Question / Answer Page
Last updated: 22/10-2001
The page will be updated as soon as possible, but there is a lot of mail's, to shorten and type in.
All-round Constructions :
Q :
I think the Pic 16F84 are expensive.A :
Yes here in Denmark it cost about 80 DKr a piece, but we have begun to change the program's to run on the Pic 16F628 who only cost the half.
The Decoder Ver 2/3 :
Q:
My train are running in step, not smoothly, what's the problem.A:
Mostly I see that the tracks are rusty , or the wheels are dirty, or the pick up shoe are defect.
Q:
My train run fast forward and then fast reverse, without I'm doing anything.A:
Are you sure you have used an Tantalum and NOT an Electrolyte condensator.
Q:
When my train are running fast forward they suddenly chain direction to fast reverse.A:
Original there is 3 condensators on the trains motor and at piece of Coal with a few rounds of wire , be sure NOT to remove ANY of them.
Q:
My train is not moving ?.
A :
The first time the Decoder is on the tracks, it uses address 78, be sure to remember that, and afterwards you can change the decoders address towhat ever by the ONTRACK program.
Q :
The first time I use my new decoder it speeds slowly up and down , except if I change direction.A :
If you haven't been I ONTRACK programming the decoder is preprogrammed to be in delay speed motion, you can change this by hit the "F3"button OR go into ONTRACK and change the "F3" behavior.
The Master Controller Ver. 2/3 :
Q
: My display looks strange.A :
We found 4 errors on the PCB so you have to mount 4 of the resistors in a cross, look at the description, and the picture.
The Master Controller Ver. 4 :
Q :
I think the LCD display is expensive.A :
Yes it's true, here in Denmark it's cost about 200.- DKr (in USA about 80.- DKr), but I have seen many used displays, and I'm planning to make asoftware version who use the 1 line version of the display, witch I have seen to about 40.- DKr.
Q :
Is it a potentiometer who is used in the construction.A :
No, it's a special switch who have 28 steps pr. rounds, and NO stops at the END, second it have a special switch witch gives you a Reverse button onthe speed knob, so when you push the speed knob down, the train stops and change direction.