trick to programming Digitrax TL1-?

I've been pulling out what little hair I have left. Per the Digitrax instructions, I've attempted to pre program 2 of the TL-1s. However I get an error message saying "NoPG". So- why won't my system see the decoder. I have the 8amp Super Chief and a DT400. I did hook up an LED to each of them. Did I get a cpl of bad decoders-?

Any way, what am I doing wrong-?

Thanks for any assistance,
Wolf

 

If you reset the decoder (CV8=8) and then operate on address 03 does the decoder work? Is the issue just that you can't seem to program an address or get any readback?

I don't think that the LEDs draw enough current to register for the majority of command stations. The same issue exists with the Kato (Digitrax) FL12 decoder. To perform readback on these very low draw decoders you either need a very sensitive command station (more sensitive then NMRA spec requires) or Digitrax's transponding sensors to use operations mode read back instead.

You normally need read back to program an address because CV29 must be read and then updated. However if you know what settings you want and are up for a little math the FL12 (and I assume TL1) can be programmed 'blind'.

If you want a 2 digit address then aftering reseting the decoder just write that address to CV01 (if you want to change settings like direction of travel then read on for how to modify CV29 manually).

If you want a 4 digit address then reset the decoder and calculate the 2 8-bit values that combined make up your address. A calculator is here: Calculation of CV settings for 4-digit (long) address

The high byte is programmed into CV17 and the low byte into CV18 (just copy the CV17 and 18 values the calculator gives you).

Last you need to update CV29 (do this after writing the address). In theory the value you want to write is probably 38, which means 4 digit address, DC mode on, 128 speed steps and normal direction. If want need different options refer to Digitrax's table:

Configuration Register: CV29


Of course if you can't turn on the lights even on address 03 after reseting the decoder by writing 8 to CV8 then the LEDs are wired backwards, the command station isn't connected to the track/decoder or not powered on, or the decoders are dead.

 

Thanks Temp,

I think the problem may be with low current draw of the LED. What would you sugjest instead of the LED for current. Perhaps a light bulb-? Oh- the TL-1 does not support OPS programming. It is just a single function decoder. Tonight I'll try resetting and then double checking how I wired the LED.

Thanks for your response, this gives me somewhere to start.
Wolf

 

Bulbs is a good thought, with the FL12 that's not an option because it can't support the peak draw of a cold bulb turning on. According to Digitrax's website the TL1 supports a peak draw of 250mA and constant draw of 125mA, I think that's enough for an N scale sized bulb (You should check first based on what bulbs you have, too much draw could fry the decoder).