Dummies Guide To Massoth Dcc - Suggestions For Topics

muns

muns

Well-Known Member
Staff member
GSC Moderator
Country flag
Someone mentioned (Dave I think) on the Massoth & DCC point control thread that they would like a "Dummies guide" or "for dummies" type document/threads (or similar) in using their Massoth DCC system.

Now I am not saying I will create any (I may) but it would be good to have a list of topics that you would like to be covered so please add you wish list here and you never know......
 
Adding your own Soind might be a good (if tricky) topic to think about. I have long desired to get the Sound to be more related to what happens when a Train is running such as Short and Long Whistles, Brake Squeel but only Coal Shoveling when you want it.

The Kit Required to do this as well. I am thinking of the Massoth Interface to Chips.
JonD
 
I think mark is thinking of a 'how to use it' series for a start??
Adding custom sounds 9as opposed to which button to press when, should be in a 'Massoth for masochists' thread! ;):(

We find visitors to the Harz have trouble selecting point control, starting number for points, and switching between them.. Without loosing control of the loco they are piloting!

Speed-step changing, and the related serial / parallel command switching, perhaps?

Menu map - A pictorial layout of menu / sub-menu's??

I'll post how to set long addresses with a Massoth on an MFX equipped loco if you like?
 
Good start Mark.
I was thinking along the lines of:-
One post per relevant CV. - (3, 29, 50 come to mind)
Keep to just CVs - do other thing in other threads (like fitting and axle sensors etc)
Mods to manage the first or second post as an index
Delete chat heavily

And Phil, a guide to the MFX with Massoth would be excellent, probably in its own unique thread.

Now - do we want to ask Paul for another sub category, or is that just going to make it harder to access?
 
Errr...
'Per CV' will have to state VERY clearly the decoder(s) we are talking about!
CV 50 on Massoth decoder = Light dimming value.
CV 50 on MFX decoder = protocols supported.

As an example..
 
Phil, we have to be precise I agree. We ARE talking MASSOTH here.
 
Best to start with the simple things......like where is that beer :)
 
Hurrah...my post # 1000


I wrote this myself....an eejits guide to basic functions with a navigator...selecting and driving a train, and operating points. All cut and pasted from the lengthy massoth navi user guide.

Ideal for giving someone as a quick guide if they've never used a navi ( but are familiar with model trains )

Malcolm
 

Attachments

A user guide to how not to confuse a thread?

Seriously a user guide to:
  1. Explain the basics of CV manipulation using CV 49 as example (the NMRA common bit) this allows a bit of exploration/introduction to driving characteristics through the driving curve and a bit of a branch into top speed (CV 5), acceleration/deceleration (CVs 2/3), mid speed (CV 6) and the relation of the CV values to scaling factors related to the real output values seen on the loco. In short demystify Pi load control.
  2. Guide on the use of the Massoth Service Tool and the Dimax PC module. These tools are perhaps the most useful things that Massoth produce to ease the manipulation/understanding of digital control. It's just a shame that the documentation is not quite so useful or enlightening.
  3. Some clear indication/summary of value/differences of the various upgrades.
 
Fantastic idea. I class myself as a dummie. DCC always appears so complicated. But the step by step instructions from start to finish on the navigator, were a big help.
 
I've just purchased a Navigator to operate with MTS III. While the Navigator instructions are comprehensive, they are a little vague on precisely what a Navigator can (or can't do) with MTS III. A list of what exactly can be done with the MTS III and Navigator combination would be helpful and (in some cases) how to do it.
 
Lobethalbahn2 said:
I've just purchased a Navigator to operate with MTS III. While the Navigator instructions are comprehensive, they are a little vague on precisely what a Navigator can (or can't do) with MTS III. A list of what exactly can be done with the MTS III and Navigator combination would be helpful and (in some cases) how to do it.
Click to expand...
I want it to be known that I am a DUMMY but I can't stop playing, sometimes expensively. I once found aYoutube film by LGB on installing MTS features and how to extend the scope of it all, once we got to the computer interface I drew a line as I didn't have a computer to interface it to.
Massoth has its own Youtube channel and I firmly believe they could do a lot to help us ignoramouses by doing something similar. I would certainly be an avid viewer. They could do a commentary in French, Spannish, English and American to help us understand it (Huh)'
 
With the introduction by Märklin of mfx decoder, an explanation/comparison of CVs definition and values would be useful. With my purchase LGB 28446, i placed it on my track and selected value 3 as ID (default on new locos), then turned speed dial up slightly. The loco advanced at high speed, collided with another loco and dropped to concrete floor, without any other action my me. Yes it was damaged

mfx is not on my favorite list.

Bob
pryzby1963@gmail.com
 
Trebor said:
With the introduction by Märklin of mfx decoder, an explanation/comparison of CVs definition and values would be useful. With my purchase LGB 28446, i placed it on my track and selected value 3 as ID (default on new locos), then turned speed dial up slightly. The loco advanced at high speed, collided with another loco and dropped to concrete floor, without any other action my me. Yes it was damaged

mfx is not on my favorite list.

Bob
pryzby1963@gmail.com
Click to expand...
So using an unknown controller for the first time, you took no precautions like having a clear test track at floor level.
 
JimmyB said:
So using an unknown controller for the first time, you took no precautions like having a clear test track at floor level.
Click to expand...
I trusted Marklin. I had previously contacted them prior to purchasing the loco. They said that I could use my Navigator and that the Massoth CVs were no problem. The mfx would operate just like an XLS-OnBoard decoder. Lesson learned the hard way
 
Trebor said:
I trusted Marklin. I had previously contacted them prior to purchasing the loco. They said that I could use my Navigator and that the Massoth CVs were no problem. The mfx would operate just like an XLS-OnBoard decoder. Lesson learned the hard way
Click to expand...
Greg Elmassian said:
A set of rollers to test a loco out the first time is what I recommend. Cheap insurance.

Greg
Click to expand...
T Trebor apologies, my post seemed a bit harsh, but Greg is correct, as you say a lesson learnt, as with all LFE, its remembering next time ;)
 
Trebor said:
I trusted Marklin. I had previously contacted them prior to purchasing the loco. They said that I could use my Navigator and that the Massoth CVs were no problem. The mfx would operate just like an XLS-OnBoard decoder. Lesson learned the hard way
Click to expand...
Whilst you can use any DCC system, there may be 'brand-specific' features, which are not supported or work differently.
If you were told Massoth CV's were no problem, being generous to both parties, something was lost in translation.

There are a set of standard, defined CV's that must be adhered to :
CV1 short-address.
CV29 bit-wise settings for direction, speed-steps, etc.

But others can be used as the manufacturer see's - fit..
CV50 is a case in point.
 
Great idea for a thread!

I’d love to see a basic tutorial on setting up a basic automated passing siding using the wireless feedback module, track sensors and built-in DiMAX central station automation. The examples in the manuals are not really adequate IMHO. More examples would be nice...thanks!
Keith
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom