Also available to upgrade exisiting analogue locomotives is a Decoder chip, that is capable of "picking up" the signals from the 'Select' and the 'Elite' digital units, and converting them into actions which include moving forward and reversing at a determined speed, stopping and starting, and in some instances switching the locomotive's lights on and off.
The decoder is already plugged into the locomotives that are included with the Select based train sets, however they do have to be fitted to all locomotives that are intended for use with the Select or Elite digital unit. Many of Hornby's locomotives have a socket positioned internally to accommodate the decoder, however some do not and the basic instructions are included with the Select as well as the Elite which go someway to illustrate how to fit the decoder to those locomotives that do not have a decoder socket. The decoder is capable of "picking up" the signals from the Select and the Elite and converting them into actions which includes moving forward and reversing at the determined speed, stopping and starting and in some instances if fitted, switching the locomotives lights on and off. The decoder is also capable of keeping the locomotive running at a set speed no matter what gradients the model encounters.
Load compensation (Back EMF): | Locomotive will run at a consistent speed either on the “flat” or on gradients. |
Selectable for operation with 14, 28 or 128 speed steps: | The greater the number of speed steps the smoother the acceleration.All Hornby decoders are factory set at 128 steps. |
Four On/Off function outputs: | Two of the function outputs are dedicated for the direction of lights – front and rear. |
Overload cutout: | The Hornby decoder is rated at a 500mA continuous current and 1 Amp for a short period. Should this be exceeded then the decoder will overload and cut out.This action protects not only damage to the decoder but also the locomotive. |
Analogue operation: | Locomotives fitted with a Hornby decoder can be operated on an analogue system but without the benefits of digital control. (Not Recommended. Please see the Digital FAQ) |
Dimensions: | 17mm x 10mm x 3.5mm |
Programming Track Wiring
R8215 HORNBY DCC DECODER INSTRUCTIONS
Download the instructions sheet for the R8215 Decoder below:
Hornby DCC Decoder Instructions (85 KB)