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DCC HO Problems
Sundaram would like some advice from experienced model railroaders and asks:
I am facing the following HO problems:
I have a DCC fitted layout. Zephyr DSCS50 and Digital DS64 Digital Command Control –
1. The mobile decoder (Digitrax – 123HD) failed all of a sudden – seems to have burnt out, because a hole is been on the plastic sheath covering the electronics.
2. The turnout machine keeps switching even when not activated. This specially happens when a non- DCC engine is operated.
Add your suggestions below.
2 Responses to DCC HO Problems
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Sundaram – sometimes the decoders get overloaded – or even just old and tired and burn out. I have several Digitrax 123HD that gave up the ghost because the engine pulled too much power though them. Using them too long (or leaving thing on while idle on the track) also leaves them open to damage either from a spike or from overheating. It is a good idea to get a good UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to help clean up the power that is delivered to your electronics — and help block out those spikes which can cause such damage on the little devices.
Dear Mr. Duncan ,
Thanks for your response. But, I thought that the voltage going to the track is too small to get affected by spikes. May be I am wrong and I will follow your advise on using an UPS. The other good advice you have given is to take the loco of the track when idle.