SoundTraxx Tsunami User manual

Tsunami®Digital Sound Decoder
Diesel Sound
User’s Guide
Software Release 1.11
Rev. D 3/3/2015

Notice
The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
SoundTraxx (Throttle Up!) shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein; nor for incidental or con-
sequential damages resulting from the furnishing, performance or use of this material.
This document contains information protected by copyright. No part of this document may be photocopied or reproduced in any form
without the prior written consent of Throttle Up! Corp.
Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
SoundTraxx and Tsunami are registered trademarks of Throttle Up! Corp.
SoundTraxx DCC, Digital Sound Decoder, Dynamic Digital Exhaust, Auto-Exhaust and Hyperlight are trademarks of Throttle Up!
Corp.

Table of Contents
All Aboard!...........................................................................1
Overview................................................................................................1
Operation .............................................................................2
Using Your Tsunami Digital Sound Decoder..........................................2
Basics of Programming......................................................6
Programming the CVs...........................................................................6
Step 1: Conguring the Address..........................................................13
Step 2: Conguring the Decoder .........................................................14
Step 3: Conguring the Throttle...........................................................16
Step 4: Conguring for Consist Operation...........................................21
Step 5: Function Mapping....................................................................24
Step 6: Conguring the Lighting Outputs.............................................29
Sound Programming.........................................................34
Step 7: Modifying the Sound Effects ...................................................34
Advanced Programming...................................................48
Step 8: Setting up the Hyperdrive........................................................48
Step 9: Conguring Tsunami’s Miscellaneous Features......................51
Troubleshooting................................................................57
Appendix A - Decimal-Hex-Binary Conversion...............59
Appendix B - List of Conguration Variables .................60
Appendix C - License Agreement....................................61
Appendix D - Service and Warranty Policy.....................62

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 1
All Aboard!
Overview
Congratulations on the purchase of your SoundTraxx®Tsunami®Digital
Sound Decoder™ (DSD). This User’s Guide will walk you through the
various aspects of programming your Tsunami Decoder, as well as some tips
on troubleshooting. For the power user, the Tsunami Technical Reference
provides a list of all the CVs available for use with Tsunami decoders and
their exact functions and make-up for those who wish to have a complete
reference for advanced programming techniques.
Technical Bulletins and Application Notes covering various topics are also
published from time to time, and these may be downloaded free of charge
from our website at www.soundtraxx.com.

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 2
Using Your Tsunami Digital Sound Decoder
Your SoundTraxx Tsunami has been shipped with all CVs pre-programmed
so you can begin using your locomotive immediately without having to worry
about what adjustments to make. Function assignments are as follows:
Diesel Decoder Function Output Assignments
Function Key Effect
F0 Headlight/Backup Light
F1 Bell
F2 Airhorn
F3 Short Airhorn
F4 Dynamic Brake
F5 FX5 Output
F6 FX6 Output
F7 Dimmer
F8 Mute the Sound
F9 Radiator Fans
F10 Air Compressor
F11 Brake Squeal/Release
F12 Coupler Clank
Throttle Engine Exhaust
While these are the default settings, you may wish to make changes to the
function mapping later. For now, simply set your controller to Locomotive 3,
place the locomotive on the mainline and away you go! Now that you have
control of your decoder, let’s see what happens!
Turn on the Lights
Press F0 on your cab to turn on the headlight. Reverse locomotive direction
and the headlight turns off as the backup light turns on.
If you have wired your Tsunami decoder for Functions 5 and/or 6, pressing
these keys will activate these effects. While waiting on a siding, you can
press F7 to dim the headlight for an oncoming train.
Ring the Bell
Engineers are required to ring the bell during yard movement. To ring the
bell, press F1 on your cab. This is an on/off function, i.e. once on, the bell will
continue to ring until you turn it off. Press F1 again to turn it off.
Blow the Horn
Engineers are required to blow various airhorn signals to warn of the
approaching train as well as notify both passengers and train crew to the
planned movement of the locomotive. Some of these are signals for grade
crossings, stopping, moving forward, backing up and more.
Operation

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 3
To activate the airhorn, press F2 on your cab; the longer you press the key,
the longer the horn will blow. While this allows you to make short or long
signals, F3 is designated as a ‘short’ horn so your shorts will have that nice,
crisp, ‘toot’ regardless of how responsive your cab controls are.
Learning and using the various horn signals can add a lot of fun to your
operating sessions! Some of the more common signals are indicated here.
Try a grade-crossing signal!
Start the Prime Mover
To start the diesel engine, simply increase the throttle to speed step 1. The
engine will crank over several times and settle into a nice idle. On a few
command stations, such as the NCE Power Cab, the Tsunami decoder
may skip the startup sequence and immediately play the idle sound. If this
happens, press emergency stop rst, then increase the throttle and you
should hear the engine start.
Once the engine has reached idle, it will change RPM automatically in
response to changes in the locomotive speed. To shut the engine sound off,
press your cab’s emergency stop button once.
Keep in mind that diesel locomotives do not work like a car or truck. On the
prototype, the diesel engine turns a generator, which then powers electric
traction motors mounted on the axles. As such, there is not a one-to-one
relationship between the locomotive speed and the diesel’s RPM. This is
why, for example, you may hear a train crawling up a hill at 5 mph with the
engines at full power.
Because of their size (an EMD 645 displaces 645 cubic inches per cylinder!),
a diesel engine does not rev as quickly as an automobile engine. Even under
full throttle acceleration, a typical prototype diesel requires between 15 to 20
seconds to reach full speed and about the same amount of time to return to
an idle.
Operation
Horn Signals
Note:  = Short Blast — = Long Blast
— —  — Approaching grade crossing. (Hold final blast until crossing is occupied.)
—    Flagman protect rear.
 Brakes applied.
— — Release brakes, proceed forward.
 When stopped, back up; when moving, stop.
 Request signal from trainman.
— Warning signal (used when approaching areas with obstructed views,
approaching passenger or freight trains, and passing freight trains).

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 4
Your Tsunami decoder uses sounds recorded from actual locomotives
and requires an amount of time similar to the prototype to reach full RPM.
This can cause a certain disconnect between the model’s speed and the
engine sound as many modelers tend run their trains faster and over shorter
distances than the prototype.
Several solutions exist if you are experiencing this type of problem:
• Make gradual changes to your throttle speed to better match the sound.
• Decrease the engine RPM sensitivity so the decoder requires greater
throttle changes to increase the RPM sound (see Sound Programming -
Engine Control).
• Increase the Tsunami’s momentum settings (See Basics of Programming
- Step 3: Conguring the Throttle) and let the decoder match the train
speed and sound automatically. For most locomotives, a setting of 15
works well.
• Switch to Manual Notching Mode and control the engine RPM
sound manually. See Sound Programming - Engine Control for more
information.
Dynamic Brakes
When assigned to mountainous terrain, diesel locomotives were often
equipped with dynamic brakes, which used the regenerative properties of the
traction motors to slow the train on downhill grades.
To turn the dynamic brakes on and off, simply press the F4 button on your
cab. Note that the dynamic brakes can only be heard when the engine sound
is at idle or higher.
For a more prototypical experience, you can optionally set up the Tsunami
decoder so that the diesel engine RPMs are lowered to a preset speed
automatically whenever the dynamic brakes are turned on. Refer to the
section titled Sound Programming- Engine Control for more details.
Radiator Fans
Whenever the engine sound is playing, the radiator fans will turn on
automatically.
You can also set the Tsunami so the fans may be controlled manually using
Function Key F9. See section Sound Programming - Engine Control.
Air Compressor
Whenever the engine sound is playing, the air compressor will run for a short
time and then automatically cycle on and off at random intervals.
The Tsunami can be optionally congured so the compressor is manually
controlled using Function Key F10. See the section Sound Programming -
Engine Control.
Operation

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 5
Air Tank Dryer Poppet Valve
Whenever the engine is running, you will hear a short “phttt!” every so often
from the air tank’s poppet valve. While there is no function to turn this sound
on or off, you can raise or lower its volume level. See Sound Programming -
Audio Mixer for details.
Activating other Functions and Effects
Depending on the number of function keys provided on your cab, you might
have additional functions immediately available for you to activate.
Mute the Sound
Pressing F8 on all Tsunami decoders will gradually mute all sound effects,
which is great for a quick answer of the telephone! Pressing it a second time
will allow you to hear the sounds again.
Brake Squeal/Release
The sound of the brakes squealing is typically heard just before the wheels
of the locomotive stop turning. Pressing F11 when the engine is moving will
initiate a brake squeal effect. Press F11 again to turn this feature off.
Coupler Clank
Pressing F12 will activate the coupler clank sound effect. See how well you
can time the effect to the actual coupling of the locomotive to the train!
As you see, no programming is necessary to begin enjoying your DSD!
However, after you have had a chance to play with your decoder for a little
while, you may wish to make some changes such as selecting a new address
or altering a sound effect. The following section will introduce you to CVs and
how and why you might wish to change them.
Operation

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 6
Programming the CVs
What is a CV?
CV stands for Conguration Variable, which is the industry-adopted term
for a decoder’s user-programmable memory locations. CVs allow you to
customize individual decoder properties such as the address, momentum,
throttle response, sound volume and much more. Once a CV has been
programmed, the setting will be permanently remembered even after the
power has been turned off. A CV can be modied as often as necessary by
simply reprogramming it with a new value.
With the large number of CVs available, rst inspection of the available
options may cause confusion and little panic! Relax. As you have already
seen, the DSD has been shipped with all CVs pre-programmed so you can
begin using your locomotive immediately without having to worry about what
adjustments to make.
The following paragraphs break the sound decoder’s CVs into various
subsystems so it is only necessary to change a few CVs at a time. As you
become comfortable with its operation, move onto a new section and begin
exploring the options and capabilities found there. For more technically
inclined users, detailed information on any CV can be found in the Tsunami
Technical Reference.
Bits and Bytes
One of the most confusing aspects of programming a CV is guring out what
all the different bits, bytes and x’s found in the various decoder manuals
mean. The problem is compounded further by differences in each command
station manufacturer’s user interface. For users unfamiliar with such terms, a
short math lesson (ugh!) is in order before proceeding:
Each decoder CV stores a numeric value that can be represented in one of
three forms:
Decimal - This is the form everyone is familiar with and we use in our day-to-
day lives. Numbers are represented as a sequence of digits composed of the
numerals 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8, and 9.
Hexadecimal - Also referred to as simply “hex”, this is a more specialized
number representation that, in addition to 0 through 9, also uses the
characters A-F. It has the advantage that a given decimal number can be
more compactly represented. For example, the decimal number 127 converts
to a simple 7F in hex (one less digit). This allows user interfaces with a
limited number of digits (i.e., the LCD on your cab) to display a wider range of
numbers.
Binary - Binary numbers get their name from the fact they use only two
digits, 0 and 1, called ‘bits.’ Binary is the fundamental number system used
by all computers, including the ones found inside a digital decoder. Because
Basics of Programming

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 7
there are only two bit values, it takes more digits to represent a number using
binary. The decimal number 127, for example, is written as 01111111 in binary
notation. A ‘byte’ is a binary number made up of eight bits. And a ‘nibble’ is
one-half of one byte or four bits. Really! We didn’t make that up.
Each CV is made up of one byte (i.e., eight bits) and can store any number
from 0 to 255. Most of the CVs contain a single piece of data that can be
easily represented in any of the three formats described above. For example,
CV 3 (Baseline Acceleration Rate) can be loaded with any value from 0 to
255 and it will always and only affect one thing -- the acceleration rate.
Some CVs use individual bits to control different features This allows up to
eight distinct features to be controlled by a single CV and keeps the number
of CVs more manageable. As the bit variables can take on only one of two
values (0 and 1), they are usually used for simple variables that are either ON
or OFF, enabled or disabled, or something similar. Unfortunately, bit variables
are difcult to represent in any form other than binary and still preserve
any meaning. Because most DCC system user interfaces don’t use binary
representation, these numbers are the most difcult to work with and require
a tedious series of additions to convert to the decimal or hex form used by
most systems.
We have tried to use the decimal number system in this manual when
describing the proper values to program into a given CV; however, you will
occasionally nd values listed in the Technical Reference in binary, hex and
decimal values. Hex numbers can be distinguished from a decimal number
by noting a “0x” prex. Thus 0x10 is the hex version of 16 and not 10 as one
might guess. Binary numbers are represented using a ‘b’ sufx. 100b is really
the number four and not 100. To further assist the math-impaired, we have
provided a handy-dandy conversion table in Appendix A that allows one to
quickly convert between decimal, hex and binary.
When working with individual bits, such as in CV 29, we suggest the following
procedure for determining the correct value to program. Referring to the CV
description, write down the value desired for each individual bit. For example,
would like to set CV 29 so that speed tables and 28 speed-step mode are
enabled. Referring to the Technical Reference, we see that bits 1 and 4
should both be set to 1 to enable the desired features, with all other bits
cleared to 0. Write down the individual bit values as shown below:
We then look up the binary value 00010010 in Appendix A and see that it
corresponds to the decimal value 18 (0x12 in hex). This is the value to use
when programming the CV.
Basics of Programming
bit 7 bit 6 bit 5 bit 4 bit 3 bit 2 bit 1 bit 0

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 8
If you don’t have the conversion chart available, you can also calculate the
value in the following manner. Reading from right to left in the gure below,
note that there is a decimal value associated with each bit, beginning with a 1
for bit 0 and doubling in value for each successive bit (i.e., bit 0 = 1, bit 1 = 2,
bit 2 = 4, bit 3 = 8, bit 4 = 16, bit 5 = 32, bit 6 = 64., and bit 7 = 128). This
value is only counted when the bit is enabled with a “1.” Looking at the gure
below, you can see that using this method, bit 1 has a value of 2 and bit
4 has a value of 16. Adding these two numbers together gives the correct
decimal value of 18.
Programming Methods
There are two methods for changing the sound decoder’s CVs:
Service Mode Programming - This programming mode usually requires the
locomotive to be placed on a special programming track or connected to a
dedicated programmer. Tsunami is an advanced line of decoders and support
four types of service mode instructions:
Address Mode - Can change CV 1 (Primary Address) only.
Register Mode - Can change CVs 1,2,3,4,7,8 and 29 only.
Paged Mode - Uses a page register to indirectly modify any CV.
Direct Mode - Can directly change any CV.
Operations Mode Programming - Sometimes called ‘Ops Mode’ or
‘Programming on the Main’, this programming mode allows the CVs to be
changed while the locomotive is operating on the layout even when other
locomotives are present. The neat thing about this mode is that the CVs can
be changed in the middle of operation allowing the engineer, for example, to
increase the momentum rate of a locomotive after it couples to a train. The
main disadvantage of Operations Mode Programming is that the CV data
cannot be read back to verify its value.
Reading CVs
Certain command stations also allow you to read a CV during Service
Mode Programming, which is useful to verify its current setting. If you have
trouble reading or verifying CVs, the problem may be due to the design
of your command station and not the DSD itself. Tsunami and all other
decoders communicate back to the command station using what’s called an
acknowledgment pulse, which is dened in NMRA S-9.2.3 as “an increased
load on the programming track of at least 60mA for at least 6ms ± 1ms.”
Like most decoders, the DSD generates the acknowledgment pulse by
momentarily applying power to the motor. You can often visually verify that
the Tsunami is properly responding to your programmer by observing a slight
twitch in the motor shaft when a read or write command is given.
Basics of Programming
bit 7 bit 6 bit 5 bit 4 bit 3 bit 2 bit 1 bit 0
When bit is
set to 1, value = 128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
Therefore: 0 + 0 + 0 + 16 + 0 + 0 + 2 + 0 = 18

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 9
If your DSD is otherwise working properly (i.e., responds properly on
the mainline to speed and direction commands) but your command
station is having trouble reading CV data from the DSD, it may be due to
incompatibilities between the electrical requirements of the DSD (which are
different from conventional decoders due to the added audio circuitry) and
the electrical characteristics of your programming track. In such an event,
we suggest you simply go ahead and program the data into the CVs anyway.
Usually the DSD will accept the data and function properly when placed back
on the main track.
Another option is to use a Programming Track Booster, such as the
SoundTraxx PTB-100 (P.N. 829002). The PTB-100 amplies the
programming track signals to levels that work best with Tsunami. It is easy
to install (see below) and inexpensive. An advantage to using the PTB-100
is that it also provides short circuit detection and some helpful diagnostics. It
works well with all SoundTraxx decoders.
Figure 1 - General Wiring Diagram for the SoundTraxx PTB-100
Finally, if you continue to experience difculties, try a different programming
mode. If your system supports it, the best way to program the CVs is with
Operations Mode, as it allows you to immediately see or hear the results of
your changes. It is important, however, to realize that not all programming
modes will program all CVs. Additionally, the specic programming mode
you use will depend upon the type of DCC system you are using. Some of
the newer DCC systems can automatically select the proper programming
mode so all you need to do is specify the CV number and its new value. On
the other hand, some systems support only a few of the programming modes
and may restrict which CVs you can program. If in doubt, refer to your DCC
system’s manual or contact the manufacturer to determine which methods
they support.
Basics of Programming
Power In
Power In
Programming Track Output
Programming Track Output
Programming Track
To Programming Track
COMMAND
STATION
POWER
SUPPLY
COMMAND
STATION
PTB-100
BLACK
BLACK
ORANGE
ORANGE
YELLOW
YELLOW

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 10
Programming Procedure
As each DCC system is different, the procedure for programming a CV will
vary depending upon the system. Unfortunately, we cannot provide detailed
instructions to cover every command station and have to assume that you
have some level of understanding regarding its capabilities and operating
procedures. For specic programming procedures, please consult your DCC
system manual.
Locking and Unlocking CVs
The CV Lock/Unlock feature allows you to program a decoder without the
danger of overwriting the programming in another. This is especially useful
in installations where multiple decoders are used. For example, if you have
installed a function decoder in addition to the sound decoder, you may wish
to lock the CVs after programming to prevent accidentally programming one
decoder or the other.
CV 15, CV Unlock Code
CV 16, CV Lock Code
CV 30, Error Information/Alternate Mode Selection
To use the CV Lock feature implemented in CVs 15 and 16, bit 0 of CV 30
must rst be set to 1 (the default value is 0). This is to avoid inadvertently
locking the decoder when the CV Lock feature is not needed.
CVs 15 and 16 are used for locking and unlocking the decoder. CV 15 is the
Unlock Code and may be programmed to any value from 0 to 255 regardless
of whether the decoder is locked or unlocked. CV 16 is the Lock Code and
may be set to any value from 0 to 7, but only when the decoder is unlocked.
Attempts to program CV 16 with a value greater than 7 will be ignored.
The decoder is unlocked when the value in CV 15 matches the value in
CV 16. Otherwise the decoder is locked and can not be programmed in either
Operations Mode or Service Mode. Further, a locked decoder cannot be reset
to its factory defaults until it is unlocked. Tsunami decoders are shipped from
the factory with all CVs unlocked, that is, CV 15 and 16 are both set to 0.
Note that if the decoder is unlocked, changing the value in CV 16 will
instantly lock the decoder. You must then set CV 15 to the same value as
was just programmed into CV 16 to unlock the decoder again.
If you use the CV Locking feature for a multi-decoder installation in one
model, each decoder must rst have its Lock Code set in CV 16 prior to
the installation of any other decoders. Otherwise, all the decoders will have
the same Lock Code and the feature will not work. First install one decoder
and program its Lock Code. Then install the next decoder and program its
Lock Code. Since the rst decoder is now locked, it will be unaffected by the
programming of the second decoder (unless you accidentally set the Lock
Code of the two decoders to the same value. If this happens you will need
to disconnect one decoder and start over). Continue in this manner until all
decoders have been installed and their Lock Codes have been set.
Basics of Programming

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 11
It is a good idea to set up a standardized system so you don’t forget the Lock
Code settings. You might, for example, set all motor decoders to a CV Lock
Value of 1, sound decoders to a value of 2, and function decoders to a value
of 3. Keeping CV 15 set to 0 will guarantee the decoder stays locked until you
are ready to begin programming.
Example: Let’s say you will be installing motor decoder, a sound decoder,
and a function decoder in one locomotive. Using the previously described
system, you would rst install the motor decoder and set its Lock Code by
programming CV 16 to 1. Since CV 15 (CV Unlock Code) is currently set to 0
(the default value), the decoder is immediately locked. Now install the sound
decoder and set its Lock Code by programming CV 16 to 2. Since CV 15 is
still set to 0, this decoder is also immediately locked. Now install the function
decoder and set its Lock Code by programming CV 16 to 3. At this point, all
three decoders are installed and locked. Starting with the motor decoder, set
CV 15 to 1 to unlock and program the motor decoder. When you are nished,
set CV 15 to 2 and program the sound decoder. Finally, set CV 15 to 3 and
program the function decoder. When you are done, set CV 15 back to 0 to
lock all the decoders.
If You Forget the Lock Code
As there are only eight possible combinations, you can easily determine a
forgotten Lock Code using trial and error with the following procedure:
Place the locomotive on the Programming Track and set CV 15 to 0. Then
try to read the value in CV 16. If CV 16 does not read back, the decoder is
locked. Set CV 15 to 1 and try reading CV 16 once more. Again, if CV 16
does not read back, the decoder is still locked. Program CV 15 to 2 and try
reading CV 16 again. Continuing in the manner, you should eventually nd
the value stored in CV 16 as it can only be programmed from 0 to 7. If you
have tried setting CV 15 to all eight values from 0 to 7 and the decoder still
does not respond, there may be a problem with the installation, the program
track, or the decoder itself and further investigation will be required.
If you do not have access to a programming track with read-back capabilities
(or are uncertain as to whether it is working properly), you can also use
Operations Mode to discover the Lock Code by alternately programming CV
15 and setting another CV to a value where there is a known response. For
example, changing CV 128 (Master Volume Control) will provide auditory
feedback as to whether the decoder is unlocked by virtue of a change in
sound level. Thus, you would begin by setting CV 15 to 0 and then setting
CV 128 to 0. If the volume does not fall to 0, the decoder is locked. Then set
CV 15 to 1 and try programming CV 128 again. Repeat this process until
you nd a value for CV 15 that results in a change in sound volume as you
change CV 128.
Troubleshooting Tip: Even if you are not planning to use the CV Lock
feature, it can still be accidentally activated by inadvertently programming
CV 15 or 16 with a non-default value. If you have a decoder that is otherwise
working properly (i.e., making sound and responding to throttle commands)
but has suddenly stopped accepting CV changes, then rst run through the
procedure under “If you Forget the Lock Code” to determine if the decoder
has been locked.
Basics of Programming

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 12
Resetting the CVs or Starting Over
Occasionally, something goes wrong and Tsunami will not respond as
expected. Usually, this is caused by one or more CVs being programmed to
the wrong value. The CVs can be quickly reset to their factory default values
using the following procedure.
1. Place the locomotive on a powered section of track. Program CV 30 to 2
(or CV 8 to 8) using either Service Mode or Operations Mode.
2. Cycle power to the decoder by turning power to the track off and then
back on.
3. After power is restored to the track, there should be no indication of
activity other than the power LED turning on for a period of 6 seconds. If
sound comes on immediately upon restoring power, the decoder did not
reset. Repeat steps 1 and 2.
4. Once the 6-second period has elapsed, the sound should come on and
the headlight, backup light, and onboard diagnostic light will blink 16
times indicating that the CVs were successfully reset.
5. Tsunami should now respond to short address 3 just as it did when it was
rst unpacked.
6. If you cannot get the decoder to reset, check to see that it has not been
inadvertently locked (see If You Forget the Lock Code in the previous
section).
Basics of Programming

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 13
Step 1: Configuring the Address
The rst CVs you may want to change are those that set Tsunami’s address:
CV 1, Primary Address
CV 17:18, Extended Address
Tsunami may be set up to recognize either the primary address (also called
the short address), which provides a range of 1 to 127, or the extended (long)
address, which has a range of 0001 to 9999. Whether you use the primary or
extended address will rst depend on whether or not your DCC system uses
extended addressing (not all of them do, so if in doubt, see your command
station owner’s manual.) Second, it will depend on your preferences and
the numbering scheme you use for setting your decoder addresses. The
extended address has the advantage that you can use all four digits of
a locomotive’s road number for the decoder address making it easy to
remember. Be aware that some DCC systems do not support the full range of
available addresses.
Programming Notes: Both the primary and extended address may be
changed at any time using Service Mode programming.
Primary Address
To use the primary address, set CV 1 to the desired address from 1 to 127.
Some DCC systems will also allow the decoder address to be modied using
Operations Mode programming (consult your system manual for details).
Please note that when programming in Operations Mode, the following
restrictions apply:
• If the decoder’s primary address is enabled (i.e., CV 29, bit 5 is 0),
only the extended address may be changed using Operations Mode.
• If the decoder’s extended address is enabled (i.e., CV 29, bit 5 is 1),
only the primary address may be changed using Operations Mode.
Extended Address
The extended address is actually made up of two CVs, 17 and 18. Unless
you are an experienced user, you should not try to program these CVs
individually as a specic protocol is required in order for the DSD to accept
the new data (see the Technical Reference for details). Since most command
stations that support extended addressing will automatically generate the
correct protocol, simply follow their instructions for setting the extended
address.
Once the extended address is stored in CVs 17 and 18, bit 5 of CV 29 must
be set to 1 so the decoder will recognize the extended address format.
Otherwise, the decoder will continue to respond only to its primary address.
See the next section, Conguring the Decoder.
Basic Programming

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 14
Basic Programming
Bit 7 Bit 0
0 0 EAM STE ACK APS F0 DIR
Step 2: Configuring the Decoder
The next CV you will want to change is CV 29 (Conguration Register 1).
CV 29 is one of those complicated bit variables mentioned earlier and is used
in conjunction with other CVs to set a multitude of decoder characteristics,
such as locomotive direction, speed-step mode selection, speed table
enable, and alternate power mode enable.
Locomotive Direction: Causes the decoder to invert direction commands
so that the locomotive runs in reverse when it receives a command to move
forward and vice-versa. This operating mode is most useful for setting up
diesel engines that ran with the long hood section forward. However, it is also
useful for electronically correcting installations where the motor wires were
accidentally reversed and avoids dismantling the locomotive a second time.
Speed Step Mode Selection: As it is a digital system, Tsunami splits the
throttle voltage over its minimum and maximum range into discrete speed
steps. Tsunami can be congured so there are 14, 28 or 128 individual speed
steps. The largest number of steps will give the smoothest throttle response.
Since not all DCC systems have the ability to control 28 or 128 speed steps,
your choice will depend upon the capabilities of your command station.
Speed Table: Sets the decoder to use the speed table specied by CV 25
(see Conguring the Throttle).
Primary or Extended Address: Sets the decoder to recognize its primary
address in CV 1 or extended address in CV 17:18 (see Conguring the
Address).
Alternate (Analog) Power Mode: Enables the decoder to work with an
alternate power mode (such as DC operation) as set by CV 12 when a DCC
signal is not present.
To assist the novice user, we have created Table A on the next page that lists
the correct value for CV 29 to get the desired operating modes.
To use the table, simply nd the row that has the modes you want and
program CV 29 with the listed value.
The advanced user should refer to the Technical Reference for more details.
Remember, table values are in decimal. If your command station uses
hexadecimal, you will need to convert the value shown using Appendix A.

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 15
Basic Programming
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Primary (CV1)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Extended (CV17:18)
Address Type
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
14
14
28/128
28/128
Speed
Steps
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Normal
Reversed
Locomotive
Direction
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
CV 29
Value
Analog
Mode?
No
No
No
No
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
No
No
No
No
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
No
No
No
No
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
No
No
No
No
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Use Speed
Tables?
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Ye s
Table A. Quick-Reference Table for CV 29 Values

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 16
Basic Programming
Step 3: Configuring the Throttle
There are seven CVs that characterize the Tsunami’s throttle response and
28 more used to create a custom speed table:
CV 2, V Start
CV 3, Acceleration Rate
CV 4, Braking Rate
CV 25, Speed Table Select
CV 29, Conguration Data
CV 66, Forward Trim
CV 95, Reverse Trim
CV 67-94, User-Loadable Speed Table
CV 118, Motor Recovery Speed
This may sound like a lot of CVs, but don’t worry; it’s not necessary to
change all of them if you don’t want to. We’ve already talked about speed
step selection in CV 29 (Step 2).
Set the Start Voltage
CV 2 (V Start) sets the starting voltage that is applied to the motor at speed
step 1 and is used to compensate for inefciencies in the locomotive’s motor
and driveline. CV 2 may be programmed with any value from 0 to 255,
with each step in value being about 0.5% of the maximum available motor
voltage. To calculate the value of CV 2, use the following formula:
Desired Starting Voltage
CV 2 = 255 x ——————————————
Maximum Motor Voltage
If your DCC system supports Operations Mode programming, an alternative
method for setting V Start is to turn your throttle to the rst speed step and
then use the Operations Mode Programming feature to increase the value in
CV 2 until the locomotive just begins to move.
Set the Acceleration and Braking Rates
Tsunami provides two CVs to simulate the momentum due to train weight.
CV 3 (Acceleration Rate) controls how fast the locomotive responds to
increases in throttle settings. CV 4 (Braking Rate) controls how fast the
locomotive will respond to decreases in the throttle setting.
Both CVs can be programmed with any value from 0 to 255, with 255
corresponding to the slowest acceleration or braking rate. Lower settings
yield a more responsive locomotive, which is useful for switching. When both
CVs are set to 0, the locomotive will respond nearly instantly to any throttle
changes. A setting of 255, on the other hand, will require several minutes for
a locomotive to reach full speed from a standing stop.

Tsunami Diesel Sound User’s Guide Page 17
If you are using 14 or 28 speed-step modes, setting CVs 3 and 4 to any
value greater than 0 will also improve the Tsunami’s throttle response. While
it is accelerating or braking, Tsunami interpolates between speed steps so
in effect, your locomotive will respond as if it were being controlled with 128
speed steps. No more sudden lurching from one speed step to another!
Select the Speed Table
Tsunami provides 14 preset and one user-loadable speed table that can be
used for several purposes:
1. Matching the Auto-Exhaust rate to locomotive speed
2. Speed-matching one locomotive to another
3. Changing the feel of the throttle. For example, you could congure
a switching locomotive so there are more speed steps available at
lower speeds for switching, and fewer steps at high speeds where the
locomotive is seldom operated.
4. Compensating for an improperly designed driveline so the locomotive will
operate within its prototypical speed range
Preset Speed Tables
CV 25, Speed Table Select, is used to select which speed curve will be used
by the DSD. CV 25 may be programmed with any value from 2 to 15 to select
one of the preset speed curves shown in Table B.
The exact throttle response for each curve is shown graphically. The
logarithmic curve provides a rapid throttle response at low speeds, while the
exponential curve provides a rapid throttle response at higher speeds.
In order for the speed table selection in CV 25 to take effect, bit 4 of CV
29 must be set to 1. Refer to Conguring the Decoder or the Technical
Reference to determine the correct value for CV 29.
Basic Programming
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
CV 25 Speed Curve Type
Straight LIne
Logarithmic Curve 1
Logarithmic Curve 2
Logarithmic Curve 3
Logarithmic Curve 4
Logarithmic Curve 5
Logarithmic Curve 6
Logarithmic Curve 7
Exponential Curve 1
Exponential Curve 2
Exponential Curve 3
Exponential Curve 4
Exponential Curve 5
Exponential Curve 6
User Loadable Speed Ta ble
Table B. Speed Table Selection 100%
75%
50%
25%
0%
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28
LOG 7
LOG 5
LOG 6
LOG 3
LOG 2
LOG 1
LOG 4
LINEAR
EXP 1
EXP 2
EXP 3
EXP 4
EXP 5
EXP 6
Speed Step
Motor Speed