Does anyone know what is the technical status of this issue, regarding the speed-control features:
a) are they removed for ever from the models that are currently distributed by BLI until they get back the patent usage? In which case, when BLI gets back the patent, what will be the modeler’s options to enjoy the full-features model he expects from BLI?
b) are the features simply de-activated? In which case, when BLI gets back the patent, will the modeler be given the operating mode how to re-activate the features by himself?
Unless I need stronger glasses, on BLI’s Web site there is no indication about that.
I would guess the features have been removed rather than deactivated - I know with DVD players (different, yet similar) there are numerous websites that tell you how to “unlock” them (usually with a button sequence) to play all region DVDs. I’d have thought someone would have figured out how to unlock these features by now if it were possible (and the information would have founds its way onto the web)!
Guys,
Been reading through a couple of Yahoo DCC groups (Litchfield Station & Soundtraxx). I’m not an expert but according to some of the posters, the BEMF feature is disabled in such a way that reactivating is not easy, sort of like taking one wheel off of a car–it’s not going anywhere! Apparently QSI and Soundtraxx are remaining tight lipped about the BEMF Speed Control feature until the lawsuit is resolved.
It’s possible that the features are disabled by modifying the code used to program the ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) chip that is the heart of the electronics for these models. If that’s the case the only way to re-enable is to replace the ASIC with one that has the original code. I suppose BLI could issue replacement ASIC’s with all features enabled, assuming they are successful with the litigation. I’ve no idea how much they’d cost though.
I think Vampire is right !!!
In the instructions for my new AT&SF Northern is a note: For this features, you need new software !
True? I´m not sure but when this is true there will be a “problem” !!! I see no interface for a computer and so you must replace a chip!
I received my BLI Santa Fe 4-8-4 this week. I called the company ((540)949-8300) and was told that these features were not in the chip, so they can not be unlocked. I find that the locomotive is awsome as is. I like it as well as my brass with soundtraxx. I do miss the blowbown when it stops but I’ll get used to it. When I wanted to reprogram the decoder I just went to their webb site and read the manual. I was able to do all of the programming in OPS mode with my Digitrax Chief and a DT400.
The only disapointment with this loco is now I want the other two numbers and the 2-10-2 and 2-10-4 are on the horizion and their isn’t enough money for all.
REMEMBER SANTA FE ALL THE WAY [:D]
Have a good day
Bob Stephens
I just took a look at my (pre law suit) J1e Hudson, the main chip is surface mount soldered to the board, so chip replacement is a specialist job.
I thought my GG1 had a socket for the chip, but I could be mistaken… I haven’t opened it up for some time now. If it is soldered down I agree that you wouldn’t want to mess with it.