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For a copy of the TCS Simple Programming Guide click here

For a summary of TCS Decoder specifications click here

NOTE: TCS INCREASED THEIR DECODER PRICES FROM 1st AUGUST 2009

The latest decoders released by TCS are designed as 8-function plug-in replacement boards for Kato N-gauge locos and are called the KOD8-A, KOD8-B, KOD8-C and KOD8-D.

The MC6 range of decoders produced by TCS is to be discontinued.

After consultations with Bromsgrove Models TCS has released a new 6-pin direct plug-in decoder for N gauge locos called the EUN651.

Recent decoder releases from TCS are the K3D3, a drop-in 3 function decoder for Kato NW2 locos, and the Z2, a 2 function hard wired decoder for Z/N/OO/HO scales - this is the smallest decoder that TCS have produced to date and is now available with a harness and 8-pin plug.

Comparison in size between M1 and Z2 decoders (left)

Bromsgrove Models has managed to get TCS to manufacture FL decoders with 8-pin NMRA plugs attached, ideal for use in the trailing cars of multiple units that are fitted with NMRA sockets, such as the Bachmann Class 108. Both FL4 and FL2 decoders are now available with either medium or short harnesses. For a note on programming the FL2 with a harness please click here.

In April 2008 TCS released a revised DP2X decoder (called the DP2X-UK) that now has the pins aligned down the long axis of the decoder board to enable it to be fitted directly into most UK steam locos. There are also new N scale decoders being produced - the CN, CN-GP and ASD4.

TCS have released a number of decoders for specific locos - the AMD1 for Atlas N scale locos and the M1P-15 for the HO scale Atlas MP-15 loco.

The A6X is a drop-in replacement decoder for the locomotive light board. It has the standard 12 volt supply for 12 to 14 volt bulbs and also has a on board 1.5 volt regulated power supply to directly hook up 1.5 volt bulbs with out the need for dropping resistors. This is very useful for Athearn Genesis series locos and Life Like Loco's that come equipped with 1.5 volt bulbs!  It is a Six-function Quiet Drive decoder with Dither (digital pulse power), and comes standard with all  "X" series features.  

Other new developments are a new T6X six function decoder, MC2 mini 2 function decoder and M3 2 function decoder with plug into the PCB. The TCS decoder range now available includes the MC4, (a four function 1 amp micro decoder with 7 pin mini connector) and the MC6 (a six  function 1 amp micro decoder with 7 pin mini connector), and the T4X (the replacement for the TH141). All new decoders have the dimmable light feature as well as some new features. Coming soon - decoders with sound. Watch these pages for more news.

We are the main UK source for the widest range of TCS decoders and spares, available by mail order and via our Internet Store. Train Control Systems is a well established US company that has been producing decoders to NMRA standards for a number of years. All decoders come with a standard one year "Goof Proof" No Questions Asked warranty, and most also have Quiet Drive, Dither and Brake on DC. The range currently consists of decoders with harnesses, decoders for hard-wiring, Plug and Play decoders and Lighting Only decoders. It is also possible to purchase harnesses separately. TCS decoders can be configured to automatically recognise whether the control is via DCC or DC (analogue). According to Train Control Systems all TCS decoders come with a built in type of BEMF.  It is different to the more conventional type of BEMF because it works automatically and there is no adjustment CV. To view the TCS Plain English Programming Guide click here. There is a Yahoo discussion group on the installation and use of TCS decoders - to access the group, click here. TCS provides a Goof-Proof one year warranty, which means that if you damage the decoder it will be replaced by TCS with no questions asked. Decoders should be returned either to Bromsgrove Models or direct to TCS with proof of purchase. Please note that from 1st March 2006, whilst we will replace TCS decoders under this warranty, carriage charges are solely the responsibility of the purchaser and if postage is not included with the returned decoder(s) we reserve the right to levy our standard decoder carriage charges.

Quiet Drive is a feature of all TCS decoders which is active at all times and provides smooth quiet motor performance.

Dither is a feature which greatly enhances the slow running of locos by providing short bursts of power to overcome resistance. The power and frequency of dither is controlled by the user. It allows operating speeds that are a fraction of what is possible with many other decoders, simulating speeds slower than one half MPH. Since the control required is so precise it must be matched to the friction, weight and motor torque of each engine. It is therefore vital that dither is programmed to be effective as all engines are different. BOTH CV56 and CV57 MUST be greater than 0.

SETTINGS FOR CV56 AND CV57

Extended addressing: Decoders respond to over 10,000 addresses

Decoders respond to all methods of programming - Operations, Direct, Paged, Bit manipulation, Physical Register, and also works well with computer programming.

Full featured - Programmable Vhigh, Vmid, User Loadable Speed Tables, Acceleration, Deceleration, Start Voltage, Kick Start, Dither, Lighting Effects, and much more.

Brake on DC - Brake on DC is a feature of all TCS loco decoders and describes the way in which the decoder will respond when the signal supplied to the decoder is switched off and instantaneously replaced by a DC voltage. The decoder will slow the loco at the deceleration rate programmed into CV4. When DCC power is switched back on the loco will automatically accelerate at the rate set in CV3. The system allows for automatic control of DCC locos as part of block control, for example. With a train detection circuit sensing when a train has entered a block and with the switch from DCC to DC power to loco will smoothly decelerate to a stop. When the way is clear and the block is released the DCC signal is restored and the loco smoothly accelerates on its way. Such a system of automatic block control equipment is made, for example, by Bitswitch. Note that to enable the Brake On DC feature in TCS decoders analogue mode must be disabled. This means that Bit 2 of CV29 must be cleared. Do this by writing a value of 2 into CV29. For more information about CV29 click here.

Resetting decoders - all decoders can be reset to the factory default by programming 2 into CV30 or CV8, then turning the power off and back on. With the new generation X series decoders it is not necessary to power off to reset the decoder. However, it is essential this is done on the programming track, not on the main.

Peak amps - all TCS decoders have a peak rating of 2 amps, which should not last longer than 5 seconds in order to avoid permanent damage to the decoder.

TCS Decoder Summary Table