Programming Sunset E6 diesels using NCE Power Cab

the QSI manual. QSI uses indexed CVs for many function changes.

The quantum programmer makes it way easier IMO

SANTIAGOP23 posted:

The quantum programmer makes it way easier IMO

Ok, I’m sold.  I see Sunset carries a Quantum Programmer USB, is this what I need?  How do I use it with my NCE PC?

If I’m asking too much, I’ll call the number and talk to them.

Thanks

I use a NCE Power Cab on a workbench test track (with a roller stand) to directly configure DCC decoders with simple changes like sound volume.  But if you want to adjust some of QSI's  indexed CV's the QSI Quantum Programmer makes CV setting changes very easy as it's done in a natural language interface.  The QSI Quantum Programmer comes with its own USB interface and setup does not require a DCC Command station.   A separate NCE USB interface to a computer is required if you want to set up non QSI decoders using NMRA's JMRI-DecoderPro.  

I agree the quantum programmer works great. It is a stand alone program.

mine is set up on a PC and connected to a length of test track.

the only tricky part in setup is choosing the right driver for your computer’s OS

Sometimes I can get away using the NCE to program but not always.

I decided to start Using JMRI and a SPROG Programmer with a 18v 15amp power supply. Using JMRI is probably the easiest way, and it saves all the CV data on the computer. So for some reason the Decoder fails you can replace it and re "flash" the new decoder with the same CV settings that were saved originally.

Bruk posted:

Sometimes I can get away using the NCE to program but not always.

I decided to start Using JMRI and a SPROG Programmer with a 18v 15amp power supply. Using JMRI is probably the easiest way, and it saves all the CV data on the computer. So for some reason the Decoder fails you can replace it and re "flash" the new decoder with the same CV settings that were saved originally.

I also use the JMRI/SPROG combo on my computer, and, as you say, it is much easier to program decoders than using a typical DCC system. That said, your power supply seems like overkill, both in voltage and amperage. I just use the wall wart supply that came with my SPROG 2. I’m curious as to why in the world you need 18volts and 15 amps for programming?

Bill in FtL

The quantum Programer will allow you to access QSI Solutions software program called CV Manager.  I have been told by several people, including 2 dcc dealers, that the QSI CV manager is better for QSI decoders but JMRI is better for everything else.   I bought a bunch of QSI Solutions Titans 6 years ago, which have ran great , and have used QSI CV manager alot.  I have experimented with JMRI with my QSI Solutions titans and the factory QSI engines I have but CV manager allows you to access more cvs.  But CV Manager is barely worth using for my new tsunomis.  Anyone have any different experiences?

One of the E6 sets I bought is an AA which I’d like to run back to back.  Using my NCE, how can I set up the trailing unit to run like the lead unit while facing the opposite direction?

Here’s an option. My E5 is an AA. I worked on the units a bit, so I opened them up. A good way is to swap the motor leads on the trailing unit and give them the same ID to both engines. 

Consists are also managed via the DCC station... so it’s up to you

When you set up a consist using NCE, it asks which direction each unit will run. Select the appropriate for the lead and trailing units using the direction button 

Bill Nielsen posted:

Bruk posted:

Sometimes I can get away using the NCE to program but not always.

I decided to start Using JMRI and a SPROG Programmer with a 18v 15amp power supply. Using JMRI is probably the easiest way, and it saves all the CV data on the computer. So for some reason the Decoder fails you can replace it and re "flash" the new decoder with the same CV settings that were saved originally.

I also use the JMRI/SPROG combo on my computer, and, as you say, it is much easier to program decoders than using a typical DCC system. That said, your power supply seems like overkill, both in voltage and amperage. I just use the wall wart supply that came with my SPROG 2. I’m curious as to why in the world you need 18volts and 15 amps for programming?

Bill in FtL

I don't plan using the SPROG for just programing. Sound Decoders/Smoke Units take up a lot of voltage/amperage and I need "more powa baby"

I believe QSI uses a default of 6 for CV29. If you change the value of CV29 to 7 in one of the engines, that will cause that unit to run in the opposite direction from the un-altered one. When you change the value of CV29, any modifications of other CV’s will be reset to factory defaults, therefore the engine number reverts to 3 again. You’ll have to reprogram the engine number to the long address once more. The other way is to create a consist, with one forward and one-backward. Then whichever diesel number (long address) you select of the two, that will be the lead unit for forward direction, lights and sounds (horn, bell, etc.)    Digitrax has a CV29 calculator on their website that you can select options, then it gives you the corresponding valve you need to use for CV29, if you choose to go with that option. 

SANTIAGOP23 posted:

Here’s an option. My E5 is an AA. I worked on the units a bit, so I opened them up. A good way is to swap the motor leads on the trailing unit and give them the same ID to both engines. 

Interesting option but I’d prefer to work within the guidelines of the DCC system.  Trying to outfox it may result in other complications later on.  Did you use that technique with your E5’s?

I have NCE and consist all of the time.  The directions in the book walk you thru the process...it would take about 7 button pushs to set up the consist with one A running fwd and one reverse.  When you turn off the system, it will remember the consist.  Cganging CV 29 would work and is pretty easy and swopping the motor leads would work as a permanent alteration.  LMK if you have any issues consisting, it is one of the few things I can do blind folded.

Thank you everyone for your helpful suggestions.  Using only my NCE manual I was able to get my AA set to work as a consist back to back.  I even figured out how to get the trailing unit HL to go “Off”.  Next, I’d like to be able to start-up and shut-down each unit, I’m guessing I’ll have to access the QSI manual to do it.  

QSI Manuel all 495 pages good luck.

Bob

the QSI startup/shut-down process. valid for Q2 and Q3 models:

press F6 twice for start-up sequence

press F9 twice to begin shut-down. it takes 3 instances of pressing F9 twice for compete shut-down. waiting a moment each time.

the sound unit will perform an air let-off with each double press.

the first F9 double press engages 'standby' mode,  the second 'idle', the third complete shut-down. at any time you can press F6  twice to get back to running operation.

if the decoder has not already been programmed, QSI recommends start-up using the default '3' to ensure the decoder responds. once that has been verified you can proceed with assigning an engine number.