SteveWoodward
Member
I'm quite comfortable with decoder installations, have done a few dozen up to this point, including older locos where isolating the motor is required. I've left a number of locos unlit for lack of understanding how to properly light DCC equipped locos.
I've done lots of reading and research, but still seem to be lacking. I know if I use 12V bulbs I'm okay, but I've got a number of locos with 1.5V bulbs that require the use of a resistor. I've read various things about how to calculate what size resistor to use, etc. Not being an electrical engineer I find myself stumped, and my several attempts at winging it have resulted in burned out bulbs or bulbs that do not light at all.
There is one project in particular that I am targeting: An Athean RTR GP35 in which I've installed an ESU Soundlok decoder. Have the decoder installed just fine. Tried using the stock 1.5V bulbs with a 1/4 w 560 ohm resistor, and the bulb refuses to light. I know the bulb is fine...same result with a 470 ohm resistor.
I'm starting to wonder if there's something specific to the ESU decoder that is causing me trouble. I plan on shifting my focus to another loco that has a hard wired decoder (not PnP).
I hate to keep scratching my head, frying bulbs, etc. I'm hoping someone out there can shed some light (pun intended!) on my situation. I will continue to search this and other forums, but as you might be able to tell I'm a little lost and frustrated.
Many thanks in advance for any advice, tips, etc.
Steve Woodward
I've done lots of reading and research, but still seem to be lacking. I know if I use 12V bulbs I'm okay, but I've got a number of locos with 1.5V bulbs that require the use of a resistor. I've read various things about how to calculate what size resistor to use, etc. Not being an electrical engineer I find myself stumped, and my several attempts at winging it have resulted in burned out bulbs or bulbs that do not light at all.
There is one project in particular that I am targeting: An Athean RTR GP35 in which I've installed an ESU Soundlok decoder. Have the decoder installed just fine. Tried using the stock 1.5V bulbs with a 1/4 w 560 ohm resistor, and the bulb refuses to light. I know the bulb is fine...same result with a 470 ohm resistor.
I'm starting to wonder if there's something specific to the ESU decoder that is causing me trouble. I plan on shifting my focus to another loco that has a hard wired decoder (not PnP).
I hate to keep scratching my head, frying bulbs, etc. I'm hoping someone out there can shed some light (pun intended!) on my situation. I will continue to search this and other forums, but as you might be able to tell I'm a little lost and frustrated.
Many thanks in advance for any advice, tips, etc.
Steve Woodward