Bachmann Online Forum

Discussion Boards => General Discussion => Topic started by: billchoo on September 25, 2008, 12:31:23 AM

Title: controlling Bachman DCC turnouts
Post by: billchoo on September 25, 2008, 12:31:23 AM
can someone explain exactly how to control Bachman DCC turnouts using MRC Prodigy Advance 2.  I use Bachman EZ track, and I have two Bachman #6 crossover turnouts that worked easily with my "Bachman EZ command" system, but now use the "MRC" system.

Bill
Title: Re: controlling Bachman DCC turnouts
Post by: Yampa Bob on September 26, 2008, 10:05:22 PM
Hi Bill
You are not being ignored, several members here have the Prodigy and may have the answer you need, so hang around for awhile.

I don't have a Prodigy, but I do have the manual. The only reference I found for accessory decoders is in Section 2-11 and 2-12.

The way I read it, accessory decoders are not handled the same way as mobile decoders. The section says to refer to your accessory instruction sheet to determine the proper address.  It also refers to CV #513 however that may only apply to their line of decoders. 

I don't know if the Bachmann DCC turnout can be classified as an "accessory decoder".  The greatest failing of the factories is not providing sufficient information on their products.  I know every system has different programming procedures, but a generic quick start would certainly be helpful.  The status quo is "You buy it and you figure it out".

You might check the turnout package for instructions, and read the sections I mentioned above. Perhaps a phone call to Bachmann service might get you some detailed information.   

Good luck
Title: Re: controlling Bachman DCC turnouts
Post by: billchoo on September 26, 2008, 11:13:43 PM
Thanks for the help Bob, hopefully someone will have the answer to this big secret.  I noticed your "Union Pacific" logo.  I retired as an engineer from the Union Pacific .  After 41 years it gets in your blood and model railroading keeps it flowing.

Bill
Title: Re: controlling Bachman DCC turnouts
Post by: Yampa Bob on September 26, 2008, 11:40:10 PM
I would enjoy hearing about your experiences as a UP engineer.  I copped your email address, if you don't mind I may write sometime.

I live in the heart of coal country in northwest Colorado. I model mostly modern UP, but also Rio Grande which really developed this area in the early years.  My favorite trains are vintage 2-6-0, 2-8-0 and coaches from the 1880-1920 era.

When I retired from cattle ranching 2 years ago, I invested in UP stock, have seen it double and split.  Every day we see the coal trains pass through our ranch, with  10,000 tons of the finest high btu low sulphur coal in the country.

Good luck with the turnouts, wish I could help more. I have EZ Command, but my turnouts are mostly manual and a few remote.