I see BLW is showing this. I have a non DCC layout, but read here, address change could help slow start-up speed/slower speed of Bmann DCC dual mode locos. Yes, and what address/es would I use?? Thanks, Joe D
I'd just like to know more about the item than is currently noted... preferably from someone that uses it. I believe that for DC operation, 'zero' as the default number... while 'three' is the default setting for DCC operation. NOW... I don't know if that applies to Bachmann Dual Mode DCC... but I would say it is a 'standard' for other decoders.
To lower the start-up speed on a Bachmann loco, you need to change CV2 (vstart) from the factory setting of 10 to 0. Unfortunately, the BLI device is not a general CV programmer. All it does it let you change the address (throttle ID#) of a locomotive (CV1), change its "forward" direction (CV29) or reset the decoder to factory defaults (CV8). I honestly don't know who the intended audience for this product might be. The only people who need to worry about assigning different addresses to their engines are the people who are operating them with a DCC system. And if they already have a DCC system, they could just as easily use that to change CV1 (as opposed to using BLI's $80 device). Given Bachmann's recent trend toward releasing all of their locomotives with decoders, I'd think a device that would let the non-DCC guys program any CV setting would be much more marketable. As is, BLI's product reminds me of a stripped-down television remote that only changes channels (for people who find full function remotes just a bit too complicated). Cheers, -Mark
Mark, thanks for defining what the BLI device is capable of doing. I do not belong to a club, but if I did I might find the device useful if I had to change the address of a DCC locomotive to a new address because someone else's locomotive had the same address as mine. That is all hypothetical. My DCC system is NCE with no extra bells or whistles. I have not been able to determine the address of a label using the system. As back up to writing the address on the underside of the locomotive, I maintain a spreadsheet inventory of locomotives. I have several locomotives that are NOT numbered on the shell or tender due to my big fingers and lack of ability to add small number decals. :wideeyes:
I can see the benefit of this if you are like me and have DC at home but run DCC on the club layout and want to turn up at the club ready to role. However looking at the cost, it's roughly the same as a Digitrax PR3 or a SPROG3 and with these, and a computer, you can change everything. Plus with the PROG3 you can run a small layout as well. -James
My local club has one of these on preorder. From what BLI told us, all it does is read and change the locomotive address, nothing else. We ordered one due to many of our members not remembering or writing down what address they gave their locomotives when they don't use the road number. While a few of us in the club know how to read and change addresses using a programming track, a fair majority just don't want to learn the process. We figure this way, anyone can do it and it won't tie up the few DT402s we have. I'll post an update when it comes in and let you all know what I think about it.
So, would there be anyone, with DCC willing to let me send 4 Bmann loco's to program for better running on DC? I'll pay. Joe D
Joe, I have a lot of Bmann products. I do NOT believe changing the DCC settings on them will help DC operation. Not all the information on a forum is accurate, including my posts. Bob
I guarantee you that changing vstart from 10 to 0 will decrease the starting speed, regardless of whether you are running DCC or analog. That's how decoders work. Cheers, -Mark
Joe, Did you ever get your “Bmann loco's program for better running on DC”? You will probably be interested in the following information: http://www.modeltrainforum.com/showthread.php?t=22826 & http://tonystrains.com/tonystips/2011/032211.htm Bob
