LokSound 5 XL DCC/MM/SX/M4 “blank decoder”, Screw Terminals, gauge: G, I

The LokSound 5 XL decoder is quite a big piece of equipment. It has to be, because it is intended for use in large scale model railways, e.g. garden railways and 1 gauge models. Its integral PowerPack matching the increased motor power assures reliable operation even on dirty tracks.

The LokSound 5 XL measures 51 mm x 40 mm and is available in two different types: Besides the type with robust screw type terminals for installation in older models without an interface socket, there is a version with multi-pin connectors. This version fits into all locomotives where an older type LokSound XL decoder has been installed previously.

Operating modes

Like all products of the LokSound family the LokSound 5 XL is a true multi protocol decoder. It supports DCC as well as Motorola®, Selectrix® and M4. Of course it supports 14 through to 128 speed steps as well as 2 and 4 digit addresses in DCC format and up to 32 functions. Thanks to RailComPlus® the decoders register themselves fully automatically on suitable command stations. The LGB® chain control is capable of handling functions and their respective buttons with older LGB® control systems.

This decoder supports all DCC programming modes and thanks to RailCom® you may read out the CV values on the main, provided you have a command station supporting RailCom®. There are utility registers for command stations that only facilitate programming of CVs ranging from 1 to 255.

Motorola® users benefit from up to 28 speed steps and 255 addresses. Three additional Motorola® addresses facilitate triggering of 16 functions. An integral programming mode even allows programming with the good old Central Unit 6021.

The M4 protocol supports the automatic registration on mfx® compatible central units.

The LokSound 5 XL decoder supports Märklin® braking sections just as well as the ZIMO® HLU braking commands or the Lenz® ABC system. Braking with DCC brake generators or with DC is also possible. Furthermore the locomotive with a LokSound 5 XL will come to a halt when a Selectrix® braking diode is connected to the circuit. The ABC push-pull feature enables the automatic commuting between two stations.

The LokSound 5 XL decoder is also suitable for analogue DC and AC train sets.

Sound

The LokSound 5 XL decoder can reproduce up to 10 channels simultaneously. Each channel offers up to 16 Bit / 31250 kHz and thus we have finally achieved hi-fi sound quality on your layout. For all practical purposes one cannot detect any difference to the original. A dual class D audio power amplifier with up to 2 x 6W output power feeds the speakers with a permitted impedance of 4 – 32 Ohms. The sound volume can be controlled by means of two separate potentiometers. The huge 128 MBit sound memory assures sufficient storage capacity.

The volume of all individual sound fragments may be adjusted separately. The outstandingly flexible sound engine without a rigid flow chart facilitates a prototypical simulation of all conceivable rail vehicles. Three separately adjustable braking functions and two alternative load scenarios provide you with maximum control of your vehicles.

Functions

Every LokSound 5 XL decoder has 12 amplified function outputs. On top of that there are another 7 logic outputs, which can, if so desired, control four RC servos or SUSI extension modules. Of course, all important lighting functions are supported. The brightness of each output may be adjusted separately. The decoder supports the automatic push and pull movements – known as the coupler waltz – required for reliable operation of digital couplers such as the ones by ROCO® and Krois® as well as Telex® couplers. 3 sensor inputs may be employed in order to trigger functions.

Motor control

Motor control of the LokSound 5 XL has been further improved. A variable PWM pulse frequency ranging from 10 kHz to 50 kHz assures perfect silent operation, particularly for coreless motors. Thus the typical hum is a thing of the past. Load control can now be adjusted with up to 10 separate CVs and thus will manage even the most difficult cases. The unique “Auto Tune” function facilitates the automatic calibration of the decoder to perfectly match the motor. The LokSound 5 XL decoder supplies ample current for the motor, namely up to 5.0 A (4.0 A continuous).  Thus the decoder can also handle G gauge locomotives by PIKO® as well as locomotives with two Bühler® or Mabuchi® motors.