Lenz will in several weeks start shipping the first of their Gold Series Decoders. Based on size and performance, the Gold Series is suitable for HO, most S and many larger scale locos. Here is an edited copy of their press release:
Happy holidays from Lenz GmbH!!
Lenz GmbH is pleased to announce the release of the JST versions of our Gold Series Decoders in the North American market. Gold Series decoders are the most advanced decoder ever produced and introduce the next generation of model railroad control.
Gold JST - $36.95 Tony's
Gold JST-WH - $39.95 Tony's
Gold JST-MP - $39.95 Tony's
Size: L 0.91" x W 0.65"x H 0.26", L 23.0 mm x W 16.5 mm x H 6.5 mm
Current Rating: Cool Continuos running: 1 Amp, Peak running: 1.8 Amp, Stall Current: N/A* (overload protected)
*Note The Gold JST decoder is suitable for motors that have very high (6 Amps and more) stall currents but do not peak over 1.8 Amps
The Gold decoder introduces a radical change in both performance and feature set.
We start with a high frequency back emf motor control that can be configured to the particular motor characteristics in the locomotive. This motor drive run offers exceptional quiet and smooth operation to the locomotive.
Add to this all the high end DCC features common in Lenz decoders, plus a broad array of advanced lighting features and function mapping capabilities. The decoder has 4 built-in function outputs plus a SUSI interface for sound and additional function control. Each of the 4 function outputs can be configured to one or more of 14 DCC functions, the effects can be activated by up to three separate configurable DCC functions and the decoder operation effected by 3 additional configurable function inputs.
Naturally the Gold decoders come with our industry leading 10 year warranty. The motor and all function outputs are short and overload protected, and of course the decoder has already passed the automated NMRA tests (The decoder has been submitted for full NMRA conformance).
To this core we add three exciting new technologies each of which will revolutionize model railroad control.
1) Asymmetrical DCC* for location specific commands using our soon to be released BM Series for Block management
Asymmetrical DCC
allows your layout to come alive, even if you only have one operator.
You can also use asymmetrical DCC to enforce speed control through
important sections of your layout or to stop a train in a siding,
in the station, or before an occupied rail crossing. Using a few
diodes, you can even protect a train from overrunning a turnout
thrown in the wrong direction preventing unintended shorts, which
shut down a section of the railroad.
2) USP Technology*: Uninterruptible Signal Processing
Most decoders must have a clean and constant connection to the track to pick up the DCC signal. Even a small section of dirt can prevent the instructions from getting to the locomotive. Not so with USP Technology. With USP, the decoder can read the signal on either rail or even if the locomotive is entirely on dirty track.
An optional USP storage module (an electronic flywheel) can be fitted into the locomotive (available in late January 2005). The decoder and the locomotive are supplied with power from this storage unit, when there is a interruption of power from the track (e.g. a dead frog or dirty track). DCC instructions continue to be received and performed by the locomotive even when on dirty track.
Even without the optional power module the USP technology greatly improves DCC packer reception and prevents the problems associated with missed packets due to a spec of dirt on the wheels.
3) RailCom* : Full NMRA DCC Bi-directional Communication
It took a long time to achieve an easy to use, highly reliable data transmission but its finally here! RailCom introduces a whole new generation of capabilities for DCC by providing for the first time the ability of a DCC decoder to communicate performance information back to the command station.
• Fast locomotive identification
• Decoder initiated information
• Continuous real speed transmission
• Fast read back of CV values while programming on the main
• DCC command acknowledgement
RailCom is built to adhere to the latest NMRA Bi-directional DCC proposals assuring interchange with other NMRA DCC Bi-directional products from other manufacturers. All our LZV100 and LV102 based power stations are already equipped with a RailCom cutout device.
RailCom detectors will be released early spring of 2005.
We are now taking orders for the GOLD-JST line of decoders and will begin shipping product to dealers the first week of January 2005. We will do our best to try to keep these decoders in stock but we do expect some shortages in the first few months.
* All three new technologies are protected by patents or by patent applications.
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