I am using a PR-1 programming interface with my computer. I am programming Soundtraxx DCC's. I have a Plug and Play LC Seriesand a DSD-150. I am operating with an 18 Volt battery supply. I continue to have read errors especially with the LC series decoder. My question is is this normal and has anybody figured out how to make it better? Like a setup or computer setup parameter change.
I've never used the system you discribe and I'm not sure how your PR-1 programming interface connects to your computer but I assume it's via the serial port. Most often I find read errors are cause by cables being too long and causeing the data to be misenturpreted. Make sure the serial cable isn't too longand not close to any interference causing devices such as transformers. If you really need the distance you can get devices to convert the signal to run over twisted pair so it can be run over much longer distances.
I would bet that the PR-1 gets more complaints than any other item discussed on the Digitrax Yahoo Group. There seems to be at least one post a day about someone having a problem with it and multiple responses. I don't use one and don't plan to. The main problem and the solution most often posted is that the batteries aren't fresh or they aren't putting out their rated voltage. If using a power supply the power must be highly regulated and filtered. There are other solutions. One is to use some of the free software that is available (DecoderPro), an MS100 or LocoBuffer interface, and use the programming track. This gets rid of the problematic PR1 and uses the programmer that is built into the command station. I would suggest you join the Digitrax group if you don't already belong and search through the archive for either references to the PR-1 or to DecoderPro for the last month. Good luck.
I have and have been useing the PR 1 both the "Windows" and "DOS" versions successfully for about two years. Never had a problem that I didn't cause myself. Keep the power at or slightly above the recommended 18 Volts with two fresh alkaline batteries in series. Use the recommened program track to reduce any power loss. Keep your leads as short as possible. Have fun and enjoy. I also use the "Winloc" operating program. Carl [ 03 June 2002, 14:38: Message edited by: squirrelrun ]
To work effectively, the PR-1 requires a very well regulated DC power supply. Until I started using the one listed under More Circuits/DCC Circuits at Armadillo and Western RR ), I had nothing but problems with my PR-1. Since building and using this device, the PR-1 has been working flawlessly. Bob AFTICA RR
