The Features of Tomorrow
for today's ZIMO decoders.

ZIMO introduced a user-activated software-upgrade feature for decoders in September 2004 that lets you install the latest software free of charge and fast, without opening the loco. Since then, all ZIMO decoders (with the exception of the MX68 function decoder) are being delivered with this feature enabled. Most MX62, MX63, MX64, MX64H, MX64V, MX82 decoders delivered in 2003/2004 can also have this feature enabled by sending the decoder back to ZIMO one more (last) time. 

The required update module with accessories is available since January 2005 in two sets:

MXDECUP: viewed from "update track" connector side

First impressions

MXDECUP standard Update set
Update module + RS232 cable

MXDECUPU  USB set
Update module + RS232 cable + USB serial converter

Such a USB converter can also be used for connecting the ZIMO command station with a USB socket of a computer. The converter is also available separately but can be purchased in computer stores as well

MXDECUP: viewed from computer interface.

Operating Manual (german)

Some new features for the MX63, MX64 etc. will be introduced shortly after delivery of the MXDECUP has started (most likely an expanded function mapping and asymmetrical DCC signal stop = Lenz ABC), so that user-activated software-upgrade can be tested soon. Many important new features will become available in several software updates during the course of 2005. 

All current ZIMO decoders are equipped with a large program memory - very likely the largest among the decoders currently sold on the world market; about 40 % of it is still unused and offers lots of room for future expansions...

Today, ZIMO Decoders can already do more (in some areas a lot more) than the competitors offerings, but we still have numerous plans to further enhance drivability, for more prototypical function control and - last but not least - to simplify programming and applications. 
Some of them can already be announced on the following list of "planned introductions" (implementation highly possible, but can not be guaranteed at this time) ..... ZIMO customers are not expected to buy "blindfolded":

• Extended "ZIMO function mapping", accessed by CV # 61 = 98 

  this feature, already present in the MX69, will also be added to "smaller" decoders. Free assignment of all function outputs to any function key, also direction dependent if required, outputs automatically turn themselves off after a loco comes to a stop and  the pre-programmed time has elapsed .

• New effects for lighting and other loco equipment

  Slow dimming of headlights, "street car" stop lights and more. Such functions are often the result of customer feedback - we welcome your ideas and suggestions !

• Implementing "bi-directional communication" according to NMRA drafts RP 9.3.1, etc.. 

  The necessary hardware for bi-directional communication is already installed in all ZIMO decoders since 2003/2004 and will be activated with a software update in the first quarter of 2005. Further software updates may be required since the NMRA drafts are not finalized yet; moreover, further expansions of this feature is to be expected.

• Expansion of the proven ZIMO "signal controlled speed influence" (so far: stop and 5 speed limits), and the addition of an alternative method: "stop by asymmetrical DCC signal" (= Lenz ABC)

  The "signal controlled speed influence" will become directional (no stop in opposite direction), the "location dependent function control" will be added (already implemented in function decoders) and the capability of transmitting other position-dependent data. "Stop by asymmetrical DCC signal" offers the possibility of automated directional stops with just 4 diodes connected to the track (at almost no cost).

• Distance controlled stopping

  The often cited " constant stopping distance" is not really possible (different disturbances such as poor track to wheel contacts are unavoidable). A large degree of accuracy can be achieved though if the decoder continuously carries out recalculations and corrections -  ideally combined with slow down sections and other measures.

• Decoder controlled "automations" (e.g. shuttle operation) 

  Logic outputs (MX63, MX64) are converted to inputs, or special inputs (MX69, MX690) can be used to operate pre-programmed driving or function sequences, as well as the "signal controlled speed influence" or the "asymmetrical DCC signal stop".

• Uninterrupted driving on dead sections of track

  A loco should not be stopped on isolated frogs or on dirty track sections; the decoder will prevent this successfully - preferably in connection with an external energy storage.

• CV-Sets, supplied or self defined

  Having several CV sets, with the most important configuration variables stored in the decoder, allows for an easy and quick change to different loco characteristics - for example: a loco requires different CV settings when operated as a single loco, part of a consist, in a fast passenger or a heavy goods train. 

• Incremental CV programming

  A planned method that replaces the lengthy programming procedure with a simple CV correction during operation. 

• Special measures for the use in LGB-MZS systems

  as already implemented in the MX69, this feature will also be added to "small" decoders, possibly with servo actuation also.

• Adding multi-protocol capabilities

  Motorola and/or Selectrix data format.