Skip to main content

5 replies

Odd question - don't judge me!

Jeff_the_Coaster_GuyJeff_the_Coaster_GuyOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Guys,

Is there a way to determine using ONLY the DCS remote reporting screens (not using ANY physical indicator on the loco) whether a loco has a PS2 or PS3 board installed?

Over the years, I've done probably 20 changes from PS1 to Ps2, PS3, PS32, put new guts in, taken old guts out, etc.

Although I would post some of my projects on this forum, I've sort of lost track of what type of board is in which loco.  I know, should have taken better notes, etc, but the fact remains.

I can't count on things like "charging ports?" "DCC switch?" "LEDs?" on the locos, because none of my engines (save for maybe 2) are actually factory engines.  In some cases, I left charge ports in Ps2 locos and clipped the wires when installing a PS3 board, in some cases I used entirely different homebrew harnesses, etc.  Any of my PS2 locos have had BCR installed, so it's not like I charge anything anyway.  So there's really no great indicator of hardware unless I pull the shells off again, and I'd rather not.

So, the question remains, is there any quirk in the DCS remote reporting that might give me a clue?

Thanks,

Your disorganized friend in upgrades and electronics

Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

VB Vernon BarryOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

I know a way to guess- with a pretty solid rate- but there is no magic command in DCS.

PS2 or PS3 engines, if running under DCS in a direction and you hit the direction button in DCS first come to a stop, then you will hear the direction relay click after a pause, and then you can raise the speed up and they move in the reverse direction.

However- on a PS2 engine, if you hit direction, before the engine stops motion completely and pauses for a second- if you immediately increase the speed command right after pressing direction- will stay moving in that direction. The directional lighting changed with the direction button press- but the engine is remaining going in the original direction.

If you do this same test on a PS3- it will always stop change direction and then follow the new speed command. No pause and waiting for all motion to stop before commanding a speed needed.

Again by this one behavior I have found of a specific direction change sequence, from across the layout on the other side of the room I can tell if an engine is PS2 or PS3.

Last edited by Vernon Barry
RSJB18RSJB18OGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

Judgment Free Zone Here.......

My brain is about as good a mush these days so I've developed a simple and easy method. Like you, I'm a builder and have everything from ERR to PS-stackers, to Lionchief and Flyerchief installed in various engines.

I print a small P-touch label and place it on the bottom of the engine. I put system type/ address, and if I have a BCR installed.  Sorry it doesn't help with your current quandary but I'd recommend it going forward.

2022-11-30 17.40.542022-12-07 20.40.26

Bob

Attachments

Hide
Images (2)
  • 2022-11-30 17.40.54
  • 2022-12-07 20.40.26
H H1000OGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

When track power is applied all engines (PS2 or PS3) remain silent when the watchdog signal is received. If you command an engine to move, a PS2 engine will move while staying dark and quiet but a PS3 engine will immediately light up and make sound.

In conventional mode, PS2 engines will light up and make sound as soon as power is applied. A PS3 engine will turn on the headlight only and stay quiet for a few seconds while the supercaps charge. Once the caps are charged, the rest of the lighting turns on and the start-up sounds begin.

Last edited by H1000
pennsyfanpennsyfanOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
@RSJB18 posted:

Judgment Free Zone Here.......

My brain is about as good a mush these days so I've developed a simple and easy method. Like you, I'm a builder and have everything from ERR to PS-stackers, to Lionchief and Flyerchief installed in various engines.

I print a small P-touch label and place it on the bottom of the engine. I put system type/ address, and if I have a BCR installed.  Sorry it doesn't help with your current quandary but I'd recommend it going forward.

2022-11-30 17.40.542022-12-07 20.40.26

Bob

I started using P touch labels when I converted to BCRs. Now that’s not enough. Thanks for the wake up call! I need to add a mini data sheet. I’m embarrassed to say I’ve put an engine on the track and get can’t get it to move; then I realize I’m using the wrong control system; sometimes only after I scrolled down the list of engines on the MTH controller. Then the moment of doubt, is it PS1 or Lionel. 😱

Add Reply

Views: 150
Post
The DCS Forum is sponsored by

Membership Required

We're sorry. You must be signed in to continue. Sign In or Register
×
Are you sure you want to remove from your Block List?
×
Loading...
×
When you block a person, they can no longer invite you to a private message or post to your profile wall. Replies and comments they make will be collapsed/hidden by default. Finally, you'll never receive email notifications about content they create or likes they designate for your content.
Note: if you proceed, you will no longer be following .
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×

Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership

OGR Forum Supporting Membership

Help support this forum with an OGR Forum Supporting Membership.
You will be able to watch the videos in the INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO FORUM!
A one-year OGR Forum Supporting Membership is only $12 per year, so sign up now!


    OR     


Access the ALL the OGR VIDEO FORUMS AND  over 300 back issues of OGR
with a DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION!



$12.00 per 12 Months (plus tax if applicable)
×