First of all we should like to congratulate you on acquiringyour new PIKO Digital Start Set.
You have taken a decisive step into the fascinating world of PIKO model railways.
Since you have decided on a digital system, unquestionably the modern way for run-
ning model railways, we should like to help you with some information that is impor-
tant for you and which will provide you with the basic knowledge necessary for using
digital technology.
You do not need to know anything about digital technology. Just as you don't need to
know why your computer does what you want - or sometimes doesn‘t! At the begin-
ning it is enough if the locos run the way you want and later, in a second step, you
learn how to set the switches.
It is a good idea to find a helpful dealer specialising in model railways who can advise
you when it comes to extending your new PIKO layout and from whom you can purcha-
se the extra PIKO products you need.
But before we explain how to set up your layout, we should like to give you some
general information.
Analogue versus digital
A fundamental decision
PIKO model railways give you lots of fun regardless of whether they are operated by
the conventional adapter and controller or by digital controls.
The conventional method of operating model railways is known as analogue technolo-
gy. It provides endless possibilities for large and small layouts. At the same time it has
the advantage of being very sturdy and, especially for beginners, it provides simple
access to the functioning of electric models. It is neither outdated nor antiquated nor
old-fashioned.
Digital technology is a bit more complicated since it includes various control and recei-
ver components. Owing to its potential complexity it necessarily requires more know-
ledge for its operation since the functions of the locos as well as many other accessories
can be controlled separately. The essential advantage of digital technology is that it is
possible to control several locomotives on one track at the same time.
An analogue layout can be converted to a digital layout without difficulty. Rails, turn-
outs, locos and wagons can all be operated digitally. However all the components to be
controlled must be provided with a data receiver, known as a decoder. This converts the
digital commands received into analogue current. Even on a digital layout the move-
ments of the locos, turnouts and signals are made via analogue driven motors.
Conversely operating a digital layout with analogue technology is also possible, but a
fair amount of alteration to the wiring is needed and there is no point - digital is so
much more versatile.
This means that if a PIKO model rail enthusiast has decided on digital technology, he or
she should if possible keep to this technology.
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Summary of Contents for Digi 1
Page 1: ...PIKO digital Manual...
