Try two things:
Either open the Single CV Programmer and read a CV back (CV1 for example).
Or, open the general programmer and select the decoder manually and try to read
back a page of information.
If it works, then the problem looks to be in the decoder (-1 is not a legitimate
reply), if it fails then the problem looks to be in the Sprog.
Alternatively, if you can read values from the loco on a normal DCC handset,
then the problem does look to be in the Sprog.
(When the software tries to identify the decoder it tries to read CV's 7 and 8.
Those contain the maker's identification code and the version number the maker
applied to the decoder. From the two numbers the software can make a decent
guess as to the decoder installed in the loco ).
- Nigel
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "ps.harris80" <ps.harris80@...> wrote:
>
> Hi guys
>
> Having a bit of a problem with my Sprog and I need some help.
>
> Only had the Sprog a couple of weeks and when I first got it it work fine
after install.
>
> I didn't use it again untill today and now it is un-able to read or write to
the decoders.
>
> I have checked all settings and can see nothing that would give this problem,
Com port still on 3 etc.
>
> All I get when I press (Read Type From Decoder) is an error message that says
(Found mfg -1 version -1; no such manufacterer defined)
>
> I tried it on two different PC's and still got the same results.
>
> Anyone know whats going wrong.
>
> Thanks
>
> Paul
>
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "ps.harris80" <ps.harris80@...> wrote:
>
> Hi guys
>
> Having a bit of a problem with my Sprog and I need some help.
>
> Only had the Sprog a couple of weeks and when I first got it it work fine
after install.
>
> I didn't use it again untill today and now it is un-able to read or write to
the decoders.
>
> I have checked all settings and can see nothing that would give this problem,
Com port still on 3 etc.
>
> All I get when I press (Read Type From Decoder) is an error message that says
(Found mfg -1 version -1; no such manufacterer defined)
>
> I tried it on two different PC's and still got the same results.
>
> Anyone know whats going wrong.
>
> Thanks
>
> Paul
Just noticed if I open a throttle and enter the Decoder address I am able to
control the loco,
>
Hi guys
Having a bit of a problem with my Sprog and I need some help.
Only had the Sprog a couple of weeks and when I first got it it work fine after
install.
I didn't use it again untill today and now it is un-able to read or write to the
decoders.
I have checked all settings and can see nothing that would give this problem,
Com port still on 3 etc.
All I get when I press (Read Type From Decoder) is an error message that says
(Found mfg -1 version -1; no such manufacterer defined)
I tried it on two different PC's and still got the same results.
Anyone know whats going wrong.
Thanks
Paul
Tried Hyper Terminal,
On loading I get the message
"Windows has reported a TAPI error (80000048). Use the Phone and Modem Options
icon in the control panel to ensure that a modem is installed properly."
On clicking OK I can input the data you suggested.
Pressing Enter just makes the light flash and nothing else. No prompt comes up
on screen. Pressing the reset button gives me a L> on screen but still nothing
when I input a +
I think my sprog has given up the ghost of good will...
Andy
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "zupsys" <merg@...> wrote:
>
>
>
> --- In sprog-dcc@..., "andy_sollis" <Andy@> wrote:
> >
> > Any news on this problem ?
> >
> > I'm still not having any joy (although I'm going to try a new computer soon)
> >
> > Andy
> >
>
> Just a thought Andy.
>
> This may be completely wide of the mark for your problem, but maybe worth
considering.
>
> My kit built Sprog I stopped talking to the JMRI software (can't remember the
error code).
>
> So I tried talking to Sprog directly with Hyperterminal (just set 9600 bps, 8
bits no parity on the right com port)
>
> Press enter and see if you get a P> prompt. Type + and see if it puts track
power on, - should turn it back off (Sprog LED should come on with track power)
>
> I found I was getting a double prompt from the Sprog which was confusing JMRI,
although I could still do stuff manually in Hyperterminal.
>
> I looked at Andrew's source code and decided that the only thing that could
reasonably cause this is if the PIC program memory had somehow got corrupted. So
I re-flashed the PIC with the current Sprog firmware and, hey presto, problem
fixed.
>
> So it's worth checking this just in case you happen to have a similar problem.
>
> Regards,
>
> Pete
>
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "andy_sollis" <Andy@...> wrote:
>
> Any news on this problem ?
>
> I'm still not having any joy (although I'm going to try a new computer soon)
>
> Andy
>
Just a thought Andy.
This may be completely wide of the mark for your problem, but maybe worth
considering.
My kit built Sprog I stopped talking to the JMRI software (can't remember the
error code).
So I tried talking to Sprog directly with Hyperterminal (just set 9600 bps, 8
bits no parity on the right com port)
Press enter and see if you get a P> prompt. Type + and see if it puts track
power on, - should turn it back off (Sprog LED should come on with track power)
I found I was getting a double prompt from the Sprog which was confusing JMRI,
although I could still do stuff manually in Hyperterminal.
I looked at Andrew's source code and decided that the only thing that could
reasonably cause this is if the PIC program memory had somehow got corrupted. So
I re-flashed the PIC with the current Sprog firmware and, hey presto, problem
fixed.
So it's worth checking this just in case you happen to have a similar problem.
Regards,
Pete
Hello Group
Well interesting enough last night I also got a Error 306 while trying to
program a Bachman GE44 Tonner. Luckily Steph my friend was here and we put
our heads together to look into it. After much installing and checking of
things we found that as the last loco I had programmed had been a Proto 2000
QSI sound equipped engine I had Blue line compatibility turned on.
I would be able to give better instructions but my sprog is now not working
at all :-( go into the command sprog options and un tick the Blue one and I
found everything worked.
Andrew you might be getting my sprog back as unless it is just a dry joint
for some reasons after last nights testing and it was working fine, this
morning it is dead in the water :-(
Chris
-----Original Message-----
From: sprog-dcc@... [mailto:sprog-dcc@...] On
Behalf Of Chris Marrable
Sent: 22 October 2009 14:54
To: sprog-dcc@...
Subject: RE: [sprog-dcc] Re: Error 306
Hello Andy
I have a version II which has also had an update to the firmware.
It might be that your Sprog does have a problem (components only last so
long, might even be a dry joint.
Just as a thought have you checked all the wire connections are tight and
clean. Dirty track (and I mean only slightly dirty) can give problems also
the wheels of the loco. These are two things I personally have had problems
with. How do screws undo themselves when my Sprog never moves off my desk!
Maybe even use new wires and start from scratch.
Also I am presuming it is all hard wired and not through a DPDT switch to
the track you are standing the loco on? I had issues with this too! I now
wire direct.
Where do you live in the UK? I am going to the NMRA BR Convention in Swindon
this weekend.
The best option in one way (if we corporately cannot help) is to post it
(with return postage) to Andrew, I think it cost me 54p each way. Then he
can do his wizardry on it.
Chris
-----Original Message-----
From: sprog-dcc@... [mailto:sprog-dcc@...] On
Behalf Of andy_sollis
Sent: 22 October 2009 14:22
To: sprog-dcc@...
Subject: [sprog-dcc] Re: Error 306
Hi Chris,
Anything I try to do where it talks to the Sprog (I not the later II model)
On my main computer regardless of trying to use the throttle or CV reader, I
just get the same message ? On light is on showing power, another flashes
for a 1\4 of a second and the error message 306 can't communicate with the
Sprog.
I have tried the reset button and when trying the Throttle just sets the
screen LED back to red (It defaults at Yellow) but then nothing - I can't
switch on the power.
I tried it on my laptop this morning (which has also had the latest XP
downloads that came in the last fortnight from Windows) and that also has a
similar message (older version of DP just to be sure) that it can't
communicate with command station ?
Both (computers) are running USB2 sockets.
I don't think a screen shot would be of use with just the simple error
message, unless it is the CV display, but then, I'm not getting that far ?
(am I?)
I think I may have to send to Andrew for a check-up. More expense ! I'd buy
a new one if I could afford it !
Andy
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "Chris Marrable" <borg2657-1@...> wrote:
>
> Hello Andy
>
> When do you get this error, what are you actually doing. Just to narrow
down
> to what we might thinking you are doing and you are actually doing.
>
> Sometimes finding problems by emails is quite hard as it is easy to assume
> on both sides that someone knows what we have done to get an error.
>
> At present they are talking of a 306 error on the JMRI software yahoo
group.
> Which seems to relate to a specific decoder roster file.
>
> Can you read any locos or do you always get the 306 error. Can you take
some
> screen shots and send them.
>
> Chris
------------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups Links
------------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups Links
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "upwpfan" <upwpfan@...> wrote:
>
> I have quick question for you folks about Decoder Pro and the
> SPROG II. Right now it does not allow for consisting of engines
> (at least I do not think that it does) has any body come up with
> a work around beyond setting multiple locos to the same address?
> I know that power can be upped on the SPOG with boosters. With
> this capability SPROG II starts to morph into a complete command
> station.
I think it does allow the Consisting Tool *if* used in Sprog Command Station
Mode. (Commands are present, but I lack the time now to check it really works).
The fundamental difference between "Sprog" and "Sprog Command Station" is in the
programming interface to the track.
In the former the programmer is a read/write programming track interface which
happens to have a throttle for loco testing.
In the latter the interface is to the running lines with a write-only Ops-mode
programmer, and multiple throttles for running.
Alternative is to use the Sprog mode and set CV19 manually (which is the consist
address CV in decoders which support consisting using the "advanced consisting"
method).
In "COmmand Station" mode, the Sprog is a complete command station, though with
rather low total current. Its enough to run a modest N layout.
I am interested in this topic too.
Jere - just remember that the SPROG is not an intelligent command station -
its intelligence is provided merely by the software that is controlling it.
The SPROG just puts DCC commands on the track. I (and others) use Decoder
Pro (Java Model Railroad Interface). I use a booster attached to it and this
is my main method of controlling my layout.
I've not investigated its consisting capabilities, but theoretically it
could do better than a standard command station. Have others used its
consisting capabilities?
Think of it this way - you configure the software to put two locos in a
consist. The software could know intimate details of the locos - their
addresses and acceleration curves, calibrated speed settings, etc. Then it
would be able to address the two locos simultaneously and control them from
a single throttle. To me this sounds like a much better solution than
consisting achieved by running two locos with the same address, or the pain
of setting up advanced consisting (which not all decoders support).
Andrew
On Fri, Oct 30, 2009 at 3:57 PM, upwpfan <upwpfan@...> wrote:
>
>
> Folks;
>
> First, hello from across the pond. I am a relative new SPROG II user and
> have found it to be an excellent product. I have quick question for you
> folks about Decoder Pro and the SPROG II. Right now it does not allow for
> consisting of engines (at least I do not think that it does) has any body
> come up with a work around beyond setting multiple locos to the same
> address? I know that power can be upped on the SPOG with boosters. With this
> capability SPROG II starts to morph into a complete command station.
>
> Regards
>
> Jere Ingram
>
>
>
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Folks;
First, hello from across the pond. I am a relative new SPROG II user and have
found it to be an excellent product. I have quick question for you folks about
Decoder Pro and the SPROG II. Right now it does not allow for consisting of
engines (at least I do not think that it does) has any body come up with a work
around beyond setting multiple locos to the same address? I know that power can
be upped on the SPOG with boosters. With this capability SPROG II starts to
morph into a complete command station.
Regards
Jere Ingram
On Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:45:39 +0000
Andrew Berridge <andrew.berridge@...> wrote:
> So - I like the USB knob things. Trouble is they are comparitively
> expensive...
>
> 30 pounds for a Griffin as far as I could see. Phidget seems to require an
> interface board for each sensor (throttle potentiometer). If you have the
> interface board, then presumably several pots could be attached to it.
>
> The real advantage of the XBox controllers is their cost. I did a search
> this morning on eBay - you can get Xbox controllers for about 5-10 pounds
> each! You can even buy an Xbox with a controller for around 20 pounds
> including postage ;-)
Thats not bad - you also get a hard disk (and a lot of fun) out of each
xbox you smash up as well.
Alan
So - I like the USB knob things. Trouble is they are comparitively
expensive...
30 pounds for a Griffin as far as I could see. Phidget seems to require an
interface board for each sensor (throttle potentiometer). If you have the
interface board, then presumably several pots could be attached to it.
The real advantage of the XBox controllers is their cost. I did a search
this morning on eBay - you can get Xbox controllers for about 5-10 pounds
each! You can even buy an Xbox with a controller for around 20 pounds
including postage ;-)
Thanks,
Andrew
On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 6:42 PM, ncliffe2001 <ncliffe@...> wrote:
>
>
>
> --- In sprog-dcc@... <sprog-dcc%40yahoogroups.co.uk>,
> "jthjthjthjth" <julian@...> wrote:
> > Under the run script bit you mention below, do you have to do
> > this each time you start the program, or does it remember?
>
> You can set scripts to run on startup under preferences.
>
> You might want to create a new preferences file/instance of JMRI so you can
> have different desktop icons to start with different configuration options.
> (That's essentially what the DecoderPro/PanelPro icons are, different
> preferences sets for the same JMRI application).
>
>
>
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "jthjthjthjth" <julian@...> wrote:
> Under the run script bit you mention below, do you have to do
> this each time you start the program, or does it remember?
You can set scripts to run on startup under preferences.
You might want to create a new preferences file/instance of JMRI so you can have
different desktop icons to start with different configuration options. (That's
essentially what the DecoderPro/PanelPro icons are, different preferences sets
for the same JMRI application).
> My children seem very into their iPod touch devices - I quite fancy a throttle
app communicating via WiFi.......
You can do that already.
Turn on the web interface on JMRI and make sure its firewalled from the
internet unless you want the world able to join in. With a wireless
capable widget that does web stuff (eg N800) you can then control the
system via the web and wireless
A word of caution: If your wireless router goes down or something dire
occurs you want to be able to reach a physical stop button ;)
Alan
It sounds like something I'd like to try one day, so if you were willing to
write a page or so as an installation guide, and provide the software, I'd have
a bash.
Under the run script bit you mention below, do you have to do this each time you
start the program, or does it remember?
Thanks also to Alan for the pointers to the other USB devices. I quite like the
old xbox controller approach, as its cheap!
My children seem very into their iPod touch devices - I quite fancy a throttle
app communicating via WiFi.......
--- In sprog-dcc@..., Andrew Berridge <andrew.berridge@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Julian,
>
> Yes - it works quite well. I have even thought about dismantling the
> controller and building it into my own enclosure but not started with that
> project. Building a layout is more important!
>
> Right - so the USB Xbox controller is recognised as a standard game
> controller by windows (given the driver). Then the USB Throttle.py is a
> script that runs to enumerate the USB devices and choose the one you've
> selected (or programmed). Maybe a bit too much detail here. I digress...
>
> Anyway, there's a menu option under "Panel", I think. Click this, then "Run
> Script". This should open in the correct folder. You'd then choose "USB
> Throttle.py" and away you go!
>
> Have a look at the Python (actually, it's Jython - Python for Java) script
> in Notepad - you should be able (from the comments) to glean a rough
> understanding of what's going on. I'm sure that XBox controllers can be
> picked up pretty cheaply on eBay, though I've not tried to do so as I
> already have two of them.
>
> Happy to help, and would be delighted if you chose to use my code. It might
> encourage me to publish it back to the JMRI world ;-0
>
> I'm a great fan of open source software but have never re-published anything
> I've written!
>
> Thanks,
>
> Andrew
>
> On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 2:24 PM, jthjthjthjth <julian@...> wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > That sounds both interesting and encouraging. Can you explain in outline
> > terms how these scripts tie in with the main DecodePro software? So far I've
> > got as far as launching DecoderPro and making my loco work. Other than that,
> > I've no real concept as to how scripts are read, how the appropriate one is
> > selected etc. Or put another way - you connect the USB xbox controller, but
> > how does the software know to use the script? (I've now got the 140 page
> > manual printed out, but reading it hasn't happened yet!)
> >
> > thanks
> >
> > Julian
> >
> >
> > --- In sprog-dcc@... <sprog-dcc%40yahoogroups.co.uk>, Andrew
> > Berridge <andrew.berridge@> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi Julian,
> > >
> > > Yes, it is, and I have done it!
> > >
> > > I used an old XBox controller (not 360). I wired an adaptor for the XBox
> > > controller to USB - the controllers are USB anyway but they have
> > > non-standard connectors.
> > >
> > > There's a Windows driver for the XBox controller.
> > >
> > > I adapted the USBThrottle.py script to work with it. I've got a few
> > things
> > > to do, but I made it so that the throttle is Absolute - if the joystick
> > is
> > > centred, the loco is stopped. Move the joystick up and the speed
> > increases.
> > > Let it rest back to centre, it stops. Move the joystick back, the loco
> > will
> > > reverse. I have also assigned a "lock" function - i.e. move the joystick,
> > > then pull the trigger on the controller - this will lock the throttle at
> > > that particular setting. If the trigger is pulled again it will release
> > the
> > > throttle, which will return to being controlled by the joystick again.
> > >
> > > I have assigned buttons on the controller to function buttons. Next thing
> > to
> > > do is to allow selection of loco by the four-way buttons and to get the
> > > second joystick to control a second throttle simultaneously.
> > >
> > > I can share the code I wrote and provide further details.
> > >
> > > Thoughts?
> > >
> > > Thanks,
> > >
> > > Andrew
> > >
> > >
> > > On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 8:52 AM, jthjthjthjth <julian@> wrote:
> > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > > Forgive me if this is either obvious or previously discussed, but I'm
> > > > rather new to the wonderful world of DecoderPro.
> > > >
> > > > I got my SPROG yesterday, and was amazed at how easily it interfaced to
> > > > DecoderPro. I had my first ever DCC loco under way shortly after that.
> > It
> > > > struck me that using some sort of joystick, or other cheap USB device,
> > would
> > > > be a useful alternative to operating the slider on the throttle screen
> > with
> > > > my mouse. I had a good look round the JMRI site, and all I found was a
> > > > cryptic reference to an XML file USBThrottle (see
> > > > http://jmri.sourceforge.net/jython/USBThrottle.py ) I've not found any
> > > > form of words that describes what USB devices might or might not work,
> > nor
> > > > how I might configure or use them. (I must confess to not having read
> > the
> > > > 140 page user manual yet....)
> > > >
> > > > Can anyone offer any advice as to whether it is a) sensible and b)
> > > > practical to add a USB hardware throttle of some sort?
> > > >
> > > > thanks
> > > >
> > > > Julian Thornhill
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > >
> > >
> > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> > >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
On Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:44:04 +0000
Andrew Berridge <andrew.berridge@...> wrote:
> Hi Julian,
>
> Yes - it works quite well. I have even thought about dismantling the
> controller and building it into my own enclosure but not started with that
> project. Building a layout is more important!
You can pick up USB knobs (Phidget, Griffin etc) rather than hack it up.
Actually if you like USB toys the Phidget website is worth a look - fancy
accelerometer controlled models, or touch sensitive point control
switches on the control panel ??
The Griffin is just a "ready to go" USB knob, it does what it says.
Alan
Hi Julian,
Yes - it works quite well. I have even thought about dismantling the
controller and building it into my own enclosure but not started with that
project. Building a layout is more important!
Right - so the USB Xbox controller is recognised as a standard game
controller by windows (given the driver). Then the USB Throttle.py is a
script that runs to enumerate the USB devices and choose the one you've
selected (or programmed). Maybe a bit too much detail here. I digress...
Anyway, there's a menu option under "Panel", I think. Click this, then "Run
Script". This should open in the correct folder. You'd then choose "USB
Throttle.py" and away you go!
Have a look at the Python (actually, it's Jython - Python for Java) script
in Notepad - you should be able (from the comments) to glean a rough
understanding of what's going on. I'm sure that XBox controllers can be
picked up pretty cheaply on eBay, though I've not tried to do so as I
already have two of them.
Happy to help, and would be delighted if you chose to use my code. It might
encourage me to publish it back to the JMRI world ;-0
I'm a great fan of open source software but have never re-published anything
I've written!
Thanks,
Andrew
On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 2:24 PM, jthjthjthjth <julian@...> wrote:
>
>
> That sounds both interesting and encouraging. Can you explain in outline
> terms how these scripts tie in with the main DecodePro software? So far I've
> got as far as launching DecoderPro and making my loco work. Other than that,
> I've no real concept as to how scripts are read, how the appropriate one is
> selected etc. Or put another way - you connect the USB xbox controller, but
> how does the software know to use the script? (I've now got the 140 page
> manual printed out, but reading it hasn't happened yet!)
>
> thanks
>
> Julian
>
>
> --- In sprog-dcc@... <sprog-dcc%40yahoogroups.co.uk>, Andrew
> Berridge <andrew.berridge@...> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Julian,
> >
> > Yes, it is, and I have done it!
> >
> > I used an old XBox controller (not 360). I wired an adaptor for the XBox
> > controller to USB - the controllers are USB anyway but they have
> > non-standard connectors.
> >
> > There's a Windows driver for the XBox controller.
> >
> > I adapted the USBThrottle.py script to work with it. I've got a few
> things
> > to do, but I made it so that the throttle is Absolute - if the joystick
> is
> > centred, the loco is stopped. Move the joystick up and the speed
> increases.
> > Let it rest back to centre, it stops. Move the joystick back, the loco
> will
> > reverse. I have also assigned a "lock" function - i.e. move the joystick,
> > then pull the trigger on the controller - this will lock the throttle at
> > that particular setting. If the trigger is pulled again it will release
> the
> > throttle, which will return to being controlled by the joystick again.
> >
> > I have assigned buttons on the controller to function buttons. Next thing
> to
> > do is to allow selection of loco by the four-way buttons and to get the
> > second joystick to control a second throttle simultaneously.
> >
> > I can share the code I wrote and provide further details.
> >
> > Thoughts?
> >
> > Thanks,
> >
> > Andrew
> >
> >
> > On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 8:52 AM, jthjthjthjth <julian@...> wrote:
> >
> > >
> > >
> > > Forgive me if this is either obvious or previously discussed, but I'm
> > > rather new to the wonderful world of DecoderPro.
> > >
> > > I got my SPROG yesterday, and was amazed at how easily it interfaced to
> > > DecoderPro. I had my first ever DCC loco under way shortly after that.
> It
> > > struck me that using some sort of joystick, or other cheap USB device,
> would
> > > be a useful alternative to operating the slider on the throttle screen
> with
> > > my mouse. I had a good look round the JMRI site, and all I found was a
> > > cryptic reference to an XML file USBThrottle (see
> > > http://jmri.sourceforge.net/jython/USBThrottle.py ) I've not found any
> > > form of words that describes what USB devices might or might not work,
> nor
> > > how I might configure or use them. (I must confess to not having read
> the
> > > 140 page user manual yet....)
> > >
> > > Can anyone offer any advice as to whether it is a) sensible and b)
> > > practical to add a USB hardware throttle of some sort?
> > >
> > > thanks
> > >
> > > Julian Thornhill
> > >
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
> >
>
>
>
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
That sounds both interesting and encouraging. Can you explain in outline terms
how these scripts tie in with the main DecodePro software? So far I've got as
far as launching DecoderPro and making my loco work. Other than that, I've no
real concept as to how scripts are read, how the appropriate one is selected
etc. Or put another way - you connect the USB xbox controller, but how does the
software know to use the script? (I've now got the 140 page manual printed out,
but reading it hasn't happened yet!)
thanks
Julian
--- In sprog-dcc@..., Andrew Berridge <andrew.berridge@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Julian,
>
> Yes, it is, and I have done it!
>
> I used an old XBox controller (not 360). I wired an adaptor for the XBox
> controller to USB - the controllers are USB anyway but they have
> non-standard connectors.
>
> There's a Windows driver for the XBox controller.
>
> I adapted the USBThrottle.py script to work with it. I've got a few things
> to do, but I made it so that the throttle is Absolute - if the joystick is
> centred, the loco is stopped. Move the joystick up and the speed increases.
> Let it rest back to centre, it stops. Move the joystick back, the loco will
> reverse. I have also assigned a "lock" function - i.e. move the joystick,
> then pull the trigger on the controller - this will lock the throttle at
> that particular setting. If the trigger is pulled again it will release the
> throttle, which will return to being controlled by the joystick again.
>
> I have assigned buttons on the controller to function buttons. Next thing to
> do is to allow selection of loco by the four-way buttons and to get the
> second joystick to control a second throttle simultaneously.
>
> I can share the code I wrote and provide further details.
>
> Thoughts?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Andrew
>
>
> On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 8:52 AM, jthjthjthjth <julian@...> wrote:
>
> >
> >
> > Forgive me if this is either obvious or previously discussed, but I'm
> > rather new to the wonderful world of DecoderPro.
> >
> > I got my SPROG yesterday, and was amazed at how easily it interfaced to
> > DecoderPro. I had my first ever DCC loco under way shortly after that. It
> > struck me that using some sort of joystick, or other cheap USB device, would
> > be a useful alternative to operating the slider on the throttle screen with
> > my mouse. I had a good look round the JMRI site, and all I found was a
> > cryptic reference to an XML file USBThrottle (see
> > http://jmri.sourceforge.net/jython/USBThrottle.py ) I've not found any
> > form of words that describes what USB devices might or might not work, nor
> > how I might configure or use them. (I must confess to not having read the
> > 140 page user manual yet....)
> >
> > Can anyone offer any advice as to whether it is a) sensible and b)
> > practical to add a USB hardware throttle of some sort?
> >
> > thanks
> >
> > Julian Thornhill
> >
> >
> >
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
Hi Julian,
Yes, it is, and I have done it!
I used an old XBox controller (not 360). I wired an adaptor for the XBox
controller to USB - the controllers are USB anyway but they have
non-standard connectors.
There's a Windows driver for the XBox controller.
I adapted the USBThrottle.py script to work with it. I've got a few things
to do, but I made it so that the throttle is Absolute - if the joystick is
centred, the loco is stopped. Move the joystick up and the speed increases.
Let it rest back to centre, it stops. Move the joystick back, the loco will
reverse. I have also assigned a "lock" function - i.e. move the joystick,
then pull the trigger on the controller - this will lock the throttle at
that particular setting. If the trigger is pulled again it will release the
throttle, which will return to being controlled by the joystick again.
I have assigned buttons on the controller to function buttons. Next thing to
do is to allow selection of loco by the four-way buttons and to get the
second joystick to control a second throttle simultaneously.
I can share the code I wrote and provide further details.
Thoughts?
Thanks,
Andrew
On Thu, Oct 29, 2009 at 8:52 AM, jthjthjthjth <julian@...> wrote:
>
>
> Forgive me if this is either obvious or previously discussed, but I'm
> rather new to the wonderful world of DecoderPro.
>
> I got my SPROG yesterday, and was amazed at how easily it interfaced to
> DecoderPro. I had my first ever DCC loco under way shortly after that. It
> struck me that using some sort of joystick, or other cheap USB device, would
> be a useful alternative to operating the slider on the throttle screen with
> my mouse. I had a good look round the JMRI site, and all I found was a
> cryptic reference to an XML file USBThrottle (see
> http://jmri.sourceforge.net/jython/USBThrottle.py ) I've not found any
> form of words that describes what USB devices might or might not work, nor
> how I might configure or use them. (I must confess to not having read the
> 140 page user manual yet....)
>
> Can anyone offer any advice as to whether it is a) sensible and b)
> practical to add a USB hardware throttle of some sort?
>
> thanks
>
> Julian Thornhill
>
>
>
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Forgive me if this is either obvious or previously discussed, but I'm rather new
to the wonderful world of DecoderPro.
I got my SPROG yesterday, and was amazed at how easily it interfaced to
DecoderPro. I had my first ever DCC loco under way shortly after that. It struck
me that using some sort of joystick, or other cheap USB device, would be a
useful alternative to operating the slider on the throttle screen with my mouse.
I had a good look round the JMRI site, and all I found was a cryptic reference
to an XML file USBThrottle (see
http://jmri.sourceforge.net/jython/USBThrottle.py ) I've not found any form of
words that describes what USB devices might or might not work, nor how I might
configure or use them. (I must confess to not having read the 140 page user
manual yet....)
Can anyone offer any advice as to whether it is a) sensible and b) practical to
add a USB hardware throttle of some sort?
thanks
Julian Thornhill
Hello Andy
I have a version II which has also had an update to the firmware.
It might be that your Sprog does have a problem (components only last so
long, might even be a dry joint.
Just as a thought have you checked all the wire connections are tight and
clean. Dirty track (and I mean only slightly dirty) can give problems also
the wheels of the loco. These are two things I personally have had problems
with. How do screws undo themselves when my Sprog never moves off my desk!
Maybe even use new wires and start from scratch.
Also I am presuming it is all hard wired and not through a DPDT switch to
the track you are standing the loco on? I had issues with this too! I now
wire direct.
Where do you live in the UK? I am going to the NMRA BR Convention in Swindon
this weekend.
The best option in one way (if we corporately cannot help) is to post it
(with return postage) to Andrew, I think it cost me 54p each way. Then he
can do his wizardry on it.
Chris
-----Original Message-----
From: sprog-dcc@... [mailto:sprog-dcc@...] On
Behalf Of andy_sollis
Sent: 22 October 2009 14:22
To: sprog-dcc@...
Subject: [sprog-dcc] Re: Error 306
Hi Chris,
Anything I try to do where it talks to the Sprog (I not the later II model)
On my main computer regardless of trying to use the throttle or CV reader, I
just get the same message ? On light is on showing power, another flashes
for a 1\4 of a second and the error message 306 can't communicate with the
Sprog.
I have tried the reset button and when trying the Throttle just sets the
screen LED back to red (It defaults at Yellow) but then nothing - I can't
switch on the power.
I tried it on my laptop this morning (which has also had the latest XP
downloads that came in the last fortnight from Windows) and that also has a
similar message (older version of DP just to be sure) that it can't
communicate with command station ?
Both (computers) are running USB2 sockets.
I don't think a screen shot would be of use with just the simple error
message, unless it is the CV display, but then, I'm not getting that far ?
(am I?)
I think I may have to send to Andrew for a check-up. More expense ! I'd buy
a new one if I could afford it !
Andy
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "Chris Marrable" <borg2657-1@...> wrote:
>
> Hello Andy
>
> When do you get this error, what are you actually doing. Just to narrow
down
> to what we might thinking you are doing and you are actually doing.
>
> Sometimes finding problems by emails is quite hard as it is easy to assume
> on both sides that someone knows what we have done to get an error.
>
> At present they are talking of a 306 error on the JMRI software yahoo
group.
> Which seems to relate to a specific decoder roster file.
>
> Can you read any locos or do you always get the 306 error. Can you take
some
> screen shots and send them.
>
> Chris
------------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups Links
Hi Chris,
Anything I try to do where it talks to the Sprog (I not the later II model) On
my main computer regardless of trying to use the throttle or CV reader, I just
get the same message ? On light is on showing power, another flashes for a 1\4
of a second and the error message 306 can't communicate with the Sprog.
I have tried the reset button and when trying the Throttle just sets the screen
LED back to red (It defaults at Yellow) but then nothing - I can't switch on the
power.
I tried it on my laptop this morning (which has also had the latest XP downloads
that came in the last fortnight from Windows) and that also has a similar
message (older version of DP just to be sure) that it can't communicate with
command station ?
Both (computers) are running USB2 sockets.
I don't think a screen shot would be of use with just the simple error message,
unless it is the CV display, but then, I'm not getting that far ? (am I?)
I think I may have to send to Andrew for a check-up. More expense ! I'd buy a
new one if I could afford it !
Andy
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "Chris Marrable" <borg2657-1@...> wrote:
>
> Hello Andy
>
> When do you get this error, what are you actually doing. Just to narrow down
> to what we might thinking you are doing and you are actually doing.
>
> Sometimes finding problems by emails is quite hard as it is easy to assume
> on both sides that someone knows what we have done to get an error.
>
> At present they are talking of a 306 error on the JMRI software yahoo group.
> Which seems to relate to a specific decoder roster file.
>
> Can you read any locos or do you always get the 306 error. Can you take some
> screen shots and send them.
>
> Chris
Hello Andy
When do you get this error, what are you actually doing. Just to narrow down
to what we might thinking you are doing and you are actually doing.
Sometimes finding problems by emails is quite hard as it is easy to assume
on both sides that someone knows what we have done to get an error.
At present they are talking of a 306 error on the JMRI software yahoo group.
Which seems to relate to a specific decoder roster file.
Can you read any locos or do you always get the 306 error. Can you take some
screen shots and send them.
Chris
-----Original Message-----
From: sprog-dcc@... [mailto:sprog-dcc@...] On
Behalf Of andy_sollis
Sent: 21 October 2009 20:35
To: sprog-dcc@...
Subject: [sprog-dcc] Error 306
Any news on this problem ?
I'm still not having any joy (although I'm going to try a new computer soon)
Andy
------------------------------------
Yahoo! Groups Links
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "ncliffe2001" <ncliffe@...> wrote:
>
>
>
> --- In sprog-dcc@..., "m12bjc64" <bjc64@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi eveyone
> >
> > My Sprog 2 is working well. However, the first decoder I had it
> > read was a Lenz Silver 21 (CV8 (99) and CV7 (82)) with the message
> > 'no such decoder defined'. Consequently I cannot <Open Programmer>.
> > I understand that CV7 is 'read only'
> >
> > Any suggestions, please? Are there any files to import for a Silver
> > 21?
>
> Pick the nearest Lenz decoder. I doubt there is any difference in programming
between different types of Lenz Silver (the new Silver Plus will be a bit
different, but for 99% of features will be back compatible).
>
> The newest decoder files are linked from the JMRI website, there isn't an
update available yet.
> Adding new decoders is down to end-users volunteering to edit and upload new
definition files. I've made the change the the Lenz Silver file and submitted
it, it should appear in the next JMRI releases, and be available for download in
a few days or weeks.
>
Many thanks for your suggestions and look forward to downloading the new decoder
file when available.
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "m12bjc64" <bjc64@...> wrote:
>
> Hi eveyone
>
> My Sprog 2 is working well. However, the first decoder I had it
> read was a Lenz Silver 21 (CV8 (99) and CV7 (82)) with the message
> 'no such decoder defined'. Consequently I cannot <Open Programmer>.
> I understand that CV7 is 'read only'
>
> Any suggestions, please? Are there any files to import for a Silver
> 21?
Pick the nearest Lenz decoder. I doubt there is any difference in programming
between different types of Lenz Silver (the new Silver Plus will be a bit
different, but for 99% of features will be back compatible).
The newest decoder files are linked from the JMRI website, there isn't an update
available yet.
Adding new decoders is down to end-users volunteering to edit and upload new
definition files. I've made the change the the Lenz Silver file and submitted
it, it should appear in the next JMRI releases, and be available for download in
a few days or weeks.
Hi eveyone
My Sprog 2 is working well. However, the first decoder I had it read was a Lenz
Silver 21 (CV8 (99) and CV7 (82)) with the message 'no such decoder defined'.
Consequently I cannot <Open Programmer>. I understand that CV7 is 'read only'
Any suggestions, please? Are there any files to import for a Silver 21?
Regards
Bernard
Hi All,
I have also tried using my Sprog again today (first time in a few months) and
all I get is error 306 also ?
I have tried updating the driver and changing to an earlier version of DP, but
to no avail ?
I have checked the com port and it is finding it. I went in to Throttle and the
light on my PCB Sprog I flashes once but the power light on DP stays yellow. It
only goes Red if I press the reset button on Sprog.
I have not done any upgrades since the last one Andrew did a few years ago (cos
every time I try it goes t*ts up !)
Help....
Andy
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "andrew_croslanduk" <andrewcrosland@...>
wrote:
>
> David,
>
> Did it work at first, after I upgraded it? Are you using a different computer?
Have you checked the COM port setup?
>
> Regards,
>
> Andrew Crosland
>
> --- In sprog-dcc@..., "davidshailer" <davidfshailer@> wrote:
> >
> > My sprog has been upgraded by Andrew but today all I get is stop due to
error, time out on command error 306, any help please.
> >
>
Folks;
I have a SPROG II that had a similar problem early on. I run Windows Vista (yea
..I know..) on my PC and the early version of Vista would keep forgetting which
COM Port the SPOG drivers were assigned to. If you kept up with Vista's
updates,(ie. down load and install their service packs) the problem soon went
away.
Another trick is to just to un plug the SPROG from the PC (USB or COM
Port),close Decoder Pro, un plug the power source / track conmnection. Let it
set for a few seconds, then plug everything back together again. This clears any
faults that have developed. Then open Decoder Pro. Don't you just love this
electronic age we live in...:-)
Jere Ingram
Greg,
If it's "timeout talking to command station" then it's a problem between the
SPROG and the PC.
A USB adapter should work. Remember to check in Windows Device manager which COM
port is assigned when you connect the adapter and use that in the JMRI
preferences.
I'll contact you off list about upgrading or debugging further.
Andrew Crosland
--- In sprog-dcc@..., "Greg" <greg.bruce@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Guys
>
> I have only just joined this group but have been using a sprog ll with decoder
pro for a few years on and off.
>
> Recently I have come across a problem where the sprog unit is not reading any
thing on the program track message 306 i think it is mentions time out no
signal.
>
> I was advised to update the firmware on my sprog unit which is one of the 9
pin comport type but have not been able to find anything on how to do this etc.
>
> My other question is can i use an adapter from the 9 pin socket that converts
to usb plug.
>
> Hope I am not asking to much but your help on this would be greatly received.
>
> Regards
> Greg
>
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