ZIMO MS450 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
MS450, MS450R
MS450P22, MS450P16
MS440C
MS440D
MS480, MS480R, MS480F
MS480P16
MS490, MS490R, MS490F
MS490N, MS490L
MS500, MS500R, MS500F
MS500N
MS560
MS580N18, MS580N18G
MS590N18
MS950 and Loco board LOKPL950
MS990L, MS990K and loco board LOKPL990
MS -SOUNDDECODERS
for SW version 4.215
including a pre-description of the features of version 5.00
Small decoders shown enlarged (1.5:1)
Large scale decoder in original size
EDITIONS:
First version for first delivery, SW version 1.00 --- 2018 04 17
2018 07 20
2018 08 23
SW version 2.00 --- 2019 01 08
2019 01 25
SW version 2.04 with lookout to later versions --- 2019 02 20
2019 05 30
2019 08 08
SW version 4 with lookout to later versions --- 2019 09 11
2019 11 22
2019 12 09
Miniature and NEXT types added, revisions --- 2020 03 05
SW version 4.10 with lookout to 5 --- german ed.
Large scale types added, updates --- 2020 06 29
SW version 4.50 --- german ed.
SW version 4.75 --- german ed.
german ed.
2021 05 12
SW version 4.90 --- 2021 05 21
SW version 4.95 --- 2021 06 15
2021 06 29
SW version 4.215 --- 2022 05 05
2022 05 27
2022 08 01
MS440C
MS500N
MS450P22
MS480P16
MS580N18
MS490N
MS590N18
MS990L

Page 2 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Contents
1Overview of the types and type-dependent data ...................................... 4
2Technical Data, schematics, operation with mfx ....................................... 6
3 2B CVs in DCC operation ............................................................................ 20
4 3B RailCom - “Bidirectional communication” for DCC .................................. 41
5 4B ZIMO SOUND – Selection and Programming ......................................... 43
6CV - Overview; CVs in numerical order .................................................. 57
7Scripts for decoders, short description .................................................... 75
8Software update and sound loading with MXULFA ................................ 76
9Service Notes ......................................................................................... 78
“mfx” is a registered trademark of Fa. Gebr. Märklin & Cie GmbH.
“RailCom” is a registered trademark of Lenz GmbH.
CHANGE PROTOCOL of this instruction manual
2019 09 11: Cover: MS440C
Page 3 - various changes
Page 34 - additional sound classes
Page 37 and following - added Diesel, Electro, random, …
Page 34 and following - various changes and additional entries to the CV tables
2019 12 09: Page 5 – MS950 added in decoder table; corrections (dimensions MS480, MS490, MS580, stay-alive
capacitor circuitry), naming of MS580
Page 7 - Connection schematics for MS440C/D
Page 25 - Changes to CV #190/191
2020 01 23: MS480, MS490, MS580 schematics added, MS450, MX450 schematics modified
2020 02 07 Page 35: Correction driving sound, table of volume settings
2020 03 25 Drawings and text stay-alive capacitor of MS580
2020 06 29 Corrections accordingly and summarising the German-language editions
Connection diagrams and types overview updated
2021 02 03 Corrections accordingly and summarising the German-language editions
2021 04 23 Addition of "StayAlive" to connection diagrams, various CV #153,…
Additions to the type table, separation into "small" types and large scale decoders
2021 04 29 Addition of cover images
2021 05 12 Improvements of the schematics, new pages for MS990L, -K
2021 05 21 Chapter 7: Software Update and Sound Load with MXULFA
Chapter 3.26: New CV #264 low voltage for large scale and special decoders
Chapter 3.25: Addition for servo control lines 5-8
Chapter 5: CV additions according to the above points
2021 06 14 NEW: Chapter 3.12 "Distance-controlled stopping - constant braking distance".
Chapter 3.11: New, reference to CV #29, Chapter 3.1: Description for CV #27 new
2021 06 29 Chapter 3.24 modified, Alternative application of SUSI pins; Various corrections
2022 05 05 Cover: MS560
2022 08 01 MS480, MS490, MS500, MS590: Rev. B. Details of stabilised low-voltage sources added to diagrams and tables.
Chapter 2: Warning for PIKO boards
2022 08 01
SUMMARY of features not yet implemented in SW version 4.215 (preview to 5.00)
o Motor brake (for non-worm gear): CV #151 (only if not in consist, otherwise it is used differently)
o Adaptive acceleration and special possibilities for acceleration: CVs #123, #394, #246, #348 *
o Change between individual and consist address via key, CV #197; reduction control, CV #151
o Special operating state “km/h regulation”: CVs #135, #136 *
o The ”CV #300 procedure“ and test drive for basic load: CVs #300 - #302
o Expansions for large-scale locos: CV #307
o Sound classes rolling sounds, second thyristor, panto sounds: CVs #588, #593, #594, #596, #598
------------------------------------
*) the marked block of features will be updated in regard to the MX generation, because,
on the one hand the performance will be enhanced, and on the other hand, it will present
advances for future operation types (first planned new feature in this regard: display of
target distance on the controller).

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 3
MS - SOUND DECODERS
Short characteristic of the decoder family in DCC operation
The prominent feature of the MS decoders is the 16-bit sound, which im-
proves the sound quality drastically. The “REAL” 16 bits refer to the com-
plete sound project: starting with the sound files stored in the flash
memory, over the I2S-bus (=Inter-IC-Sound) for playback in stereo, to the
fully digital Class “D” amplifier.
ZIMO dispenses with the often used (cheaper) digital-analog-conversion
(with 10 or 14 bit), as well as with amplifiers with analog input (likewise of-
ten called Class “D”).
With the 32-bit microcontroller and the 128 Mbit flash there is room for pro-
gress in every aspect. A big part of this memory is used from the beginning;
much of the potential will be used in continuous development - as it always
is after ZIMO launches a product. The results of this development will be
available for all users as free software update.
✓ 16-bit audio by default for the sound samples, 8-bit for simple noises and
“old” sample files.
Compared to MX decoders: 8-bit for all sounds.
✓ 22 kHz sample rate by default, but also for sound channels (adjustable in
the sound project) with 11 kHz for simple noises (like station announce-
ments) and 44 kHz for full HiFi quality.
✓ 128 Mbit sound memory for 360 seconds playback time (16-bit sound and
22 kHz, i.e. high quality); up to 1440 seconds (with economical use of the
memory).
Compared to MX decoders: 32 Mbit for 180 sec with 8-bit samples.
✓ The combination of channels with different bit depths (8, 16) and sam-
ple rates (11, 22, 44 kHz) can generate additional sound minutes.
S - SOUND DECODERS
Short characteristic of the decoder family in DCC operation
The
✓ 16 sound channels, simultaneously playable, separately adjustable, with
"stereo decoders" (especially large scales) distributable to two loudspeaker
outputs. (MX decoder for comparison: 6 channels, generally only 1 loudspeaker connection)
✓ Adjustable timbres of the driving noise (e.g. chuff sounds, diesel engine)
via CV configuration of high and low pass filters.
✓ Overcurrent protection for function outputs with a new method to pre-
vent unnecessary turn-offs at short-time exposures (start-up current of
light bulbs, etc.).
✓ Connecting larger external energy storage devices (compared to MX):
“standard HO” decoders (PluX22 and MTC21 types and its wired versions)
now have unlimited capacity (also Supercaps/ Goldcaps), miniature decod-
ers max. 1000 µF (16 V), Next-decoder MS480 unlimited (5 V; this is suffi-
cient for sound and slow driving).
✓ ZIMO HLU technique expanded by introducing direction bits (this will be
implemented also in MX decoders via SW update - so no real MS feature).
Differences concerning operation and configuration (MX → MS):
Apart from the new sound quality (see below) and other improvements, the MS de-
coders are very similar to the MX decoders. In some cases, though, specific settings
(CVs) behave differently or have additional functions for better operation:
CV #12 (Operation types): according to VHDM-standard, individual operating states
can be locked (DCC, mfx, MM, analog), by default all unlocked. Chap. 3.1
CVs #5,57 (top speed, Reg’ref.): CV #5 gets the original configuration to reduce the
top speed back, which was in CV #57 in MX decoders. CV #57, therefore, is
used to select, whether the speed depends on running voltage or if voltage
variations can be eliminated by references to a lower value (e.g. 14 V). NOT
in SW. 4.50! Chapter 3.6
CV #56 (P- and I-value): only effective, if CVs #147, #148, #149 = 0 Chapter 3.6
CV #144 (Programm./Update lock): dropped, no longer necessary in MS-decoders.
CV #147, 148, 149 (PID settings): new CVs, enable separated, high-resolution ad
justment of integral, differential and proportional values for EMF-load bal
ance control, replace CV #56 if <> 0. Chapter 3.6
CVs #190, 191 (Brightening up and dimming times for effects 88, 89, 90): New def
inition due to broader range of timeset (now 0-320s). Chapter 3.21
List of „MS“ main features (especially compared to „MX“)
NOTE: The given times are “theoretic” in nature, because the memory usage de-
pends on the sound project and its “organizational” and “documentary” overhead -
and is therefore not calculated.

Page 4 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
1 Overview of the types and type-dependent data
Technical data for all MS sound decoders in the next chapter!
*) To enable this small length, the decoder families MS490, MS500 and MS590N18 are NOT mfx-able!
**) Valid for MS480 and MS490 decoders (all types in each case) from revision B (produced from approx. August 2022 onwards).

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 5

Page 6 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
2 Technical Data, schematics, operation with mfx
Technical data for all MS sound decoders:
Allowable track voltage H0 and large scale decoders .................................................... 7 V - 35 V
Miniature- and Next-Decoders ................................................. 7 V - 24 V
Decoder together with StayAlive controller STACO1 ............. 12 V - 18 V
(Miniature decoders can withstand a track voltage higher than 30 V only for a short time (< 1 sec) – e.g.
for Märklin-switching impulse)
Operating temperature .................................................................................................. - 20 to 80 °C
Sound sample memory .......................................................... 128 Mbit (= 360 sec at 16 bit / 22kHz
up to 1440 sec with 8 bit / 11 kHz) *)
Resolution of the sound samples and the play back quality ............................................. 8 or 16 bit
Sample rate of the sound samples and the playback ................................................ 11, 22, 44 kHz
Number of independent sound channels ....................................................................................... 16
*) those playback times are all “theoretical”; in praxis, 5 to 20% of the memory are not available, because they
are reserved for organization, descriptions, GUI-info, sounds to load later, etc.
This calculation is based on a maximum sample rate of 22 kHz, because 44 kHz does not provide real im-
provment to quality.
Data on the STACO1 StayAlive controller (in conjunction with miniature decoder)
Permissible range of the track voltage when STACO1 is in use ..................................... 12 V - 18 V
Charging current............ depending on the number of mini gold caps - 2 or 3 - a.o..: 30 - 60 mA
Time to charge from 0 to 100% ................................................................................. approx.. 5 sec
Discharge current (for consumption by motor, lights, sound) ...................................... max. 500 mA
Discharge time ................................................................ depending on consumption: 0.5 to 5 sec
Technical data for all MS sound decoders:
See previous chapter “Overview...”.
The decoder type can be read out in CV #250 if needed:
1 = MS500 3 = MS490 5 = MS580 7 = MS990 9 = MS950
2 = MS480 4 = MS440 6 = MS450 8 = MS590 10 = MS560
Software Update:
You need a device that is able to perform updates: ZIMO MXULF/A (decoder updating and sound
loading device), ZIMO central command station MX10, or Roco digital central Z21. The new SW
version is downloaded from www.zimo.at, loaded into a flash drive or sent to the updating device via
USB-connection to a computer and ZSP to an updating device, which then executes the actual up-
date via the track input of the decoder.
This is (generally) also the way a sound project is loaded into a ZIMO decoder.
In general, both UPGRADE (the "normal" process, update to newer version) and DOWNGRADE (ex-
ceptional cases, update to older version) are possible; BUT: Downgrade of decoders with SW version
from 4.200 to SW versions older than 4.200 is NOT possible.
See chapter "Software update and sound loading with MXULFA" in this operating manual and
MXULF(A) operating manual; especially downgrade limit for SW version 4.200!
Overload and thermal protection:
The motor and function outputs of ZIMO decoders are designed with lots of reserve capacities and
are additionally protected against excessive current draw and short circuits. Cut-outs are encoun-
tered if the decoder is overloaded.
Even tough the decoder is well protected; it is not indestructible. Please pay attention to the following:
Wrong decoder contact: if, for example, the motor leads have contact to track power or an overload connection
between the motor brushes and rail pick-ups, this is not always recognized by the overload protection circuit and
could lead to damage of the motor power amplifier or even a total destruction of the decoder.
Unfit or defective motors: e.g. coil or commutator shorts are not always recognized by their high current con-
sumption, because these are often just short current spikes. So, they can lead to decoder damage including dam-
age to power amplifiers due to long-term exposure.
The power amplifiers of loco decoders (motor as well as function outputs) are not only at risk of overcurrent but also
voltage spikes, which are generated by motors and other inductive consumers. Depending on track voltage,
such spikes can reach several hundred volts and are absorbed by special protection circuits inside the decoder.
This is why the running voltage shall not be too high, i.e. not higher than intended by the corresponding vehicle.
ZIMO decoders are equipped with temperature sensors to measure their own operating temperature. Power to the
motor will be turned off once that temperature exceeds 100°C. The headlights start flashing rapidly, at about 5 Hz,
to make this state visible to the operator. Motor control will resume automatically after a drop in temperature of
about 20°C (i.e. to about 80°C), typically in about 30 seconds.
Overcurrent shutdowns due to motor interference:
Some locomotives from PIKO and other manufacturers have such large capacitors connected in par-
allel to the motor output as part of the motor interference suppression, which strongly impede operation,
or it even comes to overcurrent shutdown.
REMEDY: The "harmful" capacitor on the PIKO locomotive board is usually marked with "C4", this
must be removed. To do this, you usually have to remove the locomotive board, because the capaci-
tor is populated on the bottom side.

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 7
Schematics MS450, MS450R, MS450F Top side with wires
Schematics MS450P22 Top side (with PluX22)
NOTE: External capacitors on MS440, MS450
 Capacitors (Elkos, Supercaps) of any capacity can be connected to “ELKO Plus” (to ROUND)
WITHOUT additional components; they do NOT have to be able to handle full running voltage; 16 V
is enough.Prerequisites for the connection for the stay-alive capacitor within the decoder prevent an
inrush current too high and enable undisturbed Service Monde programming, software updates,
sound loading, also with higher capacities and use the memory the best possible way.
Schematics MS450, MS450R, MS450F Bottom side with wires
Schematics MS440C, MS440D Top side (with 21MTC)
MS440C, D Bottom side
external capacitors
to connect optionally
Servo control lines on SUSI pins (applies to decoders except large-scale)"
Servo control lines on the SUSI pins are activated by CVs #181, #182). These connections work with
a voltage level of 3.3 V (difference to MX decoders where 5 V).
Some servos do NOT work with 3.3 V! Possible remedy: lower the supply voltage (normal 5
V) to about 4 V; otherwise, only replacement will help; digital servos are better!

Page 8 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Schematics MS480, MS480R, MS480F Top side with wires
Schematics MS480P16 Top side (with PluX16)
Bottom side MS480, MS480P16 (drawing shows wired version)
External capacitors directly on
miniature decoders MS480, MS490, MS500
 Elkos with 1000 µF can be connected to "ELKO Plus" WITHOUT additional
components according to the circuit diagrams on this page. They do NOT have to
be able to handle full running voltage; 15 V is enough. However, the capacity must
not exceed 1000 µF, which only provides little protection against motor juddering
and sound disturbances.
 Bigger capacitors can be connected instead or additionally (practically without
limitation) to “common positive” and GROUND, although, WITH additional compo-
nents and a dielectric strength suitable for the running voltage (usually 25 V):
The resistor prevents an inrush current too high, the diodes enable Service mode
programming, software updates and sound loading by dropping the voltage in
spite of higher capacities.
External capacitors on miniature decoders over
- controller
STACO1
STACO1 10 x 7,3 x 2 mm STACO1 (centre) connected to miniature sound decoder
(CAD enlarged ) MS490N and 3 miniature gold caps in series (scale 1:1)
The StayAlive controller is connected to the terminals (solder pads or wires)
“common positive” and "GROUND" of the decoder (two-pole!).
The STACO1 comes with 3 mini-goldcaps as the actual energy storage, which,
connected in series, represent a capacity of 100,000 µF. Of course, all 3 should
preferably be connected, but it also works with 2 (with about 50% runtime) if there
is a lack of space. The STACO1 board contains a step-up voltage converter that
sucks the gold caps from their fully charged state (8 V if 3 of them; 5.5 V if 2) to
their almost fully discharged state (2 V) and delivers a constant voltage of 10 V.
This is enough to drive and to supply the sound amplifier (which runs on 5 V) with-
out interruption and without loss of volume.
To avoid overheating, decoders with STACO1 connected may only be operated
with a maximum rail voltage of 18 V.
The wire connections between the controller board and the mini gold caps make
their local separation possible, and thus in many cases the accommodation of the
StayAlive technology.
NO bridge for three gold caps!
Rev. B only! (produced from August 2022)
Rev. B only!
(produced from
August 2022)

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 9
CAUTION:
In vehicles equipped with a 6-pin
NEM-651 interface (where a decoder
like MS490N or MS500N is plugged in),
"functions" (lights, ...) are NOT
connected to the decoder plus pole
(because there is no pin), but hang on
the "artificial plus pole" (2 diodes) of
the loco board. Thus, an external
energy storage (e.g. STACO1 and Goldcaps) does
NOT affect the lights (they flicker when the track is dirty
...), but "only" on motor and sound. At the same
time such an "artificial plus pole" hinders the
functional safety of ABC.
POSSIBLE REMEDY:
The positive poles of the consumers would have
to be disconnected from the "artificial plus pole"
and connected to the "common plus pole" of the
decoder by wire.
Schematics MS490, MS490R, MS490F Top side with wires
Schematic MS490N, MS490L NEM-651
Energy storage solution with STACO1 on the MS490
Schematics MS500, MS500R, MS500F Top side with wires
Schematic MS500N NEM-651
Energy storage solution with STACO1 or ELKO on the MS500
Energy storage solution with ELKO on the MS490, …R, …F, …N
Bottom side
Rev. B
produced
from August
2022
Rev. A

Page 10 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Schematics MS580N18 Top side (with Next18)
NOTE: External energy storage with MS580
 The “Next decoder” MS580 contains an especially big internal capacity with
a voltage of 5 V. The Tantal capacitors provide the sound amplifier and the
motor (only with 5 V, which is enough for slow driving) in case the track voltage is
interrupted. The internal capacity is enough for a stay-alive of about 1 sec and
thereby prevents cracking noises and gets through short powerless sections.
This internal capacity can be expanded externally, either by
• further Tantals of the same type (to be connected via a small wire bridge) or
by Elkos. The total capacity is NOT limited, a dielectric strength of the capaci-
tors of 6.3 V is enough, or
• two miniature Goldcaps connected in series (best possibility, if there is
enough room, but it can also be put at any other place within the loco con-
nected via wires). Types with 12 x 4 mm (length x diameter) are available as
MGOGURT with 2 x 0.3 F at 2.7 V, which enable a stay-alive of 1-2 seonds.
Goldcaps or Supercaps with higher energy density are to be expected in fu-
ture.
 If (for example because of the lighting) the buffer of the 5 V voltage is not
enough, but the full running voltage shall be buffered, capacitors (practically
without limitation) can be connected like to every other decoder, to “Gem.
Pluspol” (common positive), although, WITH additional components and a di-
electric strength suitable for the running voltage (at least 25 V), additionally to
the tantals described above or Goldcaps or alone:
Bottom side (with optional external extension of the stay-alive capacitor)
Stay alive time 1 - 2 sec!
Bottom side of type MS580N18G
(WITHOUT Tantals on the decoder, but wires to the external stay-alive capacitor).
Two connected Goldcaps are delivered with the package, they should be
soldered to the open ends of the wires. OBSERVE THE POLARITY (+/-)!

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 11
Schematics MS590N18 Top side (with Next18)
Bottom side
NO connection on bottom side,
therefore not shown here
NOTE: External energy storage with MS590
 Due to the extreme minituarization, the “Next decoder” MS5990
does NOT contain previsions to connect an external energy storage directly.
It is possible to connect ELCOs (practically without limitation) to “GEM. Pluspol”
(common positive) and ground, although, WITH additional components and
a dielectric strength suitable for the running voltage (usually 25 V):
The resistor prevents an inrush current too high, the diodes enable Service
mode programming, software updates and sound loading by dropping the volt-
age in spite of higher capacities.
 ZIMO storage modules with Tantals or Goldcaps (currently,
at the time of writing this edition of the instruction manual, in development)
can also be connected to “Gem. Pluspol (+)” (common positive) and ground; in
contrast to the variants described beforehand, a much bigger capacity is possi-
ble, but also space and costs are higher.
External capacitors on miniature decoders over
- controller
STACO1
STACO1 10 x 7,3 x 2 mm STACO1 (centre) connected to miniature sound decoder
(CAD enlarged ) MS490N and 2 miniature gold caps in series (scale 1:1)
The StayAlive controller is connected to the terminals (solder pads or wires)
“common positive” and "GROUND" of the decoder (two-pole!).
The STACO1 comes with 3 mini-goldcaps as the actual energy storage,
which, connected in series, represent a capacity of 100,000µF. Of course,
all 3 should preferably be connected, but it also works with 2 (with about
50% runtime) if there is a lack of space. The STACO1 board contains a
step-up voltage converter that sucks the gold caps from their fully charged
state (8 V if 3 of them; 5.5 V if 2) to their almost fully discharged state (2 V)
and delivers a constant voltage of 10 V. This is enough to drive and to sup-
ply the sound amplifier (which runs on 5 V) without interruption and without
loss of volume.
The wire connections between the controller board and the mini gold caps
make their local separation possible, and thus in many cases the accommo-
dation of the StayAlive technology.

Page 12 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Schematics MS560 Top Side (beim Einstecken in KATO Fahrzeug)
NOTE: External energy storage to MS590
 The MS560 "KATO decoder" does NOT include provisions for direct connection
of external energy storage devices.
ELCOs can be connected (practically without limitation) between “Gem.
Pluspol” (Common positive pole) and MASSE (GROUND), but WITH additional
components and a dielectric strength suitable for the driving voltage (usually 25
V):
The resistor prevents too high inrush current, the diodes enable service mode pro-
gramming as well as software update and sound charging despite larger capacities
due to the voltage drop.
In addition to the actual (main) decoder - in this case the MS560 sound decoder - the equipment of
KATO vehicles (mostly multiple unit express trains such as ICE-4 or Shinkansen) includes special
function decoders for the headlights and interior lighting.
Such are available from the ZIMO MX decoder series:
External energy storage to „KATO-Decoder“ MS560 via
- Controller STACO1
STACO1 10 x 7,3 x 2 mm
(CAD 2:1 vergrößert) STACO1 (Mitte), „KATO-Decoder“ MS560
und 3 Mini-Goldcaps in Serie geschaltet (Maßstab 1:1)
The StayAlive controller is connected to the terminals (solder pads or wires) "Common
positive" and "GROUND" of the decoder (two-pole!).
The STACO1 comes with 3 mini gold caps as the actual energy storage, which are con-
nected in series and represent a capacity of 100,000 µF. Of course, preferably all 3 should be
connected, but it also works with 2 (with about 50% runtime) if there is a lack of space. The
STACO1 board contains a step-up voltage converter, which sucks the goldcaps from their full
charge (8 V, if 3; 5.2 V, if 2) to their almost full discharge (2 V) and delivers a constant volt-
age of 10 V. This is enough for driving and for an uninterrupted supply of the sound amplifier
(which runs on 5 V) without loss of volume.
MASSE
Pluspol
vom/zum
Decoder
MASSE
Plus
von/zu
2 oder 3
Goldcaps

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 13

Page 14 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Schematic MS950
LOKPL950 loco board, suitable for MS950
(shown in smaller scale)
MS950 Bottom side (with base plate)
Base plate above the back of the MS950, visible: ELCO Plus and GROUND connector

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 15
Schematic MS955
- Content follows -

Page 16 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Schematic MS990L
The loco board for
the large scale
decoder MS990L 
(shown in smaller scale)
MS990 is produced and shipped in the fol-
lowing basic variations:
as MS990L
with 3 x 14-pole pin connector (see figure left),
the outmost pins on the left and the right pin con-
nectors were mainly added for a 2 x 14 pin Märklin
interface; the connectors are otherwise used rarely
(due to the doubled pins or a second SUSI inter-
face).
as MS990K
with 2 x 12 and 1 x 12 pole screw terminals
(as mentioned above, the outmost connections on
the left and on the right side are not needed).
Special editions
(Mixture of pin connectors and screw terminals, or
editions with less outputs)
can be produced on demand.

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 17
Schematic MS990K

NOTE:
External energy storage on MS990
Generally, the internal capacitor (3 Goldcaps and
a step-up transformer to produce full running volt-
age from the 3 x 3 V Goldcaps) is sufficient for al-
most all applications.
Nevertheless, there is a possibility to connect an
additional capacitor between “ELKO Plus” (capac-
itor positive) and ground: External capacitor need
a dielectric strength of up to 16 V, the capacity is
unlimited - we recommend the ZIMO products
GOLMRUND and GOLMLANG, for example.
Connecting “normal Elkos/capacitors” would be
unnecessary (although the connection is named
“ELKO”), because they do not provide a signifi-
cant contribution compared to the internal stay-
alive capacitor.
The base
of the large-scale
decoder MS990 
(shown in smaller scale)

Page 18 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
Mfx operation with the Märklin Central Station 3
The pictures below are screenshots of the Märklin Digital Central CS3 (via the corresponding web
browser) and show the registration process of a ZIMO MS sound decoder. The decoder type dies not
matter in this case; of course, it has to be mfx-able (i.e. NOT MS490, MS590).
The MS decoder in this example has loaded the sound project of the European Steam/Diesel Collec-
tion), which is typical for ZIMO shipment and reproduces sounds of BR50, BR70, BR 03.10 (Steam
locos) or a BR 211 (Diesel).
The “sound collection” (i.e. more than one loco in a project) is a ZIMO specialty and therefore not es-
pecially supported by Märklin command stations; the usage, although - including the selection of a
loco type - is still possible, using a trick. This is also described in the pictures.
In case of a “normal” sound project (for a single loco), the usage of the MS decoder is even easier:
The part starting with “Selecting a loco type” is not needed.
In this example: first there was no loco on the tracks.
... and is followed by reading out decoder data.
The registration was successful; loco name (in case of a sound col-
lection: name of the first loco type, i.e. “BR 50”) is displayed. How-
ever, no picture is displayed. Instead “???”. NOTE see above!
After enlarging the window with the controller bar, speedo and and
function symbols are displayed (the symbols were selected when
registering from the decoder). The loco can be driven with the reg-
ulator knob.
NOTE concerning the allocation of a loco picture (valid in 2020, perhaps also in 2021):
Currently and for the time being, i.e. until the implementation of another registration procedure within the
Central Station, which is confirmed by Märklin and will consider loco pictures
for non-Märklin decoders, there are the following possibilities:
- After successful registration (if “???” is shown instead of a picture), you can select a picture from the
collection of pictures within the Central Station (see CS instruction manual).
- Sometimes, a picture is automatically selected (by matching the name).
- If you want to use your own picture, you can load it into the Central Station and can then select it from
one of the existing pictures within the collection (see CS instruction manual, chapter
“Importing Locomotive Images Using the Web Browser”.
By activating the red loco symbol, the registered loco is taken
over by the controller.
The decoder (lco) is positioned on the tracks, registration begins...

MS-SOUND-decoders MS440 to MS990 Page 19
Activating the “screwdriver” button opens
... the processing plane, where with the button “configuration”
... the “blocks” (i.e. groups of configurations) are read out and
opened by the decoder (root block, motor block, formats, sounds, ...).
For example: in “Formats” you can configure the AC-analog opera-
tion.
If it is a ZIMO MS decoder with a “normal sound project”
(i.e. NO collection)...
... the parameters described on the right
“SX1...” do not appear.
Loco type selection,
If it is a ZIMO MS decoder with a loaded “sound collec-
tion”: ...
... the parameters “SX1 configuration” and “SX1 address” are dis-
played when reading out the address.
This does not mean that the ZIMO decoder can be driven with Se-
lectrix (ZIMO does not support this format),
but the parameters “SX1 address” is misused to select the loco
type from the sound collection
(in DCC operation this is configured with CV #265).
In the example above, the previously displayed “1” is overwritten by
“101”, i.e.: switch to BR 211, which is stored as number “101” in the
sound collection.
After entering the new value, the decoder automatically resets and
is, therefore, ready to register as
Diesel loco BR 211, as soon as the registration is started by the
Central Station.
The steam loco BR50 registered with the system has to be deleted
(to do so, there are a few possibilities in the Central Station).
After confirming the security question (see picture above), the de-
coder is registered automatically, but as “BR 211”.

Page 20 MS-SOUND decoders MS440 to MS990
3 2BCVs in DCC operation
CV
Denomination
Range
Default
Description
#12
Operating modes
117
Bit 0 - DC analog 0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Bit 2 – DCC NOT deactivatable 1 = enabled
Bit 4 – AC analog 0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Bit 5 – MM 0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Bit 6 – mfx 0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Programming CV #12 = 0 (all bits 0) is NOT executed
(because the decoder would get un-addressable)
#27
BREAKING MODES:
Position-dependent
Stopping
(“before a red signal”)
or driving slowly
by
“asymmetrical DCC sig-
nal“ (“Lenz ABC“)
See chapter
“Stop in front of a red
signal and driving
slowly... “
or “ZIMO HLU”
(see chapter ‘ZIMO “sig-
nal-controlled speed in-
fluence” (HLU)’)
Automatic stopping
by DC brake section
(“Märklin brake section”)
see chapter
“DC Brake Sections”
0 =
ABC not
active,
HLU
active,
other
brake
sections
not active
Bit 0 and Bit 1 = 0: ABC not activated; no stopping
Bit 0 = 1: Stops are initiated if the voltage in the right
rail (in direction of travel) is higher than in the left rail.
This (CV #27 = 1) is the usual ABC application)
Bit 1 = 1: ABC stops are initiated if the voltage in the left
rail (in direction of travel) is higher than in the right rail.
If bit 0 or bit 1 =1 (only one of the two bits is set):
Stopping is directional, i.e. only in direction of travel to
the signal, travelling in opposite direction has no effect.
Bit 0 and Bit 1 = 1: Stops are independent of direction
of travel. See chapter “stop in front… (Lenz ABC)”
Bit 2 = 0: HLU train protection system (H, UH,…) active
= 1: Effect (halt, limit) of HLU deactivated
Bit 4 - DC braking section, if polarity is reversed
0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Bit 5 - DC braking section, if polarity
is equal to direction of travel
0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Bit 4 and bit 5 = 1 (CV #27 = 48): stopping when
DC voltage (e.g. by a diode) independent
of the polarity (“Märklin brake section”)
#28
RailCom Configuration
0, 1, 2, 3,
65, 66, 67
3
resp.
67
(for Bit 6)
Bit 0 - RailCom Channel 1 (Broadcast)
Bit 1 - RailCom Channel 2 (Data)
Bit 6 - High voltage RailCom (large scale decoders onl.)
for all Bits: 0 = OFF 1 = ON
#29
Basic Configuration
0 - 63
14 =
0000 1110
Bit 3 = 1
(RailCom
is activaterd),
and
Bits 1,2 = 1
(28 or 128
speed steps
and auto-
matic analog
operation en-
abled)
Bit 0 - Train direction:
0 = normal, 1 = reversed
Bit 1 - Number of speed steps:
0 = 14, 1 = 28/128 speed steps
Bit 2 - automatic change to analog operation
0 = disabled 1 = enabled
Bit 3 - RailCom („bi-directional communication“)
0 = deactivated 1 = activated
Bit 4 - Individual speed table:
0 = off, CVs #2, #5 and #6 are active.
1 = on, according to CVs #67 – #94
Bit 5 - Decoder address:
0 = primary address as per CV #1
1 = ext. address as per CVs #17 & #18
#153
Time limit of the continu-
ation without rail signal
0 - 255
0
= 0 (default): Drive on while energy is available
= 1 - 255 (tenths of a sec.): Stopping time if no rail sig-
nal, although power is coming from energy storage.
CV
Denomination
Range
Default
Description
#250,
#251,
#252,
#253
Decoder-ID, thereof
CV #250
= Decoder-
Type
(See chapter 1, types)
CV #251
and CV #252 and #253
= serial number
Read only
-
The decoder ID (serial number) is automatically entered
during production: The first byte and half of the second
byte denotes the decoder type; the rest contain a serial
number.
The decoder ID is primarily used for automatic address
assignment when an engine is placed on the layout
track as well as in combination with the “load code” for
“coded” sound projects (see CVs #260 - #263).
#260,
#261
#262
#263
“Load code”
for
“coded” sound projects
-
-
New ZIMO sound decoders can be ordered for an addi-
tional small fee with a “load code” pre-installed, which
entitles the user to install “coded” sound projects of a
selected sound bundle. The load code can also be pur-
chased and installed by the user at a later date: see
www.zimo.at.
CV
Denomination
Range
Default
Description
#8
Manufacturer
ID
and
HARD RESET
by CV #8 = „8“
or CV #8 = 0
Read only
always
shows “145”
for
ZIMO
ID
Pseudo-
programming
see descr.
on the right
145
(= ZIMO)
Reading out this CV always result in “145” (10010001),
the number issued for ZIMO by the NMRA.
This CV is also used for various resetting processes
with the help of Pseudo-Programming.
“Pseudo programming” means that the entered value is not really
stored, but rather used to start a defined action.
CV #8 = “3” → 21MTC decoder FO3, FO4 logic-level
CV #8 = “4” → 21MTC decoder FO3, FO4 normal
CV #8 = “5” → 21MTC decoder FO5, FO6 logic-level
CV #8 = “6” → 21MTC decoder FO5, FO6 normal
CV #8 = “8” → HARD RESET (NMRA standard);
all CVs return to the last active CV set or
sound project, or (if no such set was active before)
the default values listed in this CV table.
CV #8 = “0” → NOT recommended (service purp. only)
Default values of the CV table
#7
SW version number
Also see CV #65
Sub-Version number
and
Auxiliary procedure for pro-
gramming via
"Lokmaus-2" and similar
"low level" - systems
Read only
-
CV holds the firmware vers. no currently in the decoder.
CV #7 = number of the “main” version
CV #65 = Sub-version number
At the same time this CV is used to make digital sys-
tems with limited number space (typ. example: old Lok-
maus) usable for programming the decoder by means
of "pseudo-programming":
Ones digit = 1: Subsequent programming value + 100
= 2: ... + 200
NOTE: The default values on sound decoders are overwritten by the loaded sound project. The
program ZSP (ZIMO Sound Programmer), however, provides the here defined default values, in
case the values set by the sound project are not wanted. In the course of updates, differences
between ZSP and the default values given here can occur.