Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by youngagain
<br />... Why can't I use the feeder track 24088 as I did with CS1 ?

Hi, For the CS1 there is only one connection (#1) that can be used with a 24088. This is the round(ish) 8 pin connector - you need a 8pin to 10pin cable which ships with the CS1.
The output (for the track) from this connector is the SAME as the one next to it ( #2 - Icon with a piece of track with a B and O BUT WITHOUT the word "Prog"). It just allows you to choose to wire directly to the layout tracks.
Note: Using the 24088 allowed for a MS to be plugged in - one reason for the different number of pins.

The CS2 has a connector with the same (8pin) connector configuration but is labeled "SX". And while this is plug compatible with the 24088 and a slave MS will power up, the commands sent are not the same and the MS shows "NO MASTER".
The port is described as
"Opt." on pg 36 and
"SX-Bus: (Currently not used)" on page 40. The SX implies TRIX so I do not know if a Trix MS would work differently.
Therefore:. The 24088 cannot be used by the CS2 as a feed to the track We just have to bite the bullet and move on ...
The Connector WITH the word "Prog" has special functions (and protection).
First it is important to understand that there are 2 types of programming and this is really a function of the decoder.
1) For "older decoders" it is necessary to use a power command sequence to set them into programming mode. Conversely ALL decoders of this type that were on the track when this is done will be put into programming mode. This is why it is desirable to have an isolated piece of track - in order to limit the damage to just one train
2) The newer decoders are able to be addressed specifically and allow for PoM (Programming on Main) - mFX decoders are of this type
So both the CS1 and CS2 (and all other brands of controllers for that matter) provide 2 seperate circuits.
NOTE: in normal operation the Programming track gets exactly the same signal as the Main Layout. However when you perform a programming function a relay changes the circuit to allow for the needed power initiation sequence - A noticeable, audible, click can be heard from the unit when this happens.
An additional design specification of the programing track output, is that of limited current and more sensitive cutout.
One of the reasons for this is for the testing of a newly installed decoder. If there is a short or miss-wiring, the idea being that the track will turn off earlier and save the decoder from damage rather than blowing it up. The comment about other loads (lights etc), aside from using up the limited power, is that they distort the signal and "may" prevent the protection circuitry doing its job of cutting out quickly and cleanly.
Edited by moderator 11 January 2011 17:14:09(UTC)
| Reason: Not specified