First-time use of the decoder (state of delivery)
Enter address 3 on your DCC control system. Depending on your DCC system‘s data format, the decoder will
operate using 28 speed steps or in Motorola mode. When using a RailCom Plus
®
-enabled DCC system or with an
mfx
®
-capable DCC system, the decoder is recognized in a few seconds and can be operated immediately. If the
decoder is used on a conventional analog layout, it can be controlled with a DC or AC power pack. The decoder will
automatically detect the layout’s operating mode.
Note:
In DC analog mode, your model will only start at a higher voltage than what you may accustomed to when
operating analog models. You will need to turn the throttle up for the model to start operating.
Function outputs in analog mode
It is possible to program the decoder so that function keys F0 - F12 (as they are assigned in the function mapping)
can also be activated in analog mode. To do this, CVs 13 & 14 must first be programmed with a DCC central control
unit. The corresponding values can be found in the CV table of the detailed operating instructions. The light function
F0 is factory-set to “on.”
Motorola
The decoder has 3 Motorola addresses to activate functions F1 - F12 on a Motorola-format DCC system.
Configuration CVs
In addition to the decoder address, the indexed CVs of a locomotive decoder are the most important CVs. These are
the CVs 29, 50 and 51 in the PIKO SmartDecoder 4.1G. As a rule, an indexed CV contains various basic settings of
a decoder, such as reversing the direction of travel. CV calculation examples can be found in the detailed operating
instructions.
RailCom
®
, RailCom Plus
®
will be automatically recognized by a RailCom Plus
®
-enabled DCC control system (i.e. PIKO SmartControl) and
a locomotive icon, decoder name, and its special function icons will appear on the control system’s screen. With
RailCom Plus
®
technology, no locomotive data has to be stored in the DCC central control unit and no locomotive
addresses have to be programmed into the decoder.
mfx
®
The PIKO SmartDecoder 4.1 G is specifically made for the mfx
®
data format. If your DCC control system uses the
mfx
®
format, then the decoder is automatically recognized and is assigned its locomotive symbol, decoder address,
and its special function symbols. With mfx
®
technology, no locomotive data has to be stored in the DCC central
control unit and no locomotive addresses have to be programmed into the decoder.
Braking
The decoder understands the following braking methods:
• DCC braking function
• Märklin braking section (brakes with analog DC voltage)
• ABC (Automatic Brake Control) braking section
The decoder can stop the model with two adjustable braking distances that are accurate down to the centimeter.
More information on "braking behavior" can be found in the detailed operating instructions.
Function outputs
A comprehensive description of all options related to the function outputs can be found in the detailed operating instructions.
Simple and extended function mapping
With
simple function mapping, adjustable functions like lighting, special function outputs, switching (shunting)
mode, and acceleration and braking can be freely assigned to function keys F0 to F12 of the DCC central control
unit. For more information, refer to the CV table at the end of this manual, as well as the detailed user guide.
Smoke generator control
A smoke generator can be connected to outputs A1 to A7 which are load-sensitive and react to the model’s speed.
Electric coupler control
PIKO electric couplers are operated by tiny copper wire resistance wires which heat up when the decoder sends
current through them. The heat causes the wires to expand, causing the coupler hook to move to the uncoupled
position. The model can then back away from the car. The model’s decoder can be programmed to automatically
shut off current to the coupler mechanism after a certain time period, without need to press another key.
Switching (shunting) scenario, remote coupling/uncoupling
If your layout has remote electric uncouplers installed, you can program the locomotive decoder to perform a
switching scenario like the following:
1) The locomotive runs in one direction for a certain distance.
2) The locomotive stops and reverses direction.
3) The locomotive uncouples and moves back from the uncoupled car for a certain distance.
4) The locomotive stops, and resumes switching.
For information on extended function mapping, refer to the detailed operating instructions.
Servo control
The decoder can control up to four servo motors via outputs. Further information can be found in the detailed operating
instructions.
Factory reset
CAUTION!
When the decoder is reset, all factory settings are erased! Only perform a reset if it is absolutely necessary.
If you nonetheless have to reset the decoder remember that functions programmed at the factory may no longer function
and you must reprogram the individual Function Mapping (see FAQ)
To restore the decoder back to factory settings, use CV8 for DCC programming and CV59 in Motorola programming.
To avoid having to re-enter all programming after a reset, you can select beforehand which areas of the decoder
programming should be reset to factory values.
To restore the basic functions of the decoder, enter a value of 1 in the Reset CV (8 or 59).
Information on extended reset can be found in the detailed operating instructions.
Märklin and mfx
®
are registered trademarks of Gebr. Märklin & Cie. GmbH, Göppingen
Motorola is a registered trademark of Motorola Inc. Tempe, (Phoenix) Arizona / USA
RailCom
®
and RailComPlus
®
is a registered trademark of Lenz Elektronik GmbH
Service:
Internet: www.piko.de
E-Mail:info@piko.de
Hotline: T Thursday 16-18 Uhr
In the event of a defective decoder, please return the decoder module to PIKO along with proof of purchase, the decoder
address, and a short description of the problem.
Warranty Statement
Each decoder module is fully tested before shipment. Nevertheless, should a malfunction occur within the 2-year warranty
period, we will repair the module free of charge on presentation of the proof of purchase. This warranty is voided if the
unit has been damaged by improper use. Please note that, according to the German Electromagnetic Compatibility Law
(EMVGesetz), the decoder module may only be used inside models bearing the CE mark.
Product subject to changes. All rights reserved. Printed 05/2019.
Copy and duplication of this text are permissible only with the permission of the publisher.
