PS3 Flash Programming Errors

David,

You're using AC as power into Fixed #2. Try DC. It's supposed to be better for PS3 engines.

Barry, I assume you only mean HO PS3???

David,

I assume you only mean HO PS3???

No, all PS3 engines. I was so devised by MTH.

What am I missing?  Are you saying that for operations of PS3 DC is better than AC?  Also, does the poster's use to the term "flash" means something other than a sound file?

Robert,

 Are you saying that for operations of PS3 DC is better than AC?

 Yes.

Also, does the poster's use to the term "flash" means something other than a sound file?

Flash is different from a sound file. It's the actual DSP (digital signal processor) firmware in the engine. It's stuff like, but not restricted to, operating pantographs or subway transit stops.

Barry,

First, thanks for the fast reply to my original post.

Second, a correction.  The Input and Output used are #1.

Now, I tried again, using a MRC Tech 4 200 DC transformer.  I hooked the variable DC output of the transformer to the Fixed Input #1.  I connected the loco directly to the Fixed Output #1.  When I first tried the DCS Loader it came up with an error message stating that it couldn't find the loco.  So I reversed the polarity on the transformer and the software found the loco.

I still can't get a successful update an either locomotive.  The system mainly keeps on getting hung-up at the same step.  Could the problem now be the choice of DC transformer?  Perhaps either a more basic transformer, such as the MRC Railpower 1370, or a more power model such as the Trainpower 6200?

Thanks again.

Yes,  I used an older MRC with a fixed DC output.  If you have to use the track DC output ensure Momentum and any other features are off.  Polarity matters, so check the output before you connect the DC to the Red and Black inputs.

Ralph, DC works very well for loading even PS-2 5V boards.  Did another one today flawlessly and rapidly.  G

David,

I use the tech4 260. I recently found out that the 1370 is not a good transformer to use for this. The sine wave is not clean and some of the older MTH HO engines don't like it.

With the HO you have to use DC power when using the TIU. Using AC power can hurt the electronics in the engine. The TIU does not modulate the power like DCC does this is why you need to use DC power only when running HO with the TIU. Plus you have to make sure the polarity going into the tiu is correct.

The HO stem engines can handle a bit of AC power and be ok, but the diesels just don't like it. Hopefully nothing happened to your engine.  

GGG, I will have to try DC power for down loads. Never gave it a thought. I learn something new everday with this stuff. Thanks.

David, One other thing.  I think there is a ASC Service note that talks about using a much longer cord for upgrades for PS-3 models, something like 6 feet long.  The service note struck me as a typo, but when I asked Service they said yes to the longer cord.  G

David,

Could the problem now be the choice of DC transformer?

The guy to answer this is Dave Hikel. You could E-mail him directly using the E-mail address in  his profile.