How do I fit a decoder to a DCC ready model?

The very first time you have to fit a decoder to a DCC ready locomotive can be a little daunting. But worry not, because providing your decoder is compatible, i.e. features the correct number of pins for your loco, decoders are designed to simply plug straight in. In fact, the biggest problem you are likely to have is finding the socket.

All DCC ready locomotives will have a socket somewhere inside the model into which you can plug a decoder. In most cases, it will be located on top of the model's circuit board and can be accessed by removing the bodyshell. On other models, it may be more accessible, for example, on some steam engines the socket can be found just behind the smokebox door or other removable panel. In either case, a quick look at your loco's instruction leaflet will reveal the socket's location.

Once the socket has been located, gently remove its blanking plug. Blanking plugs (or blanking plates to use their official title) appear very similar to decoders, but with less circuitry printed on them. They are used to bypass all of the DCC electronics so that the model can be operated from an analogue controller until such time a decoder is fitted. Removing the blanking plate can sometimes be a little tricky as they are usually a snug fit, but with a little gentle persuasion, it will eventually wiggle free. It is always worthwhile keeping the blanking plate somewhere safe just in case you ever want to convert your loco back to analogue operation.

Once all of this is done, you are ready to plug in your decoder. Some decoders feature a series of pins that slide into the model's socket, others have a series of sockets that slide onto pins (confusing we know) but whichever way round your model is designed, a male and female interface will simply slide together.