MRC Prodigy Wireless

User’s Manual
 1 Getting Started
Introduction ............................................................................................................ 1-1
DCC Basic Background ......................................................................................... 1-2
Specifications and Features ................................................................................. 1-3
System Menu Summary Chart .............................................................................. 1-3
2 Operation
Quick Start ............................................................................................................. 2-1
Connecting to Your Layout ............................................................................ 2-1
Running a Loco ............................................................................................. 2-1
Controlling Accessory Functions .................................................................. 2-2
Recalling Locos ............................................................................................. 2-2
Saving Locos ................................................................................................ 2-2
Deleting Locos ............................................................................................... 2-2
Emergency Stopping ..................................................................................... 2-2
Speed Steps ................................................................................................... 2-2
Yard Mode On/Off ......................................................................................... 2-3
Fast Clock ...................................................................................................... 2-3
Overload and Short Circuit ........................................................................... 2-3
Cab Setup .............................................................................................................. 2-4
Setting Cab Addresses ................................................................................. 2-4
Setting the Total Number of Operational Cabs (Cab #1) ............................. 2-4
Adding More Than 3 Cabs ............................................................................ 2-4
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Setting Last Cab Allowed to Program Locos on the Main Track (Cab #1) 2-5
Setting Last Cab Allowed to Program on the Program Track (Cab #1) ..... 2-5
Programming Decoders ......................................................................................... 2-5
Programming Loco on the Program Track ............................................................ 2-6
Programming Locos on the Main Track ................................................................ 2-6
Reading Loco’s Decoder Values on the Program Track ..................................... 2-7
Configuration Variables – CVs ............................................................................. 2-7
Most Commonly Used CVs ........................................................................... 2-7
A Word About CV #29 .................................................................................. 2-8
Consisting .............................................................................................................. 2-9
Advanced Consisting .................................................................................... 2-9
Programming Advanced Consists ............................................................ 2-9
Running Advanced Consists .................................................................. 2-10
Clearing Advanced Consists .................................................................. 2-10
Universal (Old-Style) Consisting ................................................................ 2-10
Programming Universal (Old-Style) Consists ........................................ 2-10
Running Universal (Old-Style) Consists ................................................ 2-11
Clearing Universal (Old-Style) Consists ................................................ 2-11
Fast Clock ............................................................................................................ 2-11
Setting Fast Clock (Cab #1) ........................................................................ 2-11
Setting Time (Cab #1) .................................................................................. 2-11
Setting Time Rate (ratio) (Cab #1) ............................................................. 2-12
Setting AM/PM or Military (24hr) Time (Cab #1) ......................................... 2-12
Reverse Loop ...................................................................................................... 2-12
Accessory Decoders ......................................................................................... 2-13
Programming Accessory Decoders with CV #513 ................................... 2-13
Selecting Accessory Decoders ................................................................. 2-13
Accessory Routes .............................................................................................. 2-14
Setting Accessory Decoder Routes (Cab #1) ........................................... 2-14
Running Accessory Routes ....................................................................... 2-14
Clearing Accessory Routes ....................................................................... 2-14
3 Trouble Shooting
General Trouble Shooting ..................................................................................... 3-1
Checklist for General Problems ............................................................................ 3-2
Special Trouble Shooting ...................................................................................... 3-2
4 Service & Support

Contents-1 MRC Prodigy Wireless

 1
Getting Started

1 Getting Started
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing MRC’s Prodigy Wireless DCC (Digital
Command Control) system, the finest full duplex DCC radio control
system on the market today. MRC’s full duplex system allows you to not
only operate multiple locos using the wireless handheld, but also
program locos from the same wireless handheld on both the Program
Track and the Main Track.

Note Although there are Quick-start instructions on the back of the Cab/
Handheld, please read these instructions thoroughly to better
understand and enjoy your Prodigy Wireless DCC system.

Your Prodigy Wireless system consists of a receiver base unit, a wireless

handheld transmitter, four-rechargeable, 600mAh NiMH AAA batteries,
and a short cord for recharging the wireless handheld.

For best operation, the receiver base unit should not be placed under the
layout in a “tangle of wires” or where scenery mesh screening may
interfere with the radio transmissions.

The wireless handheld comes complete with on-board rechargeable

batteries. The battery level should be checked prior to using the handheld
for the first time. Best operation is accomplished with fully charged
batteries. 5.5 volts is maximum voltage, and the handheld should be
recharged anytime the indicator reads 4 volts or below.

There is a power switch on the right side of the handheld. The handheld
should be switched off when not in use to conserve battery life, and when
recharging the on-board batteries. You can use the handheld while
recharging the batteries; however, this will increase the charge time. The
handheld has the same cable connection on the bottom as the tethered
handhelds. To recharge the batteries, simply plug the supplied short
cable into the bottom of the handheld, and the other end of the cable into
the cab jack on your base unit. If you wish, you can substitute four AAA
non-rechargeable alkaline batteries for use. Normal charge time with the
handheld powered off will be approx. 5 hours. If you change the supplied
rechargeable batteries with rechargeable batteries with a higher mAH
rating, both the operating time and the charging time will increase.

Caution Do not plug the handheld(s) into the base unit if you installed non-
rechargeable alkaline batteries. Non-rechargeable alkaline batteries
are throwaway and are not designed to be recharged. Do not mix
alkaline and rechargeable batteries together, and do not attempt to
recharge alkaline batteries inside the handheld.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Getting Started 1-1

 You can do everything with this wireless handheld that you can do with its
“wired” cousins: program on a program track; or program on the main;
acquire and run all locos; set up consists & routes; and access
accessory decoders. Button layout is similar to other MRC Prodigy
handhelds, with the addition of three new buttons:

PROG CV ON MAIN: This button lets you automatically go into CV

programming of the locomotive you are presently operating without
having to press the program button, PROG, and ENTER numerous times
to reach this feature. You can enter this programming mode, change the
decoder’s parameters, and exit the program mode anytime you want and
as many times as you want.

SAVE: This button is used to save the last five locos you were operating,
or up to any five locos you want to use in your next operating session.

Note Just turning off the wireless handheld power switch does not
automatically save your locomotives in the recall stack for your next
operating session.

BAT VOLTAGE: This is your battery voltage indicator button. Just press it to
monitor the voltage level present in the on-board batteries; the display will
show bV and the voltage level. 5.5 volts is maximum voltage, and the
handheld should be recharged anytime the indicator reads 4 volts or
below.

DCC Basic Background

A DCC system consists of a DCC Command Station that sends DCC
commands to your layout and DCC decoders installed in your locos that
receive the DCC commands. Each decoder equipped loco has its own
address. Each decoder receives DCC commands but only follows those
commands matching its address. No more multiple blocks and no more
multiple power packs. With DCC, you can run different locos with different
speeds and directions all on the same track. You can also turn on/off the
loco’s headlight and activate sounds if your loco is equipped with a
sound decoder. Please visit our website at www.modelrectifier.com for
more information about other DCC products.

Please read this manual and your decoder manual carefully before
installing and operating your DCC system.

Note The Prodigy Wireless does not support NON-decoder equipped or analog
locos. MRC’s earlier DCC systems do support running analog locos.
However, running analog locos will dramatically slow the response time of
your DCC system. Therefore, our new Prodigy Wireless does not support
this old feature.

Info For more information on DCC or MRC DCC systems, visit the Resources
section of our web site at www.modelrectifier.com or visit the National
Model Railroad Association’s website at www.nmra.org.

1-2 Getting Started MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Specifications and Features
Input: 15-16 volts DC, 3.5 Amps. It comes with a universal switching

1 Getting Started
power supply (good for USA and Europe)
Output: DCC signal with 14.5 V amplitude, for HO and N scales
Maximum Current: 3.5 Amps
Note Although you can draw more than 3.5 amps for short periods of time, it is
not recommended. If you run a large layout and need more than 3.5
amps of power, please use a digital power booster such as our 8 amp
booster, AD501 Power Station 8; or divide your layout into separate power
districts or block sections and use our 3.5 amp booster, item number
0001505 District Power Booster, for each power district.

Maximum number of Cabs: Use up to 32 Cabs (see page 2-4)

Address Capability: 2-digit (1-127) or 4-digit (1-9,999)
Speed Steps: 14/28/128
Accessory Functions: 29 (F0-F28)
Advanced and Universal Consisting
Program Loco on Program Track
Program Loco on Main Track
Read Loco on Program Track
Frequency: 433 MHz
FCC ID: BTQ170495

System Menu Summary Chart

Most functions are initiated by pressing their associated keys. However,
there are ten functions initiated by pressing the SYS key followed by a
numeric key (0-9). The following table summarizes these ten functions and
the information about each function is found in the manual.

Keys Function
SYS + 0 Clear routes

SYS + 1 Set time

SYS + 2 Set time ratio

SYS + 3 Yard on/off

SYS + 4 Set time mode: AM/PM/military

SYS + 5 Set routes

SYS + 6 View your Cab address

SYS + 7 Set last Cab allowed to program locos on the Main Track
SYS + 8 Set last Cab allowed to program locos on the Program Track

SYS + 9 Set total number of operational Cabs

MRC Prodigy Wireless Getting Started 1-3

2
Operation

Quick Start
Connecting to Your Layout
Follow the diagram to connect the Command Station (base unit) to your
layout.
1. Using a small flat-bladed screwdriver,
attach two wires (22 AWG or heavier)
from the Main Track layout to the
Prodigy Command Station
terminals marked Main Track and two
(base unit)
wires from the Program Track to the
terminals marked Program Track.
2. Plug the power supply into the base unit.
Green Plug 3. Plug the AC line cord (110VAC, 60Hz)
into a wall outlet.
To 4. Charge the batteries in the handheld, if
Program needed.
Track
Power To Main Track 5. Turn power switch on the handheld to
the “On” position.
6. Double check all wiring. The power light
should be on and you are ready to run
your decoder equipped locos.

Running a Loco
To run a loco, you have to first know its address. Most decoders you
purchase have the factory default address #3. If you purchase a decoder
equipped loco, its address may be its road number. Read your decoder
and/or loco manual for your decoder address.
To select a loco, press the LOCO key. Using the numeric keypad (0 - 9),
enter the loco address. Press ENTER. You have just acquired the loco.
The Cab will automatically remember the loco address for later recall.
Use the DIRECTION key to set the loco’s direction. Turn the THROTTLE
knob slowly to increase the loco’s speed. The selected loco, or current
loco, will begin moving. You can also tap the +1 or -1 to adjust the loco’s
speed. Do not hold the -1 key, since this is also the DEL key and will
delete the loco. To toggle the headlight (F0) on or off, press 0.

Note A blinking loco address indicates that another Cab is also controlling that
loco. This is just a reminder and does not affect your control of the loco.
However, since two Cabs are trying to control the same loco simultaneously,
the loco may not act as you expect. One operator will have to relinquish
control of the loco by deleting the loco from his Cab for proper operation.

2-1 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Controlling Accessory Functions
To control accessory functions F1 - F9, press 1 - 9. To control F10 - F28,
press SHIFT, then input the two digit funtion number. Only funcions up to
F12 will show in the display, F13 to F28
will be activated but will not be displayed
F1
on the screen.
Loco
The left LCD display shows that the
current loco is 3802 running in reverse at
a speed of 102. Its accessory functions F1
REVT
T Speed and F11 are on.
F11

Recalling Locos
To call up previous locos stored in the memory, press RECALL. You can
recall up to 25 locos.

2 Operation
Saving Locos
To save the last five locos in use for the next operating session, press
SAVE before turning off the handheld’s power switch. Before switching off
the power switch on the handheld, recall back to the five locos you wish to
use in your next session, making sure all functions are off and the throttle
is set to zero. After you have reset your five locos, press SAVE. Then turn
off the power switch on the handheld and then shut down the power to
your DCC system and layout.

Tip Use the DELETE button to remove any unused locos from the stack
before saving your favorite five.

Note Although the Cab can recall up to 25 locos for operation, if you “power off”
the Cab from the base unit, it will only retain the last five locos previously
saved. Make sure to press SAVE before powering off.

Deleting Locos
The Cab can store up to 25 locos. If you select a new loco when the Cab
is full, the new loco will replace the current loco. The current loco will be
lost. To prevent this, we recommend you recall unused locos and delete
them by pressing and holding DEL for 2 seconds.

Emergency Stopping
For emergency stopping of the current loco, press STOP. Pressing and
holding STOP for 2 seconds will stop the Main Track output. The 2 lights
on the base unit will blink. To restore the Main Track output, press and
hold STOP for 2 seconds again.

Speed Steps
Speed steps are incremental steps the loco takes to go from 0 to top
speed. There are three speed steps: 14, 28 and 128. The higher the speed
steps setting, the higher the number of different speeds on which the loco
can operate. When you enter a new loco address (an address that has
not been stored in the Cab’s memory), Prodigy Wireless will set 28 speed
MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-2
 steps as the default setting for that address. In order to operate your loco
properly, you may need to change the speed steps setting to match the
decoder’s speed steps.
To select other speed steps settings, press SPD STEP repeatedly until
you see your desired speed steps setting. Then press ENTER. The
selected speed steps setting will apply only to that address.
Note Use of the speed step button will not alter the speed step originally
programmed into the decoder. It only matches the throttle to the decoder.

Yard Mode On/Off

To toggle the Yard Mode feature on or off, press SYS and 3. In standard
throttle mode, the throttle only controls loco speed. When the Yard Mode
feature is on (“Yard” displayed on LCD), the yard throttle will control both
the speed and direction of the loco. Let’s explain how to use the Yard
throttle.
When the loco is traveling forward, turning the yard throttle clockwise will
increase the loco’s speed. Turning counterclockwise will decrease its
speed until 0. Continuing turning counterclockwise will reverse the loco’s
direction. Continuing turning counterclockwise will increase the loco’s
speed in the reverse. Turning clockwise will decrease its speed in the
reverse until 0. Continuing turning clockwise will reverse the loco’s
direction and set it forward.

Fast Clock
To view the fast clock, press TIME. The time will replace the address
display on the LCD. You can still run the current loco while the time is
displayed. To return to the loco address
display, press TIME again. The time
AM information is stored in the base unit and
Loco transmitted to the Cab. Each Cab
displays the same time.
FWDS
S Time The left LCD display shows time of
Speed 8:02AM. The current loco is moving
forward at a speed of 102.

Overload and Short Circuit

The base unit is rated at 3.5 amps. It is up to you to note how many locos
and accessories can be run on the layout at the same time without
triggering the circuit protector. If there is an overload or short circuit, the
base unit will stop Main Track output for 2 seconds then resume. Please
remove the overload or short circuit for proper operation. When operating
larger layouts with numerous locos and accessories being operated at
the same time or when running 2-rail “O” or “G” scales, you may need a
DCC power booster. We recommend you use the MRC Power Station 8 to
boost your DCC layout.

2-3 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Cab Setup
Setting Cab Addresses
You can use up to 32 Cabs with the Prodigy Wireless. Each Cab must
have a unique address. Any Cab you purchase has the factory default
address #1. Cab #1 is the Master Cab that can perform all functions. Any
additionally purchased Cabs are also Master Cabs and must have their
addresses changed from #1 to unique addresses.
To view your Cab address, press SYS and 6. The current Cab address will
momentarily display. If you wish to change it, enter a new address (1-32)
followed by ENTER. Otherwise, press ENTER to exit. Do not duplicate Cab
addresses.

Setting the Total Number of Operational Cabs (Master Cab Only)

The more Cabs in use at one time, the slower the system response is
from Cab to loco because the base unit can communicate with only one
Cab at a time. Setting the total number of operational Cabs will speed up

2 Operation
your Cab’s response time.
1. Make sure your Cab is the Master Cab (Cab #1).
Only the Master Cab (Cab #1) can set the number of Cabs allowed to
operate on the DCC layout.
2. Press SYS and 9.
3. Using 0 - 9, enter the address of the last operational Cab.
Press ENTER.

Example If you use 10 Cabs and program the Cab addresses #1 - #10, pressing
SYS, 9, 10, and ENTER will set the last operational Cab number to 10. The
base unit will not spend time trying to communicate to Cabs #11 - #32.
If you use 3 Cabs and program the Cab addresses #1 - #3, pressing SYS,
9, 3, and ENTER will set the last operational Cab number to 3. The base
unit will only communicate to Cabs #1 - #3. You will have a really fast
response time.

Adding More Cabs

The base unit of your Prodigy Wireless system has one Cab Jack that is
used for charging the batteries in the handheld(s) or for connection of one
tethered Cab. If you need to use more thethered Cabs or you want to
install the Cab Jacks around your layout, you will need MRC’s Prodigy
Wireless Extension Plates (item no. 0001501). With these plates you can
easily install Cab Jacks anywhere around your layout. The wireless base
unit is able to power six tethered Cabs. If more tethered Cabs are
needed, for every five Cabs you need a special extension plate with a built
in power supply (item no. 0001502) to boost power for Cabs. This item
must be ordered directly from MRC. Please visit our website for more
information.

Note The extension plates are not needed if you only use wireless Cabs.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-4

 Setting Last Cab Allowed to Program Locos on the Main Track (Master
Cab Only)
This feature prevents “novice” operators on your railroad from mistakenly
reprogramming everything on the layout.
1. Make sure your Cab is the Master Cab.
2. Press SYS and 7.
3. Using 0 - 9, enter the number of the last Cab allowed to program on the
Main Track. Press ENTER.
Example If you press the SYS, 7, 3 and ENTER. Cab #4 and above cannot program
on the Main Track.

Setting Last Cab Allowed to Program on the Program Track (Master

Cab Only)
1. Make sure your Cab is the Master Cab.
2. Press SYS and 8.
3. Using 0 - 9, enter the number of the last Cab allowed to program on the
Program Track. Press ENTER.
Example If you press SYS, 8, 2, and ENTER, Cab #3 and above cannot program on
the Program Track.

Programming Decoders
The Prodigy Wireless allows you to easily program most NMRA
compatible decoders. It guides you step by step through the
programming process. No hexadecimal numbers are needed, nor an
engineering degree, to program decoders with this system. The Prodigy
Wireless allows you to program decoders on a separate Program Track
or on the Main Track layout, all without affecting any other locos operating
on the Main Track.

Decoder Terminology
Note Before you start programming, please familiarize yourself with the
following terminology.
Loco Address: The address is the number assigned to a decoder to
identify the decoder.
Start Voltage: This is the voltage required to start the loco’s motor and
overcome its weight and friction to make it begin to move. You can
program your loco with a start voltage so that it will begin to move as soon
as the throttle is turned.
Top Voltage: The top voltage (top speed) is the voltage (speed) at full
throttle. The Prodigy Wireless top end voltage is set for maximum output.
If you are running a switcher, you may want the top end voltage to be less
than full output for more realistic performance at top throttle setting.
Acceleration Rate: This rate simulates the drag of a heavy load as the
loco speeds up so when you increase the speed setting, the loco will
gradually increase its speed.
Deceleration Rate: This rate simulates the drag of a heavy load as the
loco slows down so when you decrease the speed setting, the loco will
gradually decrease its speed.

2-5 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Programming Loco on the Program Track
1. Make sure your Cab is allowed to program on the Program Track.
2. Place the loco on the Program Track. Press PROG to select “Prog Prog
Track”. Press ENTER.
3. First, “Adr” will flash, prompting you to program the loco address. Using
0 - 9, enter the loco address followed by ENTER, or press ENTER to skip.
Note For the beginner or if you want to only program the loco address, you
can stop right here. Put the loco back on the Main Track. Select the loco
by pressing LOCO then enter the loco address and press ENTER. Now
you can run the loco.
4. Next, “SV” will flash, prompting you to program the Start Voltage. Input
data and then press ENTER.
5. Next, “Acc” will flash, prompting you to program the acceleration rate.
Input data and then press ENTER.
6. Next, “dEc” will flash, prompting you to program the deceleration rate.
Input data and then press ENTER.

2 Operation
7. Next, “TV” will flash, prompting you to program the Top Voltage. Input
data then press ENTER.
8. Finally, “CV#” will flash, prompting you to program a CV (Configuration
Variable).
At this point, you have already finished most of the decoder programming.
You can stop programming here by pressing ENTER. The Prodigy
Wireless allows you to enjoy your model railroading without having to
deal with such questions as: What is a CV? What is it for? How do I program it?
9. If you want to program a CV, enter a CV number. Press ENTER. Then
enter CV data. Press ENTER. “CV#” will flash again, prompting you to
program another CV. To skip, press ENTER.
Note Programming a CV with incorrect data can cause a decoder malfunction.
Read your decoder manual carefully before programming a CV. Also,
read the Configuration Variables section on the next page.

Programming Locos on the Main Track

Programming on the Main Track can save you the effort of moving a loco
to the Program Track for programming. However, you have to know the
loco address in order to program on the Main Track. Otherwise you have to
program the loco on the Program Track. Not all decoders support the
Program on Main feature. Please read your decoder’s manual to check
whether the decoder supports this feature.
1. Make sure your Cab is allowed to program on the Main Track
2. To program on the Main Track, press PROG to select “Prog Main Track”.
Press ENTER. The current loco address will flash, prompting you to
program the current loco.
3. To program the current loco, press ENTER; to program another loco,
enter its address and press ENTER.
4. The rest of the programming procedures are the same as the
Programming on Program Track procedures (see above). We
recommend you bring the loco to a stop before programming because if
the moving loco has a bad pickup, it may fail to receive the program
command, causing a malfunction.
MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-6
 Reading Loco’s Decoder Values on the Program Track
The Prodigy Wireless DCC system gives you the ability to read back CV
values of a decoder equipped loco on the Program Track. This feature is
useful if you do not remember the decoder address or what CV values
your decoder has. Not all decoders support this feature. Please read your
decoder’s manual to check whether it supports this feature.
1. Place the loco on the Program Track.
2. Press PROG to select “rEAd Prog Track” then press ENTER.
3. First, “Adr” will flash, prompting you to read the loco address. Press
ENTER to read or press SHIFT to skip to the next item. It may take
several seconds to retrieve the address. If the decoder does not support
read back feature, you will receive an “Err” (Error message).
4. Next, “SV” will flash, prompting you to read the Start Voltage. Press
ENTER to read or SHIFT to skip.
5. Next, “Acc” will flash, prompting you to read the acceleration rate. Press
ENTER to read or SHIFT to skip.
6. Next, “dEc” will flash, prompting you to read the deceleration rate. Press
ENTER to read or SHIFT to skip.
7. Next, “TV” will flash, prompting you to read the Top Voltage. Press
ENTER to read or SHIFT to skip.
8. Finally, “CV#” will flash, prompting you to read a CV. To read a CV, enter
a CV number and press ENTER. After reading a CV, press ENTER.
“CV#” will flash again, prompting you to read another CV. To end the
read process, press ENTER.
More about Decoder Read Back
Not all decoders support the read back feature. Although Prodigy Wireless
has read back funtions, it may still fail to read back the decoders. This does
not mean that your Prodigy Wireless is defective. No DCC system in the
world is able to read all decoders 100%. This will not affect the operation of
the decoder because you are always able to program your decoder.

Configuration Variables – CVs

Configuration Variables, also known as CVs, receive and hold entered
data that allow the decoder to be tailored to a specific loco or accessory.
Some CVs are also called registers.
The Prodigy Wireless DCC system allows you to perform most basic
programming without having to concern yourself with CVs or registers. Of
course, if you want to program CVs to custom tailor your decoders or
select certain functions, the Prodigy Wireless has this capability.
Most Commonly Used CVs
The CVs listed on the chart below are contained in almost all decoders, with
additional CVs for extra functions – sound or light – in more specialized
decoders. See the decoder manufacturer’s instruction manual for a list of
CVs contained in that specific decoder and what values to enter for those
CVs.

2-7 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 CV # Register # Function
1 1 Short address

2 2 Start voltage

3 3 Acceleration rate (momentum)

4 4 Deceleration rate (momenturm)

5 --- Top voltage

6 --- Mid voltage

7 --- Manufacturer version #

8 --- Manufacturer ID #

17 --- Extended address - upper & lower bytes, 4 digit address

18 --- Extended address - upper & lower bytes, 4 digit address

19 --- Advance consist

2 Operation
29 5 Configuration data #1

A Word About CV #29

CV29 is the most important CV of the decoder. Improperly programming
the CV29 may cause decoder malfunction. We do not recommend you
program CV29 yourself because the unit will take care of it for you in most
cases. When you program your decoder’s address with Prodigy Wireless,
it will automatically program CV29. If you want to reverse the loco’s
polarity or set 14 speed steps, you have to reprogram CV29 after
programming the loco’s address. Please use the following table to
reprogram CV29. The value of CV29 depends on the loco’s address. For
further information about CV29, visit the Resource section of our website.
Decoder address Decoder address
Changes
1-127 128-9999
Prodigy Wireless' default setting CV29 = 2 CV29 = 34
Change polarity only CV29 = 3 CV29 = 35
Change to 14 speed steps only CV29 = 0 CV29 = 32
Change polarity & 14 speed steps CV29 = 1 CV29 = 33

More About Programming Locomotive Address on the Program Track

or Main Track
To program a locomotive address involves programming a series of CVs
such as CV1, CV17, CV18, CV19 and CV29. This can be somewhat
complicated. For most decoders, Prodigy Wireless automatically handles
this for you when programming the loco address. However, it may fail to
program some old decoders and some new sound decoders made by
QSI®. It does not mean that you cannot program these decoders. It only
means you cannot use the Prodigy Wireless’s easy address
programming feature. For QSI® decoders please refer to your decoder’s
manual and use CV programming to program the loco address.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-8

Note If you want to program a CV or a group of CVs for the current locomotive
you are running on the Main Track, press CV and enter the the CV
number and the data value.
For some old decoders, you have to skip the Addr programming and use
the CV program mode to program CV29 with a value of 2 and CV1 with a
short address (1-127). Detailed steps are as follows:
1. Press Prog to select Prog Prog Track
2. Press Enter six times until CV# displays on the screen
3. To select CV29, press 29 and Enter
4. CV data displays. Press 2 and Enter
5. CV# displays again. Select CV1 by pressing 1 then press Enter
6. CV data displays. Press the loco address (1-127) and then Enter

Note Visit our website at www.modelrectifier.com and download the ”Tips

and Tricks” PDF for more information.

Consisting
Sometimes more than one loco is needed to haul heavy loads. These
grouped locos are known as a multiple unit or a consist. The Prodigy
Wireless DCC system allows you to build consists quickly and easily.
There are two types of consisting methods, Advanced Consisting and
Universal or Old Style Consisting.
Advanced Consisting
You can only apply Advanced Consisting to a mobile decoder that has
CV19 to support this feature. When you program a loco into an Advanced
Consist, you actually program the consist number into the decoder’s
CV19, which will override the decoder’s original address. Therefore, the
loco will no longer respond to commands addressed to its original
address, but rather only to commands addressed to the consist number.
All decoders in the consist will receive the command addressed to the
consist number at the same time and act as one until you clear the consist.
The base unit does not hold the consist information. With Advanced
Consists, always remember to clear the consist when you are finished or
the locos will still run as part of the consist next time you use them.

Programming Advanced Consists

1. Press CONSIST until “Cons SET” flashes in the LCD display. Then
press ENTER.
2. “Cons #” will display, prompting you to enter a consist number. Enter a
consist number (a short address 1-127) followed by ENTER.
Note Write down the consist number. You will need it later to clear the
Advanced Consist.
3. “Add Loco” will display, prompting you to add a loco into the consist
group. Enter the address of a loco you want to add. Press DIRECTION if
you want the loco’s direction reversed (forward is the default setting).
Then press ENTER.
4. “Add Loco” will display again, prompting you to add another loco into
the consist group. You can add as many locos into the consist as you
would like. To end programming, press ENTER.

2-9 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Running Advanced Consists
Running Advanced Consist is just like running a single loco.
After setting up your consist group, use the consist number to run the
consist.
1. Press the LOCO key. Make sure “Loco” appears on the LCD. If not,
press the LOCO key again. Enter the consist number and press ENTER.
2. Turn the throttle and all the locos in the consist will start moving
together. To control an individual loco’s accessory functions use either
the consist number or the loco’s original address. Read your decoder’s
manual to find how to control the accessory functions.

Clearing Advanced Consists

1. Press CONSIST until “Cons cLr” flashes in the display. Then press
ENTER.
2. “Cons#” will display, prompting you to input the consist number. Enter
number of the consist you want to clear and press ENTER.

2 Operation
Once you clear the consist, each loco will respond immediately to its
original speed command.
Note If you forget the consist number, each loco’s address in the consist must
be reprogrammed on the Program Track, or program CV19 to zero, in
each loco.

Universal (Old-Style) Consisting

This feature allows you to use older decoders that do not have CV19 to
support Advanced Consisting. In this type of consisting, the base unit
stores all the information of the consisting locos and makes them run as a
single loco. When you adjust the speed of the lead loco, the base unit
distributes the speed setting to all the original loco addresses in the
consist by sending the speed command to each individual loco. Although
the consist acts as one loco, there is a slight time lag between the locos
you may not be able to detect.
Locos consisted in this fashion will revert to their original addresses and
direction settings when removed from the layout. If they are removed from
the layout and placed back onto the layout during the same session, they
will remain consisted. They will not be “consisted” if removed to another
layout.
The Prodigy Wireless DCC system allows only ONE Universal Consist at
a time regardless of how many Cabs are in use. One Universal Consist
per system, not per Cab. Once programmed, the base unit will remember
the consist group until you clear it. Turning off the base unit power will not
clear it.

Programming Universal (Old-Style) Consists

1. Press CONSIST until “oLd SET” flashes in the display. Then press
ENTER.
2. “LEAd Loc” will flash, prompting you to enter the address of the lead loco.
Enter the lead loco’s address. Press DIRECTION if you want the loco’s
direction reversed (forward is default setting) and press ENTER.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-10

 3. “Add Loco” will flash, prompting you to add another loco into the consist
group. Enter a loco address. Press DIRECTION if you want the loco’s
direction reversed (forward is default setting) and press ENTER.
4. “Add Loco” will flash again, prompting you to add another loco into the
consist. You can control up to 4 locos total (including the lead loco) in a
Universal Consist. To end programming, press ENTER.
Running Universal (Old-Style) Consists
Note Running a Universal Consist is different from running a single loco.
After setting up your consist group, use the lead loco’s address to run the
consist.
1. Press CONSIST then LOCO. Make
sure “Cons” appears on the LCD
Cons display.
2. Enter the address of the lead loco
and press ENTER.
3. Turn the throttle and all the locos in
REVT the consist will start moving together.
Speed
4. To control accessory functions, use
each loco’s original address.
The above LCD display shows a Universal Consist group led by lead loco
3802 running in reverse at a speed of 102.
Note When running a Universal Consist, LCD shows “Cons.” When running an
Advance Consist, LCD shows “Loco.”

Clearing Universal (Old-Style) Consists

To clear a consist, press CONSIST until “Cons oLd cLr” flashes in the
display. Then press ENTER. Turning off the power on the base unit will not
clear the consist.
Once you clear the consist, each loco will immediately respond to its
original speed command.
Note Always clear a Universal (Old-Style) Consist when you are finished with
it.

Fast Clock
Setting Fast Clock (Master Cab only)
Only the Master Cab (Cab #1) can
program the time, time ratio, and AM/
PM or military (24 hr) time. The time
LOCO
settings entered by the Master Cab are
stored in the Prodigy Wireless DCC
FWD3 TIME system base unit memory. The
SPEED settings will remain unchanged until
you reprogram them. The time is sent
to all Cabs operating on the layout so
railroad schedules can be maintained.

2-11 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Setting Time (Master Cab only):
1. Make sure your Cab is the Master Cab.
2. Press SYS and 1. The current time will be momentarily displayed.
3. Enter the new time. Press ENTER.

Setting Time Rate (ratio) (Master Cab only):

The time rate is how many real seconds are in one fast clock minute.
Example Rate 1 means that one real second equals one fast clock minute, or 60
times as fast as real time. Rate 30 means 30 real seconds equal one
fast clock minute, or twice as fast as real time. Rate 60 means 60 real
seconds equal one fast clock minute, or real time.
1. Make sure your Cab is the Master Cab.
2. Press SYS and 2. The current rate will be displayed for a second.
3. Enter the new ratio. Press ENTER.
Note For a better understanding of “Scale Time and Distance” versus “Real
Time and Distance” refer to the book – “How to Operate Your Model

2 Operation
Railroad” by Bruce Chubb – Kalmbach Publishing.

Setting AM/PM or Military (24hr) Time (Master Cab only):

1. Make sure your Cab is the Master Cab.
2. Press SYS and 4. Either “AM”, “PM” or nothing (military) will display on
the LCD.
3. Repeat step 2 above to select the desired setting.

Reverse Loop
The following diagram shows a reverse loop with a double-pole double-
throw (DPDT) switch. It allows you to change the polarity of the reverse loop
section.
Before a loco crosses the first insulated
DPDT switch or AD520
gap you must make sure the polarity of
reverse loop section and Main Track are
matched at the first gap. If not flip the
Insulated gaps switch. Otherwise it will cause a short
circuit. After the loco passes the first gap
Reverse loop completely, you need to change the
polarity of the reverse loop section by
flipping the switch so that the polarity of
Main Track Insulated gaps the reverse loop section and Main Track
are matched at the second gap.
The MRC Auto Reverse Loop Module (#AD520) can be used in place of
the DPDT switch for automatic operation of the loop. See your hobby
dealer to purchase this item.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-12

 Accessory Decoders
The Prodigy Wireless will handle most NMRA compatible accessory
decoders. This type of decoder can operate turnouts (switch tracks) or
toggle accessories, like building lights, on and off from your Cab. The
accessory decoder outputs can be programmed for a variety of options
so you can use them for twin-coil switch machines (momentary on), slow-
motion switch machines (constant on or latching), or signal lighting
(various flash rates). Refer to your accessory decoder’s instruction
manual for programming procedures and CV values.
Most accessory decoders have their own unique address (CV #513) and
some have multiple outputs (groups of 4). Accessory decoder’s and loco
decoder’s addresses are different, so they can be operated
independently of each other (even if the address values are the same).

Exception The MRC #AD360 Dispatch Decoder uses a short (1-127) mobile
decoder address. You can treat the MRC #AD360 as a loco decoder and
use accessory functions F1 and F2 to operate it. It is very easy to use and
program. No accessory address programming is needed.

Programming Accessory Decoders with CV #513

1. Press PROG until you reach “Prog Prog Track.”
2. Press ENTER until “CV #” displays.
3. Enter 513. Press ENTER.
4. Enter the accessory decoder address. Press ENTER.
Read your accessory decoder manual for proper addressing.

Selecting Accessory Decoders

1. Press ACCY. Using 0 - 9, enter the accessory decoder address. Press
ENTER.
2. “1or2” will display reminding you to press only 1 or 2 to control the
accessory. Press 1 to turn the accessory on and 2 to turn it off. You can
keep pressing 1 or 2 until you are done with accessory.
3. Press ENTER to escape accessory operation.

Note Some other manufacturer’s accessory decoders program differently than

described above. See the “Tips and Tricks” PDF on our website for
updated information on programming these types of accessory decoders.

2-13 Operation MRC Prodigy Wireless

 Accessory Routes
Grouping of turnouts (or accessories) can be consisted to form a route.
The Prodigy Wireless DCC system allows up to 31 routes and up to 8
accessories in each route. Please do not set a route number higher than
31, nor add more than 8 accessories into one route.

Setting Accessory Decoder Routes (Master Cab only)

1. Press SYS and 5.
2. “Route SET” appears in display. Press ENTER.
3. Enter route number (1 – 31). Press ENTER.
4. “Add Accy #” will display. Using 0 - 9, enter an accessory address (1 to
255).
If you want this accessory (turnout points) to move in a direction
opposite its normally programmed direction (reverse polarity), use
DIRECTION to set its direction. Press ENTER.

2 Operation
5. “Add Accy #” will display again, prompting you to add another accessory
into the route. Repeat above steps to enter up to 8 accessories into one
route.
6. When finished setting up your route, press ENTER.

Running Accessory Routes

1. Press ROUTE. Enter the Route number you wish to run. Press ENTER.
2. “1or2” will display reminding you to press only 1 or 2 to select the
routes.

Clearing Accessory Routes (Master Cab only)

1. Press SYS and 0. Then press ENTER.
2. Enter the route number. Then press ENTER.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Operation 2-14

3
Trouble Shooting

General Trouble Shooting

It takes the Command Station, the decoders and your layout to make the
DCC system work. This Trouble Shooting Section has been arranged in a
manner easiest for you to find the cause of your problem. Please go
through this section in the exact order it appears because each following
set of instructions assumes that the preceding set has been tested and
that component of the DCC system found not defective.
1. Plug in the power supply of the base unit. The pilot light should turn
on. If not, make sure the power supply is securely plugged into the base
unit and into a working AC wall outlet. Then unplug the power, wait 3
seconds and plug back in. If power light still does not turn on, send the
unit in for repair.
2. Check the Main Track output. Place an analog loco or test light on the
Main Track. The loco should buzz or the test light should light. If not, check
all connections and make sure the rear green plug is securely plugged
in. Make sure the screws on the green plug are tightened on the wire and
not on the wire cover (insulator). If the analog loco still does not buzz or the
test light does not light, send the unit in for repair. It is better to use a
V.O.M (multi-meter) on the A.C. scale to check for track power, as DCC
track power is A.C., not D.C.
3. LCD does not display anything. The Cab LCD should display the
current loco when the power is on. If not, check the battery voltage level.
If recharging the batteries does not help, send unit in for repair.
4. Check the communication between the base unit and the Cab.
Press 2. F2 should momentarily display on the LCD and the Link light
should blink. If not, set the Cab to be the Master Cab (Cab #1) by
pressing SYS, 6, 1, and ENTER. Make sure there is no other Master Cab
in the system and try again. If there is still no communication, send the
unit in for repair. If there is communication, you may have the wrong Cab
setup. Read the Cab Setup section.
5. Your loco may have a pickup problem. You should periodically clean
your track and your loco’s wheels. Oxide coating or dirt on either the track
or loco’s wheels often causes intermittent and jerky operation.

If you pass the above steps, your Command Station and Cabs are fine.
The problem may lie in the decoder.

6. Your decoder may have lost its memory or is in Advanced Consist

mode (CV19 is not 0). Reprogram the loco address and try again.
7. Your decoder may have too much momentum. Program the loco with
zero acceleration and deceleration rates.
8. The base unit may have a Universal Consist controlling your
decoder. Clear the old consist by pressing CONSIST until “Cons oLd cLr”
flashes in the display. Then press ENTER.

3-1 Trouble Shooting MRC Prodigy Wireless

 9. The current loco speed command may not match the decoder’s
speed steps. Reprogram your decoder’s address. When you program the
decoder with Prodigy Wireless it will automatically set the decoder’s
speed steps to 28/128. Select 28 or 128 speed steps on the base unit
and then try to run the loco.
10. Check the decoder wiring and make sure everything is correctly
installed.
11. Remove the decoder and test it on a decoder tester to make sure
the decoder is fine.
12. If the decoder is fine, check the loco to make sure the loco is fine
before installing the decoder.

Checklist for General Problems

1. Clean your layout and the loco’s wheels.
2. Check the layout’s wiring.
3. Reprogram loco address and other data.
4. Check battery voltage level.
5. Reset the base unit by unplugging power supply.
6. Check loco for proper decoder installation.
7. Check wiring from the base unit to your layout.
8. Check for short circuits and/or stray objects lying across track rails.
9. Make sure the Link light flashes when you press F2.

Special Trouble Shooting

3 Trouble Shooting
Base unit power light is on but Cab does not display anything on the
LCD display
1. Check the Cab battery voltage level.
2. Replace the batteries, if needed.
3. Try another Cab.

The loco’s headlight turns itself off

When you press 0 to turn on the loco’s headlight, the base unit will send
the command to the decoder to turn on the loco’s headlight. The base
unit will not continuously send the accessory command to the decoder
like the speed command. When the loco hits a dirty track and loses its
power, it will reset and lose the accessory command. You should clean
the track and the loco’s wheel to improve the loco’s pickup.

During operation all locos stop responding

Unplug the power supply, wait 3 seconds and turn the power back on. If all
the locos start to run and the system shuts down again, you may have too
many locos and accessories connected to track power. Remove some locos
and try again.

Your loco doesn’t work while other locos work

The decoder may have lost its memory. Reprogram loco address.

MRC Prodigy Wireless Trouble Shooting 3-2

 Your Cab doesn’t work while other Cabs work
Make sure each Cab address is unique. Make sure your Cab address is an
operational address. Check battery voltage. If the Cab still does not work, it
may be a defective Cab.

Your Cab operates locos but cannot program on the Program Track
1. If the Link light does not flash when you enter a data and press ENTER,
it may have been limited by the Master Cab and is not allowed to
program on the Program Track.
2. If the Link light flashes when you enter a data and press ENTER, then
test the Program Track output. To test, place an analog loco on the
Program Track. During the programming process, the Link light should
be on and the analog loco should buzz. If the Link light is on and the
analog loco does not buzz, it is a defective Program Track output.

Your Cab operates locos but cannot program on the Main Track
It may have been limited by the Master Cab.
Your Cab operates locos but cannot program an Advanced Consist
It may have been limited by the Master Cab. Your Cab must be able to
program on the Main Track to set an Advanced Consist.

3-3 Trouble Shooting MRC Prodigy Wireless

4
Service & Support

Your Prodigy Wireless DCC has been thoroughly tested at the factory. Do
not shut down your layout unnecessarily.
Before returning your unit for repair or servicing, please read both General
Trouble Shooting and Special Trouble Shooting sections to make certain
the unit is defective. Please visit our website at www.modelrectifier.com for
further Prodigy Wireless information before calling our service department at
(732) 225-6360 before returning your unit.
Please have the following information handy when you call:
1. Name and model number of the power supply, including the power
booster (if applicable) used with the Prodigy Wireless DCC.
2. Name of the manufacturer and the type of decoders and locos you
are using.

Return Procedure
If it should become necessary to return your DCC system, include a
clearly printed letter with your name, address, daytime telephone number
and a detailed description of the problem you are experiencing. Please
also include a $25.00 check to cover shipping and handling.

Note Warranty does not include abuse, neglect or using this product for
anything other than its intended purpose. Warranty coverage will be
handeled on a case by case basis, and other charges may apply for
repair and/or replacement of the product.

Send your Prodigy Wireless DCC system by Parcel Post Insured or

United Parcel Service to: Model Rectifier Corporation
Attn: Customer Service Dept.
80 Newfield Avenue
Edison, NJ 08837

FCC Compliance
4 Service & Support

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
FCC ID: BTQ170495

MRC Prodigy Wireless Service & Support 4-1

© 2007 Model Rectifier Corporation
80 Newfield Avenue
Edison, NJ 08837
www.modelrectifier.com
Printed in USA