I’ve recently bought a new ESU Decoder Test-Board.
I have been trying to (re)programme and/or reset several previously used ‘Rails’ Decoders (made by DDC Concepts), both 8 and 21 pin versions.
My Command Station is a Digitrax DSC210+ with a DT602 Controller.
I am reasonably familiar with DCC and its workings. I’m not a newcomer or novice.
Now, here’s the problem.
1. When testing the said decoders on the ESU Test-Board for normal running (on the main), they all work fine. The controller’s commands are activated by the decoder, with the Test-Board motor running and the Function lights illuminating, all as expected. Write commands are actioned too (in POM mode).
2. HOWEVER, when I then switch to Programming Mode (with an appropriate switch of power leads from the command centre) and then attempt to Read/Write any of the CVs, the motor just runs at top speed, all the Function lights come on, and the CVs won’t read or write. It’s all very strange, not least given the significantly reduced voltages used in Programming Mode.
3. When I try exactly the same Programming exercise on a borrowed dRM Test-Board, no issues. Read/Write executed with no problems.
So my questions are thus:
1. Can the ESU Test-Board only be used for programming ESU decoders?
2. Has anyone else experienced the same issue?
3. Is there any reason why an ESU Decoder Tester would NOT work with a Digitrax Command System?
Any thoughts or comments welcome, with thanks.