Decoder chip query

[bertiedog]

Normally I do not use DCC on 00, although I use it on On3 as many locos came with chips, and sound fitted.

I have used them on DC as well, quite OK apart from reduced max speed.

 

But I found a Hornby M7 (used), with a chip fitted and tried it on the DCC controller, all correct. Rather than removing it, I used it on DC, and it fails to respond. It also fails on DCC now, so a burnt chip.

 

Am I still right in assuming the decoders are still fully DC compatible as per NMRA / Lenz standards, or are some chips not compatible.

 

I cannot see what make the decoder is from the board.

 

Contributing to the failure may have been the fitting, which was hard wired in a messy way, although it functioned and programmed normally on the DCC controller. Not a professional or original fitting.

 

Stephen.

[Crosland]

DC running can be disabled. Using a chip on a "DC" supply that is not pure smooth DC can cause problems.

 

So, before declaring it dead I would put it on your DCC programming track and start digging. If you can't read the manufacturer and model then try the various reset sequences, which escape me at the moment.

[smokebox]

The manufacturers ID number is held in CV 7. If you can read that then you can look it up in this pdf http://www.nmra.org/sites/default/files/standards/sandrp/pdf/appendix_a_s-9.2.2.pdf

 

CV 7 often holds a version number for the decoder.

[bertiedog]

I have tried to check it out but no response even to reset.. The DC I used is supplied from a Farnell lab supply and fed via a further filter, and is set to 12 volts max, with a monitoring meter for voltage and current limiting. I guess it has blown due to shorting in the poor fitting.

Stephen.

[bertiedog]

It s already working fine on DC, and it seems it was a Hornby decoder, from comparing pictures. I do not need DCC for most OO, frankly they run better on DC, and only one loco is in motion.

 

The On3 is basically  a large loop line with passing places and can take three running if wanted. The running quality does not seem to vary with the heavier locos. Point motors are already expensive enough without adding DCC, and being able to control coach lighting is not really an issue.

I see that a couple of US suppliers are trying to market a chip with sound for each boxcar, interesting, deafening, expensive, and pointless! Work out the cost of a sound loco and say 30 boxcars..............There's enough clatter from the wheels anyway.

 

May be it appeals to the buyers of Mr Dyson's new hand Hairdryer at nearly £400...............

 

Stephen