BASIC OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Make sure the two large throttle handles located on either side of the
transformer are in the fully lowered (or OFF) position.
2. Turn the Z-4000 on by pressing the Power On button located on the lower right
front side of the transformer case.
3. Displays should illuminate and read approximately 0.0 VOLTS and 0.0 AMPS as
no power to the track will be applied when the throttle handles are in the OFF
position. When the handles are in their fully raised or HI position, approximately
22 volts of power will be applied to the track.
4. Move a throttle handle slightly from the OFF position toward the HI position.
You will see the VOLTS display for the track you are operating show a starting
voltage of approximately 5 volts applied to the track. In other words, the Z-4000
has an effective start-up voltage setting of approximately 5 volts, rather than 1, 2,
3, or 4 volts. This convention follows the design of the Proto-Sound® system and
does not effect the operation of any other manufacturer’s locomotive or accessory.
5. When you are ready to run the locomotive, raise the throttle handle to increase
voltage to the track until the train begins to move. Proto-Sound-equipped and
some other recent locomotives are programmed to begin in neutral, so you will
need to push the Direction button to put these engines into forward. Older
locomotives ma
Note:: If no load is present on the track when power is first applied (by moving the throttle up
from the fully lowered position), the voltage meter will jump to approximately 10 volts. A load is
created if any accessory, lighted car or locomotive is present on the track when power is applied.
No Accidental Startups will occur with the Z-4000 because the variable outputs are protected
from accidental high-power startup. If the throttle handles are not in the OFF position when the
Z-4000 is first turned on, no power will be applied to the track and the red OVERLOAD
light will illuminate.
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Z-4000 Transformer Operating Manual
