March 19, 2006

More on LokSound Micro Sound Decoders and Installation

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Introduction of LokSound Micro

We've had some time to work with the new LokSound Micro Sound Decoders from ESU and have started shipping. After obtaining a transition plug from ESU for programming, the first thing that struck us was how tempting it would be to use these little gems in HO locos.

Not so fast! Dennis at ESU installed one in an HO Loco when he first received it. The decoder worked fine but kept shutting down and re-starting; obviously the locomotive was exceeding the decoder's amperage rating. The overload protector in the decoder was doing its job quite well! Since the little critter is sensitive (understandably so) I asked what the real-world warranty coverage would be on the loco if the overload protector gave up the ghost and the decoder failed. And the answer is:

"the decoder will be covered as long as it is operated within the unit's specifications"

I'll leave it to the reader to decide for himself how that will play out. However, Tony's offers the following guidelines:

Rule 1: The HO ESU decoder is small enough to fit somewhere in just about ALL HO locomotives - there is no reason to tempt fate and use the Micro. It doesn't even have the correct plug;

Rule 2: The Micro Diesel is certainly tempting for some small HO switchers like a BacSpec 44 Tonner or some Athearn or Walthers units but if in doubt refer to Rule 1;

RULE 3: The HO Steam ESU will even fit in some N Scale tenders and will provide a few more features but the Micro would definitely be an easier fit;

Rule 4: Please don't ask. We've provided some pictures provided by ESU of a narrow-hood diesel installation of an ESU Micro Sound decoder and speaker. It looks challenging to say the least. We at Tony's have decided that we cannot offer to do this work in a reliable, timely or economically feasible way. If you decide to pursue it, good luck.