C omplete

T rain
C ontrol

express

Digitrax Complete Train Control Starter

Set Manual

Includes:
DCS52 All In One
Command Station Booster Throttle,
PS314 Power Supply,
LT1 Decoder & LocoNet Cable Tester

Digitrax, Inc.
2443 Transmitter Road
Panama City, Florida USA 32404
Support: helpdesk.digitrax.com
www.digitrax.com

Digitrax Manuals & Instructions are updated periodically.

Please visit www.digitrax.com for the latest version of all
manuals & for available firmware updates.
1.0 Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of a Zephyr Express Digitrax Complete Train
Control Starter Set!

The design of the Digitrax Complete Train Control® system lets you operate
your layout the way you choose. With LocoNet® you simply connect system
components to build the layout control system that you’ve always wanted!
The Digitrax system reduces and simplifies layout wiring.

Your Zephyr Express Starter Set has several components:

• DCS52 All-In-one command station, booster and throttle to run your lay-
out. This unit does everything you need to get up and running in one unit.
• PS314 Power Supply to provide power to run your DCS52. The DCS52
should only be powered by a PS314.
• LT1 LocoNet Cable and Decoder Tester for testing LocoNet Cables and
decoders prior to installation
• Quick Start Guide – To get you up and running fast!
• Zephyr Express Manual – System Reference Manual
• Digitrax Decoder Manual – Reference for Digitrax Decoders

There are many different combinations of Digitrax components that can be used
to set up a layout control system that is right for you. You can combine Digitrax
products with compatible decoders, boosters and computer software made by
other companies that build compatible equipment.
Your success with & enjoyment of our products are very important to us. After
all, this is a hobby and it is FUN!!! Please read this manual carefully before
installing your system. We have included lots of hints and operating ideas based
on our experience. If you have questions not covered by this manual please
contact your dealer or visit our web site at www.digitrax.com. The Digitrax
on-line Tech Support Depot is always open, and support staff is ready to help
on our Help Desk at: helpdesk.digitrax.com.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 2 www.digitrax.com

 Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction.................................................................................2
2.0 Quick Start Guide.......................................................................5
2.1 Unpacking Your Zephyr Express............................................5
2.2 Before You Begin......................................................................5
2.3 Connect Your DCS52................................................................6
2.4 Turn On Track Power...............................................................7
2.5 Select and Run A Non-DCC Locomotive................................8
2.6 Select and Run A DCC Locomotive........................................8
3.0 Preparing Your Locomotives....................................................9
4.0 Preparing Your Layout...............................................................9
5.0 DCS52 Front Panel...................................................................10
5.1 DCS52 Front Panel Controls and Indicators.......................10
5.2 DCS52 Keypad........................................................................11
5.3 DCS52 Display........................................................................12
5.3.1 Home Operations Screen.................................................12
6.0 DCS52 Rear Panel and Connections.....................................14
7.0 Connecting the Zephyr Express to your Track ....................15
8.0 How to Select and Run Trains ...............................................16
8.1 How to Select a Locomotive.................................................16
8.2 Selecting an analog Locomotive..........................................17
8.3 Releasing An Address From A Throttle................................17
8.4 Selecting a Locomotive using the Recall Soft Key.............17
8.5 Dispatching addresses or consists......................................18
8.6 Stealing: Forcing An Address Selection..............................18
8.7 Locomotive Speed and Direction Control...........................19
8.7.1 To control the speed of a locomotive:............................19
8.7.2 To control the Direction of a Locomotive ......................19
8.7.3 Stopping a loco by setting a Loco to Zero Speed.........19
8.7.4 Brake Operation................................................................19
9.0 Emergency Stop.......................................................................20
10.0 Functions................................................................................20
10.1 Controlling Functions F0-F9 ..............................................20
10.1.1 Function 0 (F0) Headlights Forward and Reverse.......21
10.1.2 Functions 1,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9........................................21
10.1.3 Function 2 (F2) Momentary Operation..........................21
10.2 Functions 10 through 28 (F10 - F28)..................................21
10.3 Fn Info+.................................................................................21

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 3 www.digitrax.com

 10.4 Troubleshooting Function Operation.................................22
11.0 Programming & Reading Your Digitrax Decoders .............22
11.1 Setting Up a Programming Track........................................23
11.2 Using Quick Decoder Setup................................................24
11.3 Read and Write Configuration Variables............................25
11.4 Programming On The Mainline...........................................26
11.5 Programming Error Messages............................................28
11.6 Configuration Variable (CV) Programming Notes:............28
12.0 MU (Multiple Unit) Operations..............................................28
12.1 Adding a Locomotive to an MU...........................................29
12.2 Removing a Loco from an MU............................................30
12.3 MU of Mismatched Locomotives........................................30
12.4 Controlling Functions On MUed Locomotives .................30
13.0 SWITCH Mode ........................................................................31
14.0 DCS52 Address Management: SLOTMAX...........................31
15.0 DCS52 Error Messages.........................................................32
16.0 Decoder Speed Step Settings ..............................................32
16.1 Changing Speed Step Settings: Status Editing................33
17.0 Adding Throttles: LocoNet & Jump Ports...........................33
17.1 Adding LocoNet Throttles To Your DCS52.........................33
17.2 JUMP Ports: Using a Smooth DC Power Pack As An
Additional Throttle.........................................................................34
18.0 Customizing DCS52-Option Switch Setup..........................36
18.1 Changing DCS52 Option Switches.....................................36
18.2 DCS52 Option Switch Tables..............................................36
19.0 Clearing the System and the Reset Button.........................37
20.0 General Troubleshooting .....................................................37
21.0 DCS52 Shutdown...................................................................39
22.0 Connecting the DCS52 to a Computer.................................40
22.1 Updating the DCS52 to the latest firmware .....................40
23.0 LocoNet: The Digitrax Difference!........................................40
23.1 System Architecture ............................................................40
23.2 LocoNet Expansion for Complete Train Control ..............40
23.3 LocoNet Wiring Components..............................................41
23.4 Testing LocoNet Cables with an LT1..................................41
24.0 What’s Next.............................................................................41
25.0 FCC Information.....................................................................42
26.0 Warranty and Repair Information.........................................43

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 4 www.digitrax.com

2.0 Quick Start Guide
These instructions will get you up and running in just a few minutes! A full
description of all controls and technical reference information are included later
in this manual.
2.1 Unpacking Your Zephyr Express
Unpack your box and locate the DCS52 Command Station and the PS314
Power Supply. The LT1 can be set aside.
Power Cord

PS314

DCS52
Command Station

DC Plug
LT1 Decoder and LocoNet® Cable
Tester
Zephyr Express Unpacking

2.2 Before You Begin

Before you begin ensure that the Throttle Knob is turned all they way to
STOP and the Direction/Brake Lever is set to BRAKE

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 5 www.digitrax.com

 Display R

DCS 52

2 4

TRACK 1 5
FORWARD STATUS

BRAKE

REVERSE STOP FULL

Set to BRAKE Set to STOP

Zephyr Express Front

2.3 Connect Your DCS52

Screw Terminal Strip

DC IN: R
RAI L A
RAI L B
PRO G B
GROUN D
PRO G A
JUM P 2
JUM P 1

RESET

USB LOCONET
from PS314
13.8V / 3A A B

PS314

Zephyr Express Rear Connections

1. Locate the gray screw terminal strip on the back of your DCS52.
2. Locate the two terminals labeled RAIL A and RAIL B on the grey termi-
nal strip. Connect wires from your track to these terminals, one for each
rail. It does not matter which rail is connected to which terminal.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 66 www.digitrax.com

3. Locate the barrel plug connector marked DC IN: from PS314.
4. Connect the PS314 to the DCS52 by inserting the barrel plug into the con-
nector. Only the PS314 should be used to power the DCS52.
5. Plug the PS314 to an AC wall power outlet that matches the power cord
supplied with your PS314. The PS314 will work universally on 110-240V
AC.
6. The DCS52 should beep and power on. A start screen will display briefly
saying “Welcome to DCS52” followed by a software version and the unit’s
serial number.
2.4 Turn On Track Power
R

DCS 52

2 4

TRACK 1 5
FORWARD STATUS

BRAKE

REVERSE STOP FULL

Power/Back Key Track Status Indicator

Turning On Zephyr Express Track Power

1. On the front panel of the DCS52 locate the Power/Back Key on the bot-
tom left of the keypad.
2. Press the Power/Back Key to toggle track power on and off. The Track
Status Indicator will be lit ON green when the DCS52 is in normal
Command Station mode and track power is ON. When track power is off
the Track Status Indicator will not be lit.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 7 www.digitrax.com

2.5 Select and Run A Non-DCC Locomotive
Loco Key
R

DCS 52

2 4

TRACK 1 5
FORWARD STATUS

BRAKE

REVERSE STOP FULL

Direction/Brake Throttle Knob

Lever
1. To select a non-DCC equipped (Analog) locomotive to run, look at the top
left of the keypad on the front panel. Locate the key that looks like a loco-
motive. This is the Loco Key.
2. Press the Loco Key ONCE, the address number will begin to flash alter-
nating black and grey.
3. Enter 00 on the keypad and press the Loco Key once again. The address
number will go solid black. You have selected a locomotive to run!
4. To run the locomotive, place the non-DCC locomotive on your layout,
move the Direction/Brake Lever to either FORWARD or REVERSE,
depending on which way you want the locomotive to move, and slowly
turn the Throttle Knob clockwise until the locomotive starts to move.
5. To stop the locomotive, either turn the Throttle Knob back to STOP, or
shift the Direction/Brake Lever to BRAKE.
2.6 Select and Run A DCC Locomotive
1. To select a DCC equipped locomotive to run, you must know the address
assigned to the decoder in the locomotive. Most new decoders and decoder
equipped locomotives have a default address of 03.
2. For now we will assume you are using a new DCC-equipped locomo-
tive with and address that is set to 03. If you do not know the decoder’s
address please refer to section 11.2 for details on reading and setting a
decoder address.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 88 www.digitrax.com

3. Now repeat the process for selecting the non-DCC locomotive only using
address 03
4. Look at the top left of the keypad on the front panel. Locate the key that
looks like a locomotive. This is the Loco Key.
5. Press the Loco Key ONCE, the address number will begin to flash alter-
nating black and grey.
6. Enter 03 on the keypad and press the Loco Key once again. The address
number will go solid black. You have selected a locomotive to run!
7. To run the locomotive, place the DCC locomotive on your layout, move
the Direction/Brake Lever to either FORWARD or REVERSE, depend-
ing on which way you want the locomotive to move, and slowly turn the
Throttle Knob clockwise until the locomotive starts to move.
8. To stop the locomotive, either turn the Throttle Knob back to STOP, or
shift the Direction/Brake Lever to BRAKE.
3.0 Preparing Your Locomotives
With your Zephyr Express System you will be able to run one locomotive with-
out a decoder, so even if you don’t have a decoder equipped locomotive you
can still hook up your system and try it right away!
However, in order to take full advantage of your Digitrax Complete Train
Control system you will need to have a number of locomotives with decoders
installed. The decoder in your locomotive will allow you to individually control
your locomotive’s speed, direction, lights, sound and other functions. The good
news is that many locomotives now come decoder equipped with DCC decod-
ers pre-installed. There are also many easy options for installing decoders in
older or non-decoder equipped locomotives.
Your dealer is your best resource for selecting the correct decoder for you loco-
motives and tips on installation. We also have our complete Decoder Manual
included with this set for all the information you’ll need on setting up Digitrax
decoders. There is also a wealth of information on our website,
www.digitrax.com, including a decoder selector and may tips and tricks for
decoder setup and installation.
4.0 Preparing Your Layout
Digitrax Complete Train Control simplifies layout wiring for new layouts. If
you already have a layout that runs well on DC control it will run well on
DCC. The DCC signal generated by the DCS52 travels with power over the
rails. You must have power to the track in all locations so that the decoders can
receive the signals and respond to the commands. For more information on lay-
out wiring visit our website www.digitrax.com

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 9 www.digitrax.com

5.0 DCS52 Front Panel
Before diving into running trains take a few minutes to familiarize yourself
with the DCS52’s controls and display.
5.1 DCS52 Front Panel Controls and Indicators
1. Keypad 2. Display

DCS 52

2 4

TRACK 1 5
FORWARD STATUS

BRAKE

REVERSE STOP FULL

3. Direction/Brake 4. Track Status 5. Throttle

Lever Indicator Knob
1. The Keypad consists of 18 back-lit keys. It features a full numeric keypad
for direct data entry, 3 context sensitive soft keys, and other task specific
keys. Most keys serve more than one use depending on the operation mode
of the DCS52. The Keypad is covered more in depth in section 5.2
2. The Display is a 2.4 inch color LCD screen. The screen will provide you
with a variety of information and input prompts to assist in running loco-
motives. The Display is covered more in depth in section 5.3.
3. The Direction/Brake Lever is the small red and silver lever that is used to
control the selected locomotives direction or set the brake. The lever has
3 positions FORWARD, BRAKE, and REVERSE. When set in BRAKE
the loco will slow to a stop and a message will scroll in the display. When
the Direction/Brake Lever is turned to FORWARD or REVERSE the
loco will accelerate back to the speed set on the Throttle Knob.
4. The Track Status Indicator is lit when Track Power is on and being pro-
vided to the track. If this indicator is not lit Track Power is turned off or
the booster is short circuited.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 10

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5.2 DCS52 Keypad
The DCS52 Keypad consists of 18 back-lit keys. It features a full numeric key-
pad for direct data entry, 3 context sensitive soft keys, and other task specific
keys. Most keys serve more than one use depending on the operation mode of
the DCS52.

1. Loco Key 2. Switch 3. Menu/

Key Enter Key

5. 0-9
4. Power/ 6. Exit/ 7. A,B,C
Numeric
Back Key Stop Key Soft Keys
Keys
1. The Loco Key is primarily used for selecting locomotives to run. Pressing
the Loco Key will enter locomotive selection mode and give you access to
the Mu, Recall, Disptch (Dispatch), and St Edit (Status Edit) soft keys to
access those features.
2. The Switch Key is used to activate switch mode during normal operation.
Pressing the Switch Key will allow for direct input of switch addresses
and access to the Thrown and Closed soft keys to control switch position.
3. The Menu/Enter Key is used to open the DCS52 Main Menu giving you
access to programming and setup functions.
4. The Power/Back Key is primarily used to turn track power on or off.
During normal operation pressing the Power/Back Key will toggle track
power on or off as indicated by the Track Status Indicator discussed in

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 section 2.1 When entering values like loco or switch addresses this key
can be used to backspace.
5. The 0-9 Numeric Keys are used for any numerical input that is required.
During normal operation these keys control locomotive functions on and
off, with the 2 key being a special non-latching key. In loco selection and
switch mode these keys are used to select locomotive and switch address-
es. In Menus screens these keys are used make numerical menu selections
and input data values.
6. The Exit/Stop Key is used to exit a current task. Pressing it will immedi-
ately exit back to the Home Operations Screen from any other screen or
menu.
7. The A,B,C Soft Keys are context sensitive keys that change meaning
depending on mode or menu you have selected on the DCS52. The current
purpose of each Soft Key is shown in small text directly above the key in
the Display.
5.3 DCS52 Display
The DCS52 Display is a 2.4 inch color LCD screen. The screen will provide
you with a variety of information and input prompts to assist in running loco-
motives and system setup. In this section we will outline the Home Operations
Screen, other menu displays will be covered in their respective sections.
NOTE: The display is best viewed from directly above, viewing the screen at
some angles may distort the perceived screen colors and actions.
5.3.1 Home Operations Screen
This is the primary operations screen for the DCS52. This is the screen you
will see most often when operating trains. The Home Operations Screen and
it’s components are shown below. The below example is shown with a locomo-
tive selected. If you ever get lost you can always press the Exit/Stop Key to
return to this screen.
Trk USB Ln 1. Status Bar
2. Switch/Info + Area
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 3.Function Bar
Local Throttle Active
sp 0 %

R 0003 4. Loco Info Area

5. Jump Throttle Area
6. Scrolling Help Text
Fn+00 Active Info+ 7. Soft Key Bar

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 12

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1. The Status Bar is always active and will show the status of your system.
There are multiple indicators that appear in the Status Bar. The “Ln”
indicator is solid black when LocoNet is OK. The “Trk” indicator is solid
black when system track power is turned on. The blue “USB” indicator
comes on when there is a successful USB connection to a computer.
2. The Switch/Info + Area is where switch information is displayed in
switch mode. Switch mode is covered in more detail in section 13.0. This
area of the screen is also where complete active function information is
displayed when the “Info +” soft key is pressed. For more info on con-
trolling and managing functions see section 10.0.
3. The Function Bar is where active functions are shown. Active functions
are blue and inactive functions are grayed out. The function information
shown in this bar correlates to the “Fn+” soft key, pressing the “Fn+” soft
key will cycle through control of higher functions and display them in the
Function Bar. For more information on using functions see section 10.0.

Trk USB Ln

Active Throttle Info 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Local Throttle Active

Loco Speed sp 0 %

Loco Icon F 0003

Loco Direction

Current Active Loco

Fn+00 Active Info+

4. The Loco Info Area is where the current active locomotive information
is shown. This area shows the currently active loco, loco speed, and loco
direction. The top of this area tells what throttle the display is currently
showing information for and if it is active or inactive. The DCS52 by
default will only have the Local throttle enabled. If the jump ports are
turned on you will be able to cycle through the additional throttles using
the “Active” soft key. For more info on using jump ports see section 17.0.
Next the current loco’s speed is listed as “sp XX%”. There is a loco icon
with the current direction indication either forward or reverse, shown with
a “F” and an arrow or a “R” and an arrow. If a loco is currently selected
this icon will be green with flashing smoke coming from the smokestack.
If no loco is selected the icon will be gray with no smoke. Finally, the

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 13 www.digitrax.com

 currently active address is shown in the large numbers. If a loco is selected
the numbers will be solid black, if no loco is selected the numbers will
be gray. The Active Throttle Info area will show additional information
during locomotive selection, see section 8.1 for complete information on
selecting locomotives.
5. The Jump Throttle Area shows information related to the jump ports
available on the DCS52. By default jump ports are turned off. If jump
ports are turned on two additional smaller loco info panels will appear pro-
viding basic info on the status of the two non-active throttles. For complete
information on using your DCS52’s jump ports see section 17.0.
6. The Scrolling Help Text line displays helpful instructions in plain scroll-
ing text. This purple scrolling text will give you instructions to complete
the task at hand or other useful state information.
7. The A,B,C Soft Keys are context sensitive keys that change meaning
depending on mode or menu you have selected on the DCS52. The cur-
rent purpose of each Soft Key is shown in small text directly above the
key in the Display. In the Home Operations Screen these keys will show
“FN+xx” and Fn Info+ when a loco is selected. If jump ports are enabled,
there will be a third soft key “Active”
6.0 DCS52 Rear Panel and Connections
Your DCS52 rear panel is where the unit is powered and your connections to
your layout and other LocoNet devices are made. Take a few minutes to famil-
iarize yourself with the rear panel before proceeding to hook up your DCS52.

DC IN: R
RAI L A
RAI L B
PRO G B
GROUN D
PRO G A
JUM P 2
JUM P 1

RESET

USB LOCONET
from PS314
13.8V / 3A A B

PS314

1. The DC IN connection is where your PS314 connects to your DCS52.

Only the Digitrax PS314 should be used to power your DCS52.
2. RAIL A & B is where your track is connected to the DCS52. One rail con-
nects to RAIL A and one connects to RAIL B.
3. PROG A & B is where your separate programming track should be con-

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 nected to you DCS52. The programming track should be a separate piece
of track not connected to your layout and isolated for decoder program-
ming. See Section 11.0.
4. GROUND provides electrical safety features and an RF ground refer-
ence for minimum radiated noise. This should be the ONLY point of any
DCS52 installation that is connected to the AC safety ground pin provided
on most 3 pin 110V AC power sockets. Grounding the system is a sensible
safety precaution that should not be ignored.
5. The JUMP 1 & 2 Ports are used for connecting one or two smooth DC
power packs to the DCS52 for use as additional throttles. By default this
feature is disabled, see section 17.0 for more details.
6. The RESET button will clear the DCS52’s loco slots when pressed.
7. The USB connection is used for connecting your DCS52 and LocoNet sys-
tem to a computer. For more information see section 22.0.
8. LocoNet ports A & B are used to connect your DCS52 to other LocoNet
devices for expanding the capabilities and size of your system or layout.
7.0 Connecting the Zephyr Express to your Track
These simple instructions will help you get up and running quickly. A full
description of all controls and technical reference information are included
elsewhere in this manual. This section assumes that you are using a new set
straight out of the box.
1. Hook up the wires from the track to the RAIL A & RAIL B terminals on
the DCS52. Insert the wire from one rail of the track into the RAIL A ter-
minal on the back of the DCS52. Insert the wire from the other rail of the
track into the RAIL B terminal. Turn the screw counter clockwise to open
the connector and clockwise to close it once the wire is in place.
2. Plug the barrel connector from the PS314 into the DC IN jack on the
back of the DCS52. Plug the body of the PS314 in to a regular wall outlet.
Once power is applied, the DCS52 beep and power on. A start screen will
display briefly saying “Welcome to DCS52” followed by a software ver-
sion and the unit’s serial number. The DCS52’s display will change auto-
matically to the Home Operations Screen. The last address that was on the
throttle when you turned it off will be selected.
3. Turn track power on by pressing the Power\Back Key. Check the Track
Status Indicator and look for the solid black “Trk” in the status bar. If
they are on, you are ready to go. If the Track Status Indicator is unlit,
press the Power\Back Key to turn track power on. When power is being
provided to the track the Track Status Indicator will be lit.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 15 www.digitrax.com

8.0 How to Select and Run Trains
Each decoder receives a unique address. To select a decoder equipped locomo-
tive and run it on your throttle, you must know it’s address. Digitrax decod-
ers are set up at the factory with the “default” address “03”. This means that
when you take a Digitrax decoder out of the package and install it in your
loco, you can select address “03” on your throttle and run the decoder. The
first Configuration Variable (CV) programmed by most users is the decoder’s
address since it is not very useful to have all of your locos run on address “03.”
If you do not know the address of the decoder equipped locomotive you want
to run, you can simply program the decoder’s address and select it to run using
the new, known address or use the DCS52 to read back the decoder address.
See Section 11.2 for details on address programming.
8.1 How to Select a Locomotive
1. In order to select a locomotive you must know it’s address and make sure
it is placed on the track connected to the DCS52.
2. Make sure that Track Power is turned on. The Track Status Indicator
should be lit.
3. Press the Loco Key once to enter loco selection mode, the large numbers
in the Loco Info Area will begin to blink black and gray. The soft keys will
also change to give you the options “MU” “Recall” and “MORE”. Pressing
“MORE” will bring up “Disptch” “Stat. Edit” and “MORE” as soft key
options. Pressing “MORE” again will return to the previous soft key
options. These keys will be covered in the following sections.

Trk USB Ln
4. Enter the address of the loco-
motive you want to select. The
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 text above the address number will
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Additional provide you additional information
Loco about the loco address you are select-
Local:Adr-free, 128s
sp 0 % Selection ing. If it says “free” the locomotive

0003
Info is available for selection. If it says
F
“busy” the locomotive is in use on
another throttle, to select it you must
complete the steal process. See sec-
tion 8.6. The second set of numbers,
usually “128” specifies the number
of speed steps associated with the
Mu Recall More
address. See Status Editing, Section
16.1 for more details. Next, if there
is “cn”, “mid’, or “top” the locomotive is part of a consist, see section 12.0
regarding consisting.

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5. Once you have entered the address, press the Loco Key again. The entered
address will go solid black and you will have control of the locomotive.
6. Set the Direction Lever to FORWARD or REVERSE and turn the
Throttle Knob to run your Locomotive. To stop your locomotive set the
Throttle Knob to Stop or the Direction Lever to BRAKE. See section
8.7 for complete instructions on speed and direction control.
8.2 Selecting an analog Locomotive
A locomotive without a DCC decoder is called an analog locomotive. While an
analog locomotive, without a decoder, is sitting still on your digital layout, you
will hear a “singing” sound. This is caused by the DCC track signal when it is
applied to an analog locomotive. Once the analog locomotive is moving, this
sound will change and be less noticeable. To avoid heat build up in your locos
without decoders, Digitrax recommends that analog locos NOT be left sitting
on DCC powered track for long periods of time when they are not running.

Address “00” is reserved for running an analog locomotive. You select and run
these locos like you would a regular DCC equipped locomotive as described
above, only using address “00”. Your analog locomotives will not run with any
other address. As with a regular DC system, only one analog locomotive can be
controlled at a time. If you try to run more than one analog locomotive at the
same time on the layout all of the analog locos will respond to the commands
sent to address “00”.

8.3 Releasing An Address From A Throttle

When you are finished running a locomotive address, release if from your
throttle so that it is available for other throttles to select and run.
1. Use the Throttle Knob to make the locomotive’s speed zero (this step is
optional but strongly recommended as the loco will continue to move if
speed is not reduced to zero).
2. Press the Loco Key to go into select mode.
3. The address will begin to blink in the display. Press the Exit/Stop Key,
this will releases the address from both the throttle and the locomotive
stack in the system. The display on your DCS52 will show the previously
selected address grayed out.
4. If you press the Loco Key again, the throttle will begin flashing the
address you just released. You can re-select that address by pressing the
Loco Key or you can enter a new address to select.
8.4 Selecting a Locomotive using the Recall Soft Key
The DCS52 has a recall feature that remembers the last 10 locomotives you
have selected for easy recall. To select a locomotive using recall:
1. Press the Loco Key once to enter loco selection mode, the large numbers
in the Loco Info Area will begin to blink black and gray. The soft keys
will also change to give you the options “MU” “Recall” and “MORE”.

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2. Press the B Soft Key labeled “Recall”: This Trk USB Ln
will open Recall Session Loco List: Recall Session Loco List:

3. Press the number key 0-9 that corresponds to 0- 0003

the loco address you want to recall. The loco- 1- 0069
motive address will be recalled to the Home 2- 0009
Operations Screen blinking black and gray. 3- 0085
4- 0045k
4. Press the Loco Key to complete the selection 5- 0065
process. 6- 1000
7- 0026
8.5 Dispatching addresses or consists 8- 0006
Dispatching is a special feature incorporated in the 9-
LocoNet language to meet the needs of operators
that wish to enforce a strict discipline in how oper- Mu Recall More
ators gain access to locomotives during an oper-
ating session. Dispatching also lets you run consists with basic throttles that
can’t set up their own consists and run four digit addresses on basic throttles
that only have two digit capability. It lets you have newcomers run trains on the
layout without giving them access to the entire operation.
When you dispatch a locomotive address or consist to your LocoNet system,
you make it available to be acquired by another throttle. Only one address at a
time can be marked as a dispatched address in the system.
To dispatch a locomotive address using a the DCS52
1. Press the Loco Key to enter address selection, enter the address you want
to dispatch.
2. Press the Soft Key C marked “MORE” to bring up additional address
selection soft keys. Pressing more will bring up “Disptch”,“Stat.Edit” and
“MORE” as soft key options.
3. Press the Soft Key A marked “Disptch” to dispatch the entered Loco
Address.
The dispatched address can be a single locomotive address, either two digit or
four digit, or a consist that was set up by the DCS52. The TOP locomotive in
a consist or MU can be dispatched to transfer control of the entire consist to
another throttle.
8.6 Stealing: Forcing An Address Selection
If you try to select a loco address that is already selected on another throttle
the DCS52 will display “adr-busy” in red above the address in the Loco Info
area of the display when the address is entered. Pressing the Loco Key again
will prompt for additional actions. This is a safety interlock to prevent oper-
ators from taking control of locos that are already selected on other throttles.
Occasionally it is necessary to override this interlock to gain control of a loco
that is “lost” for whatever reason. This override is called stealing. When steal-

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ing with the DCS52 it is possible to have an address selected on more than one
throttle on your system.
To steal an address with the DCS52:
1. Press the Loco Key to enter selection mode.
2. Enter the address of the loco you want to steal and press the Loco Key
again.
3. A scrolling message will appear in the Scrolling Help Text Area read-
ing”Press YES to steal Loco, No to exit” and the soft keys will change to
“YES” and “NO”.
4. To steal the loco address press the Soft Key A marked “YES”, to cancel
the selection press the Soft Key B marked “NO”.
8.7 Locomotive Speed and Direction Control
8.7.1 To control the speed of a locomotive:
1. Select the loco address on the throttle.
2. Turn the Throttle Knob clockwise to increase speed and counterclockwise
to decrease speed. Speed is displayed above the Loco Icon in the display.
8.7.2 To control the Direction of a Locomotive
Move the Direction Control Lever to FORWARD or REVERSE to change
the direction of the loco address running on the throttle. To determine the
direction of a loco that is not moving, simply look at the position of the lever.
You can also look at the green locomotive in the display, it will show either a
F or a R with a corresponding arrow. You can move the lever quickly past the
BRAKE position with no adverse effects.
If you change direction while a loco is moving it will slow down to 0 speed
and then speed up to the commanded speed according to the decoder’s pro-
grammed CV values for deceleration and acceleration.
8.7.3 Stopping a loco by setting a Loco to Zero Speed
To immediately stop a locomotive:
Make sure the loco address is selected on the throttle and turn the Throttle
Knob counterclockwise until it is in the STOP position. The loco should slow
to a stop as you rotate the throttle knob. This lets you slow down your loco and
stop it prototypically. If you have set up deceleration (CV4) for the loco and
you move the throttle knob to STOP, your loco will slow down and come to a
stop at the programmed deceleration rate.
8.7.4 Brake Operation
To use the brake to stop and start a locomotive:
Move the Direction Control Lever to the BRAKE position, the Scrolling Help
Text line will say “Local Throttle braking” and stop at the brake rate set up in
the DCS52. As the loco slows to a stop, the speed percentage displayed in the
Loco Info Area will decrease to 0%.
Move the Direction Control Lever to the FORWARD or REVERSE posi-

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tion and the loco will accelerate at the programmed rate to the speed on the
throttle knob. As the loco accelerates, the speed percentage displayed in the
Loco Info Area will increase to match the speed set on the Throttle Knob.
Braking can also be handled on a loco by loco basis if you set up each decoder
with acceleration and deceleration rates that simulate the scale effects of brak-
ing the train. Then when you command an instant reverse, the system will sim-
ulate braking by slowing down the locomotive at the programmed deceleration
rate, come to a stop and then accelerate at the programmed acceleration rate in
the opposite direction.
9.0 Emergency Stop
To stop everything on the layout immediately:
Press the Power/Back Key to turn off power to the whole layout. This option
will stop everything on the layout. Do not turn Track Power off during a short.
Clear the short first. The Zephyr Express shuts off when it sees a short to pro-
tect itself.
Having Trouble Stopping? If the deceleration CV value you set for a partic-
ular loco is very large, this can make it look like the loco is not stopping on
command because the deceleration CV value is causing the loco to take a long
time to come to a stop.
10.0 Functions
Most DCC decoders have function outputs that you can use to control lamps,
LEDs, sound, smoke generators and other on/off devices installed in your loco-
motives. Most locomotives made today come with a head light and sometimes
with a rear light, too. With DCC, these are controlled by the decoder’s function
outputs. You can also install additional DCC controlled lighting such as cab
lights, Mars lights, ditch lights, rotating beacons and others on your locos. The
addition of these functions can add to the fun and realism of your locomo-
tives. You must have the functions installed and connected to the appropriate
decoder function leads in order to use the following keys.
10.1 Controlling Functions F0-F9
To operate functions F0-F9 on your locomotive:
1. Select the loco you want to control. By default the Home Operations Screen
uses the numerical keypad to operate functions. On the throttle, you will see
the “Fn+00” over the A Soft Key and “Fn Info+” over the C Soft Key to
let you know that you can use the numeric keys to operate the functions.
NOTE: “Fn+00” should be over the A Soft Key and numbers 0-9 should be
shown in the Function Bar area of the display.
2. Use the DCS52’s numeric key pad to turn functions on and off. For exam-
ple, to turn the head light on, press the 0 key. Press the 0 key again to turn it
off. The corresponding function number will go blue for on and grey for off
in the Function Bar area of the display.

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10.1.1 Function 0 (F0) Headlights Forward and Reverse
Press the 0 key to toggle F0 between on and off. Each time the 0 key is pressed
while in function mode, Function 0, also called F0 will change from off to on
or vice-versa. On locos with reversing head lamps and back up lamps, the head
lamp or back up lamp in your loco will come on depending on the direction of
travel of the loco. Function 0 is most often used to turn on/off the head light/
back up light but can be set up for other functions as well (See your Decoder
Manual for more information). It can be used as two functions.
10.1.2 Functions 1,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9
Press the number key on the numeric keypad that corresponds with the function
number you want turn on/off. The function will toggle between on and off each
time you press the number key.
10.1.3 Function 2 (F2) Momentary Operation
Press the 2 key on the numeric keypad. The 2 key operates Function 2 and
is the preferred function for whistle or horn operation. This key is set up as a
“non-latching key” so that if a horn or whistle sound is installed in the loco, it
will sound for as long as the key is held down. This lets you vary the length of
time that the horn or whistle blows, just like the prototype.
10.2 Functions 10 through 28 (F10 - F28)
From the Home Operations Screen, press the A Soft Key labeled “Fn+00” to
cycle through the functions “Fn+10” and “Fn+20”. When “Fn+10” is displayed
over the soft key the numeric keypad will control functions 10-19. If “Fn+20”
is displayed the keypad will control functions 20-28. Press the A Soft Key
again to return to “Fn+00” which will allow the keypad to control functions
0-9. In addition to watching the soft key data the full function number and sta-
tus will be displayed in the Function Bar area of the display.
10.3 Fn Info+
If you wish to view the status of all 29 functions you can use the “Fn Info+”
Trk USB Ln soft key. From the Home Operations Screen, press
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 the C Soft Key labeled “Fn Info+” this will expand
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 the Function Bar area to show functions 0-28. To
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
collapse these press the C Soft Key labeled “Fn
Local Throttle Active
sp 0 % Info-”.

R
F 0003 NOTE: The functions controlled by keypad
still correspond to the status of the A Soft Key,
“Fn+00”, “Fn+10”, and “Fn+20”.

Fn+00 Active Info-

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10.4 Troubleshooting Function Operation
If the function you want to operate does not respond, check the following:
1. Is Track Status on? If not press the Power/Back Key to turn it on.
2. Did you select the correct loco? If not, select it now.
3. Is the function you want to use installed in the loco? If not, you may need to
install it. Most new locos have a head lamp/backup lamp installed, but most
do not have any additional lights or sounds installed.
4. Change the position of the Direction Control Lever and see if the lamp
comes on in the other direction. If the normal direction of travel feature in
the decoder loco is set for the opposite of what you were expecting, you
will see the head lamp operating in what you expected to be the reverse
direction and vice versa for the back up lamp. See your Decoder Manual for
information about how to change the Normal Direction of Travel (NDOT).

11.0 Programming & Reading Your Digitrax Decoders

Your DCC Decoders have many different configuration variables (CVs for
short) that let you set up a different set of characteristics for each decoder
installed in a locomotive. When you want to change a loco’s address, set up
how its lights work, change its momentum characteristics, etc. you will pro-
gram new CV values into the appropriate CVs to set it up just the way you
want.
Each CV controls a characteristic of the decoder. See your Decoder Manual for
a list of the most commonly used CVs and their meanings. A Digitrax Decoder
Manual is included as a part of your Zephyr Express system. Each decoder
comes pre-programmed with factory settings that will let you run it right away.
If you are using non-Digitrax decoders or sound decoders, please consult the
manual provided by the manufacturer for how CV’s are used and program-
ming instructions.
The factory set address for all Digitrax decoders is “03”. This is the first CV
you will want to change because it is not very useful to have all of your locos
respond to the same address. The DCS52 has a Quick Decoder Setup that
makes it easy to setup the most common CVs including addresses and CV29
values.
Decoders are programmed when the command station sends programming
information to them through the rails. Your DCS52 supports two types of pro-
gramming:
Service Mode Programming is done on an electrically isolated programming
track. Using this mode, the command station broadcasts programming infor-
mation to all decoders on the program track. Because this is a broadcast mode,
you must isolate the decoder you want to program from the others on the lay-
out. You do this by using a separate programming track that is connected to the
command station for programming but not powered for operation of the loco-
motive. This mode works with all DCC decoders. This is the most commonly
used programming method.

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Operations Mode Programming is done on the layout by sending program-
ming commands to a specific locomotive address while they are powered on
the mainline or main layout track. To use this mode, you must have decoders
that are capable of operations mode programming. The programming track is
not used when using ops mode programming.
11.1 Setting Up a Programming Track
Your DCS52 has two sets of DCC outputs. This means that you will be able to
program decoders using one set of DCC outputs while the layout is running on
the other set of DCC outputs. When you hooked up your DCS52 to the layout,
you used the RAIL A & RAIL B connections to the track. Now we will use
the PROG A & PROG B outputs to set up a programming track.
NOTE: The programming track is powered for programming only and cannot
run locomotives. You will have to manually move your locomotive on to the
track whether using the siding or isolated track programming setup.
DCS52 Rear Panel Programming Track Hook Up Diagram

DC IN: R
RAI L A
RAI L B
PRO G B
GROUN D
PRO G A
JUM P 2
JUM P 1

RESET

USB LOCONET
from PS314
13.8V / 3A A B

Rail A
Rail B

Your programming track can be as simple as a spare piece of track not connect-
ed to the layout as shown above or it can be a double gapped section of track
connected to the DCS52’s PROG A & PROG B outputs as shown below.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 23 www.digitrax.com

 Main Layout (Powered by DCS52 RAIL A & B Outputs)

Programming Track
(Powered by DCS52 PROG A & B Outputs)

DC IN: R

RAI L A
RAI L B
PRO G B
GROUN D
PRO G A
JUM P 2
JUM P 1

RESET
USB LOCONET
from PS314
13.8V / 3A A B

DCS52 Command Station

Programming Track Example Diagram

11.2 Using Quick Decoder Setup
Be sure that only the locomotive you want to program is on the programming
track if you use Direct, Paged or Physical CV programming.
1. To enter Quick Decoder Setup, press the Menu Key. Main Menu A will
display giving you a list of menu options. Select 1-Quick Decoder Setup
by pressing the 1 key on the keypad.
Trk USB Ln
Quick Decoder Setup
2. This will put you in Quick Decoder
Pd Mode
Setup. Quick Decoder Setup uses Direct 0- Last Menu
Programming mode on the program track. 1- AD2 ShortAdr =
In Quick Decoder Setup you can change 2- AD4 Long Adr =
the locomotive address and CV29 settings. 3- CV29 Value =
4- NDOT Rev OFF
3. Once in the Quick decoder setup menu
5- 28 not 14 Step ON
you can change AD2 and AD4. You must
6- Analog ON
decide what address you want to use, for
7- Speed Table OFF
addresses 0000-0127 you must use AD2.
8- Use AD4 ON
For addresses 0128-9983 you must use
9-
AD4.
4. Press the A Soft Key “READ” to read the READ WRITE DATA
current data from your decoder. This step
isn’t required but is useful in confirming existing decoder settings.
5. To set AD2 press the 1 key on the keypad to highlight the AD2 line. Press
the C Soft Key “DATA” to select the line. Use the keypad to enter the
address you want to use, press B Soft Key “WRITE” to write the address
to the decoder. To make changes to AD4 or CV29 press the C Soft Key
“SELECT” to select additional lines in the Quick Decoder Setup Menu. If
you are done making changes press the Exit/Stop Key.

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6. To set AD4 make sure you are back in select mode (C Soft Key will read
“DATA”). Press the 2 key on the keypad to highlight the AD4 line. Press
the C Soft Key “DATA” to select the line. Use the keypad to enter the
address you want to use, press B Soft Key “WRITE” to write the address
to the decoder.

NOTE: “Use AD4” must be set to OFF when using AD2 and must be set to
ON when using AD4. The DCS52 will automatically set this value when a
change is made to AD2 or AD4. This option can also be manually set by fol-
lowing the below instructions.
7. CV29 can also be setup in the Quick Decoder setup. CV29 also called the
Configuration Register is a special CV that controls a number of character-
istics for your decoder. CV29 controls:
• Normal Direction of Travel (NDOT)
• Speed Step Control: Advanced Mode or Standard Mode
• Analog Mode Conversion
• Speed Tables
• 2 or 4 digit addressing
See your decoder manual for a full listing of these features.
8. CV29 can be changed two ways in the Quick Decoder Setup. When in
Select mode (C Soft Key will read “DATA”) simply press the number key
corresponding to the feature you want to turn off or on. For example press-
ing the 4 key will toggle analog mode conversion off and on. The CV29
Value will automatically be calculated. Once you have all the settings con-
figured the way you want simply press the A Soft Key “WRITE” to write
the configuration to the decoder.
9. Alternately, if you know the CV29 Value you want to program into the
decoder you can select it and use the keypad to enter the number. CV29
values can be looked up in the Decoder Manual or on www.digitrax.com.
10. To manually enter the CV29 value. Press the 3 key on the keypad to high-
light the CV29 Value line. Press the C Soft Key “DATA” to select the
line. Use the keypad to enter the value you want to use, press B Soft Key
“WRITE” to write the value to the decoder.
11. After values are written to the decoder the text “CV Task Completed OK”
will scroll in the Scrolling Help Text line.

11.3 Read and Write Configuration Variables

There are many different CVs that have been defined to control the operating
characteristics of your locomotives. Your decoder manual has a complete list-
ing of CVs that are available in specific decoders, what they do and suggested
values for each CV. Programming these CVs is simple:
1. Be sure that only the locomotive you want to program is on the program-
ming track (if using Operations mode the loco will need to be on the main-
line).

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 25 www.digitrax.com

2. To enter the CV Programmer, press the Menu Key. Main Menu A will dis-
play giving you a list of menu options. Select 2- CV Programmer by press-
ing the 2 key on the keypad.
3. You will be presented with CV Program Menu A. From this menu use the
keypad to select the method of programming you wish to use by pressing
the corresponding number.
• 1-Po; Ops on Mainline Trk USB Ln
• 2-Pd; Direct on Prg Trk Recall Session Loco List:
• 3-Pg: Paged on Prg Trk 0- Last Menu
• 4-Ph: Physical on Prg Trk 1- Po; Ops on Mainline
2- Pd; Direct on Prg Trk
Note: Direct programming is the Digitrax pref- 3- Pg; Paged on Prg Trk
fered method 4- Ph; Physical on Prg Trkk
4. Once you have selected a programming 5-
method, it will be listed above entries for 6-
CV number and CV data. CV number is the 7-
number of the CV you are changing. CV 8-
data is the value you are programming to 9-
the CV number.
5. To change the CV number you are editing CVNUM CVDATA DONE
press the A Soft Key “CVNUM”, then use
the keypad to enter the CV number you want to change.
Trk USB Ln
6. Once you have the CV number selected press CV Program Menu A:
the B Soft Key “CVDATA”. The soft keys
will change to “WRITE”, “READ”, and 2- Pd; Direct on Prg Trk
“BACK”. Press the B Soft Key “READ”
to read the current value of the CV number CV Number: 0001
you have selected. Use the keypad to enter
the value you wish to program to the CV CV data: 0001
number you have selected. Press the A Soft
Key “WRITE” to save the data entered. The
Scrolling Help Text line will read “Program
Task OK” when it has successfully pro-
grammed the value.
CVNUM CVDATA DONE
7. Press C Soft Key “BACK” to exit to the
previous menu to select another CV to change if you wish. If you are done
editing CVs press C Soft Key “DONE” to return to normal operations.
11.4 Programming On The Mainline
Operations (OPS) Mode Programming lets you program CVs in DCC loco-
motives equipped with extended packet format decoders while they are on the
mainline. A typical use for OPS mode programming would be to change the
acceleration rate (CV03) or the deceleration rate (CV04) of your locomotives
to simulate the weight and braking capability of the train to compensate for
changing the number of cars or power units on a train.

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Your DCS52 can use OPS Mode Programming to change the CV value in ANY
CV, including 2 digit and 4 digit addresses, but some decoders may not accept
changing these CVs in Operations mode.
How to use Operations Mode Programming:
1. Make sure the loco you want to program is on the mainline connected to
the Rail A and B terminals of your DCS52.
2. Select the Locomotive on your DCS52. Operations Mode programming
will program the active address on your DCS52.
1. To enter the CV Programmer, press the Menu Key. Main Menu A will
display giving you a list of menu options. Select 2- CV Programmer by
pressing the 2 key on the keypad.
2. You will be presented with CV Program Menu A. From this menu press 1
to select Po; Ops on Mainline.
3. In addition to Po; Ops on Mainline, the display will also show Ops Prg
ADR: followed by the address you will be programming on the mainline.
This information will be listed above entries for CV number and CV data.
CV number is the number of the CV you are changing. CV data is the
value you are programming to the CV number.
4. To change the CV number you are editing press the A Soft Key
“CVNUM”, then use the keypad to enter the CV number you want to
change.
5. Once you have the CV number select- Booster USB Ln
ed press the B Soft Key “CVDATA”. CV Program Menu A:
The soft keys will change to “WRITE”, Ops Prg ADR: 0003
“READ”, and “BACK”. Press the B 1- Po; Ops on Mainline
Soft Key “READ” to read the cur-
rent value of the CV number you
CV Number: 0001
have selected, see the note below.
Use the keypad to enter the value
CV data: 0001
you wish to program to the CV num-
ber you have selected. Press the A Soft
Key “WRITE” to save the data entered.
The Scrolling Help Text line will read
“Program Task OK” when it has success-
fully programmed the value. CVNUM CVDATA DONE

6. Press C Soft Key “BACK” to exit to the previous menu to select another
CV to change if you wish. If you are done editing CVs press C Soft Key
“DONE” to return to normal operations.
NOTE: OPS Mode Programming on most systems is write only. OPS mode
read back requires Digitrax compatible transponding decoders and transpon-
ding detectors on the layout in order to provide the two way communication
required for OPS Mode read back.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 27 www.digitrax.com

11.5 Programming Error Messages
When you are programming decoders, there are a few error messages you may
encounter. The messages will scroll in the Scrolling Help Text line.
“Program Track Empty” means there is an open circuit on the pro-
gramming track inputs and no current draw is detected by the pro-
grammer.

“No Decoder ACK Pulse!” means there is no acknowledgment from the

decoder typically during decoder write operations.

There are many causes for these error messages but most can be solved by
checking the following:
1. Be sure the programming track is connected properly to the DCS52.
2. Be sure a decoder is correctly installed in the locomotive with all motor and
pick up connections made correctly.
3. Be sure the loco with decoder correctly installed is making electrical contact
with the programming track and that it remains in contact with the program-
ming track until programming is complete.
4. Be sure there is not too much current draw from lamps and other loads from
the locomotive that is being programmed.
5. Be sure the decoder you are programming supports the programming mode
you are using. Not all decoders support all programming modes.
11.6 Configuration Variable (CV) Programming Notes:
1. Check your decoder manufacturer’s manual for factory settings, recom-
mended CV value ranges and for instructions on resetting the CVs to facto-
ry settings.
2. It is good practice to record the changes you make to the CV values for
each decoder/locomotive combination. This will allow you to profile each
locomotive type for programming similar locomotives.
3. Resetting your decoder CV values to factory settings can eliminate some
problems caused by inadvertently changing a CV value.

12.0 MU (Multiple Unit) Operations

It is not uncommon to see two, three or even four diesel locos pulling in consist
at the front of a train. Sometimes, there is a locomotive added in the middle of
the train or at the end of the train to give “helper service” to the head end loco-
motives. This is called Multiple Unit Operation or MU operation. With DCC,
each locomotive is separately controlled. But in the case of MUing we would
like to have more than one locomotive address controlled by a single throttle to
simplify MU operation.
Your DCS52 uses universal consisting to make MU operations simple and easy
to do. This is the most flexible and realistic method of MUing available. You

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can add any locomotive to your MU, no matter what kind of DCC decoder
is in your loco. You can even add an analog loco to your MU. You can add a
locomotive to an MU in either orientation and in any physical location in the
train. When you send commands to the MU you use the address of the TOP
locomotive to control the entire MU and the command station handles the rest
of the commands to the other locomotives in the MU. As the address you will
use to control the consist is not necessarily the address of the lead or head end
loco, we use the term “TOP” for this special address. The TOP address can also
be the train number.
You will not be able change the speed or direction of any individual loco that
is part of an MU, however you can control individual locomotive functions.
Locomotive speed and direction for all locos in the MU are controlled by the
TOP address.
12.1 Adding a Locomotive to an MU
To MU two addresses together with the DCS52:
1. Choose two locos you want to MU together. Place them on the track. Make
sure that both locos that will be part of the MU are running in the same
physical direction. Select and run the first loco to determine which way it
is headed. Then select the other loco and run it in the same physical direc-
tion.
2. Select the address you want to use to control the MU. This is called the
TOP address. To do this, press the Loco Key, enter the address & press the
Loco Key again.
3. Press the Loco Key once to enter loco selection mode, the large numbers
in the Loco Info Area will begin to blink black and gray. The soft keys will
also change to give you the options “MU” “Recall” and “MORE”.
4. Press the A Soft Key labeled “Mu”: This will enter MU mode. The display
will show the TOP address below the now blinking loco address number. It
will say “Consist To:” and then the TOP loco’s address.
5. Use the Keypad to enter the locomotive address you wish to add to the
consist.
6. Press the A Soft Key now labeled “Mu+”.
7. You will exit MU mode and the TOP locomotive will remain selected on
the throttle.
8. To add additional locos to the consist repeat steps 3-6.
If your MU could not be set up the DCS52 will display and informational mes-
sage in the Scrolling Help Text line.
This happens when you try to link to an address that is already part of an MU
or link an address that is under the control of another throttle. For example if
you MUed address 14 to the TOP loco 23 and then tried to MU another address

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 29 www.digitrax.com

to 14 you would get this error. If you wanted to add another loco to the MU
with 23 as the TOP address, the right way to do it is to add that loco to 23, not
to another address in the MU.
12.2 Removing a Loco from an MU
To remove a loco address from an MU:
1. Select the TOP address of the consist you want to use to remove the loco
from. To do this, press the Loco Key, enter the TOP address & press the
Loco Key again.
2. Press the Loco Key once to enter loco selection mode, the large numbers
in the Loco Info Area will begin to blink black and gray. The soft keys will
also change to give you the options “MU”, “Recall” and “MORE”.
3. Press the B Soft Key labeled “Mu”: This will enter MU mode.
4. Enter the address of the loco you wish to remove from the consist.
5. Press the B Soft Key now labeled “Mu-”.
6. You will exit MU mode and the removed locomotive will remain selected
on the throttle.
12.3 MU of Mismatched Locomotives
If all the locomotives in the MU have performance characteristics that are
closely matched, you can run all the MUed locomotives in 128 step mode.
If the units are completely mismatched (for example if you are running two
different brands of locos with noticeably different characteristics), then we
recommend speed matching the locos by programming the decoder with either
Simple 3 step or Advanced 28 step loadable speed tables (See your Digitrax
Decoder Manual for more information on these features of your decoder).
12.4 Controlling Functions On MUed Locomotives
Even though an individual locomotive is part of an MU and you can’t control
its individual speed and direction, you can still control its function outputs
independently as follows:
1. Select the loco that is part of an MU for which you wish to independently
control functions. Press the Loco Key, enter the MUed loco’s address, press
the Loco Key.
2. Use the numeric keypad to control the functions like you would any other
loco. The changes will take effect immediately if the locomotives are mov-
ing, otherwise changes will take effect when you reselect the TOP address
on the throttle.
3. When you are finished turning functions on or off for the consisted loco,
simply select the TOP address and resume running the MU.
4. Remember, you will not be able change the speed or direction of any indi-
vidual loco that is part of an MU. Locomotive speed and direction for all
locos in the MU are controlled by the TOP address.

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 NOTE: You can also control the functions of a MUed loco from a differ-
ent throttle that is connected to LocoNet or with one of the Jump ports on
the DCS52 (see Section 17.0 for setting up the Jump Ports), leaving the
TOP locomotive selected on the main throttle of the DCS52. Function state
changes will take effect immediately whether or not the loco is moving.
13.0 SWITCH Mode Trk USB Ln
Switch Mode is used for sending commands
to accessory decoders and for changing Option Switch: 0001 =Thrown
Switches (OpSw) on other LocoNet devices. The 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
most common use of switch mode is for operat-
ing turnouts. The DCS52 remembers the current Local Throttle Active
sp 0 %

0003
switch settings during the session. Switch com-
mands may also be used for controlling Digitrax
compatible signal units. R
F

To change the position of a turnout:

This section assumes that you have already
installed and programmed turnouts and turnout
decoders on your layout.
1. Press the Switch Key. Thrown Closed
2. The last switch address you selected will be
displayed in the Switch/Info + Area of the display. If 0001 was the last
switch you set to thrown the display “Switch:0001=Thrown” for example.
3. After pressing the Switch Key the A Soft Key will become “Thrown” and
the B Soft Key will become “Closed”.
NOTE: The “Closed” or “Thrown” shown in the display may or may not
match the physical position of the turnout selected.
4. Use the numeric keypad to enter the turnout address for the turnout or
switch you want to change.
5. Press the A Soft Key, “Thrown”, and the B Soft Key, “Closed”, to throw
or close the turnout or switch.
NOTE: While you are in switch mode, the throttle knob and direction
lever will continue to control the loco address running on the throttle.
6. When you have finished your switch operations, press the Exit/Back Key
to return to normal operation mode.

14.0 DCS52 Address Management: SLOTMAX

Your DCS52 has a finite number of “slots” available in its memory. The
DCS52 has the capability of selecting 20 addresses at a time. Once the slots
available in your command station are full, the system will display a SLOT
MAX information message and action in the Scrolling Help Text line to let
you know that you need to release some locos if you want to select and run
others. The recall fucntion can be used to select and release recently used locos.
Find details on loco dispatching in section 8.5.
You may also press the reset button on the back of the DCS52 to clear all the
slots.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 31 www.digitrax.com

15.0 DCS52 Error Messages
The DCS52 displays several types of error messages:
1. Short circuit shutdown occurs when the DCS52 detects a short circuit in
the power district where it is connected to the layout. This can be a loco
that has derailed, picked a switch or some other conductive material lying
across the tracks. In this case you will see this message “Local Booster
Track Fault” will scroll in the Scrolling Help Text line. The DCS52 will
beep 3 times and the track status light will blink. Once the short is cleared,
the DCS52 will resume normal operations.
2. Input overvoltage: The DCS52 will display the message “HIGH Input
DC voltage” and beep continuously when the input power to the DCS52
causes the internal voltage level to exceed about 16.9V DC. The DCS52
is designed to operate with DC input power only with a PS314 power
supply.
3. Input undervoltage: The DCS52 will display the message “LOW Input
DC voltage” and beep continuously when the input power to the DCS52
causes the internal voltage level to drop below about 9.5V DC. The
DCS52 is designed to operate with DC input power only with a PS314
power supply.

16.0 Decoder Speed Step Settings

Within the DCC format there are several ways decoders and command stations
communicate speed step information. All of your decoders and command sta-
tion must be “speaking the same version of the DCC language” for everything
to work smoothly. Digitrax DCS52 is set at the factory to send 128 speed step
mode information because the 128 speed step format provides for the best
speed control available. All Digitrax decoders are 128 speed step decoders.
Some older non-Digitrax decoders use other speed step formats and won’t
respond to your DCS52 sending 128 speed step information.
If you have a non-Digitrax decoder that can’t run in 128 speed step mode,
you can change the number of speed steps the DCS52 sends to that decoder
so that you will be able to control the decoder. This is called Status Editing
the decoder. When you status edit a decoder, the DCS52 will send a different
format to that decoder without affecting the 128 speed step operation of the
Digitrax and other 128 speed step decoders on the layout.
NOTE: Status editing does not reprogram anything in the decoder. It only
changes the messages that are sent to the decoder by the command station.

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16.1 Changing Speed Step Settings: Status Editing
To Change the Speed Step Settings for a Decoder:
1. Select the loco address you want to status edit.
2. Press the Loco Key once to enter loco selec- Booster USB Ln
tion mode, the large numbers in the Loco Status Edit Loco#:
Decoder modes
Info Area will begin to blink black and gray.
0-
The soft keys will also change to give you
1- 28: 28step
the options “MU”, “Recall” and “MORE”. 2- reserved 1
3. Press the C Soft Key labeled “MORE”: This 3- reserved 2
4- 128: 128step
will bring up the additional loco selection 5- 28A: 28step/CV19
tasks of “Disptch” and “Stat.Edit” above the 6- reserved 5
A and B Soft Keys. Pressing the C Soft Key 7- reserved 6
labeled “MORE” will return you to “Mu” 8- 128A: 128step/CV19
and “Recall” soft key selections. 9-

4. Press the B Soft Key labeled “Stat.Edit”.

Disptch Stat.Edit More
5. The Status Edit Loco# menu will appear dis-
playing the available speed step settings.
6. Press the number on the keypad to select the corresponding speed step
setting. The menu will exit and you will see the corresponding speed selec-
tion in the Additional Loco Selection Info area.
7. Once the speed step setting you want to use is in the display, press the
Loco Key to complete the selection and speed step setting change. Once
this change is made, the DCS52 command station will send DCC com-
mands to the edited decoder in the speed step setting you entered.

17.0 Adding Throttles: LocoNet & Jump Ports

Sooner or later you will probably want to have one or more other people run
trains with you. This means you’ll have to add more throttles to your DCS52.
You can add any LocoNet throttle to your DCS52 or you can use one or two
smooth DC power packs as jump throttles.
17.1 Adding LocoNet Throttles To Your DCS52
Any LocoNet throttle can be used with your DCS52. Simply plug the LocoNet
throttle into either LocoNet port on the back of your DCS52 or into any
LocoNet or Throttle Jack anywhere on your LocoNet system. If you want to
be able to plug in a throttle at a remote location, we recommend using a UP5
Universal Panel.
Your DCS52 can handle up to 20 LocoNet Throttles. If you need to run more
than 20 throttles, you can move up to a Digitrax Command Station with addi-
tional capacity. You can continue to use your DCS52 as a throttle and booster
with any command station on your Digitrax LocoNet system.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 33 www.digitrax.com

17.2 JUMP Ports: Using a Smooth DC Power Pack As An
Additional Throttle
DCS52’s Jump 1 & 2 ports can host two DC power packs as additional throt-
tles. Begin with an operating DCS52 attached to your layout. Hook up one or
two smooth DC power packs as shown in the following illustration. This con-
figuration gives you three throttles to control three loco addresses. By default
the jump ports on the DCS52 are disabled and must be enabled in Option
Switch setup. See section 18.0 for option switch setup.
1. Ensure that OpSw 83=Closed and that Jump Ports are enabled on your
DCS52. If Jump Ports are enabled there will Trk USB Ln
be additional text in the Jump Throttle
Area of the display. The Display should
show “Jump1” and “Jump2” as well as 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
speed and direction info for each throttle.
The B Soft Key will populate with the Local Throttle Active
“Active” function. sp 0 %

2. The Throttle Knob and Direction Lever on

your DCS52 is called the Local Throttle. F 0003
3. The throttle and direction controls on each
of the smooth DC power packs you are Jump1: 0056 Jump2:0003
using will control the jump throttles are Fwd> sp0 %Fwd> sp 0 %
called respectively, Jump1 and Jump2.
Fn+00 Active Fn Info+
4. Press the B Soft Key “Active” to cycle
from the Local Throttle to Jump 1 to Jump 2 and back to the Local
Throttle. The top line of the Loco Info Area tells you which throttle info
is being shown and which functions are being addressed by the DCS52
keyboard. The top line will read “LocoThrottle”, “Jmp1 Throttle”, or
“Jmp2 Throttle” to indicate which throttle you have selected for function
control.
5. The functions for each throttle are controlled by the DCS52’s keypad you
will only be able to control the functions for the throttle that is listed in the
top line of the Active Throttle Info line.
6. The throttle knobs and direction controls for all three throttles will contin-
ue to control the loco selected on them while you are working with func-
tion controls for the loco selected in the Active Throttle Info line. Speed,
direction, and loco selected info for the other throttles will be shown in the
Jump Throttle Area. Inactive throttles will be shown as grey in the Jump
Throttle Area.
7. To access function controls for each throttle, simply press the B Soft Key
“Active”, to cycle among the three throttles. The three throttle will cycle
from the Jump Throttle Area to the Loco Info Area to show which is
active for function and address control.
8. When the throttle’s name for which you want to control functions appears
in the Loco Info Area on the display, use the DCS52’s keypad to change
the functions or select a loco.

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 DC IN: R

RAI L A
RAI L B
PRO G B
GROUN D
PRO G A
JUM P 2
JUM P 1

RESET
USB LOCONET
from PS314
13.8V / 3A A B

Jump 2

To run a locomotive address on Jump 1 or Jump 2:

1. Press the B Soft Key “Active”, until you have Jump Port throttle you want
to run in the Loco Info Area of the display, if nothing is selected the last
selected address will be show in all grey. If a loco is selected on the throttle
you wish you use, you will need to reselect it, by pressing the Loco Key,
then the Exit/Stop Key.
2. To select a loco on a Jump port or to change the loco that is already there
follow the same procedure you’d use to select a loco on the local throttle.
Press the Loco Key, the address will begin flashing to let you know that the
loco selection is pending. The display will now show the last loco that was
selected on this throttle.
3. Use the numeric keypad to enter the loco address you want to run and press
the Loco Key again to select it on the selected jump port. The display will
be steady and you will be able to control the speed and direction of the loco
you selected using the DC power pack attached to the jump port.
4. When you have Jmp1 or Jmp2 on the DCS52’s Loco Info Area of the
display, you can use the numeric keys to make changes to the function con-
trols on the selected loco (turn on/off lights etc.). The smooth DC power
pack being used as the for the Jmp1 or Jmp2 throttle will continue to con-

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 35 www.digitrax.com

 trol speed and direction of the loco address selected. The DCS52’s Throttle
Knob and Direction Control Lever will continue to control the speed
and direction of the loco selected on the Local Throttle. Speed, direction,
and loco selected info for the other throttles will be shown in the Jump
Throttle Area.

18.0 Customizing DCS52-Option Switch Setup

The Option Switch (OpSw) setup allows you to customize the operation of the
unit to meet your layout and operation preferences. The DCS52’s power up
defaults are fine for most applications and the DCS52 will run “out of the box.”
We have included a few option switches below that you may want to change.
For a full listing visit www.digitrax.com.
18.1 Changing DCS52 Option Switches
1. See the Option Switch Table below to decide USB Ln
which option switches you want to change. Switch: 0001 = Thrown
2. Press the Menu/Enter Key. Option Switches:
3. Select options 3- Option Switch Setup by
pressing the 3 key.
4. Use the keypad to enter the number of the
OpSw you wish to change.
5. Press the B Soft Key “Closed” or the A
Soft Key “Thrown” to set the option switch
according to the desired change in the OpSw
table. The changes will take immediate
effect.
Thrown Closed SAVE
6. Press the C Soft Key “SAVE” to save the
Option Switch settings. If you do not save the settings the OpSw changes
will not be saved when the unit is powered off.
NOTE: Do not adjust any Op Switches not listed
These option switches are reserved and changing them may cause problems
with your system.

18.2 DCS52 Option Switch Tables

The following tables provide a list of the DCS52 Option Switches and the
impact of the change on the system.
Option Factory
Effect on System operation
Switch # Default

OpSw 36 Closed = Clears all mobile decoder info & consists Thrown

DCS52 Option Switch Tables

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 Option Factory
Effect on System operation
Switch # Default

OpSw 39 Closed = Clears all internal memory states Thrown

Closed = Clears all internal memory states and sets DCS52 to Factory
OpSw 40 Thrown
Default

Thrown = DCS52’s Jump Mode Disabled

OpSw 83 Thrown
Closed = DCS52’s Jump Mode Enabled

DCS52 Option Switch Tables

19.0 Clearing the System and the Reset Button

The Reset button can be found recessed on the back of the DCS52, you will
need a small pin to press the button. Pressing the reset button on the back of
your unit will activate OpSw 36. All mobile decoder and consist info will be
cleared. Set OpSw 40 = Closed to reset the DCS52 to factory defaults.
20.0 General Troubleshooting
20.1 Nothing is responding
Is track power turned on? If the Track Status Indicator is not lit, press the
Power/Back Key to turn on track power.
20.2 No Power or Intermittent Operation
The majority of intermittent operation problems can be traced to bad connec-
tions and poor or noisy wheel pickups on locomotives. The DCC digital packet
communication strategy performs exceptionally well in a less than perfect envi-
ronment, and will often mask bad connections until they are really impossible
to work with! Clean the track and wheel pickups of your locomotives.
20.3 The Quarter Trick
If your track does not have adequate power supply to the locomotives, then
the DCC signal won’t get through either. Take a quarter or screwdriver blade
and go around your layout creating electrical shorts by laying the quarter/
screwdriver blade across both rails every 10 feet. Your DCS52 should shut-
down when the short is present. You will see a “Local Booster Track Fault”
message on your display to indicate a short circuit shutdown. When the short is
removed, the booster should return to normal operation. If the unit does not see
a short or it does not return to normal operation after the short is removed, then
you need to add more feeders.
20.4 The LT1 Tester
Check your LocoNet cables with the LT1 tester to be sure you don’t have any
cables that were made incorrectly. See Section 23.4.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 37 www.digitrax.com

20.5 Emergency Stop
If the layout starts to “get away” on you, press the Power/Back Key to stop
everything on the layout.
20.6 Mechanical Drive Train Problems
Pay attention to the mechanical drive train and free movement of the locomo-
tive wheel sets. This is especially important with inexpensive locomotives.
Using Digitrax decoders with appropriate programming settings, you can
achieve surprisingly good quality operation, if you carefully adjust the mecha-
nisms for smooth running. See manufacturers instructions.
20.7 “Strange” Locomotive Lights
If you can’t control the operation of the lights in your locomotive with the
DCS52, be sure that the decoder is programmed to match the speed setting
commands of your DCS52 command station. The factory setting for the DCS52
is advanced 28/128 speed step mode.
Your Digitrax decoder was shipped programmed to 28/128 speed step mode.
You may have changed your decoder’s programming when performing the
decoder test procedure. In any case, if you are not able to turn the locomotives
lights on and off, you will need to change CV 29 to a value of “06” to have
proper light operation when using the DCS52 in its optimum 28/128 speed step
mode. Refer to Section 11.0 for programming instructions. information about
programming CV29 is available in your Digitrax Decoder Manual.
If you have a Digitrax decoder and you can control the lights but not the motor,
check for a motor short circuit. These decoders are designed to shutdown motor
operation when a short is detected to prevent damage to the decoder.
20.8 Decoder Won’t Respond
Did you select the locomotive’s actual address?
If you don’t know the address of the locomotive on the track, you can read
it back in programming mode or you can reprogram it to a new address. See
Section 11.2.
Is the loco on powered track?
Make sure the Track Power Indicator on the DCS52 is on, press the Power/
Back Key to turn on track power. See Section 2.4.
Use the “Quarter Trick” to test for track power at several locations around the
layout. If there is not track power, check your layout wiring. See Section 20.3.
Can you select the loco on your throttle?
Is the loco in use by another throttle did the throttle ask you to Steal the loco-
motive during selection? If it did, then dispatch the loco from the other throttle.
If the loco is part of an MU, Cn will be shown in the Additional Loco
Selection Info. When you select it, you can control the functions, but not speed
and direction. See section 12.0 on consisting...

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Have any CVs changed since last running the loco?
It is possible to set acceleration so high that it will take 10 minutes for the loco
to start moving. Try resetting the CV values to their factory settings and then
running the locomotive. Remember, Digitrax uses address 03 for the factory
setting for all decoders. Check your decoder manual for factory settings and
instructions on resetting the values.
Was the loco running normally just before it stopped?
Check to make sure the decoder has not heated up and gone into a thermal
shutdown. If it is warm, remove the loco from the track, let it cool off and then
see if it starts again. Also check for localized track problems.
Are there burn marks on the decoder?
You’ll need to send it in for repair!
If all else fails, reprogram the decoder address and reset CVs to factory original
values. See your decoder manual for factory settings and reset instructions.
20.9 Does your throttle say “SLOT MAX...”?
This means that the Zephyr Express system’s capacity to handle operating
locos is full. The DCS52 can run up to 20 addresses at the same time. This
includes all decoder/locomotive addresses in use on the system, whether they
are being run individually or as part of an MU. If you have the “SLOT MAX:
Release unused locomotives at zero speed to free space” message, be sure that
all locos that are not running are released from throttles.
If you run into this problem often, you should consider a command station
with more capacity. If you want to clear all of the loco addresses and consist
information in the DCS52 and start over, set OpSw 36 to “Closed” or press the
Reset button.
20.10 I’m totally lost!
If your DCS52 display isn’t showing you what you expect based on the man-
ual, press the Exit/Stop Key to return to the Home Operations Screen. Then
try the throttle task again. If you think you might have made an inadvertent
change to one of the factory settings in either the decoder or the command sta-
tion, try resetting everything to the factory settings and try the task again. See
your decoder instructions for resetting the factory settings of the decoder. See
Section 19.0 for resetting the DCS52 factory settings.
21.0 DCS52 Shutdown
If the DCS52 shuts down briefly and then comes back on again, it is probably
being run too close to its pre-set current limit of 3.0 Amps. In this case it may
clip or mutilate some outgoing packets of information to keep the track current
within acceptable limits. To solve this problem, reduce the track current load by
running fewer locomotives or setting up additional power districts and adding
more boosters to provide more power for the layout.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 39 www.digitrax.com

22.0 Connecting the DCS52 to a Computer
The DCS52 can be connected to a computer using the USB plug on the back.
It provides all the same functionality as a PR4 giving you access to Digitrax
SoundLoader II and other computer utility programs. It can also be used as an
interface for other compatible layout control software. For complete informa-
tion visit www.digitrax.com.
22.1 Updating the DCS52 to the latest firmware
Occasionally Digitrax makes updates and improvements to the operational
code of its products. In order to update your DCS52 you will need to have the
DigiIPLII utility installed on a computer connected to your LocoNet and the
latest firmware (.dmf) file. The DCS52 can be updated either directly using its
USB connection or via LocoNet using a PR4 or other computer to LocoNet
interface. When updating via USB & LocoNet the display will dim and the
keypad will flash green. For complete instructions and the latest firmware files
visit www.digitrax.com/downloads/.
23.0 LocoNet: The Digitrax Difference!
23.1 System Architecture
System architecture is the biggest difference among layout con-
trol systems. System architecture is the way the components
of a control system communicate among themselves. Digitrax
LocoNet is a Peer to Peer local area network (LAN) designed
specifically for model railroad operation. LocoNet wiring is
cost effective, flexible and expandable to accommodate almost
anything you want to do with your railroad today and in the future.
The system architecture used for communication within DCC and other control
systems is not standardized. Therefore DCC compatibility encompasses only
decoders, command stations and boosters but not throttles and other devices.
In addition, devices that require feedback and other types of signals that are
outside the domain of DCC, such as detection systems and transponding, are
not standardized. LocoNet is a hybrid system that incorporates DCC and other
technologies to expand the capabilities of your system. Your Digitrax system
gives you the best of both worlds with a system that is compatible with today’s
DCC standards and also goes beyond those standards to deliver enhanced sys-
tem performance and advanced features that are far beyond the scope of DCC.
With Digitrax, you get Complete Train Control®!
23.2 LocoNet Expansion for Complete Train Control
Your DCS52 is compatible with any other LocoNet device. The DCS52 offers
you the ability customize your layout and add the features you want. Many dif-
ferent combinations of hardware will work, not all combinations will have all
features available. With LocoNet some of the things you can add are:
• More boosters to give you more power to let you run more trains
• More throttles for more operators
• Different types of throttles

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 • More throttle jacks for convenient walk-around operation
• Infrared or radio capability for more freedom for operators
• Accessory decoders for turnout and accessory control
• Detection
• Transponding
• Signaling
• A personal computer to automate operations or for dispatching
• Automatic reversing with a booster or power manager
With LocoNet, you customize your layout to run the way you want it to run!
Visit www.digitrax.com for a full product line and information on how to
expand your system.
23.3 LocoNet Wiring Components
Connecting the LocoNet components is easy to do. Digitrax LocoNet devices
are connected using 6-conductor cables with RJ12, 6-pin connectors.
Making your own LocoNet Cables is simple and cost effective. However, we
offer Digitrax Pre-Made Pre-Tested LocoNet Cables in a variety of lengths.
Cable Maker kits and additional cabling supplies are also available. Visit
www.digitrax.com for more details.
We recommend using the LT1 tester that came with your DCS52 to test the
cables to be certain they are good before installing them. Many layout prob-
lems we see are related to LocoNet cables that were not built or crimped cor-
rectly or that have become damaged.
23.4 Testing LocoNet Cables with an LT1
1. Disconnect the wire harness from the LT1.
2. Plug one end of the LocoNet cable being tested into the LT1.
3. Connect the other end to your DCS52 LocoNet A & B Jack. Make sure
that track power is turned ON.
4. All four LEDs on the LT1 will light if the cable is good. LEDs may not all
be the same brightness, this is normal.
5. If any of the LEDs fail to light, re-crimp the plugs on the LocoNet cable
and retest.
24.0 What’s Next
Now that you’ve learned all you can about your Zephyr Express Set, it’s time
to learn more about the features and options offered by Digitrax Complete
Train Control and the LocoNet system. The Zephyr Express is just the first step
in what is available with the Digitrax Compete Train Control system. We wel-
come you to visit our website www.digitrax.com to learn more about additional
features and products available for your system.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 41 www.digitrax.com

25.0 FCC Information
Radio or TV Interference: (this information is MANDATED by the FCC) This
equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manu-
al, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television recep-
tion, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measure
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different form that to
which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Note that any modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by
Digitrax voids the user’s authority to operate under and be in compliance with
CFR 47 rules, as administered by the Federal Communication Commission.
Digitrax believes any conscientiously installed equipment following guidelines
in this manual would be unlikely to experience RFI problems.

For Canadian Users:

“This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for Radio noise
emission from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation or
the Canadian Department of Communications.”
Le present appariel numerique n emet pas de bruits radio-electriques depassant
les limites applicables aux appareils numeriques de la classe B prescrites dans
le Reglement sur le brouillage radioelectrique edicte par le ministere des
Communications du Canada.

Patents and Trade Secret

Digitrax uses material covered by US Patents 6,220,552, 6,275,739, 6,318,678,
6,367,742, 6,545,886, 6,513,763, 6,747,579, 6,536,716, 6,533,223, 6,533,224,
8,229,582, 8,292,237, 6,729,584 and others under non-exclusive licenses and/or
assignments from Anthony J. Ireland. Licensing for material covered by these
patents are available to other companies and individuals. Other patents cover-
ing technology used by Digitrax are pending. Measures to protect trade secret
information are enforced.

Digitrax licenses the commercial use of LocoNet, which is trade secret tech-
nology, to other companies on a non-exclusive basis. LocoNet is copyrighted
property.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 42

42 www.digitrax.com
26.0 Warranty and Repair Information

Digitrax gives a one-year “no worries” warranty against manufacturing defects

and accidental customer damage on all Digitrax products. That’s it! Simple,
straightforward warranty, no tricky language!

All warranties on Digitrax products are limited to repair or replacement of

Digitrax products at the discretion of Digitrax. Except to the extent expressly
stated, there are no warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to
any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

For items that are no longer covered under warranty, whenever possible we
will make repairs to units at fair and reasonable rates.

Please visit our warranty and repair page at www.digitrax.com/warranty for

warranty and repair information and procedures.

Digitrax, Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and specifications,
and/or to make additions or improvements in its products without imposing
any obligations upon itself to install these changes, additions or improvements
on products previously manufactured.

Digitrax, Inc. is not responsible for unintentional errors or omissions in

this document.

© 2019 Digitrax, Inc. 43

43 www.digitrax.com
 C omplete
T rain
C ontrol

Need Help?
Digitrax Tech Support Team

Need Help?: helpdesk.digitrax.com

Digitrax Tech Support Depot 24/7/365

www.digitrax.com/support
Contains links to all instructions sheets and manuals, application
notes, videos and tons of helpful information.

Digitrax Decoder Selector

www.digitrax.com/decoderselector
Helps you find which decoder will fit in a particular locomotive.

Digitrax CV Calculators
www.digitrax.com/support/cv
Calculate a CV value to program your locomotive,

Digitrax Tool Box App

www.digitrax.com/toolbox
Download our Mobile App for on the go help at your fingertips. This
app contains links to all manuals and instruction sheets, videos, CV
calculator, decoder selector, news and events & dealer locator,

Warranty and Repairs

306-DCS52-00

www.digitrax.com/support/returns
Fill out the online form, print it out and return it with your item for repair