered it can report other track and LocoNet
faults via its LED indicator connectors.
When a BXP88 is powered up on a Digitrax Layout it will automat-
ically disable analog stretching, by setting OPSW 20= Closed in the
Command Station. The BXP88 is not compatible with analog mode
stretching, and you will not be able to run conventional DC loco-
motives at address 00. All locomotives will need a DCC decoder to
operate.
