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Decoders receive commands from throttles or other devices and are responsible for controlling the motor and/or performing certain functions.

Contents 1 Types Of Decoders 1.1 Stationary Decoders 1.2 Mobile Decoders 1.3 Decoder FAQ 1.4 What conditions can cause a decoder to fail? 2 See Also

[edit] Types Of Decoders

Decoders can be grouped into two main categories. The first type, Mobile Decoders, are typically installed into locomotives or other rolling stock that moves along the rails. The second type of decoder is a stationary decoder, which is normally mounted under the benchwork in a "stationary" position.

[edit] Stationary Decoders

Main article: Stationary Decoder

Stationary decoders can be used to control railway switches, structure lights, scene lighting, animation, and signaling.

[edit] Mobile Decoders

Main article: Mobile Decoder

Mobile decoders are typically installed in locomotives, but can also be installed into cars to control lights, animation, sound or even uncoupling devices. The mobile decoder is responsible for also delivering power to functions, including a locomotive engine, which is not usable directly from the tracks. Please see the DCC Power article for details on this is accomplished.

[edit] Decoder FAQ

[edit] What conditions can cause a decoder to fail?

1. Overvoltage on input (from track)
2. Current draw exceeds decoder ratings (wiring short or other overload condition)
   1. Be carefull when first testing a decoder installation. Put the DCC device on a test track (programming track or section with a 100-ohm series resistor) instead of the main line for testing. If all functions work, and it can move (assuming motor output drive from decoder) at low speed steps, then you should be relatively safe to place it on the main. As always, follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing in addition to the above.
3. Overheating
   1. Imagine running a black loco in direct sunlight and hauling a heavy load at nearly the limit of the current output of the decoder. Now imagine the decoder only having current limits, and not thermal limits built in. The scenario can also happen if the decoder is installed in an area with little air space. Consider the heat is the only suggestion so far...

[edit] See Also

• Decoder installation - How to install mobile decoders
• Installing LEDs with DCC Decoders
• Throttles
• Configuration variable
• Category:Throttle Network
• Decoder Features
• Category:Sound