
Some new Digitrax users believe it is very important to be able to switch
between DCC & DC operation as they make the change from DC to
DCC. In practice we find that most of these customers make the
change much sooner that originally planned because of the opera-
tional benefits of DCC.
4.11 LocoNet Wiring Components
The RJ12 is the 6 pin version of the RJ11 connector with all 6 pins loaded with
conductors. This is the connector Digitrax uses for LocoNet.
Making your own LocoNet Cables is simple and cost effective. We recommend
that you invest in a good quality set of crimpers. We also recommend that you
use the LT1 tester that came with your Super Empire Builder to test the cables
to be certain they are good before installing them. Many layout problems we
see are related to LocoNet cables that were not built or crimped correctly.
Testing LocoNet Cables with an LT1
1. Disconnect the wire harness from the LT1.
2. Plug one end of the LocoNet cable being tested into the LT1.
3. Connect the other end to any powered Digitrax booster LocoNet Jack
A or B.
Be sure you have at least one Digitrax throttle plugged in
to your LocoNet.
4. All four LEDs on the LT1 will light if the cable is good. LEDs may
not all be the same brightness, this is normal. NOTE: If there is not
throttle plugged in then only three LEDs will light.
5. If any of the LEDs fail to light, recrimp the plugs on the LocoNet
cable and retest.
LocoNet typically supports a total cable length of up to 2,000 feet with no two
devices connected by more than 600 feet of cable. LocoNet wiring is totally
free-form. We do not recommend looping LocoNet back on itself.
For all LocoNet cables and connections we use the following wiring conven-
tion:
Pin #
Wire Color
Name
1
White
Rail Sync
2
Black
Ground
3
Red
LocoNet
4
Green
LocoNet
5
Yellow
Ground
6
Blue
Rail Sync
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