DCC Program Track Booster

[Mark FL]

Does Bachmann offer a Program Track booster?  If not can someone recommend one?

[RAM]

I don't know much about DCC, but I don't know why you have a need for a program track booster.  You would only have one locomotive on the program track.

[richg]

Does Bachmann offer a Program Track booster?  If not can someone recommend one?

Why do you think you need a booster for only the program track? You should try to include more info in a question.

Rich

[Mark FL]

I have installed a sound traxx in my GP 40 engine. It will not program on the program track ( due to the low voltage)and was told by Sound traxx that i should get a track booster for my program track so i could set the new CV's. ( My engine will start up and i can hear the air brakes. But I cannot make it do anything else).

[Joe Satnik]

1 K Ohm resistor needed between the programming track rails?

Others with more knowledge, please chime in.

Joe Satnik

[richg]

1 K Ohm resistor needed between the programming track rails?

Others with more knowledge, please chime in.

Joe Satnik

The Bach-Man has said the same before. A 1k resistor attached to two clip leads. I have seen the same solution in other DCC forums.

Rich

[bapguy]

What DCC system are you using? Soundtraxx sells a PTB-100 that hooks up between the command station and program track.  Joe

[Len]

What DCC system are you using? Soundtraxx sells a PTB-100 that hooks up between the command station and program track.  Joe

The system shouldn't matter much, the PTB-100 can be used with just about any system out there. And it's almost a necessity for locos with more than one sound decoder installed, e.g., Athearn DD40AX. The 1K resistor trick doesn't work for two sound decoders being programmed at the same time.

Len

[Mark FL]

Thanks for the comments. I use a MRC Prodgity advance2. I was told by Sound Traxx tech help that i needed a booster. I can try to put the restor between the rails but do not understand what exactly that will do.

[bapguy]

I think it matters what system you have as I have a Digitrax and don't use the PTB-100 or resister across the rails. Digitrax has 3 programming options. Try programming on the main. The resister shows the command station there is a load on the programming track.  Joe

[richg]

The below fellow use to own a on line DCC company until he retired. He has worked very closely with SoundTraxx for some time. In case the 1k resistor solution does not work for you. All looking here, store the link in your browser.
Take a lot of time looking though his site. He has a lot of good DCC info.

http://www.mrdccu.com/curriculum/ptb.htm

Rich

[Mark FL]

Thanks Rich. The web site you provided is very informative