Inc LocoNet Cable Maker Kit - Manual

LocoNet Wiring: LocoNet Cables

LocoNet Cables must be reliable and well made, or you may see inter-

mittent connectivity and spotty operation on the layout. If areas of the

layout exhibit intermittent issues, bad cables may be the problem. Bad

cables on your layout can be very frustrating and are completely avoid-

able by simply testing each cable before you install it on the layout.

It’s easy to make LocoNet Cables using the tools in this kit. If you decide

to purchase LocoNet cables from other sources, be sure to use 6-con-

ductor and not the similar 4-conductor plugs and wires. If you purchase

pre-made cables, make sure you test them as described below before

using them.

LocoNet Jacks

LocoNet Cables are plugged into LocoNet Jacks located around the lay-

out. LocoNet Jacks are available on all LocoNet compatible components.

Shorted Contacts Inside LocoNet Jacks Can Cause LocoNet

Problems:

1. If the contacts inside the LocoNet jacks are accidentally shorted,

LocoNet may exhibit strange behavior or may stop working all to-

gether.

2. It’s easy to see if these contacts are shorted by simply looking inside

the jack.

3. If contacts are shorted inside the LocoNet Jack, simply straighten

them so they are no longer touching.

4. If contact 3 or 4 is shorted to contact 2 or 5 (ground), the Command

Station will not see LocoNet messages and LocoNet will appear unre-

sponsive.

5. If contact 1 or 6 is shorted the Boosters may not make good track

packets or power reductions to throttles and other devices may

brown out and not operate properly.

Digitrax UP5 and other previous models of Universal Panels are very

convenient for quick LocoNet hook up.