SoundTraxx SoundCar Users Guide - Manual (Page 9)

Tsunami SoundCar User’s Guide Page 5
Programming Procedure
Because each DCC system is unique, the procedure for programming a
Configuration Variable (CV) differs among systems. Unfortunately, we cannot
provide detailed instructions to cover every available command station and
must assume that you have some level of understanding regarding the
capabilities and operating procedures specific to your system. For detailed
programming procedures, please consult your DCC system manual or
contact the manufacturer for support.
What is a CV?
Configuration Variable (CV) is the industry‑adopted term for a decoder’s
user‑programmable memory locations. CVs allow you to customize individual
decoder properties such as the address, volume, sound effects, lighting,
and much more. Once a CV has been programmed, the setting will be
permanently remembered even after the power is turned off. A CV can be
modified as often as necessary by simply reprogramming it with a new value.
With the large number of CVs available, first inspection of the available
options may cause confusion and even a little panic. Relax! As previously
indicated, the DSD has been shipped with all CVs pre‑programmed so you
can begin using your SoundCar immediately without making adjustments.
The following sections break out the SoundCar’s CVs into various categories,
so it is only necessary to change a few CVs at a time if you want customized
operation. As you become comfortable with one set of CVs, move on to a
new category and begin exploring the available options and capabilities.
Detailed information related to any CV can be found in the Tsunami
SoundCar Technical Reference.
Bits and Bytes
One of the most confusing aspects of programming a CV is figuring out
the meaning of all the different bits, bytes and x’s found in various decoder
manuals. This problem is further compounded by differences in each
command station manufacturer’s user interface.
If just reading about bits and bytes already has your head spinning, a short
math lesson is in order before proceeding (but don’t worry, there won’t be a
test). Each CV stores a numeric value that can be represented in one of the
following three forms:
Decimal – This is the most common and familiar numbering format, and the
one that most of us use in day‑to‑day life. Numbers are represented as a
sequence of digits comprising the numerals 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
Hexadecimal – Also referred to as simply “hex,” this is a specialized number
representation that uses the characters A‑F in addition to numerals 0‑9.
An advantage of hexadecimal numbering is that it allows a given decimal
number to be more compactly represented. For example, the decimal number
Basics of Programming