Loco.Engineering DCC/WCC Train Sound/Multifunction Decoder
Getting Started
All train decoders come with default firmware and settings: the decoder address is set to 18, the light is controlled by function 0, and the test sound is attached to function 1. These settings can be changed via the web app (steps below).
The steps below apply to Loco.Engineering decoders and custom decoders using SimpleDCC/WCC firmware, which you can download from our GitHub repository.
- Install the decoder inside your train. For fast evaluation, you can use the included tool for firmware uploading.
- Power the decoder by either powering the track (decoders work with DCC, DC, and AC) or connecting a USB-C cable to the firmware tool. The voltage range is 5V - 19V.
- Open the WiFi network list on a mobile device, laptop, or tablet and connect to the "locoxxxxx" network, where "xxxxx" is the serial number located on the bottom of the decoder.
- After connecting to the decoder’s WiFi, open a browser and navigate to http://loco.local or http://192.168.4.1 to access the web app, where you can configure and control the decoder. Note: While connected to the decoder’s WiFi, your device won’t have internet access.
- In the web app, click on “New state” to create a new state, or click on an existing state to edit it (e.g., to change the DCC address). A "state" represents a signal or condition that activates an element connected to the decoder when a DCC packet or WCC message is received.
Each time you click "Save," the decoder settings are uploaded, allowing you to test new states immediately after saving them. - (Optional) Send a DCC packet from the command station to test if the state is activated when a DCC packet is received. - That’s it! You can now add more states and control the decoder via DCC, WCC, or the web app.
Loco.Engineering Train Decoder Specifications
- Dimensions: 29mm x 13mm x 4mm
- Compatible with DCC (Digital Command Control), WCC (Wireless Command Control), and DC (Direct Current or Analog Control). Mfx support is coming soon.
- Functions as a train, multi-function, sound, and accessory decoder.
- Speed steps: 28-128
- Supports multiple DCC addresses on a single decoder.
- Compatible with functions 1-28.
- Max motor current: 1.5A
- Audio: 2W, 8Ω
- Function/Light current: 2 outputs up to 100mA/output, 2 outputs up to 40mA/output
- Flash memory for sounds: 2MB
- RAM: 2MB
- Operating voltage: 5V - 19V
- Back EMF and motor current sensing.
- 3.3V and 5V outputs.
- Connect up to 4 servo motors, with a total current limit of 400mA.
- GPIOs for external sensors, drivers, and components over I2C, SPI, or UART.
- Audio files can be uploaded via a web browser without additional tools.
- RGB status LED for simplified decoder testing.
- Can be battery-powered (with an additional battery management board).
- Decoder CVs and logic can be updated via a mobile phone, tablet, or laptop web browser with WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity, bypassing command stations.
- Over-the-air updates with new features twice a month.
- Fully programmable with Arduino or ESP-IDF.
What You Can Control/Create with the Loco.Engineering Train Decoder
- Operate model trains and other movable components using DC/DCC or WCC with a voltage range of 5-19V.
- Control battery-powered trains, such as LEGO® models (requires an additional battery management board).
- Directly control up to 4 servo motors without additional boards.
- Operate turnouts and other layout elements using bi-directional solenoids (typically with 2-wire setups).
- Integrate NFC readers to detect when specific trains arrive at designated locations.
- Connect sensors using I2C, SPI, or UART communication interfaces.
- Develop custom remote controllers or boards to manage the layout.
- Write and upload your own firmware and applications.
Decoder Schematic
Custom Firmware/Code
Follow the instructions for building and uploading custom firmware in our GitHub repository.
Train Decoder Versions
- Bare decoder without wires and connectors – Can be connected to virtually any train, but soldering is required.
- Decoder with wires – Can be connected to virtually any train without soldering if the motor and lights in your train already have wires. Check tips on how to connect wires without soldering: YouTube Tutorial.
- Decoder with NEM 652 (8-pin) interface
- Decoder with 21MTC interface Here’s a corrected version:
Where to Buy?
You can order Loco.Engineering train decoders exclusively from our online shop.
Questions?
Contact us at hey@loco.engineering