Nice vid. Although I had written my own software to manage CVs in my N scale locos, when I discovered DecoderPro, I switched to it because it had a superior user interface.
Hi Jimmy, nice introduction to JMRI Decoder Pro. I'm 61, and have been using DCC for about half of my life (yeah, that long!). I've been using a ESU LokProgrammer for my LokSound engines for about ten years (makes it much easier programmer those decoders). I've been using JMRI Decoder Pro for five years. It is great for programming speed tables when I want to speed match my engines, function mapping my Soundtraxx decoders, adjust sound settings and sound volumes on all the decoders, as well as the mixer and equaliser settings for the Soundtraxx decoders. Another great use for JMRI Decoder Pro is that by saving the decoder settings, if I have to replace a decoder (released the white smoke) I can load the settings from the old decoder into the new one without having to start at step one.
Did you start using the LokProgrammer because JMRI couldn't handle the ESU decoders? I have had much frustration when trying to do ANY programming of an ESU decoder with JMRI. Even something as simple as just changing the address from 03 to anything else. The loco usually ends up being totally unresponsive to anything. Fortunately, one of the clubs I belong to has invested in an ESU LokProgrammer and I have been able to do a factory reset successfully on all but one locomotive. My Kato GS-4 Daylight has never recovered. I have not had any difficulties with Digitrax, BLI/Paragon, TCS, or any other brand of decoder. I am now very reluctant to purchase any loco with an ESU decoder.
@@hhc19avn Actually, I've been using my LokProgrammer long before I started using JMRI. I use the LokProgrammer for remapping sound functions, such as changing Function 3 from "coupler clank" to "run 8." I use JMRI mainly for my Soundtraxx decoders, since to improve their speed control I find that I have to use the 28 step speed table, which is easier to do with Decoder Pro than manually.
I do the same thing, because I find Decoder Pro problematic. Sometimes it see the what it needs to see, and sometimes it doesn't on Linux. Om Windows 10 it doesn't work at all. I can program everything and I do mean everything on the NCE Power Cab with the manual for the decoder, and knowing how to use CV 32.
The newest DCC equipment, like the bluetooth controller you showed a couple of months ago show what's possible in the way of user interfaces with newer technology. Simple and clear menus and functions that are all well labelled. I use NCE but the other commercial systems all seem similar, confusing and clunky. The manufactures need need to catch up, consider that NCE has been around with the same system (under various names) for 25 years without major changes. I'm only partially complaining, as I have old issues of Model Railroader where the NCE system (under it's pervious name) was $700 20 years ago, now it's more in the $200 range, but it's time for them to move to a bigger, more readable and useable screen.
Look at Roco Z21, it's already 10 years old, but about 15 years ahead of NCE and Digitrax. And it is being updated so you can really imagine a future to that system.
Be sure to stick a nail or stop at the end of your programming track. The engine walking off the end of the rail in the middle of a programming write can cause a lot of issues.
Jimmy, you done it again, I have layout that is or was totally DC and not the comic book. I put some double throw switches and built a DCC++EX system and bought some dcc type trains and wa-la they run great. My journey into dcc was not an easy one, the first train I bought wouldn't work. I thought it was me but thd train was no good. When to a different hobby shop and picked up a different train and it worked beautifully. I started in DCC with a Sprog one and later went to DCC++EX. I was 70 when I decided to try this, I did buy books on dcc before taking the deep dive into it. But then I've always loved a challenge. You don't grow if you don't challenge yourself. As I tell my grandsons you don't have to be the smartest, just one to take a chance on learning and discovering.
Hey jimmy great info. Getting ready to get set my first dcc++ex up, waiting on parts. I watched your video on Kato turnouts. Is there a simpler way to just power one turn out?
I do enjoy your videos! I think I'm correct in that programming on the main can get you into trouble as you, by mistake, might effect ALL locos on the "Main".
Thank you for this video, I need to ask do you connect your command control before or after install also I get a warning from windowos 10 saying the software is not safe but you did not show this or is part of the norm ? also I take it that useing JMRI, for programing is better as you use the full screen of the PC, unlike on the command centre. Thank you.
I have a small DC layout but sometime I’d like a larger DCC layout, because I’d end up with different locos doing different things. I’m also 38, I understand DC relatively well. That’s jus track wiring though and turning up the power (voltage?). I can deal with menus like near the end, setting variables and testing them, but it comes to HOW you connect all this programming voodoo to the track and how you set it up where I think I’ll have the most trouble. As it is, I figure I’ve got at least 5 years, so who knows what will come out by then. Also, the only thing that I know about Java is that it was something I would see on some computer games or programs during startup, where there’s the little cup of steaming coffee. Lord help me. I’ve never had any instruction (self or otherwise) with programming. Am I old?
Jimmy, all of this mumbo jumbo sounds exciting. I currently run on DC, h owever, do I have to have a computer to run my railroad? I want DCC but I want to operate my RR myself.
Even with a computer you operate it yourself. The computer just provides different options. There are throttles for the trains that show on the screen. Computer is only necessary if you use jmri
Buy a Roco Z21 controller, no need for a computer. The z21 app is downloaded to your phone or tablet and allows complete control of your layout, CV control is easy, as is moving your locos around the layout.
Well HI there Jimmy by the responses in comments looks like a good time to re visit R Dino's lol Decoders installs digging this ..oh dcc ++ ex was coming out with running both DC or DCC gess the last "New & Improved hasn't come yet?
Do it! Get a Roco Z21, a Digikeijs, or the new TCS command station, or ESU Mobile Control, DCC really is a game changer. There are a few things you have to learn but a lot of things will become a lot simpler and easier. Operations become more interesting as you can control everything independently, you can have light and sound features, even turnout/signal control becomes a lot simpler and more realistic. Sound helps slowing down operations and adds to the amount of fun you can have while serving industries, switching a yard, or something as mundane as departing from a station. As Tim has said, it's a new world, and it's worth joining.
It is worth while changing if you can. I run both due to some very old locos but I just love the dcc layout. I also use the z21 by Roco/ Fleischmann and have had no problems reprogramming my 70 year old brain.
The hard part for me is finding out what decoder is in the locomotive. About half of my locomotives had the decoder installed already but were at default 03.
I have a lot of locos where the decoder was installed before. So I don’t know the decoder. JMRI will identify a number of decoder models. How do you determine which model to select??
@@GlennGinsburg Also Glenn, the basic CVs like loco address and motor control are all standardized. If you're adjusting sound files or perhaps advanced lighting functions then different manufacturers may use different CVs for those, and making sure you have the right decoder is important. But if say you want to change the address or direction of travel, then the CVs are the same across all decoders (that follow the NRMA standards). There's many more CVs that are standardized, but only the very basics are ironclad and the rest are 'recommended' or 'optional'. Some manufacturers follow pretty much all of them (TCS is a good example), others unfortunately only do the bare minimum.
If the train you are programming is the ONLY train on the track it will work but to avoid interfering with other trains and to deliver the strongest programming signal, program on a separate section of track.
@@scottvossler8101 Program on Main (POM) mode was invented specifically to be able to program decoders while a lot of other decoders are on the track as well. In POM mode the strength of the programming signal is not important either. It's very convenient for small adjustments.
Im confused. So I need a laptop to use a new locomotive? Aren't the sounds and lights and stuff worked through the controller when you operate? I cant just buy a new locomotive and run it on my set after setting the address on the controller?
No worries! You do not need a laptop to run a locomotive and you can do all the changes to CVs via a DCC controller. This is more for custom programming and adjustments.
Oh, thank you! I'm not the best when it comes to computers and I really want to start a DCC build and a bunch of videos I've seen were just scaring me lol. The wiring is making me sweat enough. My HO layout was from when I was young and it's pretty basic. Plug power in, and trains can run lol.
I looked up Decoder Pro and it automatically led into JMRI and it suggested I should have SPROG II USB. I looked that up and it said I needed a Raspberry Pi computer. That and the SPROG stuff is British. Ah-hem . . .
@@timf2279 Glad you're enjoying it. Complexity isn't the problem. I've been a software developer for over 30 years, I know my way around a computer. It's not complicated - it's overwhelming like I said. There's too many options, all in your face from the start, and not enough contextualised help. All crammed into a UI from 1993. Need something that says "Ignore everything. Just press this, and then this, and your trains will run."
Love Andy Crawford's comment and have to agree with him. I will stick to the programming as described on my z21 from Roco/Fleischmann. I am just starting to understand that. You lost me within the first minute.
Z21 makes many things super easy when you set up a decoder, that's why I love it. Certain things like setting up a speed curve of more than three points could be simpler with JMRI. As with Z21 you don't need speedmatching to consist, I don't plan on doing that, therefore I will probably not use JMRI or anything similar. But it has its uses and it's good to be aware of its existance and capabilities, maybe one will need them in the future.
I gave up on Decoder Pro and the Digitrax PR4, because I find Decoder Pro problematic. Sometimes it can see the what it needs to see run on Linux, which runs well, when it does. Sometimes it doesn't run on Linux at all, and nothing can get it to do so. You can even look up on Linux the port it is on, and put it in, and it still will not run, but other times it does run. In the end it fails more than it runs. On Windows 10 it doesn't work at all. It gives a warning, and that's it. I can program everything and I do mean everything on the NCE Power Cab with the manual for the decoder, and knowing how to use CV 32. I've given up on this junk software, and enjoy handling all the CVs themselves. The NCE Power Cab works every time, unlike Decoder Pro.
This recieved: 𝙏𝙀𝙓𝙏 𝙈𝙀 𝟭𝟱𝟴𝟱𝟰𝟱𝟰𝟵𝟱𝟵𝟲 Congratulations 🎉 You have been selected as the winner of Model Trains. Send me a message via the number so we can sort this out. Is it legit?
Nice vid. Although I had written my own software to manage CVs in my N scale locos, when I discovered DecoderPro, I switched to it because it had a superior user interface.
Hi Jimmy, nice introduction to JMRI Decoder Pro. I'm 61, and have been using DCC for about half of my life (yeah, that long!). I've been using a ESU LokProgrammer for my LokSound engines for about ten years (makes it much easier programmer those decoders).
I've been using JMRI Decoder Pro for five years. It is great for programming speed tables when I want to speed match my engines, function mapping my Soundtraxx decoders, adjust sound settings and sound volumes on all the decoders, as well as the mixer and equaliser settings for the Soundtraxx decoders.
Another great use for JMRI Decoder Pro is that by saving the decoder settings, if I have to replace a decoder (released the white smoke) I can load the settings from the old decoder into the new one without having to start at step one.
Did you start using the LokProgrammer because JMRI couldn't handle the ESU decoders? I have had much frustration when trying to do ANY programming of an ESU decoder with JMRI. Even something as simple as just changing the address from 03 to anything else. The loco usually ends up being totally unresponsive to anything. Fortunately, one of the clubs I belong to has invested in an ESU LokProgrammer and I have been able to do a factory reset successfully on all but one locomotive. My Kato GS-4 Daylight has never recovered. I have not had any difficulties with Digitrax, BLI/Paragon, TCS, or any other brand of decoder. I am now very reluctant to purchase any loco with an ESU decoder.
@@hhc19avn Actually, I've been using my LokProgrammer long before I started using JMRI. I use the LokProgrammer for remapping sound functions, such as changing Function 3 from "coupler clank" to "run 8." I use JMRI mainly for my Soundtraxx decoders, since to improve their speed control I find that I have to use the 28 step speed table, which is easier to do with Decoder Pro than manually.
Jim. Thank You for what you do
Ah yes, someday when I get older (60+ now 😉) and understand this stuff....😁
I programme with my NCE Power cab. I find it useful to see the information lyes out in a different format. I found the video useful, thanks!
I do the same thing, because I find Decoder Pro problematic. Sometimes it see the what it needs to see, and sometimes it doesn't on Linux. Om Windows 10 it doesn't work at all. I can program everything and I do mean everything on the NCE Power Cab with the manual for the decoder, and knowing how to use CV 32.
The newest DCC equipment, like the bluetooth controller you showed a couple of months ago show what's possible in the way of user interfaces with newer technology. Simple and clear menus and functions that are all well labelled. I use NCE but the other commercial systems all seem similar, confusing and clunky. The manufactures need need to catch up, consider that NCE has been around with the same system (under various names) for 25 years without major changes. I'm only partially complaining, as I have old issues of Model Railroader where the NCE system (under it's pervious name) was $700 20 years ago, now it's more in the $200 range, but it's time for them to move to a bigger, more readable and useable screen.
Look at Roco Z21, it's already 10 years old, but about 15 years ahead of NCE and Digitrax. And it is being updated so you can really imagine a future to that system.
Be sure to stick a nail or stop at the end of your programming track. The engine walking off the end of the rail in the middle of a programming write can cause a lot of issues.
I’m drinking Black Rifle Co, Beyond Black and it is SMOOTH!!! With 2 sugars.
good video tutorial.
Jimmy, you done it again, I have layout that is or was totally DC and not the comic book. I put some double throw switches and built a DCC++EX system and bought some dcc type trains and wa-la they run great. My journey into dcc was not an easy one, the first train I bought wouldn't work. I thought it was me but thd train was no good. When to a different hobby shop and picked up a different train and it worked beautifully. I started in DCC with a Sprog one and later went to DCC++EX. I was 70 when I decided to try this, I did buy books on dcc before taking the deep dive into it. But then I've always loved a challenge. You don't grow if you don't challenge yourself. As I tell my grandsons you don't have to be the smartest, just one to take a chance on learning and discovering.
I find programming with JMRI DecoderPro so much simpler than programming with CVs.
Hey jimmy great info. Getting ready to get set my first dcc++ex up, waiting on parts. I watched your video on Kato turnouts. Is there a simpler way to just power one turn out?
I do enjoy your videos! I think I'm correct in that programming on the main can get you into trouble as you, by mistake, might effect ALL locos on the "Main".
When you don’t know the decoder and JMRI suggests different model numbers, how do you know which to pick?
Thank you for this video, I need to ask do you connect your command control before or after install also I get a warning from windowos 10 saying the software is not safe but you did not show this or is part of the norm ? also I take it that useing JMRI, for programing is better as you use the full screen of the PC, unlike on the command centre. Thank you.
I have a small DC layout but sometime I’d like a larger DCC layout, because I’d end up with different locos doing different things. I’m also 38, I understand DC relatively well. That’s jus track wiring though and turning up the power (voltage?). I can deal with menus like near the end, setting variables and testing them, but it comes to HOW you connect all this programming voodoo to the track and how you set it up where I think I’ll have the most trouble. As it is, I figure I’ve got at least 5 years, so who knows what will come out by then. Also, the only thing that I know about Java is that it was something I would see on some computer games or programs during startup, where there’s the little cup of steaming coffee.
Lord help me. I’ve never had any instruction (self or otherwise) with programming.
Am I old?
Jimmy, all of this mumbo jumbo sounds exciting. I currently run on DC, h
owever, do I have to have a computer to run my railroad? I want DCC but I want to operate my RR myself.
Even with a computer you operate it yourself. The computer just provides different options. There are throttles for the trains that show on the screen. Computer is only necessary if you use jmri
Buy a Roco Z21 controller, no need for a computer. The z21 app is downloaded to your phone or tablet and allows complete control of your layout, CV control is easy, as is moving your locos around the layout.
Well HI there Jimmy by the responses in comments looks like a good time to re visit R Dino's lol Decoders installs digging this ..oh dcc ++ ex was coming out with running both DC or DCC gess the last "New & Improved hasn't come yet?
Warming up to the idea of switching from DC to DCC. However I’m not there yet! Great video however!
It's worth it. Like a new world.
Do it! Get a Roco Z21, a Digikeijs, or the new TCS command station, or ESU Mobile Control, DCC really is a game changer. There are a few things you have to learn but a lot of things will become a lot simpler and easier. Operations become more interesting as you can control everything independently, you can have light and sound features, even turnout/signal control becomes a lot simpler and more realistic. Sound helps slowing down operations and adds to the amount of fun you can have while serving industries, switching a yard, or something as mundane as departing from a station. As Tim has said, it's a new world, and it's worth joining.
It is worth while changing if you can. I run both due to some very old locos but I just love the dcc layout. I also use the z21 by Roco/ Fleischmann and have had no problems reprogramming my 70 year old brain.
Great video for overall view of JMRI DecoderPro. I use PiSprog with Raspberry Pi on my programming track. It's compact and easily moved.
The hard part for me is finding out what decoder is in the locomotive. About half of my locomotives had the decoder installed already but were at default 03.
I have a lot of locos where the decoder was installed before. So I don’t know the decoder. JMRI will identify a number of decoder models. How do you determine which model to select??
@@johnstownmaryvillemodelrai2541 thank you
@@GlennGinsburg Also Glenn, the basic CVs like loco address and motor control are all standardized. If you're adjusting sound files or perhaps advanced lighting functions then different manufacturers may use different CVs for those, and making sure you have the right decoder is important. But if say you want to change the address or direction of travel, then the CVs are the same across all decoders (that follow the NRMA standards).
There's many more CVs that are standardized, but only the very basics are ironclad and the rest are 'recommended' or 'optional'. Some manufacturers follow pretty much all of them (TCS is a good example), others unfortunately only do the bare minimum.
Do they make a site like this that is android friendly? I have a computer but it's set up like a tablet.
Good stuff, but can you program on the main track using dcc++ or only on the programming track?
If the train you are programming is the ONLY train on the track it will work but to avoid interfering with other trains and to deliver the strongest programming signal, program on a separate section of track.
@@scottvossler8101 i tried but I was only able to program on the program track, than further operations on the main track were all good.
@@scottvossler8101 Program on Main (POM) mode was invented specifically to be able to program decoders while a lot of other decoders are on the track as well. In POM mode the strength of the programming signal is not important either. It's very convenient for small adjustments.
I think you flipped a number, at about 4:40.
Im confused. So I need a laptop to use a new locomotive? Aren't the sounds and lights and stuff worked through the controller when you operate? I cant just buy a new locomotive and run it on my set after setting the address on the controller?
No worries! You do not need a laptop to run a locomotive and you can do all the changes to CVs via a DCC controller. This is more for custom programming and adjustments.
Oh, thank you! I'm not the best when it comes to computers and I really want to start a DCC build and a bunch of videos I've seen were just scaring me lol. The wiring is making me sweat enough. My HO layout was from when I was young and it's pretty basic. Plug power in, and trains can run lol.
👍👍👍
I looked up Decoder Pro and it automatically led into JMRI and it suggested I should have SPROG II USB. I looked that up and it said I needed a Raspberry Pi computer. That and the SPROG stuff is British.
Ah-hem . . .
I find JMRI really overwhelming to use. I ended up buying a 2nd hand NCE Powercab. Good tutorial though, it might make me give it another go.
It's really not that complicated. My biggest issue was matching the decoder to the locomotive.
@@timf2279 Glad you're enjoying it. Complexity isn't the problem. I've been a software developer for over 30 years, I know my way around a computer.
It's not complicated - it's overwhelming like I said. There's too many options, all in your face from the start, and not enough contextualised help. All crammed into a UI from 1993.
Need something that says "Ignore everything. Just press this, and then this, and your trains will run."
I use JMRI at the club layout and NCE Powercab at home.
@StockportJambo well being a software developer please develop something more user friendly.
@@timf2279 Would love to, but I just don't have the time.
Love Andy Crawford's comment and have to agree with him. I will stick to the programming as described on my z21 from Roco/Fleischmann. I am just starting to understand that. You lost me within the first minute.
Z21 makes many things super easy when you set up a decoder, that's why I love it. Certain things like setting up a speed curve of more than three points could be simpler with JMRI. As with Z21 you don't need speedmatching to consist, I don't plan on doing that, therefore I will probably not use JMRI or anything similar. But it has its uses and it's good to be aware of its existance and capabilities, maybe one will need them in the future.
I gave up on Decoder Pro and the Digitrax PR4, because I find Decoder Pro problematic. Sometimes it can see the what it needs to see run on Linux, which runs well, when it does. Sometimes it doesn't run on Linux at all, and nothing can get it to do so. You can even look up on Linux the port it is on, and put it in, and it still will not run, but other times it does run. In the end it fails more than it runs. On Windows 10 it doesn't work at all. It gives a warning, and that's it. I can program everything and I do mean everything on the NCE Power Cab with the manual for the decoder, and knowing how to use CV 32.
I've given up on this junk software, and enjoy handling all the CVs themselves. The NCE Power Cab works every time, unlike Decoder Pro.
Loads of what seems to be spam or phishing coming from someone using your logo. Thought you might like to know.
Thanks! Melville! I have been working to remove them.
This recieved:
𝙏𝙀𝙓𝙏 𝙈𝙀 𝟭𝟱𝟴𝟱𝟰𝟱𝟰𝟵𝟱𝟵𝟲
Congratulations 🎉 You have been selected as the winner of Model Trains. Send me a message via the number so we can sort this out.
Is it legit?
@@donaldshroyer8633 It certainly is not legit. I contacted Jimmy to let him know that someone is using his logo.
Hello
Ck your ddrcommunity email