Massoth PC programming module (latest version with USB interface)

T

Tim Brien

Registered
Well, I am getting close to the moment of multiple decoder purchases plus a programmer and require info on a suitable power supply for the programmer. The Massoth site specifies 14 - 18 volts AC and 16 - 24 volts DC with a 1.5 amp programming current draw.

To date I have only been using my trusty LGB PC programmer for non-sound decoder installs and use my LGB 20 volt AC 6 amp power supply for programming. Now obviously this exceeds the power requirements for the Massoth programmer. Generally I use my Aristo 18 volt DC 10 amp power supply for DCC operation. Is this overkill if used for the Massoth programmer?

Looking through my power supplies I have a computer laptop power supply pumping out a constant 20 volts DC with 4 amp capacity. Would this be more suitable? A friend was told to use (and he does successfully) a locally manufactured 14 volt AC 1.5 amp power supply as the Massoth distributor is concerned with damage being inflicted on the decoder circuitry due 'over powering the chip' (?). 14 volts AC with 1.5 amp capacity is the basic minimum power spec required per the manufacturer power details.

Any suggestions as not only are PC programmers expensive they can be also difficult to source should a replacement be required.
 
As long as you have a 'sensible' way of connecting said power supply, and if it is more of a lash-up check EVERYTHING is unplugged / switched off before connecting.. Then work through your connections back from the decoder you are programming all the way to the mains plug BEFORE plugging in and switching on, then you will be fine.

I use a number of different power sources, depending what else is plugged in elsewhere..
I am now paranoid having (only once, you tend to only do it once) wired the AC transformer into the Rail connections of a Central Station. X(
 
Your programmer will only draw the current required of 1.5A, even if connected to your 6A LGB supply, or 10A ART unit.

If you have a multi-meter, you can confirm if the LGB unit does output 20VAC. You may find that it is less when under load conditions.

However, as you have the Laptop PSU which meets the spec required, I would use that to set up a dedicated programming station....
 
Tim, the only reasons to purchase a Massoth PC programmer are:

1) Be able to upload sounds to eMotion decoders
2) Perform firmware updates on Massoth DiMax components and eMotion decoders.

If you only want it to program CVs then it is probably not worth the money - you should be able to stick with your LGB 55045 module (and the Massoth DCC programmer software).
 
Mark,
my LGB PC programmer is a version 1.0 and only capable of programming up to CV124 from memory. It cannot assign sound functions. I can do each (and every) CV on the main using the handheld but it is extremely tiresome.
Edit: I have used JMRI in the past on an occasion or two using a nine-pin serial interface to the computer but do prefer the ease of using the Massoth software.
 
Gizzy said:
.............
However, as you have the Laptop PSU which meets the spec required, I would use that to set up a dedicated programming station....
Click to expand...


I hopefully intend to set up a dedicated programming track with permanent connections. Not having a laptop, it is bothersome to programme a decoder and then take it outside to test only to have to bring it back and alter a CV or two. I also would like my DCC central station to be handy to my work area to be able to test an install.
 
Tim Brien said:
Mark,
my LGB PC programmer is a version 1.0 and only capable of programming up to CV124 from memory. It cannot assign sound functions. I can do each (and every) CV on the main using the handheld but it is extremely tiresome.
Edit: I have used JMRI in the past on an occasion or two using a nine-pin serial interface to the computer but do prefer the ease of using the Massoth software.
Click to expand...
Understood.
 
Tim,

I assume that your PC programmer is the LGB 55045 unit?

If so, you can purchase a newer version of the software from Stellwerk http://www.stellwerk-software.de/en/index.html the latest version being 9.0.

There was a way of downloading 6.0 for free from this site, but I think it has now been removed.

This may be a more economical way of upgrading your LGB programmer, rather than purchasing the Massoth unit....
 
Trouble is Gary, older version of the 55045 (v1) cannot program high CV values, using different software will not fix that.
 
muns said:
Trouble is Gary, older version of the 55045 (v1) cannot program high CV values, using different software will not fix that.
Click to expand...

Ah I see? I wasn't aware of different Hardware versions of the 55045....
 
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