
4.14 Troubleshooting Layout Wiring
Installing Digitrax, or any other command control system, on your layout will
not resolve layout wiring problems. Layout wiring can be very complex. We
see many examples of layouts that have “grown over the years” where wiring
was added and changed creating some very interesting electrical systems. If
you suspect that layout wiring might be a problem, we recommend that you
disconnect the Digitrax equipment from the layout and test it on a small section
of track not connected to the layout to confirm that the problem is not with
your Digitrax equipment. If you find that there is a problem with your Digitrax
equipment, contact Digitrax tech support. If you find that your Digitrax equip-
ment is working fine, then it is time to de-bug the layout.
Observe the problem carefully and methodically.
Does it occur with both DC and DCC operation?
If so, check track wiring.
Is it occurring everywhere on the layout or in one particular area?
With your Digitrax system hooked up, use the coin trick described in Section
4.4. You may not have enough feeders or your power supply may not be ade-
quate. Use your LT1 to test the LocoNet cables attached to the booster in the
problem area.
Does it only occur with certain locomotives?
Check the locomotives for
mechanical problems and for damaged decoders. If you programmed the
decoders just before the problem started, go back and re-program them in case
you entered values by mistake that are causing the problem.
Does it only occur with certain throttles, boosters or other equipment?
If
the problem happens with just one piece of equipment, first check the LocoNet
and power connections to the device. Check the LocoNet cables used to con-
nect the device using your LT1. Check the RJ12 jacks where it is plugged in to
be sure the pins are not mis-aligned. Check the power supply to the device to
be sure it meets the requirements of the device. If the LocoNet cable is good
and you are providing enough power to run the device, then you may need to
have the LocoNet device repaired.
Does it occur only when plugged into a certain LocoNet Jack?
Check the
wiring to that jack, particularly if you are using telco type jacks that you wired
yourself. Use your LT1 to test the LocoNet cable you are using in that area of
the layout. If you are using a LocoNet Throttle Jack on the front or side of a
UP3 or UP5, try moving the connection to one of the LocoNet Connection
Jacks on the back of the unit.
33