ZTC 505 User manual

The ZTC System is only intended for controlling model railways by
experienced modellers over the age of 14 .
It should only ever be operated by young persons under
competent adult supervision.
COPYRIGHT 2004
ZTC Controls Ltd.
24 Chilkwell St. Glastonbury.
Somerset BA6 8DB, England
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
E Mail: [e-mail]
Web Site: www.ztccontrols.com
Issue 1.01
WARNING
If you fail to read the installation instructions properly it is possible
that you could accidentally damage your ZTC unit. Such damage is
NOT covered by our guarantee. So to prevent avoidable and
potentially expensive mistakes, please take the time to read these
instructions before attempting to install your equipment

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 2
CONTROLS
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................5
1.0 Connecting Power to the ZTC 505...................................................................................8
1.1 Transformer Required ..................................................................................................8
1.2 Powering Up.................................................................................................................9
1.3 Fast Track Start-Up......................................................................................................9
ZTC 505 Controls and Panel Features ................................................................................10
Key to 505 Controls and Panel Features……………………………………………………....11
2.0 ZTC 505 Control Features .............................................................................................11
2.1 Keypad buttons ..........................................................................................................12
2.2 Command Keys ......................................................................................................12
2.3 Number Keys..........................................................................................................12
2.4 Enter Keys..............................................................................................................12
2.5 Entering Keypad Commands..................................................................................12
2.6 Command Key Look-up Table ................................................................................13
2.7 Loco controls..............................................................................................................13
2.8 Reverser Lever .......................................................................................................13
2.9 Regulator Lever ......................................................................................................13
2.10 Brake Handle........................................................................................................14
2.11 All Stop Button......................................................................................................14
3.0 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) ......................................................................................14
3.1 Power Mode Indicators ..............................................................................................15
3.2 Current Indicator ........................................................................................................15
3.3 Overload ....................................................................................................................15
4.0 System Parameters .......................................................................................................16
4.1 Setting System Parameters .......................................................................................16
4.2 Scale and Gauge Settings......................................................................................16
5.0 Operating Our ZTC 505 .................................................................................................17
5.1 Loco Control Mode.....................................................................................................17
5.2 Changing Loco Control Mode.................................................................................18
5.3 Controlling a Locomotive Without a Decoder Installed...............................................18
5.4 Controlling Another Loco............................................................................................18
5.5 Switching Control Between Running Locos ...............................................................19
5.6 Loco Command Roster ..............................................................................................19
5.7 Saving Loco Parameters ........................................................................................19
5.8 Automatic Recall of Loco Roster on Start-up..........................................................20
5.9 Deleting the Saved Loco Roster .............................................................................20
5.10 Operating Decoder Functions ..................................................................................20
5.11 Double Heading and Multiple Units ..........................................................................21
Note:- A break can only be done by the controller that is driving the group .....................21
6.0 Slave Controllers ...........................................................................................................21
6.1 Slave Controller Assignment......................................................................................21
6.2 Setting up a Slave Controller and its Slave Number ..................................................22
7.0 What You Need to Know About Loco Decoders ............................................................23

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 3
CONTROLS
7.1 Configurable Variables (CV) ......................................................................................23
7.2 Programming Track....................................................................................................24
7.3 First Time Loco Decoder Programming .....................................................................24
7.4 Programming Mode....................................................................................................24
7.5 Programming Locomotive Decoders ..........................................................................25
7.6 Verifying the Existing Value of a CV .......................................................................25
7.7 Resetting Loco Decoders to Factory Settings.........................................................25
7.8 ZTC 203, 205, 206, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 226, 227 and 251…………...………25
7.9 ZTC 4000 Plug and Play Range Based on Standard Decoders………………………….26
7.10 CV 1 Locomotive Address or Number ................................................................26
7.11 CV 2 Start Voltage................................................................................................26
7.12 CV 3 and CV 4 Loco Acceleration and Deceleration ............................................27
7.13 CV 5 Max speed ...................................................................................................27
7.14 CV 6 Mid Step Speed ...........................................................................................27
7.15 CV 9 Output PWM Frequency ..............................................................................28
7.16 CV 12 Power Source Conversion .........................................................................29
7.17 CV 29 Basic Configuration Register .....................................................................30
7.18 CV 65 Kick Pulse..................................................................................................30
8.0 Advanced CV Options ...................................................................................................30
8.1 Changing Binary Bit Fields.........................................................................................30
Use the ZTC 114 Decoder Slide Rule to assist in this type of calculation. .......................31
8.2 CV 12 Feature Table..................................................................................................31
8.3 CV 29 Feature Table..................................................................................................32
8.4 Extended Addressing .............................................................................................32
9.0 Accessory Decoders......................................................................................................33
9.1 Accessory Decoder Addresses ..................................................................................33
9.2 Operating Points with Accessory Decoders ...............................................................34
9.3 Operating Signals with Accessory Decoders .............................................................34
9.4 Multiple Aspect Signal Operation ...............................................................................34
9.5 Operating Other Accessories with Accessory Decoders ............................................35
9.6 Route Setting .............................................................................................................35
9.7 Setting up Accessory Presets.................................................................................35
9.8 Time Delays............................................................................................................36
9.9 Reviewing a Route .................................................................................................36
9.10 Editing Route ........................................................................................................37
9.11 Operating an Accessory Preset Route .................................................................37
10.0 Test and Calibration.....................................................................................................38
10.1 Testing the Controls .................................................................................................38
10.2 Calibrating the Controls............................................................................................38
10.3 Transformer Test......................................................................................................39
10.4 LED Test ..................................................................................................................39
11.0 Installation ...................................................................................................................40
11.1 Power Input..............................................................................................................40
11.2 Input Terminals.....................................................................................................41
11.3 Optional DC Power Input......................................................................................41
11.4 Recommended Track Wiring Gauge ........................................................................42
11.5 Wiring the ZTC 505 Outputs to the Track(s). ...........................................................43
11.6 Multiple Track Feeds ............................................................................................44
11.7 The Programming Track ..........................................................................................44
11.8 Connecting Accessory Decoder Modules ................................................................44

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 4
CONTROLS
11.9 Points & Turnouts.....................................................................................................44
11.10 Large Layouts – Isolating Track Sections ..............................................................45
11.11 Power Boosting ......................................................................................................45
12.0 Reverse Loops .........................................................................................................46
13.0 Over Temperature Protection...................................................................................46
14.0 Software Upgrades ......................................................................................................47
15.0 Alternative Decoder Programming Modes ...................................................................47
15.1 Direct Mode..............................................................................................................47
15.2 Physical Register Mode ...........................................................................................47
15.3 Loco Address Verification ........................................................................................48
15.4 Loco Address Programming.....................................................................................48
16.0 System Parameters..................................................................................................48
16.1 Loco Speed Indicator ...............................................................................................48
17.0 Troubleshooting ...........................................................................................................49

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 5
CONTROLS
INTRODUCTION
Controlling a model railway with a simple variable resistance, or voltage, regulator has been
the classic way of doing things since the introduction of the electric train set at the
beginning of the 20th century. Now there is the ZTC 505 Digital Controller, with RealFeel™
controls that look and perform like the real controls of a traditional locomotive.
Running a Railway
Varying the voltage on the track to control a train is quite satisfactory for a simple layout.
However, when it comes to larger layouts with a number of running lines and multiple train
operation, you need a lot of switching and wiring to block sections to get the power from
multiple controllers to the right parts of the track. Add a reverse loop or whatever, and
running one train alone can become quite complex. Running many engines, some on the
same track, becomes practically impossible using conventional DC.
What’s on the Track?
With Digital Command & Control or DCC for short, power is on all of the track all of the time.
DCC power is a low voltage digital AC signal. The actual regulation of the loco speed goes
on in the loco itself. A decoder fitted inside the loco, converts the AC power to run the DC
motor of the loco.
So to control a loco, instead of varying the track voltage, a command is sent along the track
to the loco to tell it what speed it should be going at. This remote control means that you
can have as many trains in operation as you like without having to use block section
switching.
Simple Wiring
This then greatly simplifies the wiring, especially for complex layouts. Since independent
control of locos on the same track is possible, you can have much more realistic operations
with double heading, banking and shunting.
More movements
The most important benefit of digital operation is to not have to make numerous track
section switching actions every time you want to move anything. You can now have more
enjoyment by letting out as many locos as you could wish whenever you want to.
More Benefits
There are many other benefits of going DCC. The control is much smoother than you would
expect from a conventional controller, with very slow loco speeds being easy to achieve.
You can also remotely operate auxiliary functions for each loco, such as lights, sound ,
smoke effects or even electric couplers if you have them.
Accessories
You can control far more than the locos, if you desire. A remote controlled device, called an
accessory or stationary decoder, can be used to operate everything else on your layout
from the Master Controller. Also, points, signals and other motorised accessories can be
easily called-up from the keyboard, rather than relying on banks of electrical switches.
Complexity of wiring is substantially reduced.

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 6
CONTROLS
Control
The controller in a DCC layout does much more than the old-fashioned boxes with a knob.
It can handle a number of locos simultaneously, up to at least 12.
You can start controlling any loco at once without having to switch power to the track. After
keying in a loco number, the controller will allow you to move a particular engine and run it
right up to another stationery loco, couple up, and go off double headed or as a multiple
unit. Similarly, you can bank or shunt realistically. But beware, you might be in danger of
having the worst prototypical accident - the head on collision!
Better Controls
This is where RealFeel comes into its own. The regulator lever is much better for controlling
locomotives than rotary knobs. The controller also has a built-in memory to retain your set-
up preferences.
The FWD and REV indicators are provided to show present loco direction before control is
seized or when inertia causes a lag in direction response.
Multiple Train Control
One ZTC 505 can command up to 12 locos in motion at any one time from up to 9,999
different loco numbers. A roster is maintained of the currently running engines so that only
one button press is needed to swap between each one.
Additional slave controllers can be plugged into the rear of the master unit so that other
locos can be simultaneously operated. These slaves can either be further ZTC 505 units or
one or more of the Slave Hand Controllers. In this way, Up to 15 additional friends can help
operate the railway and make it much more fun. Extension leads and sockets (ZTC 309)
allow remote operation from 3 to 300 metres away!
Locomotive (Loco) decoders
A locomotive decoder has to be fitted inside each loco or its tender to operate in digital
mode. The exception is that DCC does allow a single loco without any decoder ‘chip’ to be
run on the system as if it had one. The function of these ‘chips’ is to receive the signals sent
along the track and control the power to the DC motor of the loco according to the
commands decoded. The power control is on-board the loco not in the controller. However,
converted locos will still run on any conventional pure DC controlled layout. These will also
be able to operate on other layouts powered by other manufacturers’ DCC controllers.
The decoders can be set-up for their loco addresses and all other characteristics from the
keyboard of the ZTC 505 by using the programming output connected to a short stub of
track. There are no links or conductive paint needed. With 9,999 numbers to choose from,
even the biggest loco collections can be catered for. The memory inside the decoder
storing the address and set-up characteristics is non-volatile and will remember its settings
for more than 10 years and yet can be re-programmed as many times as necessary.
ZTC makes a complete range of these miniature remote control circuits of different shapes,
sizes and power ratings. This will allow maximum flexibility in their application to different
types of loco, scale and gauge

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 7
CONTROLS
How the System Works
To use the ZTC System you do not need to know any of the technicalities, but the basics
are: -
The actual voltage on the track is in the range of 12 to 24 VAC according to the gauge or
scale requirements. Superimposed on the track voltage is a digital signal containing the
commands to the various locos or accessory decoders on the layout.
Locos have a decoder between the power pickup from the wheels and the electric motor.
The function of the decoder is to rectify the AC voltage on the track and convert it to DC for
use by the electric motor. A power controller stage smoothly varies the applied voltage
according to the received commands decoded from the track signal by a small, dedicated,
microprocessor. Direction is also controlled by the same stage and has nothing to do with
the polarity of the track.
Motor Drive
Moving the unmodified (no decoder installed) loco is achieved by the controller varying the
symmetry of the AC voltage on the track so that a DC bias appears in one direction. The
controller uses a special address to control this mode, but for the user, it is as if the loco
actually had a decoder!
In a decoder, the voltage control to the DC motor in a loco is achieved by pulse width
modulation (PWM). This means that the on/off ratio of an electronic switch is varied, so that
the average voltage can be controlled. This method is very power efficient, a factor that
must be considered due to the tiny dimensions of the typical loco decoder. The frequency at
which this is done is about 70 Hz, which is generally suitable for most commercial model
motors. However, not all motors have the same characteristics and so the ZTC decoders
have the ability to have the PWM frequency changed. Lower frequencies suit some larger
motors better such as G and Gauge 1 models. The coreless precision motors such as
Portescap and Faulhaber type vibrate too much at 70 Hz, but the decoder can be set to a
much higher frequency to suit them.
Power Boosting
The ZTC 505 Master Controller has a maximum current output of 3.0 amps to the track.
This is of course fed to all the track in parallel. The maximum power is drawn when locos
are simultaneously starting, which might be double their nominal running currents.
Accessory modules may also be connected to the track or the controller and taking power
as well. So eventually the system could ‘run out of steam’!
The power booster operates like an amplifier, taking the signal from the master controller
and providing a separate power output feed. This is connected to additional (remote) parts
of the railway system and can provide up to another 5 amps of power. A separate mains
transformer has to be connected to the booster to provide its source of power. More
boosters can be connected if even more power is needed.

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 8
CONTROLS
9-17 VOLTS
AC ONLY
TRACK
O/P 1
TRACK
O/P 2
PROGRAM
TRACK O/P
ACCESSORY
OPTION
SLAVE
CTLS
BOOSTER
CTLS
D
CONNECTION
K
AC
TN
TS
+P
G
–
LOW VOLTAGE PO
W
–
TRACK NORTH OU
T
–
TRACK SOUTH OU
T
–
AUX +DC OUTPUT
–
AUX 0V. DC OUTPU
WARNING! DO NOT CONNECT
TO LIVE MAINS SUPPLY
WITHOUT ISOLATING
MAXIMUM INPUT VOLTAGE 17 VAC
AC+P G AC TSTN TSTNTS TN
AC MAINS SUPPLY
Rear of ZTC 505
Controller
ZTC 560 Transformer
Unit or Equivalent
9 to 17 V AC Max.
9 to 17 V
AC Max
Plug-in, 4-way
terminal block
Reverse Loops
The main problem with a reverse loop is the fact that the left rail sweeps round to join up
with the right and visa-versa. To prevent short circuits an insulated joint must be placed at
the entry and exit of the loop. However, if the loop section is fed by a ZTC power booster
(ZTC 550), continuous running will be possible through the loop. The booster senses the
polarity of the track signal needed and automatically switches itself at either the entry or exit
as the train passes the insulated joint.
Additional material on the subject is available on the ZTC one hour DVD (ZTC 110) or the
Video (ZTC 111) DCC Expert Programme or In the Digital Command Control Book sub
titled “DCC for beginners” written by Stan Ames, Rutger Friberg & Ed Loizeaux, which is
also available from ZTC Controls ltd. As product number ZTC 112
1.0 Connecting Power to the ZTC 505
1.1 Transformer Required
DO NOT CONNECT THE ZTC 505 DIRECTLY TO THE MAINS POWER SUPPLY.
Power for the ZTC 505 is provided by a suitable, low voltage, transformer. The ZTC 560
transformer unit is recommended for most applications. A plug-in, 4-way, terminal block
connector, with screw terminals for connecting wires, is provided with all ZTC transformers.
Additional 4 pin connectors can be supplied for use with your own transformers if required.
This must be used for connecting the transformer to the unit. It plugs into the power socket
on the rear of the ZTC 505. Ensure that the transformer wires are connected to the two
outer screw terminals. The diagram below shows how power is connected to the unit. See
section 11.1 for transformer specification details and more instructions on how connections
are made to the ZTC 505.

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 9
CONTROLS
1.2 Powering Up
There is no power switch on the unit. Power is applied when the ZTC 560 transformer unit
is connected to mains power. When power is applied to the unit, all the indicator lamps will
illuminate for a brief period. Power on is indicated when one of the TRACK power indicators
are lit continuously. The unit will also give a short "beep" to indicate that power is now
present on the output. The liquid crystal display (LCD) will also show a series of start-up
messages.
1.3 Fast Track start-up
On powering-up the ZTC 505, the system will immediately operate,
with loco number 3 (default address of a new loco decoder) selected.
1. Check that the ZTC 505 Display unit is plugged into its socket at the rear of the unit.
2. Plug the ZTC 56X Transformer power unit into the POWER INPUT socket
3. Plug the transformer into the mains supply and switch on.
4. Attach two wires to some track using a 2 way plug-in terminal block and plug it into
the TRACK O/P 1 socket at the rear of the unit.
5. Turn the BRAKE handle fully anti-clockwise to the OFF position.
6. Push the reverser gear lever to the FWD position.
7. Operate the regulator lever to adjust the speed of the loco.
To gain the most benefit from operating the controller, read the rest of this manual
before proceeding.

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 10
CONTROLS
ZTC 505 Controls and Panel Features
51
1
DOUBLE
HEADING
OVERLOAD
CLEAR ZTC 505 Digital Master Controller
REMOTE
CONTROL
INERTIA PRESET
SIGNAL
POINT
A
UTO
PROGRAM
LOCO OFF ON
BRAKE
FUNCTION
1
2 3
4 5 6
7 8
9
0
SIMULATION
SYSTEM
DIGITAL
D.C
CURRENT
TRACK
FWD
MID
REV
+
LR
ALL STOP
Loco: 4472 mph.+70
ZTC 505 Display Unit
CONTROLS
CONTROLS
32 4
19 15
18 1617 13 12
10 119 1765 8
ENTER
14
1
OFF OPEN

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 11
CONTROLS
9-17 VOLTS
AC O NLY
TRA C K
O/P 1
TRA C K
O/P 2
PRO GRAM
TRA C K O / P
AC CESSO RY
OPTION
PC SERIALSLAVE
CTLS
BO O STER
CTLS
DISPLAY
CONNECTION KEY
AC
TN
TS
+P
G
–LOWVOLTAGE PO WER I N
–TRAC K NO RTH O UTPUT
–TRAC K SO UTH O UTPUT
–AUX+DCOUTPUT
–AUX0V. DC OUTPUT
WA RN I N G ! D O N O T CONNECT
TO LI VE M AI NS SUPPLY
WI THO UT ISOLATING TRANSFO RM ER.
MAXIMUM INPUT VO LTAGE 17VAC RMS
AC + P G AC TSTNTSTNTSTN
20 2221 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Key to ZTC 505 Controls and Panel Features
Key Description
1Display Unit tilt adjust screws
2Command keys
3Overload indicator LED
4Number keys
5Remote LED flashes intermittently when one or more slave
controllers are connected
6Program LED illuminates when in programming mode
7Automatic control LED - future application
8Liquid crystal display (LCD) screen
9Brake handle applies braking effort to loco
10 Double heading LED flashes when 2 or more locos are being
linked as a multiple unit
11 Track power
12 Regulator lever controls the speed of a loco
13 Direction indicator LEDs
14 Reverser lever controls direction of loco
15 Current indicator shows the amount of current being drawn from
the controller
16 All stop button is used to stop all locos in an emergency
17 Future Upgrade to ZTC 511
18 Enter keys used for entering programming commands into the
controller
19 Loco functions LED illuminates when loco function can be
keyed in directly
20 Isolating power transformer – 9 to 17 V AC – input terminals
21 DC power terminals for external DC power supply feed
22 Output to track feed 1
23 Output to track feed 2
24 Programming track output
25 Accessory connector – future application
26 Slave controller connector
27 Power booster connector
28 Display unit connector
29 Computer port – future application

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 12
CONTROLS
2.0 ZTC 505 Control Features
The diagram of the ZTC 505 shows all the control features. The operation of each feature is
described below:
2.1 Keypad buttons
All the keypad buttons are clustered on the left hand side of the ZTC 505 front panel.
2.2 Command Keys
The left hand column of grey push buttons is the Command keypad. Each key has a
command associated with it, which is printed beside it. These keys are used, in conjunction
with other keys, to configure the ZTC 505 controller and any decoder modules that are
installed in locomotives or connected to the ZTC 505 output.
2.3 Number Keys
The right hand column of grey push buttons is the Number keypad. The number zero (0)
push button is also a command key (SYSTEM), The number keys are used in conjunction
with other keys to configure the ZTC 505 and decoder modules.
2.4 Enter Keys
On the bottom left of the front panel are two buttons marked “L” and “R”. These are referred
to as the and buttons. These buttons are usually pressed at the
end of a sequence of key presses to enter a command into the ZTC 505 computer.
2.5 Entering Keypad Commands
The entry of a sequence of keystrokes is represented by a list of command keys, or number
keys, to be pressed in the order that each appears in the list. An arrow (→) is placed
between each keystroke to more clearly show which key to press next. At no time are
buttons held down, or more than one button pressed at the same time.
Example:
The example indicates that the CONTROL button is pressed first, then the SIGNAL button,
followed by the number 1 button and finally by the ENTER R button.
Where the entry requires the user to choose a numeric value (a loco number, or system
parameter number, for example), this is represented by words in bold lower case italics.
Example:
This translates into pressing the LOCO button first, followed by the desired loco number
(e.g. 123) entered from the number keypad and then followed by the ENTER R button.
The above convention is used throughout this manual.
If a mistake is made in keying in a sequence of commands, provided an ENTER key has
not already been pressed, pressing the CLEAR button will abort the operation and allow
you to start again.
1→→→
CONTROL SIGNAL ENTER R
→ →
LOCO loco number ENTER R
ENTER L ENTER R

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 13
CONTROLS
2.6 Command Key Look-up Table
The back outside cover of this manual shows a quick reference table of command key
functions. Find the feature that you require in the body of the table. The first key to press
will be that shown opposite the feature, in the left hand column. The second key is that
shown above the feature in the top row. The “solo” column indicates that the only command
key required is that shown in the left-hand column. You may have to enter a numeric value
after the command key sequence, using the number keys, depending on the selected
feature, followed by ENTER R.
2.7 Loco controls
Rather than the conventional knob to control the speed of a loco, the ZTC 505 provides
controls similar to those used in a real locomotive. There is a regulator lever, a reverser
lever and a brake handle. These represent the RealFeel™ feature of the ZTC 505
controller.
2.8 Reverser Lever
The reverser operates like a three position switch. The FWD and REV positions dictate the
direction of the currently selected loco. MID represents mid-gear on a steam locomotive, or
neutral on a diesel or electric loco.
Moving the reverser lever rapidly from FWD to REV (or vise versa) causes inertia to be
automatically applied to the loco. The selected direction LED flashes slowly to indicate this.
The loco will slow down, come to a halt and then move away in the opposite direction. This
safeguard prevents abrupt changes in direction that could cause damage to locos and/or
rolling stock.
2.9 Regulator Lever
The regulator lever is used to control the speed of the loco. Its immediate affect on the
speed of a loco depends on other settings of the ZTC 505 and the settings of the decoder
module in the loco concerned.
If inertia has been applied to a train, then moving the regulator to the OFF position will have
no immediate effect on a moving train. The train will coast for a while unless the BRAKE is
applied. If stopped and the regulator moved to the OPEN position, the train will slowly
accelerate to the set speed.
When in the OPEN position, the regulator will only have affect if the REVERSER is fully in
the FWD or REV position.

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 14
CONTROLS
DIGITAL
DC
TRACK
2.10 Brake Handle
If inertia is applied to a train (see section 5.8), setting the regulator to OFF will not stop the
train immediately. The train will coast for a while, depending on the amount of inertia
applied. The train can be brought to a controlled stop by applying the brake. This is
achieved by rotating the brake handle clockwise to progressively apply more braking effort.
An emergency stop is always applied if the brake handle is wound fully on (clockwise).
Note that if the brake handle is more than half way round, any effort to start a stationary
locomotive will be unsuccessful. Return the brake handle to the off position to start any
loco.
In addition to the above, the brake handle control can be used to dial in certain CV values
during programming steps, instead of using the number keys. See Section 15.5 for more
details
2.11 All Stop Button
In pressing the ALL STOP button once will stop all locomotives. Power to the track is still
present and any accessory decoders connected to the track or track output connectors can
still be operated. Pressing the ALL STOP button for a second time cuts all power to the
track.
To show that power has been cut, the TRACK power indicator shown at left,
blinks and the LCD display will show "TRACK OFF/ALL HALTED".
3.0 Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
The ZTC 505 comes equipped with a display unit that plugs into the back of the ZTC 505.
The display unit can be tilted by loosening the two Display Tilt Adjust screws located on
either side of the Display Unit with your fingers. Re-tighten the screws with your fingers
when adjusted to your liking.
The display unit has a two-line LCD screen. The screen gives the user feedback when
operating, or entering new commands into the system. When you are not entering
commands, the top line of the display normally shows the loco number currently under
control, along with its speed.
Loco number and s
p
eed

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 15
CONTROLS
3.1 Power Mode Indicators
•DCC Digital - the latest and most up-to-date digital control system complying with
international NMRA standards, allowing many locomotives to be controlled
simultaneously. One locomotive can be operated independently without a DCC
module installed. All other locomotives MUST have a DCC compatible module
installed. Both the DIGITAL and the DC TRACK power indicators are lit.
3.2 Current Indicator
The CURRENT indicator shows the amount of current being drawn. The
amount of current will depend on the number of locomotives running and
the number of accessory decoders, lighting, or trackside effects connected
directly to the track. The higher the current, the more sections of the current
indicator will illuminate. The diagram to the left shows the approximate
current value when each segment is lit. The current monitor only shows the
current being provided by the ZTC 505 and not that, which may be supplied
by any additional power boosters installed in the track layout.
3.3 Overload
The ZTC 505 is equipped with overload protection in the event that a short circuit occurs.
On detecting a short circuit, track power is momentarily turned off. The OVERLOAD lamp
will light when this happens and a "beep" will be heard. If the short circuit is cleared, then
power will be automatically restored. If the short circuit persists for more than a few
seconds, then the controller will cease attempting to restore the power and the OVERLOAD
lamp will flash continuously and random beeping occurs to indicate that a short circuit
exists. All power to the track will be switched off. Once the short circuit has been located
and corrected, pressing the CLEAR button will restore power.
2 Amps
1 Amp
½ Amp
¼ Amp
CU RREN T
4 Amps
DIGITAL
DC
TRACK
DCC OUTPUT

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 16
CONTROLS
4.0 System Parameters
There are a number of parameter settings that you may want to change when first installing
the ZTC 505 system.
The Scale and Gauge Settings set the maximum voltage and current outputs from the
controller. Depending on the scale of your layout these settings may need to be changed.
The factory default settings are set for OO/HO scale.
The Loco Speed Indicator, displayed on the LCD screen, is set in speed steps. The speed
steps indicate the amount of power that the ZTC 505 is telling the loco decoder to apply to
the motor in the loco. Depending on the loco control mode (14, 28 or 128 steps – see
Section 5.1)
Once set, the above settings are stored in the ZTC 505 and do not need to be set again,
unless a change is required.
4.1 Setting System Parameters
The system parameters can be set by using the keypad buttons to key in the required
information. To view the existing settings, key in:
The system will automatically return to normal operating mode after a few seconds.
To reset the functions to factory settings, key in:
Note that there is no confirmation that a reset has taken place. You will have to view the
parameters to confirm this.
4.2 Scale and Gauge Settings
Use the following keypad sequence to adjust the maximum voltage or limit the maximum
current available to the track:
This will have to be confirmed with another
The System Parameter Table provides the System Parameter Numbers, the parameter
each relates to, and the range of new value figures that may be entered. The new value is
entered in tenths of units e.g. for 1.0 Amp enter 10, for 16.0 Volts enter 160. See the
Recommended Settings Table for recommended voltage and current settings for various
scales and system power modes.
Note that the maximum voltage and current available is dependant on the rating of the low
voltage transformer providing power to the ZTC 505.
→
system parameter number
→→
SYSTEM FUNCTION ENTER R
→
PRESET new value
→
ENTER R
→→
SYSTEM FUNCTION ENTER R
→→
SYSTEM FUNCTION ENTER R
→
9→9

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 17
CONTROLS
System Parameter Table
System
Parameter
Number
System
Parameter
Factory
Setting
Recommended
Minimum
Recommended
Maximum
1Maximum track
voltage
14 Volts 90 (= approx 9
Volts)
255
2Maximum output
current
63
(5 Amps
max.)
10
(= 1.0 Amp)
63 in UK for
digital mode.
Recommended Settings
Scale/Gauge Output Voltage
Parameter 1
Output Current Limit
Parameter 2
DCC Digital
OO/HO 14 VAC set 140 3.5 Amps set 44 (Max)
N12 VAC set 120 3 Amps set 30
O17 VAC set 170 3.5 Amps set 44 (Max)
G or Gauge 1 >20 VAC set 255 3.5 Amps set 44 (Max)
Z10 VAC set 100 2 Amps set 20
5.0 Operating your ZTC 505
Note that one locomotive without a decoder can be operated in DCC mode. This is
assigned address 0, or loco number 0. See Section 5.2 for more details.
To gain control of a locomotive you need to know the address or loco number that has been
assigned to it. The following keystrokes allow you to gain control of a locomotive:
The selected loco number will appear in the top left of the LCD screen. Start the loco
moving by setting the reverser to the desired direction and adjust the regulator for speed.
For new decoders use the number 3 which is the default value.
5.1 Loco Control Mode
The ZTC 505 can be configured to send speed control signals to a loco decoder in one of
three modes. These are the 14 step, 28 step and 128 step modes. The higher the number
of steps, the smoother and more precise the speed control. The default control mode is 28
step. ZTC loco decoders (version 2 and above) can operate in all three modes. Some
manufacturers’ loco decoders do not support the 28 or 128 step modes. If a loco, with a non
ZTC loco decoder installed, shows flashing headlights when accelerating, it is an indication
that the decoder does not support the control mode currently set for that loco. The control
mode would need to be changed. To view the currently set control mode for a given loco
press:
→ →
LOCO loco number ENTER R
→ →
CONTROL CONTROL ENTER R

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 18
CONTROLS
5.2 Changing Loco Control Mode
The ZTC 505 supports three control modes (14, 28 and 128 steps).
To change the control mode for a loco, firstly ensure that you have control of the desired
loco and then enter the following keystrokes:
The LCD screen will show the three control modes with the mode number 1 to 3. Press
selected number to select mode required. To save the selected control mode for the loco
concerned enter the following keypad sequence:
5.3 Controlling a Locomotive Without a Decoder Installed
One locomotive without a decoder installed can be independently controlled by the ZTC 505
This locomotive is assigned an address, or loco number, of 0. However, locomotives with
coreless motors such as Portescap and Faulhaber should not be used in this way. To
determine if the motor in a locomotive is suitable for loco 0 operation, connect a short piece
of track to the main controller output, with the rest of the layout disconnected. Place the
locomotive on the track and call up loco 0 to gain control of it as follows:
With the regulator fully OFF, look at the current indicator LEDs. If there are more than two
current indicator LEDs lit, then the loco is unsuitable for this application and should
be removed from the track immediately. If the LED display shows two or less indicator
LEDs lit, then operate the regulator and reverser to check controllability. A faint buzzing
noise coming from the loco is normal.
5.4 Controlling Another Loco
To take control of another loco (up to 12 can be running simultaneously) call up the loco as
shown above i.e. . The loco originally under control continues
running, but the ZTC 505 controls are now assigned to the other loco number. However, the
newly assigned loco can only be controlled once the regulator has been moved to the OFF
position, and the reverser lever has been returned to the MID position and then moved to
FWD or REV as required. A direction indicator LED will flash rapidly to indicate that this
must be done. Adjust the regulator to allow the loco to move off. Repeat this operation for
other locos.
→
→ →
CONTROL CONTROL ENTER R
mode number
→ →
LOCO PRESET ENTER R
0
→ →
LOCO ENTER R
→ →
LOCO loco number ENTER R

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 19
CONTROLS
5.5 Switching Control Between Running Locos
As loco numbers are entered, the ZTC 505 stores these numbers in its memory location
called the Loco Command Roster (see Section 5.5). To switch control to another loco in the
roster, simply press the ENTER R or ENTER L keys to scroll up or down through the stored
loco command roster. When you arrive at the desired loco number, after a brief pause, the
ZTC 505 will automatically assign control to that loco. The desired loco number will appear
at the top left of the LCD screen.
Alternatively, you may enter the desired loco number directly by calling it up using the
command and number keys:
If the previously controlled loco is running in the opposite direction to that of the newly
selected loco, the direction indicator LEDs, either FWD or REV, will blink slowly, showing
the direction in which the newly selected loco is currently running. Move the reverser lever
towards the blinking LED and position the regulator to adjust the speed. Whilst the direction
indicator is blinking, a heavy inertia is applied to the selected loco, so that a sudden change
in speed or direction is avoided when a loco switch is performed.
5.6 Loco Command Roster
Up to 12 locomotive numbers can be retained in the loco command roster.
(Only 12 locomotives can be operating at the same time). If a 13th loco number is entered,
the ZTC 505 will search for the first loco that is halted, delete it from the roster, and then
add the new loco to the roster. If all 12 locos are in motion, the system will halt the first loco
in the roster, delete it, and then replace it with the new loco number. If you do not want this
to happen, then you can remove a loco number from the roster manually by using the
following keypad sequence:
5.7 Saving Loco Parameters
The Loco Command Roster also stores the various parameters set up for individual locos.
These are the Step control mode and the Maximum speed. When a loco is called up, the
ZTC 505 checks its roster for a match against the loco number. If it finds a match, then the
parameters that were set are recalled for that loco. If parameters are required to be
changed, or stored initially for a new loco, then set the required parameters for the loco, as
described in other parts of this manual, and then enter the following key sequence to save
them in the roster memory:
The saved roster can be recalled at any time by pressing:
→ →
LOCO loco number ENTER L
→
CONTROL
→ →
LOCO PRESET ENTER R
→ →
LOCO ENTER RFUNCTION
→ →
LOCO loco number ENTER R

ZTC Controls Ltd. 505 Manual
Page 20
CONTROLS
5.8 Automatic Recall of Loco Roster on Start-up
The ZTC 505 can be configured to automatically recall features of the last saved loco roster
whenever it is powered up.
To view the available options key in:
Three options will be shown on the LCD screen.
•Select 1 to recall the last loco used at the previous operating session.
•Select 2 to recall the whole loco roster used at the last operating session.
•Select 3 to not recall any locos on start up at all.
Follow your selection with
5.9 Deleting the Saved Loco Roster
The information about all the locos stored in the roster can be deleted by keying in the
following sequence:
5.10 Operating Decoder Functions
Some loco decoders, in addition to controlling the speed and direction of the loco, have a
number of auxiliary functions. These can be used to operate lights, smoke generators, or
sound, for example.
When a new loco is selected, the LED below the FUNCTION button is illuminated. This
indicates that any number entered from the number keys will immediately operate the
related function output; one press for ON and another for OFF. Once another command key
is depressed the FUNCTION LED will go off and the immediate access to the number keys
for operating the various functions is no longer available.
Accessing a loco decoder function is then performed by using the following keystrokes:
Depending on the state of the selected function, this will turn it on or off.
Once a function has been called up in this way, the FUNCTION LED stays illuminated and
immediately pressing a function number on the keypad will toggle that feature on and off.
However, as before, if another command button is depressed the FUNCTION LED will go
out and immediate access to a function is no longer available. To regain access, repeat the
above keystroke sequence.
Refer to the information provided with the loco decoder to determine the function numbers
available. More information on decoder function programming will be found in the
instructions supplied with the decoder.
FUNCTION LOCO
→
ENTER R
→
LOCO →ENTER RPOINT
ENTER R
→→
FUNCTION function number or ENTER L