Forgive me if this is a duplicate post - can't find the thread from earlier posts...

What kind of decoder provides a simple and inexpensive solution for turning on and off passenger car lights? The cars, are connected via current conducting couplers so only one decoder would be used. The lights are LED light bars from Tams, installed in ROCO HO cars. I drive 3-rail K-track digital with Märklin engines using a 6021/6040 etc.

Thanks for suggestions of specic brands / models.
Peter

Or if you have a loco decoder left over from an upgrade, you can use that: use a function output.
Remember it will be a different address from the loco.

Okay.. I remember that to stop flickering you have to complete the circuit to the decoder, but most current conducting couplers have only one wire so how do you get the return wire??? Or perhaps a decoder that does not manage a motor does not have a flickering problem??

I use a full wave rectifier which I purchased from trainaidsa.com. It costs only around $1 and it prevents flickering. I however need to install capacitors to prevent flickering that occors due to loss of contact when the train runs.

Peter, I haven't done this, but if I were I would use an extra decoder left over from an upgrade. Barring that you could get the cheapest compatible decoder and a relay. I see a ESU LokPilot Multi Protocol Decoder for $37 on one vendor's webpage. I think it has at least one function (you should confirm on ESU webpage). On the ESU web page is small relay and wiring diagram for controlling a smoke generator, you could do the same for the coach lights: http://www.esu.eu/en/pro...sories/miniature-relays/ . That isn't too expensive, even though it seems a waste to use a locomotive decoder just to turn lights on and off. Be sure to share your solution. Maybe someone with more experienced will chime in soon. Good luck.

Hi Peter,

Since you are using a Tams lighting product, I can recommend Tams for function decoders. Their FD-R Basic model retails at less than 10 Euros each and they work well (I have several).

If you email ctams@tams-online.de, Caroline Tams (I think) will help you in excellent English, and can accept payment via PayPal. I have just ordered some myself.

(I have no connection with Tams except as a customer.)

I hope this helps,

Nigel

PS I've just realised that all the Tams people are at the model railway show in Karlsruhe, so they can't answer until the 30th March!