Bachmann EZ Command doesn't control Functions????

[ftherrmann]

I have a factory Acela with DCC and a Northern 4-8-4 that I just installed a Bachmann DCC decoder in.  I also just received the E-Z Command Control center.   After reading up on the controller I tried out the Acela and was able to assign a new address to it and run it in both directions.  However when I place the E-Z in function mode I can't get the lights to turn on or react to any of the 10 buttons while in function mode.  My understanding is that f10 is supposed to turn the lights on and off. 

I also was able to assign an address to the Northern 4-8-4 and everything works except the light.  Basically the same results I'm getting with the Acela.

I then ran both the Acela and the Northern with the DC controller.  The lights worked fine on both.  Unless there is something I don't understand about function mode it seems as if the E-Z Command isn't sending out the function commands even though I know it's in function mode based on the fact that the selected engines address light is flashing.

Anyone have any suggestions or see anything that I'm doing wrong?

Thanks,

Fred
 

[ftherrmann]

Turns out that my DCC controller works after all...   Apparently dcc doesn't work with only a open section of track.  After I built up a closed loop of track it works fine.

[ftherrmann]

That's what I thought...   Hmmmm.... wonder what's going on...  You'd think if the dcc speed and direction worked the functions would also work...