Zimo Mx640 series User manual

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 1

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Dieser Steckverbinder ist . . .

beim MX69L, MX69S nicht vorhanden,

beim MX690S verkürzt (10-polig) vorhanden,

beim MX69V, MX690V wie abgebildet vorhanden.

“Hardwire” Decoder: MX640, MX640R, MX640F Decoder with on-board plug: MX640D

H0 - SOUND - DECODER

MX640, MX640R, MX640F,

MX640D, MX640C

EDITION

2008 03 01

SW-Version 2 --- 2008 04 25

SW-Version 4 --- 2008 07 15

20081018

1. Overview.........................................................................................................................................................................2

2. Technical Information......................................................................................................................................................2

3. Addressing and Programming – CV table....................................................................................................................... 4

4. Additional notes to Configuration Variables (CV’s)................................................................................. 15

5. “Function mapping“ as per NMRA Standard; and ZIMO - Extensions.......................................................................... 21

6. ZIMO SOUND – Selection and Programming............................................................................................................... 27

7. Bidirectional communication = “RailCom” ......................................................................................................................36

8. Installation and wiring of the MX640 .............................................................................................................................37

9. MX640CforC-Sinus / SoftDrive-Sinus........................................................................................................................... 40

10. The MX640 and competitor systems...............................................................................................................................42

11. Special - CV - Sets......................................................................................................................................................43

12. Converting binary to decimal.......................................................................................................................................43

13. MX640 with Märklin MOTOROLA systems ................................................................................................................. 44

14. Software Update with MXDECUP ............................................................................................................................... 45

A hard copy of this instruction manual is not part of a decoder shipment; a few copies are sent to

the ZIMO dealer at no charge (about 1 for every 10 decoders shipped); more can be ordered for a

nominal fee or downloaded free of charge from www.zimo.at

NOTE:

ZIMO decoders contain an EPROM which stores software that determines its characteristics and functions. The software version can

be read out form CV #7.

The current version may not yet be capable of all the functions mentioned in this manual. As with other computer programs, it is also

not possible for the manufacturer to thoroughly test this software with all the numerous possible applications.

Installing new software versions later can add new functions or correct recognized errors. SW updates can be done by the end user

for all ZIMO decoders since production date October 2004, see chapter 12!

Software updates are available at no charge if performed by the end user (except for the purchase of a programming module); Up-

dates and/or upgrades performed by ZIMO are not considered a warranty repair and are at the expense of the customer. The war-

ranty covers hardware damage exclusively, provided such damage is not caused by the user or other equipment connected to the

decoder. For update service, see www.zimo.at !

Page 2 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

1. Overview

Sound decoders of the MX640 family are for H0, 00, 0m, 0 or similar scales (possibly also for H0e,

H0m and TT). They are compatible for engines with standard DC motors as well as for coreless mo-

tors (Faulhaber, Maxxon, Escap etc.); special settings are available for the latter.

The MX640 operates primarily in the standardized NMRA DCC data format as used by ZIMO DCC

systems as well as DCC system of other manufacturers, but can also operate in the MOTOROLA

protocol.

MX640 ”Hardwire” Version (11 highly flexible wires, color coded according to NMRA

DCC standard) for rails, motor, 4 function outputs and speaker.

MX640R MX640 with 8-pin plug (medium interface per NMRA RP 9.1.1.) on 70 mm

wires. Separate speaker wires.

MX640F MX640 with 6-pin plug (small interface per NMRA RP 9.1.1.) on 70 mm wires.

Separate speaker wires.

MX640D Version with 21-pin socket on decoder (as per NMRA RP 9.1.1.).

MX640C Version with 21-pin socket on decoder for Märklin and Trix locomotives with

C-Sinus or Softdrive-Sinus motor and 21-pin interface (via C-Sinus board).

2. Technical Information

Allowable Track voltage **) .................................................................................................. 12 - 24 V

Maximum continuous motor output .......................................................................................... 1.2 A

Peak motor current ..................................................................................................................... 2 A

Maximum continuous power of 6 function outputs *) ................................................................ 0.8 A

Maximum continuous power of 5 LED outputs ................................................................each 0.1 A

Maximum continuous total current ............................................................................................ 1.2 A

Storage capacity for sound samples ...................................................................................... 32 Mbit

Sample rate, adapting to sound sample characteristic ............................................ 11 or 22 kHz

Number of independent playable sound channels ........................................................................... 4

Amplified output ............................................................................................................. Sinus 1.1 W

Impedance of speakers ........................................................................................................... 8 Ohm

Operating temperature ............................................................................................... - 20 to 100 oC

Dimensions (L x W x H) .. MX640, MX640R, MX640F (with shrink tube).............. . 32 x 16 x 6 mm

MX640D, MX640C ............................................ 31.5 x 15.5 x 6 mm

*) The short circuit protection is carried out for the total current of all outputs. In the unlikely event

that the outputs are turned off due to cold-start problems of light bulbs (power surge at turn-on lead-

ing to a short), the “soft-start” option should be utilized (see CV #125 = 52 etc.)!

**) When used with the DiMAX command station (Massoth): The DiMAX 1200Z, according to its in-

struction manual, should deliver 24V to the track (which would only by marginally higher than speci-

fied by the DCC standard). In reality though, the unit (especially older versions) powers the track

with a varying voltage heavily dependent on load, starting with 30V at idle (depending on line volt-

age!) all the way down to 20V under heavy load. The ZIMO large-scale decoders (usually….) just

tolerate the 30V (in contrast to many other brand decoders); it is better though to lower the track

voltage with a constant load (@ 0.5A) to an allowable level.

OVERLOAD 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. The affected output is

turned off once an overload situation exists and subsequent load tests are performed by the de-

coder, which is often recognized as flashing headlights.

Even though the decoder is well protected, do not assume it is indestructible. Please pay attention to the

following:

Faulty decoder hook-up, connecting the motor leads to track power for instance or an overlooked connection be-

tween the motor brushes and rail pick-ups is not always recognized by the overload protection circuit and could

lead to damage of the motor end stage or even a total destruction of the decoder.

Unfit or defective motors (e.g. shorted windings or commentators) are not always recognized by their high cur-

rent consumption, because these are often just short current spikes. Nevertheless, they can lead to decoder dam-

age including damage to end stages due to long-term exposure.

The end stages of loco decoders (motor as well as function outputs) are not only at risk of high current 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.

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 3

Since the capacity and speed of such circuits is limited, the track voltage should not be selected unnecessarily

high; that is not higher than recommended for the rolling stock in question. The full adjustable range of a Zimo

command station (up to 24V) should only be utilized in special cases. Although ZIMO decoders are suitable for

24V operation, that may not be the case when interacting with some other equipment.

THERMAL PROTECTION:

All ZIMO decoders have the ability to measure their own operating temperature. Power to the motor

will be turned off once that temperature exceeds 1000C. 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 200C, typically in 30 to 60 seconds.

As with all other ZIMO decoders:

D O – I T – Y O U R S E L F S O F T W A R E U P D A T E

Beginning with production date September 2004 (MX620 since introduction), ZIMO DCC decoders

are equipped to handle a software update by the user. A ZIMO decoder update module (e.g.

MXDECUP or MX31ZL), a PC with Windows operating system, a serial port (or USB and converter)

and the program ZIMO Service Tool "ZST" is required. The update module is used independent of

the command station and can therefore be used with any DCC system!

The same hardware and software is also used for sound project installations to sound decoders.

There is no need to remove the decoder or to open up the locomotive. Just set the locomotive

on a section of track connected to the update module and start the update with the computer.

See the chapter “Software Update” in this manual for more information on updating decoders or

visit www.zimo.at

SW updates are of course still available for a small fee by sending decoders to ZIMO or your ZIMO

dealer.

Page 4 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

3. Addressing and Programming – CV table

Every loco decoder requires a separate unique address with which the loco is controlled using a

cab. All NMRA-DCC compliant decoders have 3 as their factory default address (NMRA stan-

dardized decoder address at delivery).

DECODER INSTALLATION:

After installing the new decoder in a locomotive (see chapter “Installation and wiring”), it can be

tested with address #3. As a minimum, either the motor or headlights need to be connected (better

yet both), to enable decoder acknowledgment during programming. Doing a complete installation

before programming the decoder is often more practical.

THE ADDRESSING AND PROGRAMMING PROCEDURE:

The procedure for programming and reading of addresses and configuration variables is covered

in detail in the instruction manual for the cab (MX21, MX31....). For other systems consult the

appropriate manual.

Programming a decoder with a PC and ADaPT software (by E.Sperrer, software developer) is a

lot easier and more convenient!

Technical note to decoder acknowledgments during programming:

When programming a decoder with a cab or computer, every successful programming step will be made visible by

the decoder. The same acknowledgment method is used when reading the configuration variables.

The acknowledgment is based on short power pulses that the decoder generates by briefly turning the motor and

headlights on, which the command station recognizes at the programming track. It follows that the acknowledg-

ment and read out of a decoder is only successful if the current consumption is high enough, which means that

the motor and headlights have to be connected or at least one of the two.

The decoder won’t use the headlights for acknowledgment if CV #60 is set to a value of 40 or less. This is to prevent dam-

age to bulbs since this setting is often used in conjunction with low voltage bulbs. The motor is then the only load used for

acknowledgments!

The following pages show the tables for configuration variables (CV’s).

Table of configuration variables CV’s #1 to #255

followed by (chapter 4, 5):

SUPPLEMENTAL NOTES (“Add. Notes”) and Function mapping.

followed by (chapter 6):

ZIMO SOUND selection and programming; description of basic functionality and operat-

ing procedures, and

Table of configuration variables CV’s # 256 to #511.

HELPFUL HINTS FOR CV PROGRAMMING:

If you are familiar with CV programming please skip this section and go directly to the CV table below!

CV programming is not the same for all CV’s. While the programming procedure is the same for all

CV’s, the calculation of the individual CV values varies.

For some CV’s it is obvious what the value is supposed to be and can easily be derived from the

“Range” and/or “Description” column in the CV table. This kind of CV acts similar to a volume con-

trol.

For instance, CV#2 determines the minimum speed applied at the cab’s first speed step:

CV Designation Range Default Description

Vstart 1 – 252

(See add.

notes) 2

Entered value = internal speed step assigned to

lowest cab speed step.

Bit 4 in CV # 29 has to be 0; otherwise individual

speed table is active.

The “range” column clearly suggests any value from 1 to 252. The higher the value the faster the

engine runs at speed step 1 and vice versa.

Another similar CV is the “dimming” CV #60:

CV Designation Range Default Description

#60 Reduced function

output voltage

(Dimming) 0 - 255 0

The actual function output voltage can be re-

duced by PWM. Useful to dim headlights, for ex-

ample.

Example values:

# 60 = 0 or 255: full voltage

# 60 = 170: 2/3 of full voltage.

# 60 = 204: 80% of full voltage.

Again, the range column suggests using a value between 1 and 255 and in the “description” column

it is explained that the brightness of the light increases with the value.

Other CV’s are easier to understand if you think of them as a small switch board, where you can

turn individual switches ON or OFF. Such a CV is made up of 8 “individual switches” called Bits and

the group of Bits is known as a Byte (which is the CV itself or the switch board, if you will). The de-

veloper determines how many bits of a CV can be altered. On some CV’s you can change the set-

ting of all 8 Bits (switches) and on others only a select few. The Bits (switches) are numbered from

0 to 7 and each has a specific value (see the chapter “Converting binary to decimal” for more

on binary calculations). Each Bit is turned ON by adding its value to the CV and turned OFF by sub-

tracting its value. Add the value of each Bit you want to turn ON and enter the total to the CV.

One such CV is CV #29 (next page):

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 5

CV Designation Range Default Description

#29

Basic

configuration

CV #29 is calculated by

adding the value of the

individual bits that are

to be “on”:

Values to turn “on”:

Bit 0: 1

Bit 1: 2

Bit 2: 4

Bit 3: 8

Bit 4: 16

Bit 5: 32

Bit 6: 64

Bit 7: 128

ZIMO MX21, MX31…

cabs also display the

individual bits;

calculating bit values is

no longer necessary!

0 - 63 2

Bit 0 - Train direction:

0 = normal, 1 = reversed

Bit 1 - Number of speed steps:

0 = 14, 1 = 28

Note: 128 speed steps are always active if corresponding in-

formation is received!

Bit 2 - DC operation (analog): *)

0 = off 1 = on

Bit 3 - RailCom („bidirectional communication“)

0= deactivated

1 = activated see CV #28!

Bit 4 - Individual speed table:

0 = off, CV # 2, 5, 6, are active.

1 = on, according to CV ‘s # 67 – 94

Bit 5 - Decoder address:

0 = primary address as per CV #1

1 = ext. address as per CV #17+18

Bits 6 and 7 are to remain 0!

In this CV you can only change the setting of Bit 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Bits 6 and 7 have to remain

OFF because they are not yet used for anything. To calculate the total CV value you have to first

look at the description field of that CV and determine which Bit (switch) you want to have ON. Let’s

say we want speed steps 28 active, reverse the loco’s direction because it doesn’t agree with the

cab’s direction indicator and we want to use the individual speed table. This means we have to

have the Bits 1, 0 and 4 turned ON (= 1). All other Bits can be OFF (= 0). In the “Designation” field it

shows the value for each Bit: 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. By the way, the Bit numbering and their values are the same for all CV’s used

in this way, not just CV #29. If we want to have Bits 1, 0 and 4 turned ON we add up the values for

these Bits (2 + 1 + 16) and enter the total of 19 to CV #29.

Lastly there is a third kind of CV that sort of fits between the other two. Here you don’t have to cal-

culate Bit values. With those CV’s the digit’s position and value determines a specific action. Some

of those digit positions act like a simple ON/OFF switch and others like a volume control. Both of

these kind of settings may be used in the same CV.

For example, CV #56 can be used for fine-tuning a motor:

CV Designation Range Default Description

#56 Back-EMF control

P and I value

0 – 199

(See add.

notes)

(is equal

to 55,

mid-

range)

But:

default is

not suit-

able for

coreless

motors,

i.e.

MAXXON,

FAUL-

HABER!

Use

“100”

instead.

Back-EMF compensation is calculated by PID al-

gorithm (Proportional/Integral - Differential);

modifying these values may improve the com-

pensation characteristics in certain cases.

0 - 99: for "normal" DC motors (LGB etc)

100 - 199: for coreless (MAXXON, Faulhaber,

etc...)

Tens digit: Proportional (P) value; by

default (0) is set to mid value and

automatic adjustment with the goal

of jerk free running. Proportional

effect can be modified with settings

of 1 – 4 and 6 – 10 (instead of the

default 0 = 5).

Ones digit: Integral (I) value; is set by

default to a mid value.

The Integral effect can be modified

with settings of 1 – 9 instead of

the default 0 = 5).

As you can see in the “Range” field, you can use any number between 0 and 199. However if you

read the “Description” field it explains that each digit position controls a specific function. In this

case, the hundredth digit (_xx) sets the decoder up for a coreless motor, the tens digit (x_x) modi-

fies the proportional and the ones digit (xx_) the integral action. The hundredth digit in this case

acts just like a switch. If you use the hundredth digit (1__) the coreless motor function is turned ON.

If you don’t use it (_xx), the function is turned OFF. So for a normal DC motor you would only use

the ones and tens digit. With the tens digit (0 – 9) you can modify the proportional value and with

the ones digit (0 – 9) the integral value.

Don’t worry about the terms “proportional” or “integral” - just use the “Step by step CV adjustment

procedure” later in the manual.

Page 6 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

THE MX640 CONFIGURATION VARIABLES:

Configuration Variables can be defined within the programming procedures to improve the driving

characteristics of a locomotive and for many other application specific adjustments.

The meaning of Configuration Variables (CV’s) is in part standardized by the NMRA DCC REC-

OMMENDED PRACTICES, RP-9.2.2. There are however certain CV’s that are for Zimo decoders

only, in some cases exclusively for specific types of Zimo decoders.

Always use the specifications for the decoder in question, since the value range may differ between

manufacturers, even with standardized CV’s; in this case use the table below.

CV Designation Range Default Description

#1 Loco

address 1 – 127 3 The “short” (1-byte) loco addresses; Is active

when Bit 5 in CV #29 is 0.

#2 Vstart

1 – 252

(See add.

notes) 2

Entered value = internal speed step assigned

to lowest cab speed step.

Bit 4 in CV # 29 has to be 0; otherwise individ-

ual speed table is active.

#3 Acceleration rate 0 - 255 12 Multiplied by 0.9 equals’ acceleration time in

seconds from stop to full speed.

#4 Deceleration rate 0 - 255 12 Multiplied by 0.9 equals’ deceleration time in

seconds from full speed to complete stop.

#5 Vhigh

0 – 252

(See

add. notes) 1 (= 252)

Entered value = internal speed step assigned

to highest cab speed step, according to the

number of speed steps selected (14, 28 or

128).

0 and 1 = no effect.

Bit 4 in CV #29 has to be 0, otherwise speed

table is active.

#6 Vmid

A useful

value for is

¼ to ½

of the

value in

CV #5

(See

add. notes)

( = about 1/3 of

top speed)

Entered value = internal speed step assigned to

the cabs center speed step (=step 7,14 or 63 ac-

cording to the number of speed steps selected: 14,

28 or128)

“1" = default (medium speed is 1/3 of full speed,

that is: with CV #5 = 255, CV #6 is 85, otherwise

lower).

Bit 4 in CV #29 has to be 0, otherwise speed table

is active.

The 3-point curve that results from the settings

in CV’s #2, 5, 6 is automatically smoothed out;

not jolt noticed at mid-speed!

Software version

and

Temporary register when

programming with a “Lok-

maus 2” and similar low

level systems.

Read only

Only version

number can

be read

Pseudo-

Programming

This CV normally displays the decoder soft-

ware version.

For user of Lokmaus 2 :

Pseudo-programming (because programmed

value is not really stored) as an initial step for

programming or read-out of a higher CV (#>99)

and/or a higher value (>99) for systems that

CV Designation Range Default Description

See section “Operation

within other systems” in this

manual.

And for

programming help of higher

CV numbers with „medium

level“ systems such as

Intellibox or Lenz; especially

for sound sample selection

and sound CV’s.

I.e. to program

CV #300 = 100

with values:

for

Lokmaus 2:

1, 2,

10, 11, 12,

20, 21, 22

And for

Sound-Prog:

110, 120,

130,

210, 220,

230

(see chap-

ter 6)

can only program a limited within a limited

number and value range :

Ones digit = 1: The entered CV value will be

increased by 100 during the actual program-

ming.

Ones digit = 2: …increases by 200.

Tens digit = 1: The entered CV number will be

increased by 100 during the actual program-

ming.

Tens digit = 2: ….increases by 200.

Tens digit = 3: ….increases by 300.

Hundredth digit = 1: CV number conversion is

retained until system is powered down.

= 2: ...is retained until reset

with CV #7 = 0.

For Lokmouse-2: see section „ZIMO decod-

ers in competitor systems“!

SOUND – selection and programming:

see chapter 6!

Manufacturer ID

and

HARD RESET

with CV #8 = 8

of special CV sets

Read only

all additional

programming

is pseudo

only; read-out

always shows

“145”, which is

ZIMO’s

assigned

number

145

( = ZIMO)

NMRA assigned manufacturer ID for Zimo is:

145 (”10010001”)

Pseudo-Programming (”Pseudo” = pro-

grammed value is not really stored):

CV #8 = “8” -> HARD RESET (NMRA standard:

all CV’s reset to default values).

CV #8 = “0” -> HARD RESET (ZIMO special: all

CV’s reset to currently stored sound project).

CV #8 = “9” -> HARD RESET for LGB-operation

(14 speed steps, pulse chain).

Motor frequency

and

EMF

sampling rate

Recommendation

for coreless mo-

tors, i.e.

MAXXON,

FAUL-HABER:

CV #9 = 22 or 21

High

frequency,

mid-range

sampling

rate

1- 99

High

frequency,

modified

sampling

rate

255-176

Low

frequency

(See add.

High

frequency,

mid-range

sampling

rate

=0: Default motor control with high frequency

(20 / 40 kHz) and an EMF-sampling rate that

automatically adjusts between 200Hz (low

speed) and 50Hz.

Tens digit 1 - 4: Reduced sampling rate com-

pared to default (less noise!)

Tens digit 6 - 9: Increased sampling rate com-

pared to default (one of the steps against buck-

ing!)

Ones digit 1 – 4: EMF sampling time shorter

than default setting (good for coreless motors

for less noise, more power)

Ones digit 5 - 9: EMF sampling time longer

than default (may be needed for 3-pole motors

or similar)

= 255 - 176: Low frequency - PWM according

to formula (131+ mantissa*4) *2exp. Bit 0-4 is

“mantissa”; Bit 5-7 is “exp”. Motor frequency is

the reciprocal of the PWM.

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 7

CV Designation Range Default Description

Notes, “Step

by step CV…”

(“Strategie“) Examples of low frequencies:

# 9 = 255: frequency of 30 Hz,

# 9 = 208: frequency of 80 Hz,

# 9 = 192: frequency of 120 Hz.

#10

EMF Feedback

cut-off

NOTE: This CV is seldom

required.

0 – 252

(See add.

notes) 0

Assigns an internal speed step above which

back EMF intensity is reduced to the level de-

fined in CV #113. CV #10, #58 and #113 to-

gether define a back-EMF curve.

If either CV #10 or #113 is set to 0 a default

curve is valid.

#13 Analog functions 0 - 255 0

Selects function outputs F1 to F8 that should

be “on” in analog mode.

Each bit equals one function; Bit 0 = F1, Bit 1 =

F2, Bit 6 = F7, Bit 7 = F8.

#14

Analog functions

Acceleration, decel-

eration and motor

control in

analog operation.

0 - 127 64

(Bit 6 = 1)

Bits 5 to 0: Selects function outputs F12 to F9

as well as FLr and FLf that should be “on” in

analog mode. Each bit equals one function

(Bit 0 = front headlight …..Bit 5 = F12).

Bit 6 = 1: Analog operation without acceleration

and deceleration according to CV #3 and #4.

Bit 6 = 0: Analog operation with acceleration

and deceleration according to CV #3 and #4.

Bit 7 = 0: unregulated DC operation

Bit 7 = 1: regulated DC operation

#17

#18 Extended address 128 -

10239 0

The long 5-digit primary address (>127).

This address is only active when Bit 5 in CV

#29=1. Otherwise address entered in CV #1 is

active (<127).

#19 Consist address 0 - 127 0

An additional address that is used to operate

several locos in a consist. If a consist address

is assigned to this CV, commands for the pri-

mary and extended addresses (CV’s #1 and

#17/18) will be ignored by the decoder. This

CV is seldom used within ZIMO systems, since

it is more comfortable to build and control con-

sists with the cab (using the “normal” single

addresses).

#21 Consist functions for

F1 - F8 0 - 255 0

Selected functions that should operate with the

consist address.

(Bit 0 for F1, Bit 1 for F2, Bit 2 for F3 etc.)

Applicable Bits set to 0 = function controlled by

single primary address.

Applicable Bits set to 1 = function controlled by

consist address.

CV Designation Range Default Description

#22

Consist address

activates headlights

0 - 3 0

Select whether the headlights are controlled

with consist address or single address (Bit 0 for

front headlight, Bit 1 for rear headlight)

Respective Bit = 0: function output controlled

with single address

Respective Bit = 1: function output controlled

with consist address

#23

Acceleration

trimming

NOTE: This CV is seldom

required.

0 - 255

To temporarily adapt the acceleration rate, i.e.

to a new load or when used in a consist.

Bit 0 - 6: entered value increases or decreases

acceleration time in CV #3.

Bit 7 = 0: value added.

= 1: value subtracted.

#24

Deceleration

trimming

NOTE: This CV is seldom

required.

0 - 255 0

To temporarily adapt deceleration rate, i.e. to

load or when used in consist.

Bit 0 - 6: entered value increases or decreases

deceleration time in CV #4.

Bit 7 = 0: value added.

= 1: value subtracted.

#27

Direction

dependent stops

with asymmetrical

DCC signal

(Lenz “ABC”

method)

0, 1, 2, 3 0

This CV activates the direction dependent stopping

feature with asymmetrical DCC signal (also known

as Lenz “ABC”).

Bit 0 = 1: Stops are initiated if voltage in right rail

is higher than left rail (in direction of

travel). THIS, CV #27 = 1, IS THE

COMMON APPLICTION for this

feature (provided the decoder is wired

to the correct rail).

Bit 1 = 1: Stops are initiated if voltage in left rail

is higher than right rail (in direction of

travel).

Stopping is directional if only one of the two bits is

set (not both). Traveling in the opposite direction

will have no effect. Use the other bit In case the

train stops in the wrong direction!

Bit 0 and 1 = 1 (value = 3): Stops in both

directions.

NOTE: See CV #134 for setting the asymmetrical

threshold if problems are encountered (e.g. train

won’t stop with asymmetrical signal or stops with-

out asymmetrical signal present).

Page 8 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

CV Designation Range Default Description

#29

Basic

configuration

CV #29 is calculated by

adding the value of the

individual bits that are

to be “on”:

Values to turn Bit “on”:

Bit 0: 1

Bit 1: 2

Bit 2: 4

Bit 3: 8

Bit 4: 16

Bit 5: 32

Bit 6: 64

Bit 7: 128

ZIMO MX21, MX31…

cabs also display the

individual bits;

calculating bit values is

no longer necessary!

0 - 63 14 =

0000 1110

Bit 0 - Train direction:

0 = normal, 1 = reversed

Bit 1 - Number of speed steps:

0 = 14, 1 = 28

Note: 128 speed steps are always active if corresponding in-

formation is received!

Bit 2 - DC operation (analog): *)

0 = off 1 = on

Bit 3 - RailCom („bidirectional communication“)

0 = deactivated

1= activated

Bit 4 - Individual speed table:

0 = off, CV #2, 5, 6, are active.

1 = on, according to CV ‘s #67 – 94

Bit 5 - Decoder address:

0 = primary address as per CV #1

1 = ext. address as per CV #17+18

Bits 6 and 7 are to remain 0!

Example:

#29 = 2: normal direction, 28 speed steps,

DCC operation only, speed table accord-

ing to CV #2, 5, 6, primary address as in

CV #1.

#29 = 14: DC mode and RailCom added.

#29 = 22: DC mode and individual speed table

according to CVs #67 – 94 added.

#29 = 0: 14 (instead of 28) speed steps,

necessary for some older third party

systems.

*) For polarity dependent DC braking, set CV

#29, Bit 2 = “0” and CV #124, Bit 5 = “1”!

*) For polarity independent DC braking (Märk-

lin brake-modules) set CV #29, Bit 2 = “0” and

CV 124, Bit 5 = “1” and additionally CV #112,

Bit 6 = 1!

#33

#34

#35

#36

#37

#38

#39

#40

#41

#42

#43

#44

#45

#46

Function mapping

according to

NMRA standard

(See „Function

mapping“)

128

Function mapping according to NMRA:

#33 - 46 = 1, 2, 4... Outputs are set to

F0 - F12 by default. Headlight

switches with direction and can

be turned on/off with F0 key

(Key #1 or L on Zimo cab).

Also see "NMRA function mapping" at the end

of this chapter.

CV Designation Range Default Description

#49

Signal controlled

acceleration

ZIMO “HLU” -

Method

0 - 255 0

Entered value multiplied by .4 equals accelera-

tion time in seconds from stop to full speed

when:

“ZIMO signal controlled speed influence” (re-

quires ZIMO MX9 or MX900 track section

module)

or “asymmetrical DCC signal” method (Lenz

ABC) is employed.

#50

Signal controlled

deceleration

ZIMO „HLU“ -

Method

0 - 255 0

Entered value multiplied by .4 equals accelera-

tion time in seconds from full speed to com-

plete stop when:

“ZIMO signal controlled speed influence” (re-

quires ZIMO MX9 or MX900 track section

module)

or “asymmetrical DCC signal” method (Lenz

ABC) is employed.

#51

#52

#53

#54

#55

Signal dependent

speed limits

#52 for “U”,

#54 for “L”,

#51, 53, 55

for intermediate

steps

0 - 252

40 (U)

110 (L)

180

Each of the 5 speed limits (CV’s #51 – 55) that

can be applied with the ZIMO “signal controlled

speed influence” can be defined with an inter-

nal speed step.

These CV’s are also intended for use with the

“asymmetrical DCC signal stop” in case it’ll be

further developed for more speed limits.

#56

Back-EMF control

P and I value

Recommended for

coreless motors,

i.e. MAXXON,

FAUL-HABER:

CV #56 = 100

(default of 55 is not

suitable)

0 - 199

(See add.

notes)

( = to 55,

mid-range)

Back-EMF compensation is calculated by PID

algorithm (Proportional/Integral/Differential);

modifying these values may improve the com-

pensation characteristics in certain cases.

0 - 99: for „normal“ DC motors

100 - 199: for coreless (MAXXON,

Faulhaber,etc)

Tens digit: Proportional (P) value; by default (0)

is set to mid value and automatic adjust-

ment with the goal of jerk free running.

Proportional effect can be modified with

settings of 1 – 4 and 6 – 10 (instead of

the default 0 = 5).

Ones digit: Integral (I) value; is set by default to

a mid value. The Integral effect can be

modified with settings of 1 – 9 instead of

the default 0 = 5).

#57 Voltage reference 0 - 255

(See add.

notes) 0

The entered value divided by ten is the peak

voltage applied to the motor at full speed.

#57 = 0: results in automatic adjustment to cur-

rent track voltage (relative reference).

#58 Back-EMF

intensity 0 - 255

(See add.

notes) 255

Intensity of back-EMF control for lowest speed

step.

Example:

# 58 = 0: no back-EMF

# 58 = 150: medium compensation,

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 9

CV Designation Range Default Description

# 58 = 255: maximum Compensation.

If required, an “intensity curve” can be

achieved using CV #10, 58 and 113 to reduce

load regulation at higher speeds.

#59 Signal dependent

reaction time 0 - 255 5

This value divided by 10 is the time in seconds

it takes to start a signal controlled acceleration

after receiving a higher speed limit command

with:

“ZIMO signal controlled speed influence” (re-

quires ZIMO MX9 or MX900 track section

module)

or “asymmetrical DCC signal” method (Lenz

ABC).

#60 Reduced function

output voltage

(Dimming) 0 - 255 0

The actual function output voltage can be re-

duced by PWM. Useful to dim headlights, for

example.

Example values:

# 60 = 0 or 255: full voltage

# 60 = 170: 2/3 of full voltage.

# 60 = 204: 80% of full voltage.

#61 Special ZIMO

function mapping

0 - 7, 67,

98, 99

(See “Function

mapping”)

For applications not covered by NMRA function

mapping (CV #33 - #46), for example: “Swiss

lighting”; see “function mapping – ZIMO exten-

sions”.

= 1, 2, 3, 4…. Special function mapping table

for often used lighting variations.

= 67: Alternative function mapping without the

usual „left shift“.

= 98: starts a flexible function mapping for

directional function control, automated

function turn-off after stopping and more.

See “ZIMO special function mapping” at the

end of this chapter!

#65 Subversion

number Read only

This CV indicates the subversion number of a

version noted in CV #7

(i.e. Version 4.2: CV #7 = 4 and CV #65 = 2).

0 - 99: Normal subversions

100 - 199: Beta-Versions

200 - 255: Special versions (usually custom ver-

sions).

#67-

94 Individual speed ta-

ble 0 - 252

(See add.

notes) **)

User programmable speed table.

Only active if Bit 4 in CV #29 is set to 1.

Each CV corresponds to one internal speed

step that can be “mapped” to an external step

(in-between speed steps will be interpolated

when using 128 speed steps).

CV Designation Range Default Description

#66

#95 Directional

speed trimming 0-255

0-255 0

Multiplication of the current speed by “n/128” (n

is the trim value in this CV)

#66: for forward direction

#95: for reverse direction

#105

#106 User data 0 - 255

0 - 255 0

0 Free memory space to store user supplied

data.

#112

Special ZIMO

configuration bits

Values to turn Bit “on”:

Bit 0: 1

Bit 1: 2

Bit 2: 4

Bit 3: 8

Bit 4: 16

Bit 5: 32

Bit 6: 64

Bit 7: 128

ZIMO MX21, MX31…

cabs also display the

individual bits;

calculating bit values is

no longer necessary!

0 - 255

4 =

00000100

Bit 1 = 0: Motor brake off

= 1: active brake for locos without

worm gear.

Bit 2 = 0: Loco number recognition off

= 1: ZIMO loco number recognition on

(Turning the loco number recognition off pre-

vents a possible ticking sound if this feature is

not used).

Bit 3 = 0: reacts only to the (new) NMRA-

MAN-Bit = 12 function mode

= 1: reacts to old MAN bit = 8 function

mode

Bit 4 = 0: Pulse chain recognition off

= 1: Pulse chain recognition on (use with

LGB systems)

Bit 5 = 0: 20 kHz frequency

= 1: 40 kHz frequency

Bit 6 = 0: normal (also see CV #129

description)

= 1: non-directional DC braking („Märklin-

Brake mode)

Bit 7 = 0: no pulse chain generation

= 1: Generates pulse chain commands for

LGB sound modules on output FO1.

Only in MOTOROLA format:

Bit 3 = 0: normal, 4 functions for each address

= 1: next higher address is used to control

4 more functions, for a total of 8 func-

tions, which is otherwise not possible

within a MOTOROLA system.

#113 EMF reduction

Note: This CV is rarely nec-

essary

0 - 255

(See add.

notes) 0

Intensity of back-EMF is reduced above the

speed step defined in CV #10, to the value en-

tered here. Together, CV #10, #58 and #113

define a BEMF curve.

If set to 0, BEMF is totally cut-off above the

speed step defined in CV #10.

#114 Dimming mask Bits

0 - 5 0

Bit 0 to 5 for one function output each

(Bit 0 = front headlight, Bit 1 = rear headlight,

Bit 2 = function output F1, etc.)

Bit value=0: Output dimmed to value defined

in CV #60.

Bit value=1: Output not dimmed.

Page 10 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

CV Designation Range Default Description

#115

Uncoupler control

(KROIS and ROCO)

“Pull-in” time and

“hold” voltage

CV # 115

alternatively used for

additional dim value

(0-90% according to ones

digit; set tens digit to 0)

0 - 99

See add.

notes 0

Active if “uncoupling” is selected (with value of

48) in CV #125......132:

Tens digit = 0 - 9, pull-in time in seconds of ap-

plied full voltage:

Value: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Seconds: 0 .1 .2 .4 .8 1 2 3 4 5

Ones digit = 0 to 9, hold power in percent of

track voltage, 0 - 90%. Applied after the pull-in

time elapsed (i.e. for ROCO uncoupler)

#116 Automated

uncoupling proce-

dure

0 – 99

100 – 199

See de-

script. in

chapter 7!

Tens digit (0 – 9): Length of time the loco

should move away from train; values as in CV

#115.

Ones digit (0 – 9) = x 4: Internal speed step

applied to loco (Momentum per CV #3 etc.)

Hundredths digit = 0: No tension relieve.

= 1: Tension relieve: loco

moves toward coupler (to relieve tension) be-

fore moving away.

#117 Flasher 0 - 99 0

Duty cycle for flasher function:

Tens digit = on time (0= 100msec…..9= 1 sec)

Ones digit = off time (0= 100msec…..9= 1 sec)

#118 Flashing mask Bits

0 - 7 0

Bit 0 to 5 for one function output each

(Bit 0 = front headlight, Bit 1 = rear headlight,

Bit 2 = function output F1, etc.)

Bit values = 0: no flasher

Bit values = 1: output flashing

Bit 6 = 1: 4th output flashing inverse!

Bit 7 = 1: 6th output flashing inverse!

#119 Low beam mask for

F6 Bits

0 - 7 0

Bit 0 to 5 for one function output each

(Bit 0 = front headlight, Bit 1 = rear

headlight, Bit 2 = function output

F1, etc.)

Bit values = 0: no low beam function

Bit values = 1: Low beam with key F6, bright-

ness determined by value in

CV #60.

Bit 7 = 0: normal effect of F6.

= 1: effect of F6 inverted.

#120 Low beam mask for

F7 Bits 0 - 7 Same as in CV #119 but for F7 key.

#121 Exponential

acceleration 0 – 99

(See add.

notes) 00

Acceleration time (momentum) can be

stretched in the lower speed range:

Tens digit: Percentage of speed range to be

included (0 to 90%).

Ones digit: Exponential curve (0 to 9).

CV Designation Range Default Description

#122 Exponential

deceleration 0 – 99

(See add.

notes) 00

Deceleration time (momentum) can be

stretched in the lower speed range:

Tens digit: Percentage of speed range to be

included (0 to 90%).

Ones digit: Exponential curve (0 to 9).

# 123 Adaptive

acceleration and

deceleration

0 – 99

(See add.

notes) 0

Raising or lowering the speed occurs only after

the speed reaches the defined range of speed

steps of the previously set target speed. CV

#123 contains the number of speed steps in

the target speed that must be reached (the

smaller this value the smoother the accelera-

tion/deceleration).

Tens digit: 0 - 9 for acceleration

Ones digit: 0 - 9 for deceleration

Value 0 = no adaptive accel. or decel.

#124

Shunting key

functions:

Momentum

reduction or

deactivation

and

Low gear

and

SUSI assignment.

(See add.

notes) 0

Bit 2 = 0: “MAN” key for shunting,

= 1: F4 key for shunting (see Bit 6 if F3

key instead of F4)

Bit 0 = 0: no effect with above key’s

= 1: removes momentum of

CV #121+122

Bit 1 = 0: no effect,

= 1: CV #3 + 4 reduced to ¼.

Bit 0 + Bit 1 = 0: no effect

= 1: removes all momentum

above.

Bit 3 = 1: F7 as half speed key

Bit 4 = 1: F3 as half speed key

Bit 5 = 1: For “DC” stopping method *)

Bit 6 = 1: F3 as shunting key (instead of F4

as in Bit 2).

*) If polarity dependent “DC” stopping

method is used (i.e. Märklin), set CV #29, Bit

2 = 0 and CV #124, Bit 5 = 1!

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 11

CV Designation Range Default Description

#1251

Special effects

Uncoupler, “soft

start” of function

outputs at

activation and

automated function

“ON/OFF” according

to various criteria’s

US lighting

effects.

Operates with F0 in

forward direction by

default, unless

assigned different

through function

mapping.

Effects can be fur-

ther adjusted and

modified with

CVs #62 - 64

and

CV #115

(for uncoupler)

The CV definitions described here are valid for

CV #125 to #132. Some of the functions below

may not necessarily be suitable for CV #125

and #126 as these outputs are usually con-

nected to headlights.

Bits 0,1

value = 0: independent of direction

=1:active in forward direction

=2:active in reverse direction

ATTENTION: change CV’s #33, 34.... if direc-

tion is wrong!

Bits 2 - 7

value = 4 Mars light

= 8 Random Flicker

= 12 Flashing headlight

= 16 Single pulse strobe

= 20 Double pulse strobe

= 24 Rotary beacon simulation.

= 28 Gyralite

= 32 Ditch light type 1, right

= 36 Ditch light type 1, left

= 40 Ditch light type 2, right

= 44 Ditch light type 2, left

= 48 Uncoupler as in CV#115

= 52 Soft start up of function output

= 56 Automatic stop lights for street cars,

see CV #63

= 60 Function output turns off automati-

cally at speed >0 (i.e. turns off cab

light at start).

= 64 Function output turns off automati-

cally after 5 min. (i.e. to protect a

smoke generator from overheating).

= 68 Turns off automatically after 10

minutes.

= 72 Speed or load dependent smoke

for steam engines as per CV’s

#137 – 139 (Preheating, heavy

smoke at full speed or load).

= 76 As above, but turns off automatically

after 10 min., also actuation only

with function key (but not when func

tion is already on at power-on).

= 80 Operation-dependent smoke for

diesel engines as per CV’s #137-

139 (Preheating, heavy smoke at

motor start-up sound and accelera

tion). Proper fan control as defined

1Note to ditch lights: Ditch lights are only active when headlights and function F2 (#3 on Zimo cab) are on, which is prototypical for

North American railroads. The ditch lights will only be working if the applicable bits in CV #33 and 34 are on (the definition in CV

#125 - 128 in itself is not enough but a necessary addition).

Example: If ditch lights are defined for F1 and F2, the bits #2 and 3 in CV #33 and 34 have to be set accordingly (i.e. CV # 33 = 13

(00001101), CV #34 = 14 (00001110).

CV Designation Range Default Description

in CV #133.

= 84 As above, but turns off automatically

after 10 min., also actuation only

with function key (but not when func

tion is already on at power-on).

EXAMPLES

You want : Program CV #125 to:

Mars light forward only - 5

Gyralite independent of direction - 28

Ditch type 1 left, only forward - 37

Uncoupler- 48

Soft start of output- (i.e. headlights) 52

Automatic stop light - 56

Automatic cab light turn-off - 60

Smoke turns off after 5 min automatically - 64

Smoke turns off after 10 min automatically - 68

Speed/load dependent smoke - 72

Speed/load dependent smoke and auto-off - 76

Speed/load dependent diesel smoke - 80

Speed/load dependent diesel smoke and auto-off - 84

#126

Special effects

For

rear headlight

(default F0 reverse)

Bits 0,1

value = 0: independent of direction

=1: active in forward direction

=2: active in reverse direction

ATTENTION: change CV’s #33, 34.... if direc-

tion is wrong! See CV #125 for details.

#127 Special effects

for FO1 (default F1) 0

See CV #125 for details.

The “ATTENTION” note in CV #125 and #126

are not relevant for this and the following CV’s

(#127…); they are usually not assigned to di-

rection dependent functions!

#128 Special effects

for FO2 (default F2) 0

See CV #125 for details.

#129 -

#132

Special effects

for

FO3, FO4, FO5,

FO6

(default

F3, F4, F5, F6)

See CV #125 for details.

#62 Light effects

modifications 0 - 9 0 Change of minimum dimming value

(FX_MIN_DIM)

#63

Light effects

modifications

Stop light OFF de-

lay

0 – 99

0 – 255

@ 0.5 sec

Tens digit: sets cycle time (0 - 9, default 5), or

start up time during soft start (0 - 0,9s)

Ones digit: extends “off” time

Ones digit with activated stop lights (value 56

in CV #125 – 132):

If stop light is activated with value 56 in CV

#125, 126 or 127: Time in tenths of a second

(range: 0 – 25 sec.) the stop lights remain on

after the street car comes to a full stop.

Page 12 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

CV Designation Range Default Description

#64 Light effects

modifications 0 - 9 5 Ditch light off time modification

0, 1 0

#133

For fan

control

from

version

Function output 4 as

virtual cam sensor

for external

sound modules

FO4 as output for a

smoke generator

fan. 200 - 255

= 0 (Default): FO4 is used as normal function

output, not as virtual cam sensor.

= 1: FO4 supplies cam sensor pulses, either

from the virtual or real cam sensor.

See CV #267 and 268!

= 200 – 255: The steam fan of a smoke

generator is connected to FO10. If the

smoke generator itself (heating ele

ment) is defined as a “Special Effect” in

one of the CV’s #125 - 132 as

= 72 or

= 76 for a steam engine or

= 80 or

= 84 for a diesel,

the fan (FO10) will be actuated with

the function key for the smoke

generator (heater) – which is the one

that is assigned for the “Special

Effects” output

and

- is synchronized with the steam

chuffs in case of steam engines

- is activated when the motor’s start-

up sound is played back as well as

under load.

For diesel engines, the value behind

the “2” (0 – 55) is the time the start-up

smoke should be delayed from the

start-up sound.

#134

Asymmetrical

threshold for

stopping with

asymmetrical DCC

signal (Lenz ABC

method)

1 - 14,

101 - 114,

201 - 214

0,1 - 1,4 V

106

Hundredths digit: Sensitivity adjustment,

changes the speed with which the asymmetry

is being recognized.

= 0: fast recognition (but higher risk of errors,

i.e. unreliable stopping.

= 1: normal recognition (@ 0.5 sec.), pretty

save results (default).

= 2: slow recognition (@ 1 sec.), very reliable.

Tenths and ones digit: Asymmetrical threshold

in tenths of a volt.

This voltage difference between the half waves

of the DCC signal is the minimum required to

be recognized as asymmetrical that starts the

intended effect (usually braking and stopping of

a train). Also see CV #27!

= 106 (Default) therefore means 0.6 V. This

value has proven itself to be appropriate under

normal conditions; by using 4 diodes to gener-

ate the asymmetry, see chapter 4!1

CV Designation Range Default Description

#135

km/h –

Speed regulation -

Activating, control

and range

definition

2 – 20 0

= 0: km/h – Regulation turned off; the “normal”

speed regulation is in effect.

Start with Pseudo-Programming („Pseudo“ =

programmed value is not being stored):

CV #135 = 1 -> Initiates a calibration run

(see chapter 4, „km/h – speed regulation“)

Continue with “normal“ programming of

CV #135 (programmed value will be stored):

= 2 to 20: speed steps / km/h – factor; e.g.:

= 10: each step (1 to 126) represents

1 km/h: that is step 1 = 1 km/h,

step 2 = 2 km/h, step 3 = 3 km/h,

= 20: each step represents 2 km/h;

step 1 = 2 km/h, step 2 = 4 km/h,

last step 126 = 253 km/h.

= 5: each step represents .5 km/h;

step 1 = .5 km/h, step 2 = 1 km/h,

last step 126 = 63 km/h.

See chapter 4, „km/h – speed regulation“!

#136

km/h –

Speed regulation -

Control number

read-out

- -

A numeric value can be read-out after a suc-

cessful calibration run, which was used to cal-

culate the speed. This value is interesting be-

cause it is (almost) independent from the se-

lected speed during the calibration run. The

uniformity of the resulting values from several

calibration runs may be an indication of the

calibration quality. See chapter 4!

From

vers 4

#137

#138

#139

Characteristic curve

of a smoke

generator

connected to one of

the FO’s 1 – 6 (for

which a “smoke ef-

fect” is selected in

the associated CV

#127 – 132).

PWM at standstill

PWM at minimum

speed

PWM at maximum

speed

0 - 255

The three values in CV’s #137 – 139 define a

characteristic curve (FO1, FO2, FO3, FO4,

FO5 or FO6, below as FOx) for the function

output that is defined in CV #127 – 132 for a

“smoke effect” of a steam or diesel engine, i.e.

72, 76, 80 or 84.

If Bit 0 in CV #112 = 0; Characteristic is speed

dependent (nominal value):

CV #137: PWM of FOx at stand still

CV #138: PWM of FOx at speed step 1

CV #139: PWM of FOx at highest speed step

If Bit 0 in CV #112 = 1; Characteristic is load

dependent:

CV #137: PWM of FOx at stand still and when

braking

CV #138: PWM of FOx at speed step 1

CV #139: PWM of FOx at highest speed step,

when accelerating and under high

load.

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 13

CV Designation Range Default Description

#140

Distance

controlled

stopping

(constant stopping

distance)

Select start of

braking and

braking process

0 - 255 0

Activates distance controlled stopping as per

CV #141 in place of time-constant braking

according to CV #4.

= 1: automatic stops with “signal controlled

speed influence” or “asymmetrical DCC

signal”.

= 2: manual stops using the cab.

= 3: automatic and manual stops.

The start of braking is delayed in above cases

(= 1, 2, 3), if the train travels at less than full

speed to prevent an unnecessary long “creep-

ing” (recommended).

On the other hand:

= 11, 12, 13 selection as above but braking

starts always immediately after entering the

brake section.

#141

Distance

controlled

stopping

(constant stopping

distance)

Distance calculation

0 - 255 0

This CV defines the “constant stopping dis-

tance”. The right value for the existing stop

sections has to be determined by trial.

Use these figures as a starting point:

CV #141=255 is about 500m (or 6m in H0),

CV #141=50 about 100 m (or 1.2m in H0)

#142

Distance

controlled

stopping

(constant stopping

distance)

High-speed correc-

tion using the ABC

method

0 - 255 12

The delayed recognition (see CV #134) but

also unreliable electrical contact between rail

and wheels has a larger effect on a stop point

at higher speeds than at lower speeds. This ef-

fect is corrected with CV #142.

= 12: Default. This setting usually works fine if

CV #134 is set to default also.

#143 … compensation

using the HLU

method 0 - 255 0

Since the HLU method is more reliable than the

ABC method, no recognition delay is usually

required in CV #134; therefore this CV can also

remain at default setting 0.

#144 Programming and

update lock

Bits

6, 7

255

(255 =

„FF“,

which for

“old” de-

coders is

the same

as 0)

This CV was introduced to prevent uninten-

tional decoder changes or loss of functions due

to an inadvertent entry to the update mode.

= 0: Unrestricted CV programming and decoder

updates,

Bit 6 = 1: No programming possible in

service mode: protection against uninten-

tional programming. Note: “on-the-main”

programming is still possible.

Bit 7 = 1: Software updates normally

executed with the MXDECUP, MX31ZL or

future devices are blocked.

(Unlock this CV with “on-the-main” pogram-

ming)

CV Designation Range Default Description

#145 Alternative motor

control method

0, 1,

10, 11, 12

= 0: normal control mode (DC & coreless

motors (Faulhaber, Maxxon)

= 1: special control for low-impedance DC mo-

tors (often Maxxon); this mode allows the

connection of a capacitor (10 or 22uF) to

the decoders positive and ground pads

which puts less stress on the decoder and

motor (but only if a capacitor is actually

present!) This method has not been tested

thoroughly.

= 10: “normal” C-Sinus and Softdrive-Sinus

control mode (same as CV #112,

Bit 0 = 1), FO4 is fixed and not available as

a function output.

= 11: alternative C-Sinus / Softdrive Sinus con-

trol mode, FO4 is available as normal

function output (not suitable for all C-

Sinus or Soft drive-Sinus equipped

locomotives).

= 12: special C-Sinus and Softdrive-Sinus

control mode for interfaces requiring the

normal motor output instead of the other-

wise more common C-Sinus output, FO4

is fixed and not available as function out-

put.

= 13: special C- / Softdrive - Sinus control for

“Märklin Gottardo” (and perhaps other

Märklin engines, instead of the otherwise

usual C-Sinus output), FO3 is fixed for di

rectional selection of front/rear 3rd rail

pick-up and therefore not useable other

wise.

#146

Compensation for

gear backlash during

direction changes

in order to

reduce start-up jolt.

MX640:

from SW-Version 4.1

0 - 255 0

A certain backlash between gears of a drive train is

required to prevent them from binding. This back-

lash may be more severe on some engines than

on others, especially when fitted with a worm gear.

An engine with a worn gearbox also exhibits ex-

cessive backlash.

Excessive backlash leads to a peculiar behavior

especially when changing the direction: When the

motor starts spinning in the opposite direction it

doesn’t move the engine because it has to elimi-

nate the backlash first. Also, soon after it starts

spinning it may enter the acceleration phase.

When the motor finally starts to move the engine,

the motor’s speed has exceeded the normal start-

up rpm, which results in an unpleasant jolt. This

can be avoided with the help of CV #146.

= 0: no effect

= 1 to 255: the motor spins at minimum rpm (ac-

cording to CV #2) for a specific time. Acceleration

starts after that time has elapsed. This comes only

in effect when a direction change has been per-

formed previously.

Page 14 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

CV Designation Range Default Description

How much time is required to overcome the back-

lash depends on various circumstances and can

only be determined by trial and error.

Typical values are:

= 100: the motor turns about 1 revolution or a

maximum of 1 second at the minimum speed.

= 50: about ½ a turn or max. ½ second.

= 200: about 2 turns or max. 2 seconds.

Important:

CV #2 (minimum speed) has to be set correctly,

that is the engine has to move at the lowest speed

step (1 of 128 or 1 of 28). Also, CV #146 is only

useful if the load regulation is set to maximum or at

least close to it (i.e. CV #58 = 200 – 255).

#161 Protocol for all

servo outputs 0 - 3 0

Bit 0 = 0: Servo protocol with positive pulses.

= 1: Servo protocol with negative pulses.

Bit 1 = 0: Control wire active during movement

= 1: … always active (consumes power,

vibrates at times but holds position

even under mechanical load).

For SmartServo RC-1, CV # 161 = 2 is a must!

Bit 2 = 0: Moves to center position if defined

for two-key operation (see CV

#181/182) when both function keys

are OFF.

= 1: Servo runs only if function keys are

pressed when in two-key operating

mode (see CV #181/182).

#162 Servo 1

Left stop 0 - 255 49

= 1 ms

pulse Defines the servo’s left stop position.

#163 Servo 1

Right stop 0 - 255 205 Defines the servo’s right stop position.

#164 Servo 1

Center position 0 - 255 127 Defines a center position, if three positions are

used.

#165 Servo 1

Rotating speed 0 - 255 30

= 3 sec

Rotating speed; Time between defined end

stops in tenths of a second (total range of 25

sec).

Default = 3 sec.

#166

#169

As above

for servo 2

CV Designation Range Default Description

#181

#182

Servo 1

Servo 2

Function assign-

ment

0 - 114

90 - 93

from SW-

Version

= 0: Servo not in operation

= 1: Single-key operation with F1

= 2: Single-key operation with F2

etc.

= 90: Servo action depends on loco direction:

forward = turns left; reverse = turns right

= 91: Servo action depends on loco stop and di-

rection: turns right when stopped and direction is

forward, otherwise turns left.

= 92: Servo action depends on loco stop and di-

rection: turns right when stopped and direction is

reverse, otherwise turns left.

= 93: Servo action depends on loco movement:

turns right when loco stopped, left when loco

moving; direction makes no difference.

Note: “left/right” is determined by the stop point

settings with CV #162 and #163!

= 101: Two-key operation F1 + F2

= 102: Two-key operation F2 + F3

etc. (left/right in each case)

= 111: Two-key operation F11 + F12

= 112: Two-key operation F3 + F6

= 113: Two-key operation F4 + F7

= 114: Two-key operation F5 + F8

(Two-key mode operates as defined with CV

#161, Bit 2)

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 15

4. Additional notes to

Configuration Variables (CV’s) Motor control frequency and EMF scanning rate:

Optimal Control, Automated Stops, Effects . . .

Two ways of programming speed curves:

Programmable speed curves can often optimize the driving characteristics of an engine. These

curves alter the relationship between the cab’s speed regulator settings and the engines speed

(that is between 14, 28 or 128 external speed steps of the cab and the 252 internal speed steps of

the decoder).

Which one of the two speed curves the decoder applies is determined by Bit 4 of Configuration Variable #29: “0"

assigns the first type - Three Step Programming, defined by just three CV’s; ”1" assigns the second type - Pro-

grammable Speed Table, defined by 28 individual CV’s.

Three step programming: by using the Configuration Variables #2 for Vstart, #5 for Vhigh and #6

for Vmid.

Vstart defines one internal speed step out of a total of 252 to the first speed step of the cab, Vhigh

to the highest speed step and Vmid to the center speed step of the cab. In this way a simple bent

acceleration curve can be achieved with an expanded lower speed range.

A slightly bent curve is active by default (CV #6 = 1), that is the center speed step is limited to 1/3 of

full speed.

Programmable speed table: with the help of the programmable speed table, free programming of

all Configuration Variables from #67 to 94 is possible. Each of the 28 external speed steps is as-

signed to one internal step (0 to 252). If 128 external speed steps are used, an interpolation algo-

rithm is used to calculate the steps in between.

NOTE: The three step programming is in most cases entirely sufficient for good drivability; the relatively

complex procedure of defining a speed table is only recommended with the help of software like ADaPT

that graphically draws the speed curve and automatically sends the data to the decoder.

100

110

120

130

140

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 1 8 1920 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

0 9 1 8 27 36 4 5 54 6 3 72 8 1 9 0 9 9 1 0 8 1 1 7 1 2 6

Linearcharacterisitc-Vstart=1,Vhigh=252,Vmid=127

Slightly bent

(default) characterisitc

Vmid = 1 (equals 85)

Vstart = 2

Vhigh= 1

(equals 252)

Center

150

160

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

Intern al spee d step

Externalspeed step

100

110

120

130

140

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 2

0 9 18 2 7 3 6 45 5 4 63 7 2 81 90 99 1 08 117 1 26

Clipped linear speed curve

Vstart = 10, Vhigh = 165,

Vmid = 90

150

160

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

100

110

120

130

140

150

160

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 91011 1 2 13 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 2

0 9 18 27 36 45 54 63 72 81 90 99 108 117 1 26

Clipped and bent speed curve

Vstart = 15, Vhigh= 180, Vmid =60

100

110

120

130

140

150

160

170

180

190

200

210

220

230

240

250

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 2

0 9 18 2 7 36 45 54 63 72 81 90 99 108 1 17 1 26

Example of a freely

programmed speed

curve accordingto

the values entered

in to configuration

variables #67 - 94.

In case of Faulhaber, Maxxon or similar motors (Coreless):

Start with special CV #9 = 22 and CV #56 = 100 programming ! ! !

The motor is controlled by pulse with modulation that can take place at either low or high fre-

quency. This frequency is selected with configuration variable #9 (NMRA conforming formula, see

CV table).

High frequency control: The motor is controlled at 20kHz in default mode or whenever a value of

“0” is entered to CV #9, which can be raised to 40kHz with bit 5 in CV #112. The effect is compara-

ble to operating with DC voltage and is likewise just as noiseless (no hum as with low frequency)

and easy on the motor (minimum thermal and mechanical stress). It is ideal for coreless motors

(recommended by Faulhaber!) and other high performance motors (most modern motors, including

LGB). It is not recommended however, for AC motors and some older motors.

When operating at high frequency, power to the motor is interrupted periodically in order to deter-

mine the current speed by measuring back-EMF (voltage generated by the motor). The more fre-

quently this interruption takes place, that is the higher the EMF sampling frequency, the better the

load compensation performs (see next page); but that also results in a certain loss of power. This

sampling frequency varies automatically in the default mode (CV #9 = 0) between 200Hz at low

speed and 50 Hz at maximum speed. CV #9 allows the adjustment of the sampling frequency as

well as the sampling time.

* It is recommended in most cases where an improvement is still required for MAXXON, Faulhaber

or similar motors, to select a lower sample frequency such as CV #9 = 11, 12, 21, 31 etc after CV

#56 was programmed to 100; this will in any case reduce motor noise!

* for older type motors use rather the opposite, e.g. CV #9 = 88.

Also see CV table and the following page!

Low frequency control: Entering a value between 176 and 255 to CV #9 drives the motor between

30 and 150 Hz. Most often used value is 208 for 80 Hz. This is rarely used today and is only suit-

able for AC motors with field coils.

The load compensation:

All Zimo decoders come equipped with load compensation, also known as BEMF to keep a con-

stant speed, regardless whether the engine is pulling a short or long train uphill, downhill or around

a tight radius (although the speed will not be held 100% constant, especially in the upper speed

range). This is accomplished by constantly comparing the desired value (speed regulator setting)

and the actual value at the motor, determined with the EMF method (EMF stands for Electro Motive

Force and is the force (power) produced by the motor when it is turned without power applied to it).

The Reference Voltage used for the BEMF algorithm can be defined by CV #57 as either

absolute or relative (default).

Absolute Reference:

A voltage value is defined in CV #57 as a base line for the BEMF calculation. For

example: if 14V is selected (CV value: 140), the decoder then tries to send the exact fraction of the

voltage indicated by the speed regulator position to the motor, regardless of the voltage level at the

track. As a result the speed remains constant even if the track voltage fluctuates, provided the track

voltage (more precisely, the rectified and processed voltage inside the decoder, which is about 2V

lower) doesn’t fall below the absolute reference voltage.

Page 16 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

The "absolute reference" is to be preferred to the "relative reference" when using other vendors'

systems (particularly those that don’t keep the track voltage stabilized)!

Relative Reference: The speed range is automatically adjusted to the available track voltage, if a 0

is entered to CV #57 (default). Therefore, the higher this voltage is set at the command station (ad-

justable between 12V and 24V) the faster the train will be over its entire speed range.

The relative reference is suitable as long as a constant voltage is present (which is the case with all

Zimo systems but not all competitor systems) and the resistance along the track is kept to a mini-

mum.

The driving characteristic of an engine can further be optimized by adjusting the intensity of load

compensation with CV #58. The goal of load compensation, at least in theory, is to keep the

speed constant in all circumstances (only limited by available power). In reality though, a certain re-

duction in compensation is quite often preferred.

100% load compensation is useful within the low speed range to successfully prevent engines from

stalling or picking up speed under load. BEMF should rather be reduced as speed increases, so

that at full speed the motor receives full power with little BEMF. A slight grade dependent speed

change is often considered more prototypical. Consists also should never be operated with 100%

BEMF because it causes the locomotives to fight each other by compensating too hard and too fast,

which could lead to derailments.

The degree of load compensation can be defined with Configuration Variable #58 from no com-

pensation (value 0) to full compensation (value 255). This, in effect, is the amount of compensation

applied to the lowest speed step. Typical and proven values are in the range of 100 to 200.

If an even more precise load compensation is required (though hardly ever necessary), configura-

tion variable #10 and #113 presents a solution. CV #10 defines a speed step at which the load

compensation is reduced to the level defined in CV #113. Both CV’s have to have a value other

than 0. If either CV #10 or #113 is set to 0, BEMF is again solely based on CV #58.

Regarding configurations variable #56 – also see CV table and the following chapter on

“Step by step…..”)!

Acceleration and deceleration characteristics (momentum):

Configuration Variables #3 and #4 provide a way of setting a basic linear acceleration and de-

celeration rate according to NMRA rules and regulations. That is, the speed is changed in equal

time intervals from one speed step to the next.

To simply achieve smooth transitions during speed changes, a value between 1 and 3 is recom-

mended. The true slow starts and stops begin with a value of about 5. Programming a value higher

than 30 is seldom practical!

The momentum can be modified with Configuration Variables #121 and #122 to an exponential

acceleration and deceleration rate, independent from each other. This in effect expands the mo-

mentum in the lower speed range. The area of this expansion (percentage of speed range) and its

curvature can be defined.

A typical and practical value is “25” (as starting point for further trials).

The adaptive acceleration and deceleration procedure defined by configuration variable #123

will not allow a change in speed until the previous target speed step of an acceleration/deceleration

event is nearly reached.

Most often applied values are “22 or “11”, which can noticeably reduce a start-up jolt (the effect in-

creases with smaller figures).

Step by step CV adjustment procedure to optimize engine

performance:

It is recommended to systematically program a decoder since setting the CV’s for load compensa-

tion and momentum can result in a certain interaction with each other:

*To begin, select the highest possible number of speed steps the system can operate in, that

would be 128 for Zimo (selected at the cab for the decoder address in question). All Zimo decoders

are set by default to 28/128 speed steps (both variants will be evaluated). If used with systems that

are restricted to 14 steps, set Bit 1 in CV #29 to 0.

*Next set the engine to the lowest step, recognizable on the Zimo cab’s when the bottom LED next

to the speed slider changes color from red to green and/or the speed step 1 is displayed on the

screen of the MX21/MX31 cabs (first, change the cab to 128 speed steps for this address, if not

done so or if it isn’t already the default setting!).

If the engine now at the lowest speed step is running to slow or not at all, increase the value in CV

#2 (default 2), if it runs too fast decrease the value. If the individual speed table is used (CV #67 -

94, active if bit 4 of CV #29 is set), set the lowest speed step with CV #67 instead and adjust the

rest of the speed table CV’s accordingly.

*The EMF sampling process (see previous page) is critical for smooth even low speed behavior

and quiet motor performance which can be modified with CV #9 (but also with CV #56!). This CV is

also used to set the decoder to low frequency motor control, which is used only rarely with older AC

motors.

By default, CV #9 is set to high frequency at 20 kHz (can be raised to 40 kHz with Bit 5 of CV #112)

and automatically adapts the EMF sample rate to the loco speed. If drivability is not flawless or too

much motor noise is audible, fine-tuning is possible:

CV #9 = 0 (default setting) has the same effect as CV #9 = 55, which is a mean value for the ones

as well as the tens digit. The value of the tens digit in CV #9 determines the EMF sampling rate and

the value of the ones digit the EMF sampling time, which is the time the motor is not powered.

In general: High-efficient motors such as Faulhaber, Maxxon, Escap etc (coreless motors) can

manage with short measuring times; the ones digit in CV #9 can therefore be set to a small value

such as “2”. The ideal EMF sampling rate depends on the locomotive type and weight: small light-

weight engines require a rather high setting, i.e. “5”, while heavy engines such as O-gauge or large

HO engines a rather small value, i.e. “2”. Thus for a typical HO engine with a coreless motor the

setting of CV #9 = 52 is usually good; for O-gauge engines: CV #9 = 22. Further improvements in

terms of smooth low speed performance and reduced motor noise may be achieved by trial and er-

ror using different tens digit values in CV #9; and of course by means of CV #56 (see below).

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 17

If an engine with an older motor design runs rough at low speeds, the sample frequency (tens

digit in CV #9) is usually the one that needs to be set to a larger value (>5), which often requires the

sample time (ones digit) to be set to a higher value as well (>5); i.e. CV #9 = 88.

*If, after setting CV #9, the engine still doesn’t run smoothly enough at the lowest speed step,

changing the values of the ones and tens digit in CV #56 will often improve it. Here also, the default

value of “0” is equal to the center setting of 55. The tens and ones values define the proportional

and integral portion of the PID control. By default (CV #56 = 0), the proportional value adjusts itself

automatically and the integral value is set to mid-value. Depending on the type of motor, other val-

ues than the default value can be used to combat rough running, such as 77, 88 or 99 for older

locos that run rough or 33, 22, or 11 for newer locos with more efficient motors (Faulhaber,

MAXXON etc).

A possible overcompensation can be reduced with the help of the integral value (ones digit of CV

#56).

For engines with Maxxon, Faulhaber (coreless motors) the setting CV #56 = 100 should be tried

first (instead of the default “0” for normal DC motors). This setting is equal to CV #56 = 155, where

the hundreds digit “1” is an adjustment to the center setting for highly efficient motors. If necessary,

further improvements may be achieved by different values of the tens and ones digit.

*After improving low speed performance (by increasing the value of CV #56 described above),

check that the engine is not running jerkily at mid-speed level that could be caused by high CV #56

values (77, 88…). This effect can be compensated for by reducing the total amount of load com-

pensation in CV #58 (default “250”) down to “200” or “150” or use CV #10 and #113 to cut the load

compensation at a speed just below the start of the jerky motion (the compensation is reduced to

the level defined with CV #113 at the speed step defined with CV #10).

*If after the above adjustments the engine’s speed is still fluctuating, use CV #57 for further fine-

tuning. With a default value of 0, load compensation is based on the measured track voltage. If this

voltage fluctuates, the speed will also fluctuate. The cause is usually a DCC system that can’t com-

pensate for voltage drops (other than Zimo systems) or dirty wheels or track. To prevent such fluc-

tuations a value representing the selected track voltage x10 is entered to CV #57 (not idle track

voltage, rather voltage under load). For example, if an engine needs 14 V (measured under load) a

value of 140 should be entered. Sometimes it’s even better to keep this value about 20% to 50%

lower to compensate for a slight internal voltage drop in the decoder.

*Next, we check to see whether the loco’s initial start is smooth or abrupt. This can be seen well

with some momentum added. Temporarily, set some momentum with CV #3 and #4. Start with a

value of 5.

There are basically two different kinds of start up jolts: the jolt that happens every time an engine

starts up and the one that only shows up after the engine changes direction (i.e. after the engine

stopped, changed direction and starts up again). The “direction-change jolt” is due to gearbox back-

lash; see further down.

The adaptive acceleration procedure can now be used to eliminate abrupt starts by changing the

value in CV #123. Start with a value of 20. The lower the value, the stronger the effect will be (e.g.

10 results in the strongest effect for acceleration, 90 the weakest).

A possible jolt when stopping can also be reduced with the help of the ones digit. The tens digit is

for defining the adaptive acceleration and the ones digit for the adaptive deceleration. CV #123 = 22

improves the start-up as well as the stop jolt. It may be of advantage to reduce the adaptive decel-

eration, i.e. CV #123 = 24 in order to improve repeatable stop points in automated operations

(routes, block control etc.).

Beginning with software version 5 a start-up jolt during a change in direction can also be eliminated

with CV #146. Typical values for CV #146 are 50 or 100 (See description in the CV table).

*After changing the values in CV #123 the basic momentum may need to be readjusted to your

preferences; first with CV’s #3 and #4 (basic momentum). Usually higher than default values

should be used, at least CV #3 = 5 and CV #4 = 3. This improves the engine’s performance consid-

erably. Much higher values are suitable for engines equipped with sound in order to match the

sound to the engine’s movement (with sound decoders as well as external sound modules via

SUSI).

* Additionally the “exponential acceleration and deceleration” may be applied with CV #121 and

#122. This allows for prototypical non-linear momentum coupled with extremely soft starts and

stops without compromising the maneuverability in the upper speed range. This stretches the time

the locomotive will spend in the lower speed range. Often used values for these CV’s are between

25 and 55, which means that 20% to 50% (according to the tens digit) of the total speed range will

be included in the exponential acceleration curve, with a medium curvature (ones digit at ‘5’).

Notes on acceleration behavior versus speed steps:

An acceleration or deceleration sequence according to CV #3 and 4 that is the timely succession of speed steps is

always based on the internal 252 steps which are spaced identical from 0 to full speed. Neither speed table (three

steps or individual speed table) has any effect on the acceleration or deceleration behavior. The speed tables only

define the target speed for a particular speed dialed-in by the cab.

This means that the acceleration or deceleration behavior cannot be improved by a bent speed curve as defined

by CV #2, #5, #6 or the individual speed table CV’s #67 - 94. The exception to this could only be a cab or com-

puter controlled acceleration or deceleration event. A desired curve in a decoder controlled acceleration or decel-

eration event however is possible with the “exponential acceleration/deceleration” using CV #121 and #122..

-If applicable see section “Settings for the signal controlled speed influence“!

- If applicable see section “Setting for stopping with ...“!

- If applicable see section “Distance controlled stopping” (constant stopping distance)!

Km/h – Speed regulation -

CALIBRATION and operation

The km/h speed regulation is a new, alternative method of driving with prototypical speeds in all

operating situations: the cab’s speed steps (1 to 126 in the so-called “128 speed step mode”) will be

directly interpreted as km/h. Preferably, all engines of a layout should be set to the same method.

Engines equipped with non-ZIMO decoders can be set up similarly through the programmable

speed table (although with more effort and less precise because there is no readjustment taking

place by the decoder).

The ZIMO readjustment: the decoder is not limited to converting the speed steps to a km/h scale

but rather ensures that the desired speed is held, by recalculating the already traveled distance and

automatically readjusts itself.

A CALIBRATION RUN; should be performed with each loco:

First, we need to determine the calibration track: a section of track that measures 100 scale me-

ters (plus the necessary length before and after, for acceleration and deceleration), of course with-

out inclines, tight radii and other obstacles; for example, for HO (1:87) 115cm; for G-scale (1:22.5)

4.5m. Start and end points of the calibration distance need to be marked.

Page 18 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

*Set the loco on the track, with the proper travel direction selected, about 1 to 2 meters before the

start marker and the function F0 (headlights) turned off. Acceleration times (momentum in CV #3

of the decoder as well as settings in the cab) should be set to 0 or a small value to prevent any

speed changes inside the calibration distance. Otherwise, the length of track before the calibration

marker needs to be increased accordingly.

* The calibration mode is now activated by programming CV #135 = 1 (operational mode program-

ming). This is a pseudo-programming because the value of 1 does not replace the value already

stored in CV #135.

* Move the speed regulator to a medium speed position (1/3 to ½ of full speed); the loco acceler-

ates towards the start marker.

* When the engine passes the start marker, turn on the function F0 (headlights); turn F0 off

again when passing by the end marker. This ends the calibration run and the loco may be stopped.

* CV #136 can now be read out for checking purposes. The calibration “result” stored in that CV

doesn’t mean very much by itself. If however, several calibration runs are performed, the value in

CV #136 should approximately be the same every time, even if the traveling speed is varied.

Km/h speed regulation in operation:

CV #135 defines whether the “normal” or km/h operating mode is in use:

CV #135 = 0: The engine is controlled in “normal” mode; a possible km/h calibration run performed

earlier has no effect but the calibration results remain stored in CV #136.

CV #135 = 10: each speed step (1 to 126) becomes 1 km/h: that is step 1 = 1 km/h,

step2 = 2 km/h, step 3 = 3 km/h ... to step 126 = 126 km/h

CV #135 = 5: each speed step (1 to 126) becomes 1/2 km/h: that is step 1 = .5 km/h,

step 2 = 1 km/h, step 3 = 1.5 km/h, ... to step 126 = 63 km/h (for local or

narrow gauge railways!)

CV #135 = 20: each speed step (1 to 126) becomes 2 km/h: that is step 1 = 2 km/h, step 2 =

4 km/h, step 3 = 6 km/h, .to step 126 = 252 km/h (High speed trains!)

The speed regulation in km/h is not just useful for direct cab control, but also in speed limits through

the “signal controlled speed influence” (CV’s 51 – 55). The values entered to those CV’s are also

being interpreted in km/h.

Mph speed regulation:

A mph speed regulation can be achieved by extending the calibration distance accordingly!

Settings for the

ZIMO ”signal controlled speed influence“ (HLU)

ZIMO digital systems offer a second level of communication for transmitting data from the track sec-

tions to engines that are in such sections. The most common application for this is the “signal con-

trolled speed influence”, that is the stopping of trains and applying of speed limits in 5 stages issued

to the track sections as required with the help of MX9 track section modules or its successors. See

ZIMO flyers at www.zimo.at and MX9 instruction manual.

The term “HLU” method was coined over the years after the speed limit designation “H” (=Halt or

stop), “L” (=Low speed) and “U” (Ultra low speed).

* If the “signal controlled speed influence” is being used (only possible within a ZIMO system), the

speed limits “U” and “L” (and the intermediate steps if need be) can be set with configuration vari-

ables #51 to #55 as well as acceleration and deceleration values (momentum) with CV #49 and #50

(see CV table).

Please note that the signal controlled acceleration and deceleration times are always added to the

times and curves programmed to CV #3, 4, 121, 122 etc. Signal controlled accelerations and decel-

erations compared to cab controlled momentum can therefore progress either at the same rate (if

CV #49 and #50 is not used) or slower (if CV #49 and/or #50 contain a value of >0), but never

faster.

It is of utmost importance for a flawlessly working train control system using the signal controlled

speed influence that the stop and related brake sections are arranged properly everywhere on the

layout, especially in terms of their length and consistency. Please consult the MX9 instruction man-

ual and the STP manual.

The braking characteristics should be set up on a suitable test track so that all locos come to a

complete stop within about 2/3 of the stop section, which is in HO typically about 15 to 20 cm before

the end of a stop section (deceleration rate adjusted with CV #4 and CV #50 as well as the reduced

speed with CV #52 for “U”). Setting the loco up to stop precisely within the last centimeter of a stop

section is not recommended because such an exact stop point is, for various reasons, hardly re-

peatable every time.

Settings for stopping with

”asymmetrical DCC signal“ (Lenz ABC)

The “asymmetrical DCC signal” is an alternative method for stopping trains at a “red” signal, for ex-

ample. All that is required is a simple circuit made up of 4 or 5 commercially available diodes.

Normally, 3 diodes in series (4 when us-

ing Schottky diodes) and one in opposite

direction in parallel is the usual arrange-

ment for a stop section.

The different voltage drops across the di-

odes results in an asymmetry of about 1

to 2V. The direction in which the diodes

are mounted determines the polarity of

the asymmetry and with it the driving di-

rection a signal stop is initiated.

The asymmetrical DCC signal stop mode

needs to be activated in the decoder with

CV #27. Normally bit 0 is set, that is CV

#27 = 1, which results in the same directional control as the “Gold” decoder from Lenz.

alt (stop) section

Track power from

command station

Silicium diodes,

for example

1N5400x

(3 A - Typen)

Travel direction

Switch to

cancel stops

when signal

tunrs green.

Note

3 diodes in series is the

minimum number of diodes

required to stop ZIMO

decoders. 4 or more diodes

are needed for decoders

from other manufacturers!

Because the diodes cause

an unwanted voltage drop,

use the minimum number

of diodes depending on

decoder type.

Red

The asymmetrical threshold can be modified with CV #134 if necessary, default is 0.4V. At the time

of writing, the “asymmetrical DCC signal” has not been standardized and many DCC systems pay

no attention to this feature!

H0 Sound Decoder MX640 Page 19

Distance controlled stopping – Constant stopping distance

When this feature is selected with CV #140 (= 1, 2, 3, 11, 12, 13) it keeps the stopping distance as

close as possible to the one defined in CV #141, independent of the speed when entering the stop

section.

This method is especially suitable in connection with automated stops in front of a red signal with

the help of the ZIMO signal controlled speed influence or the asymmetrical DCC-signal (see

above). CV #140 is set for this purpose to 1 or 11 (see below for details).

Although of lesser practical value, the distance controlled stopping can also be activated directly by

the cab or computer when the speed is set to 0 (by programming CV #140 with appropriate values

of 2, 3, 12 or 13).

Sp eed

Distance

Entering the stop section. Desired stop point

Decele ra tion sta rts a t ful l spee d

Decelera tion starts at less than full speed,

with “constant stopping distance

train stops at desired point by automatically reducing the deceleration

vaules inspite of immediately started stoppingsequence.

” programmed as CV# 140 = 11,12,13

Thesame withdisabled constant stoppingdistance,

train stops to early.

Sp eed

Distance

Entering the stop section.

(Or speed regulator turned tostop) Desired stop point

Decele ra tion sta rts a t ful l spee d

Decelera tion starts at less than full speed,

with “constant stopping distance

- train stops at desired point by automatically delayingstart of braking

followedby “normal”progression.

” programmed as CV # 140 = 1, 2, 3

Thesame withdisabled constant stoppingdistance,

train stops to early.

The distance controlled stopping can take place in two possible ways; see diagram above: The first

is the recommended method (CV #140 = 1, etc.), where the train entering at less than full speed

continues at first at the same speed before it starts braking at a “normal” deceleration rate (same

rate as would be applied at full speed).

In the second method (CV #140 = 11, etc.), the train immediately starts with the braking procedure,

which may lead to an un-prototypical behavior. It may however be useful to use this method if used

together with decoders from other manufacturers that do not have this capability in order to harmo-

nize the brake sequences.

Also, the second method may be the preferred method if distance controlled stopping is used

manually (CV #140 = 2 or 12), so that the train reacts immediately to speed changes.

“Distance controlled stopping“, when activated, is exclusively applied to decelerations leading to a full stop. Re-

ductions in speed or acceleration events are not affected by this (still handled by CV #4 etc.).

The traveled distance is constantly being recalculated in order to get as close as possible to the de-

sired stop point. The deceleration rate within distance controlled stopping is always applied expo-

nentially, that is the deceleration rate is high in the top speed range followed by gentle braking until

the train comes to a full stop; which is not controlled by CV #122! The application of CV #121 for

exponential acceleration however remains unchanged.

Automated uncoupling procedure;

also see “connecting an electric coupler” in chapter 7:

As described in chapter 7, the control of an electric coupler (System Krois) is defined by CV’s #127,

128 etc. (function output effects) and CV #115 (timing).

With the help of CV #116 the decoder can be programmed so that the uncoupling loco automati-

cally moves away from the adjoining coupler without moving the speed regulator (which is some-

times inconvenient because the uncoupler key needs to be pressed at the same time).

The tens digit in CV #116 defines how long (0.1 to 5 sec) the loco should move away from the ad-

joining coupler, the ones digit defines how fast (internal speed step 4 to 36) it should move away,

see CV table. The momentum used during this acceleration/deceleration event is governed as

usual by the relevant CV’s (#3, #4 etc.). The hundreds digit of CV #116 causes the loco to auto-

matically push against the adjoining coupler before the uncoupling process starts in order to re-

lieve coupler tension (otherwise the couplers can’t open).

Other hints:

- The procedure is activated if the tens digit in CV #166 is other than 0; if desired (and CV #116 >

100), the loco pushes first automatically against the coupler in the opposite direction!

- The procedure (acceleration) takes place at the moment the coupler is activated, although only if

the loco is at rest at the time of coupler activation (speed regulator in 0 position). If the loco is still

moving, the procedure starts as soon as the loco comes to a complete halt provided the button for

this function is still being activated.

- The procedure ends when the function is turned off (by releasing the key if in momentary mode or

by pressing the key again if in latched mode), or when the programmed time limits have been

reached (CV #115 for the coupler and CV #116 for the loco detachment phase).

- Moving the speed slider during an automated uncoupling procedure stops the process immedi-

ately.

- The driving direction during coupler detachment is always according to the cab setting; directional

settings in the “Effects” definition for uncoupling (Bits 0 and 1 of CV #127, CV #128 etc.) will not be

applied.

Page 20 H0 Sound Decoder MX640

Shunting and half-speed functions:

By defining the different Configuration Variables (#3, 4, 121, 122, 123), a prototypical acceleration

and deceleration behavior is achieved that often makes shunting very difficult.

With the help of CV #124, a shunting key can be defined (either the dedicated MAN key within a

ZIMO system or the keys F4 or F3) with which the acceleration and deceleration rates may be re-

duced or eliminated all together.

CV #124 may also be used to define either F7 or F3 as low gear key. With this function turned on,

the throttle is used for half the decoder’s full speed range, which is just like shifting down into low

gear.

Example: The F7 key should act as low gear and the F4 key should reduce the momentum down to

¼. According to the CV table, the bits in CV #124 are to be set as follows: Bit 0 = 0, Bit 1 = 1, Bit 2

= 1 and Bit 3 = 1. The sum of the individual bit values (0+2+4+8 = 14) is entered as a decimal

value.

“On-the-fly” - programming (a.k.a. on-the-main):

Configuration variables can also be changed on the main track as well as on the programming

track, without interfering with other trains operating on the layout.

All CV’s, with the exception of address CV’s, can be modified on the main. Please note though that

the verification and read-out of CV values will not be possible until the bidirectional communication

is implemented (in the course of 2006 with SW updates for the ZIMO command stations “model

2000” and MX1EC as well as decoders).

If no bidirectional communication is available, “on-the-fly” programming should primarily be used for

CV’s where a change is immediately visible (e.g. Vstart, Vmax, signal controlled speed influence

settings, etc). Don’t use it to program the 28 speed steps in the speed table for example, which is

preferably done at the programming track (where programming can be confirmed through acknowl-

edgments).

Consult the ZIMO cab instruction manual for on-the-fly programming steps!

This manual suits for next models

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