Function Decoder
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Summary:
Function Decoders are small decoders which can be installed with a multifunction decoder to provide additional functions, or as a standalone device in a vehicle such as a caboose, to provide additional lighting features. Function decoders do not provide motor control or sound effects.
If a function decoder is installed with another decoder, the decoder lock feature may be used. This will allow programming one decoder without changing the other.
Addressing
The function decoder can have its own address, or share one, such as an installation in a locomotive. By sharing the address, the throttle can control both decoders simultaneously.
Applications
Communication
Transponding
This is a Digitrax feature, used for signaling, train identification, and the Soundtraxx SurroundTraxx audio system.
RailCom
An additional function decoder can provide RailCom capability.
Additional Functions
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A function decoder can provide additional function outputs or features which may not be available on an existing multifunction decoder. Instead of replacing the multifunction decoder with a new one, a low cost function decoder can be added. Both decoders can share an address, allowing easy use of the additional functions.
Lighting
Function decoders can provide control of lighting in passenger cars and cabooses. A simple single function decoder will suffice for lighting.
Number Boards
Independent control of the lighting for number boards
Marker Lights
In addition to lighting effects, a multiple output function decoder can be used to operate strobes, marker or class lights.
Locomotives usually have classification lights, which indicate the class of the train:
- White: Extra, not shown on timetables. Most freight trains run as extras.
- Green: Regularly Scheduled Train
- Red: End of Train
Some locomotives may be equipped to two small red lamps which are used to indicated end of train when being used as a helper at the rear.
Cabooses had lanterns, which were later replaced by electric lights. These markers were at the rear of the train.
- Red: End of Train
- Green: Indicated the end of the train on a passing siding
The conductor or a crewman would orient the lantern so the correct colour was showing. Later this would be done by turning the appropriate lamp on or off. Canadian National's modern cabooses also included headlights which could be used to examine a passing train, or for reverse moves at night.
Animation
It is possible to add animation using a function decoder to operate a feature of the vehicle. One possible application is to operate the coupler(s).
Smoke Units
Function decoders can provide control of smoke units. Since the smoke unit demands more current, check the specifications first.
Available Function Decoders
Not all DCC manufacturers supply function only decoders. Check their websites for specifications and available decoders.
Digitrax
Digitrax offers two small function decoders, with integrated transponder. Please see Decoder Lock for more information regarding programming.
TL1
The TL1 Single Function Decoder can be used as a function only DCC decoder with or without transponding, or as a transponder only.
It features a single 125mA function output for lighting or other purposes. It also has a strobe light output which can be programmed as a strobe, Mars Light, or a FRED. It can be controlled via F0, F1, F2, F3, or F4.
- Primary or Extended addressing
- Compatible with Digitrax DCC Transponding Systems
TF4
The TL4 Quad is similar, with four independent function outputs (F0-F12), Strobe, and transponding.
KATO
- FR12
- FR11
- TCS K4-LK: Kato only expansion board, for N Scale MP36PH
TCS
- FL2, 2 functions, 200mA, DC compatible.
- FL4, 4 functions, 200mA, DC compatible
Viessmann Modellspielwaren
Many support RailCom and SUSI, as well as Primary and Extended addresses..
Function-Only Decoders:
- N Function decoder
- H0 Function decoder
ESU
ESU offers the LokPilot FX V4.0, DCC with RailCom® as well as Motorola® and Selectrix® it can be operated with all common digital command stations. Its flexible function key allocation and the various light effects are typical ESU V4 decoder features. The LokPilot V4.0 is available in two interface versions: the “classic” 8-pin NEM 652 wire harness version as well as a 21MTC interface version.
It supports the ZIMO HLU braking commands or the Lenz ABC system. Braking with DCC brake generators or Brake on DC is supported.
The LokPilot Fx V4.0 decoder has 6 function outputs. The wire harness version is usually amplified. The 21MTC version offers an amplified or a logic level for AUX3 and AUX4. All important light functions are available. The brightness of each output can be adjusted separately. Function outputs are current overload protected.
There is also the LokPilot 5 FX Micro DCC with similar specifications.
ESU also offers their new LokSound 5 FX, which offers sound and functions but no motor drive. It is available with the 8 pin NEM652 connector, or the 21MTC interface.
Uhlenbrock
Intellidrive Function Decoder, 4 outputs, programmable, supports function mapping.
Also available is the 73800 Function Decoder.
More information on Uhlenbrock Function Decoders
Zimo
Zimo offers a number of function only decoders.
| Model | MX671 | MX673P22 | MX675V | MX676VD | MX685P16 | MX686D | MX688N18 | MX689 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connections | 7 wires, with NEM-652 or NEM-651(pins) |
PluX-22 | 10 wires | 21MTC | PluX-16 | 21MTC | Next18 | |
| Continuous Current | 0. 7 A | 1.2 A | 1.8 A | 1.8 A | 1.0 A | 1.2 A | 0.7 A | 1.2 A |
| "Normal" Functions | 6 | 10 (9) | 12 (9) | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 10 |
| SUSI | - | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Direct Energy Storage | yes (25 V) | yes (16 V) | yes (16 V) | yes (16 V) | - | Yes | - | - |
| Low Voltage Outputs | - | - | Adjustable | - | - | - | 5 V (200 mA) | |
| Speaker Output | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 4 - 8 Ohm |
| Audio Performance | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 3 W |
| Sound Memory | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 32 Mbit |