Logo Home   Documents and Lists   Create   Site Settings   Help   
Icon
Team Web Site
ZIMO Decoder
 
 
 
Select a View
Threaded
Flat
 
 
Actions
  Alert me
  Modify settings and columns
 
 
all decoder related issues like programming, CV meaning, comparisations to other verndor's products
New New Discussion
|
Expand/Collapse Expand/Collapse
 
SubjectReplies
Posted By
Modified
 
MX640 SOUND DECODER
 
Can anyone advise: my Digitrax Zephyr Command Control only has ten function buttons, I would like to copy the sound currently assigned to Function 11 on my MX640 decoder to Function 7.
2/12/2010 2:37 PM
 
MX640 SOUND DECODER
 
Since I have no idea what kind of function mapping is being used, you need to check certain CV settings before you change them.
 
Check that the value of CV 61 = 0. If is is not stop here and let me know what CV 61 is.
 
If CV 61 = 0, then you have standard NMRA mapping and you can proceed with the following steps :-
 
(1) Check the values of CV 41 and CV 45. These 2 CVs define...
2/14/2010 12:34 AM
 
MX640 SOUND DECODER
 
Dear John,
Sorry for the delay: I was away from the PC between 12th and 18th February.  I have followed your detailed procedures, having first checked CV61 = 0, and altered CV 41 and CV 45 from 4 to 64 and 64 to 4 respectively however,  the F7 button operates the same sound effect as before (playable whistle) whereas I was hoping to hear the sound of the Safety Valve, which has apparently...
2/19/2010 2:03 PM
 
MX 69
 
Hi All,
 
I am using the MX 69 as an accessory decoder in a trailer car and want to have the lights dim when it is not moving, how do I do this if at all possible
 
Regards
 
Anthony
11/26/2009 3:54 AM
 
MX 69
 
currently there is no function to dimm function outputs on standstill.
11/26/2009 9:55 AM
 
Update failed
 
Hello,
I tried to update an MX640 decoder wiith the MXDEC. For some reason it failed and now I cannot seems to be dead, and when I try to update it again it says Decoder does not answer. I have tried a blind update but that has not worked either. Is there anything, else like a hard reset I can try. I get no CV values either.
Thanks in advance, Cameron
12/19/2008 8:08 AM
 
Update failed
 
The bootstrap loader is write protected so the decoder can be recovered when the initial problem is solved.
 
remove the decoder from the loco
disconnect all buffer capacitors!!!!!
try to swap red and black
 
HTH
-AH-
12/19/2008 8:42 AM
 
Update failed
 
Hello,
Thanks for the advice. I desoldered the decoder, and tried to update again with no success. It is still saying the decoder does not answer. I also tried swapping the red and black wires. There is no capacitor connected.
I tried another decoder and it updated ok
Any further ideas?
Thanks, Cameron
12/19/2008 10:27 AM
 
Update failed
 
As another decoder works (so the MXDECUP is working) I guess the decdoer is damaged for some reason. Return it to ZIMO to get it fixed
12/19/2008 10:51 AM
 
MX640 v4 problem
 
Hello!
MX640 - disappears the sound of engine with the speed of more ~ 70%.Other sounds work.This problem only from Diesel and Electric lok.Steam lok they do not have this problem.Ver.100 they do not have this problem.
V4.9 too does not work correctly.
As to correct this the problem?
Best regards.
            Vladimir.
11/20/2008 12:42 PM
 
Asking indo for Zimo sound programmer
 
Good evening.

I am very interesting to the Zimo sound HO decoder MX640 and soon I am planed to buy it,
to put it inside a diesel loco, class 220 DB.

I have seen that for this loco, Zimo has a sound project with many interesting sound files.
So, I have decided to buy an MXDECUP module (also for the decoder update function)
and to download and install the Zimo sound programmer plus the programm...
9/26/2008 9:04 PM
 
Asking indo for Zimo sound programmer
 
9/26/2008 9:05 PM
 
Asking indo for Zimo sound programmer
 
That meand that the WAV file you just opened is in an invalid format or damaged. I will forward that to ZIMO that error message needs to run via the messages file to offer a correct english message.
 
The reason for the problem is most likely that you might have used a wav file with awrong file format. there are only 2 valid ones:
1. 11025kHz 8bit no parity (unsigned)
2. 22050kHz 8 bit no...
9/27/2008 12:43 PM
 
Asking indo for Zimo sound programmer
 
Dear Mister Hubsch,

thank you for your reply.

I have understood my mistake.
For assigning to the fields upside (to the yellow window) each sound to each driving condition,
I had to drop the wav sound files, from the green window at the bottom left ("files"),
not from the red "user samples" window.

Now the programm works fine.
I can hear the sounds assigned: start1.wav,...
9/30/2008 2:29 AM
 
Problems for updationg decoders with MXDECUP (under Vista x64)
 
Good evening Mr Huebsch and to all Zimo users.

Theese days I have bought a MXDECUP module for update my decoders and has arrived today.
I take a look to the decoders' manual for see how it will be connected.

First, I have downloaded and installed the ZST programm, version 1.5.1 and reboot the PC.
My operation system is Windows Vista, 64bit.
After I plug-in the power supply to the MXDECUP module...
9/15/2008 9:06 PM
 
Problems for updationg decoders with MXDECUP (under Vista x64)
 
9/15/2008 9:11 PM
 
Problems for updationg decoders with MXDECUP (under Vista x64)
 
Good news!
Under WinXP (x86), MXDECUP works great!
I have already updated one MX63 and one MX64.
9/15/2008 11:59 PM
 
MX620 without CV116 behaviour
 
Hi,
I have an MX620, version 5.  I cannot get the automatic coupling loco movement to work (loco back up, then moves away from wagons), which is described in CV116.
 
I have set
CV115 = 90
CV116 = 185
CV125 = 48
When I operate the function for CV125, there is no motor movement. Function output for coupling operation is correct at about 4 seconds.
 
I have also tried setting CV128...
3/27/2008 9:33 AM
 
MX620 without CV116 behaviour
 
Zimo Service report via email that CV116 is not yet implemented on MX620 version 5. 

Therefore, downloadable English manual for chip is incorrect on this detail,
 
 
3/28/2008 10:09 AM
 
MX620 without CV116 behaviour
 
I have now received some MX620's with version 7 firmware and the CV116 behaviour is now correct.
 
Video of model and details of my homemade couplers at
6/23/2008 3:15 PM
 
MX620 FORWARD BUT NOT REVERSE
 
I bought two zimno decoders mx620 and instaled in two locomotives a Cuco by Flesich. and a Diesel by Roco, both N scale.
My surprise is that the lights on forwar and reverse but it only runs forwar.
Can you help me please :-(
Thank you
11/19/2007 4:27 PM
 
MX620 FORWARD BUT NOT REVERSE
 
If the loco only runns forward but not reverse, this is most probably caused by an dead motor power transistor. I would recommend to verify this in another loco, it it happens again return the decoder for guarantee service
11/19/2007 6:33 PM
 
ZimoMX64 decoder with firmware version 20
 

Hello,
When I started digital I bought two Zimo decoders with firmware version 19.
Very good performance. Last month I bought een Piko train called ICE3 with a Zimo decoder. Terrible, he jumped by low speed over the tracks. The owner of the shop changed the decoder with a ESU and the problem was over.
Later on I ordered 5 new Zimo decoders for my other trains, Fleischmann and Rivarossi with the same bad...

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:36 AM
 
ZimoMX64 decoder with firmware version 20
 
Hello!
There is firmware version 22 out. It fixes this problem and offer much better low speed capabilities in analog mode. The firmware can be loaded with MXDECUP
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:37 AM
 
ZimoMX64 decoder with firmware version 20
 

Dear sir,

I drive digital. Is it also the solution for my problem?

I didn't find version 22 on the Zimo site.

Is it also possible to downgrade to version 19, if 22 doesn't bring the solution.

Best regards,

Rob Entjes

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:38 AM
 
ZimoMX64 decoder with firmware version 20
 

Yes it is possible to downgrade a decoder

... and sorry I thought version 22 is already online, at least decoders get shipped with it. So I would expect that the binaries will go online soon

regarding the driving properties. The v20 problem is fixed and ADDITIONALLY the analog mode is improved. Sorry I was not clear on this.
 
Anlagen:   

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:38 AM
 
ZimoMX64 decoder with firmware version 20
 

Dear sir,

Thank you for your quick reply.
I will wait and let you know the results.

Best regards,

Rob Entjes

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:39 AM
 
ZimoMX64 decoder with firmware version 20
 
Dear Sir,
Last week I update all my Zimo decoders with version 22.
I am very satisfied about the results.
Thanks,
Rob Entjes
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:39 AM
 
Decoder Version Number
 

I bought a number of Zimo decoders towards the end of 2004 (last year) and the beginning of this year (2005).

Reading the announcement of MXDECUP, I noticed that the Zimo decoders can be updated if manufactured after September 2004. How can I tell which version I have?

Is the version number on the decoder itself, or do you need the MXDECUP before you can find this out?

Regards
John Russell
Vienna,...

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:35 AM
 
Decoder Version Number
 

The key for flashing the decoder memory is the firmware in the decoder. The ZIMO WEB page should list the minimum version of the decoder firmware.
Version 17 for the small decoders all MX69 and all MX82 are flashable.

If you have a decoder (62/63/64) below version 17 you need to return the decoder to ZIMO to get it updated. The first release of MX64 and the old MX62's are not upgradable. They used...

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:35 AM
 
Zimo function mapping
 
Installation of a Dietz sound module into a Ge4/4 III has posed me with a problem whereby using the MX66 decoder already installed, I don't have sufficient functions for the sound card and the independent operation of the pantographs (sep from original print) (2 functions for the pantographs, 6 for the sound card, 1 for the lights). In order to get round this there are two options that are immediately...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:33 AM
 
Zimo function mapping
 
Hello!
I can confirm that your approach using the MX68 is a feasable way to address your problem. You have to programm your decoders seperatly and them when you are done install them in the loco.
Another approach would be to set them on 2 diffenent addresses, programm them with POM commands, as those are address specific. When you are happy with the result you just readdress the loco to the final...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:34 AM
 
Zimo decoder installation
 
 I've recently purchased a couple of MX69 Large Scale decoders and I was woundering if there is a diagram on how to wire this decoder into my LGB Steam locomotive.  It is a newer model with sound an LGB decoder.  I realize I might have to take out the LGB decoder, but if I do, which wires do I remove.  LGB says you will loose some of the sound features.  I think LGB just wants...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:32 AM
 
Zimo decoder installation
 
There is a basic diagram in the ZIMO docu.
For the newer sound modules from LGB you need a special serial protocol. The most recent MX69 - I don't know if it is already officially published - supports this. It works by using the SUSI lines. In this case that port sends the LGB commands out so the MX69 can be used to control the LGB Sound modules.
I plan to have an adapter board where you just unplug...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:33 AM
 
MX62 Uninterrupted driving on track sec tions with out power
 
I would like to know if the function "Uninterrupted driving on track sec tions with out power" can be used on MX62? Thanks. 
 
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:30 AM
 
MX62 Uninterrupted driving on track sec tions with out power
 
Not really, as there are not soldering pads easily available. Wait for the new MX620 this decoder will have that
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:31 AM
 
Decoder running Hot
 
I installed an MX63R in a Bachmann 2-6-4T (British Steam Loco). This is DCC ready with an NMRA socket. While test running, I noticed that the decoder was very hot to the touch.
I reported this on the Zimo-DCC Yahoo! Group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Zimo-DCC/) and I have tried the various ideas suggested. I have removed the capacitor. I have checked for other capacitors under the motor but can...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:27 AM
 
Decoder running Hot
 
Actually I would say the decoders may become warm, but not hot. The recent models are all thermo protected. So if the device gets too warm they will turn off the motor and wait for cooling down. So as long as the decoder does not stop the loco I would say that it is within the limits.
As you are in Vienna I offer you to visit me at my bench in the 3rd district, and I will have a look, free of charge....
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:27 AM
 
Decoder running Hot
 

 Dear Arnold,

Many thanks for this offer. Through other correspondence, I have discovered 2 more test I can perform myself.

(1) Check the stall current of the loco to eb sure it is under the rating for the decoder.

(2) Swap the decoder with the same type in another loco and to try to determine if it is the loco or the decoder which is the source of the problem.

If I still cannot resolve the...

HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:28 AM
 
Decoder running Hot
 
Dear All,
I just noticed that I never finished this thread with a report on the solution to the problem, which I did discover soon after posting this message on this board.
I dscovered that I was using a Hornby connection clip from the controller to the test track I was using This connection clip contains a high frequency filter for radio interference suppression. As soon as I removed this connection...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:29 AM
 
Zimo Decoders with LGB and aristocraft
 
Hi All.
I'm after some information whether it is possible to use a Zimo decoder in a aristocraft train on a LGB MTS layout.
I understand that some of aristocraft come with a DCC anyway and that won't work on the MTS system hence the use of a Zimo. What sort of decoder would I have to use to get the basic functions to work, ie lights, smoke.
Also does anyone know of a supplier of Zimo in the UK ?
Thanks...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:24 AM
 
Zimo Decoders with LGB and aristocraft
 
The LGB MZS central unit uses some old DCC conventions:
1. 14 speed steps
2. Pulse chains to address function outputs above F1
14 Speed steps are supported by all DCC decoders simply set CV29=0. Of course with just the LGB equippment it is hard to handle.
Pulse Chains: this is going to be overcome with the new paralell enhancment which became available last year. You need to send your equipment to...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:24 AM
 
Zimo Decoders with LGB and aristocraft
 
 Thanks very much for the infomation, just a quick question. You replied saying my equipment needs updating ? Is there anyway to check if this has already been done ? Also the MX69 series, can that be programmed via my LGB MTS central unit or do I need some additional  Hardware for this ?
Thanks again
Steve
 
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:25 AM
 
Zimo Decoders with LGB and aristocraft
 
 Update Issue MZS:
If you have "P" stickers on your equipment the update is inside. In this case you can switch between "Pulse Chain Mode" and "Paralell Mode" for each loco address individually. Paralell mode means that you don't have to wait 8 seconds when you press 8.
If you have the programming module for your cab - that's all you need. Generally it is easier and...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/16/2006 9:26 AM
 
LGB F7 A+B SOUND UNIT
 
 I have LGB digital ready loco and sound unit without a decoder intalled.
Which of the new MX69 decoders do I need so I can just plug in and keep the original sound in the B-unit?
Do I need to use the MX69A with the additional items supplied by Arnold Hubsch?
 
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/15/2006 9:13 PM
 
LGB F7 A+B SOUND UNIT
 
It should be enough to use the MX69S. This decoder has enough connectors to power the sound board. Depending on the rest of the loco electronics the MX69V might be necessary as only this type carries the 5V voltage regulator.
Depending on the sound board, there are various types available, the connection between the MX69 and the LGB sound board has variants:
1) you might use the pulse chain mechanism....
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/15/2006 9:14 PM
 
UltraEdit
 
 I can't seem to get UltraEdit to work on my STP 5V program.  Could you describe how to do this. 
Thanks you
Andy
 
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/15/2006 9:10 PM
 
UltraEdit
 
Maybe I should extend the description on my WEB. Until that I hope the following helps:
UltraEdit allows to define "language definition files". Under "advanced" -> "syntax highlighting" you can open the wordfile.txt. Here you paste my definition in.
There is one thing left to do, UltraEdit numbers the languages it supports. This is coded with lines starting with /L#...
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/15/2006 9:11 PM
 
Installation of decoders
 
Now that I have all my zimo equipment and have finished my test track.  I need to know how to install the decoders in my engines.  Some engines are LGB and some Backmann.  What do I do.  Does the decoder go into the engine or the tender.  How do I insulate the motor from the track, where do get the proper insulating washers and screws.
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/15/2006 9:09 PM
 
Installation of decoders
 
Your questions are rather global and not just limitted to ZIMO. So I recommend to visit garden railroading pages on the WEB. A special recommendation for my site at http://www.huebsch.at/train. Here you will find HO and G-scale recommendations. I have done several reports about decoder installations which might be interresting for you.
HUBERTUS2\hubert
5/15/2006 9:10 PM