TIM can record the DCC identity and programming details of locomotives and other equipped items.
Recording the basic DCC information #
- Open the inventory item and select Edit item.
- Enter the DCC No. or address used on the layout.
- Enter the decoder manufacturer or model in Decoder.
- If the decoder is tracked as its own inventory item, link it through Installed in item.
- Save the item.
The Dashboard reports duplicate DCC numbers. A duplicate is not always an error—for example, equipment operated together may intentionally share an address—but each conflict should be reviewed. Select the affected item and confirm whether the address is intentional.
DCC CV profile #
In the DCC configuration and maintenance schedule section, enter one CV per line using this pattern:
CV2=3 – Start voltage #
CV3=20 – Acceleration #
CV4=12 – Deceleration #
The CV number and value are required for a usable entry; the note is optional. Record only settings you want to reproduce or troubleshoot later. Useful candidates include start voltage, acceleration, deceleration, direction, lighting behavior, speed tables, sound level, and consist configuration.
Documenting changes #
After programming a decoder, add an activity or Maintenance Log with the date, a summary, and notes. If you replace a decoder, update the Decoder field, Installed in item relationship, CV profile, and maintenance history. Photographing the installation and attaching the decoder manual can make later service much easier.
JMRI interoperability #
Inventory Settings can preview a JMRI roster XML through TIM’s duplicate matcher. Reports or Inventory Settings can export currently owned locomotive records to JMRI XML. The exchange includes identification, railroad, road number, manufacturer, model, DCC address, decoder, and notes where available.
An exported JMRI roster is an interchange file, not a replacement for TIM’s complete portable backup.
