need help with MTS 3 and mfx decoder

I used to use the LGB MTS software to change my CVs rather than the Handset, as it was much easier IMO....
 
‘Half a step out of the stone age’….
if the shoe fits…lol.



i will read the lgb manual, then the massoth Manual.

again thank you all for your responses and help.
Merry Christmas thanks
 
Gizzy said:
I used to use the LGB MTS software to change my CVs rather than the Handset, as it was much easier IMO....
Click to expand...
I used the sprog II SPROG DCC Ltd On-line Shop for years while I had MTS - connected to a pc with a massoth rolling road 8101200 Rolling Road G – Massoth Elektronik GmbH The software I used was the free JMRI Decoder Pro - JMRI: A Java Model Railroad Interface

With this setup I could program the CVs, then test the results on the desk by switching decoderPro into the operate mode

It worked well for everything but the Allegra. Only issue with the SPROG was that there is no short protection built into the unit so while you can test run, be careful there is no dodgy wiring in your loco first,
 
I used the LGB software to change CV’s, in fact still have that setup on an old computer for older LGB Chios, for more modern ones I find my Roco Z21 works just fine. Did try a Sprog back in 2012 or so but could never get it to work. No good going that route now as my Windows gear is back in Win98 days.
 
I used a 55015P for many years. Recently sold it along with my MTS III gear.

I kept an LGB 55045 and use it with the Massoth Service Tool (Free: Massoth Service Tool – Massoth Elektronik GmbH ) to program CVs. 55045 can be found used. If you can't find one, then you have to go with a Massoth 8175201 or a used 8175001 (Prior version)

******** I highly recommend using a software tool to read and program CVs !!! ******

The 55015 only allows you to program and does not allow you to read. Programming CVs with the 55015 is painful. I wasted too many years doing it.

I read through this thread and at this point I am lost as to where you are at with this situation.

I have only used LGB and Massoth decoders. I am not familiar with MFX.

If you have only one Loco with an MFX, have you considered replacing it with a regular DCC such as the 8154401 eMotion. (replace the LGB 55021)
 
So as not to have too a long a thread, I am posting this about the Massoth Service Tool. There are other tools available. This works well for me.

In addition to easy viewing and programming of all CVs on a decoder, it allows you to save and rename files with all the settings It is the easiest way to document what all the CVs are set to for each of your locos and other devices. You can also print out the settings in a nice color code report or save it as a PDF.

Again, the 55015 only lets you program (i.e. write one CV at a time) and does not let you read the value. The only feedback you get is the slight pulse when hit the final key. You have to be absolutely sure you hit every prior key correctly or you can easily have programmed the wrong CV and not know it.

The CIA had considered using this in lieu of waterboarding.
 
John Russo said:
I have only used LGB and Massoth decoders. I am not familiar with MFX.

If you have only one Loco with an MFX, have you considered replacing it with a regular DCC such as the 8154401 eMotion. (replace the LGB 55021)
Click to expand...

MFX is a Marklin protocol that is included in the modern LGB decoders and has been for at least 8 years now. The decoders in LGB locos since 2014 are called MSD3 decoders and are multi protocol, meaning they support MFX, MM, and DCC formats. It is completely unnecessary to replace this decoder as it functions just fine in DCC.

It is recommended if you do not have an MFX-capable system (only the Marklin CS3 and ESU ECOS currently support this format) then you turn off the unused protocols as the decoders have a protocol hierarchy, and MFX is at the top, DCC at the bottom. As other stated on these decoders that can typically be accomplished by setting CV50=2, though Marklin has changed the protocols and settings numerous times on the MSD3 decoders, so check the manual for you loco on the exact values possible. CV50=2 will typically make it DCC-only.

If you buy a Massoth CS 1210z it comes with the Massoth Programming Tool or MST. It will allow you to read and write to Massoth decoders only, however. I do not believe other brand decoders are recognized. You can very easily read and write the few CV values you would be interested through the native programming function of the CS and Navigator regardless of decoder brand. The MST will allow you to update the firmware of the various Massoth components, however, and is a useful tool for that.

For those coming from the older LGB MTS systems Massoth is a great logical upgrade for DCC control. Massoth produced the electronics that were used by LGB prior to the Marklin takover and its format is pretty intuitive and easy to use. It provides most everything a typical garden railroader would require and plenty of power.
 
Diesel, good post. I learned something new about MFX.

With regard the Massoth Service Tool, he can use his MTS system with an LGB 55045 to operate the tool directly and would not need the 1210.
 
Dunny,

I am often wrong but never in doubt (Lol).

Seriously, I used an 55015 for many years and am pretty sure there is no way to read CVs.

I have Stellwerks. It has a decent CV programming tool. I still use Stellwerks to control the trains but moved on the the Massoth Service Tool to do all the CV work.
 
Last edited:
John Russo said:
Dunny,

I am often wrong but never in doubt (Lol).

Seriously, I used an 55015 for many years and am pretty sure there is no way to read CVs.

I have Stellwerks. It has a decent CV programming tool. I still use Stellwerks to control the trains but moved on the the Massoth Service Tool to do all the CV work.
Click to expand...
Yes you are right, just read the manual and it does not appear to offer CV reading ability. Strange, but if one is careful it works ok. I expect a ham fisted or pixxquick person could easily make a hash of things.
 
OK all here goes:
I have set up many Marklin and other decoders to run on MTS. The MTS 3 is a serial based command station and tries to run new decoders as they have shipped at 14 speed steps. You must type F9 to switch the loco to parallel operation.
Next, one must change the Marklin decoder to DCC and optional DC but eliminate other modes by changing CV50 contents to 2. Setting CV50 to 0 is DCC only.
Now if you change the locos address, once again the MTS3 must be set to parallel again or it will default to serial operation.
The MTS 3 system will do 28 speed steps if you use the Massoth Navigator to run your trains and allow you to go to 9999 addresses. It (MTS/navigator) can not do 128 speed steps.

I hope this helps all understand what is needed better.

PS: I own and operate both the MTS1 and MTS 2P system but program all decoders with my Zimo system as the newer DCC systems are much easier to use for programming. MTS can not read decoders but you can get the 55045 interface to a computer to program (read and write) decoders with a colored graphic screen but you are limited to the first 256 CV's.

Also note the 55015 can program addresses 0-22, it is the MTS 1 that can only do 1-8!! MTS II is 1-16 with the 55016, and 1-22 with the 55015.
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top