Configuration Variables (Cvs); Standardisation In The Nmra; Bits And Bytes; Programming With Popular Digital Systems - Esu LokPilot V4.0 Instruction Manual

Programming

8.1.1. Configuration Variables (CVs)

LokPilot V4.0 LokPilot V4.0 DCC
LokPilot micro V4.0 LokPilot micro V4.0 DCC
LokPilot XL V4.0
LokPilot decoders follow the CV concept developed in the US. CV
stands for „Configuration Variable" and indicates that the storage
cells described above are not only variable but they also determine
the behaviour of the decoder.

8.1.1.1. Standardisation in the NMRA

The NMRA (National Model Railroad Association) has defined
which CVs determine certain parameters of a decoder. The DCC
standard allocates fixed numbers for certain CVs (adherence is ob-
ligatory). This greatly simplifies things for the user since decoders
of most manufacturers comply with this standard and therefore
dealing with CVs requires the same process with the same CV-
numbers regardless of the manufacturer.
The DCC concept permits to enter numbers ranging from 0 to 255
into CVs. Each CV carries only one number.
While the position number is predetermined, the range of values
may vary. Not all CVs must accept values ranging from 0 to 255.
The permitted values for LokPilot decoders are listed in the table in
chapter 20.1. showing all available CVs.
30

8.1.1.2. Bits and Bytes

Most CVs contain numbers: CV 1 for instance contains the lo-
LokPilot V4.0 M4
comotive address. This can be any number between 1 and 127.
While most CVs expect numbers to be entered, some others are
rather like a „collection point" of various „switches", that admin-
ister different functions in one CV (mainly „on" or „off): CVs 29
and 49 are good examples: you must calculate the value for these
CVs yourself. The value depends on which settings you want to
program:
Have a look at the explanations for CV 29 in the table in chap-
ter 20.1.: firstly, decide which options should be active. The col-
umn „Value" has two numbers for each option. If the option is
switched off, the value is 0. Otherwise, it is a number between 1
and 128. Add all the values for the respective options to arrive at
the correct value for this CV.
Example: Let us assume you want to run trains with the ECoS in
DCC mode with 128 speed steps. Analogue detection should be
active (because you also want to drive your locomotive in ana-
logue mode). All other options are not active.
Therefore you must write the value 6 in CV 29 (0 + 2 + 4 +0 = 6).

8.2. Programming with popular digital systems

As already explained it is not possible to program every type of
LokPilot with every command station in the market. This chapter
explains which options are available.