I got my first Proto 2000 with a Quantum decoder and I’m beginning a learning curve regarding programming.
With my NEC system programming a BLI loco address was simply four controller clicks - Program-onMain-Address-Long and enter the address.
Tried that with the QSI and the voice said “CV18 = 7011” but the loco did not respond. Turns out you need to program 2 separate CV’s (17 & 18) to get the address entered.
The manual says "Procedure for entering long address in CV 56.129. What the hack is that? Then it says, determine the value of CV17 and CV18 from the ID Table. That table says CV17=219 (Dec) or DB (Hex) or 11011011 (Binary) Clear as mud what I enter but I think I’ll try the (Dec) number. CV18=99. So I ASSUME… If I enter CV17=219 and CV18=99 then the loco address becomes 7011. WOW
I noticed that these decimal CV’s appear througout the manual. Fore example to disable the automatic Doppler Horn you do it in CV51.2. What are these decimal CV’s?
It’s explained in the manual. Go to QSI’s site and download the manual for the QSI version you have. QSI uses a register system where, if you want to reduce volume of one sound, you must first enter the enabling register, and then go to another CV and enter the value you want. It sounds horribly complicated, but all it entails is a little understanding, method, and patience. Usually the smaller manual supplied with the loco suffices to get you to what you wish to accomplish.
I would suggest that you set youself up with a seperate programming track that you can isolate from the main part of your railroad with a DPDT toggle switch. Set the loco on the program track, select “use programming track” on the PowerCab, and follow the set long address that way. Then you don’t have to fool with all the CV 17 and 18 and whatever other CV that wants to be adjusted nonsence…the PowerCab will do that all for you.
If I recall correctly, Gary has a 5 amp PH-Pro and a separate programming track.
Gary, are you unable to program the QSI on your Programming Track. If not, you will need to add a Program Track booster so that the system can read sound decoders on the Programming Track.
Haven’t tried the program track. I was able to program volume on the main and I guess I can do the address there too if i follow that cv17 & 18 procedure.
Do you think the procedure is different on the program track?
I’m trying to understand those decimal CV’s they have.
The JMRI developers have put a lot of time and effort into converting those indexed CV’s into plain-language selections you can click on a computer screen. I can’t remember the last time I’ve actually had to look up a CV to set up a decoder the way I want.
It’s usually best to use programming track mode to initially program your locomotives rather than POM (program on the main) - i.e. just in case the decoder is inadvertantly wired incorrectly. (Not likely with a pre-installed sound decoder but a wise safe-guard, nonetheless.) I also use the programming mode menu with the Power Cab/PH Pro throttle to set up the short address/long address rather than messing with CVs17 & 18 individually.
Sorry, I thought that you had a PowerCab. But I would still try to use the programming track. But just for the addresses. You can set volumes and such on the main. I also believe that you should be able to set the addresses without getting any feedback. I think the additional power you get from the auxiliary boosters helps with the feedback portion. If I remember correctly when you wish to program the addresses the command station will attempt to read the address CVs. If there is not enough “power”, you will get a “cannot read CV” message. When you get that just proceed to the next step and enter the address you want. Then move the loco to the main and see if the decoder accepted the address.
I don’t think you have anything to lose trying this. Let us know if it works for you.
Edit: No, if this works you don’t have to read the decoder. Just don’t get carried away and try to change a bunch of different things. And no, you won’t have to deal with a bunch of decimals.
I suspect that if they did come up with a mod or add on to do this, it would still be easier/less expensive to purchase a PowerCab. You would end up with all the capability, plus an extra cab. I don’t know what the currently available power boosters cost, but Streamlined Backshop is having a summer sale on the PowerCabs right now for $137 plus shipping.