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Tsunami2 and Econami Digital Sound Decoder
Installation Guide
Rev.D 05/10/2017
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Contents
All Aboard! ............................................................................................................................... 3
Overview ...................................................................................................................................... 3
Pre-Installation Considerations ................................................................................................... 4
Installation ................................................................................................................................ 6
Step 1. Test the Motor Stall Current ........................................................................................... 6
Step 2. Plan the Installation ........................................................................................................ 7
Step 3. Isolate Motor and Lights from the Frame ....................................................................... 9
Step 4. Modify the Tender or Body Shell .................................................................................. 10
Step 5. Mount the Speaker ....................................................................................................... 12
Step 6. Install and Wire the Decoder ........................................................................................ 13
Step 7. Test the Istallation ........................................................................................................ 16
Wiring Diagrams .....................................................................................................................17
TSU-1100/ECO-100 .................................................................................................................. 17
TSU-2200/ECO-200 .................................................................................................................. 18
TSU-21PNEM/ECO-21PNEM ................................................................................................... 19
TSU-PNP/ECO-PNP ................................................................................................................. 20
TSU-4400/ECO-400 .................................................................................................................. 21
Notice
The information in this document is subject to change without notice.
SoundTraxx (Throttle Up! Corp.) shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained
herein, nor for incidental or consequential damage resulting from the furnishing, performance or use of
this material.
This document contains information protected by copyright. No part of this document may be photocopied
or reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Throttle Up! Corp.
Product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective
companies.
SoundTraxx, Tsunami2, Econami, Tsunami, SoundTraxx DCC, Dynamic Digital Exhaust, Auto-Exhaust,
Hyperlight, Hyperdrive2, SoundCar, and Intelligent Consisting are trademarks of Throttle Up! Corp.
Page 3
All Aboard!
Tsunami2
Econami
TSU-1100
ECO-100
TSU-2200
ECO-200
TSU-21PNEM
ECO-21PNEM
TSU-PNP
ECO-PNP
TSU-4400
ECO-400
To download all user documentation, visit www.soundtraxx.com/manuals.php.
All Aboard!
Overview
Congratulations on the purchase of your Tsunami2 or Econami Digital Sound Decoder! Properly
installed, this decoder will provide high-quality sound, realistic lighting effects, and superior
motor control. This installation guide will give you step-by-step instructions to successfully install
the following Tsunami2 and Econami formats for steam, diesel, or electric locomotives:
Though each decoder is tested thoroughly before shipping, we cannot control the correctness or
quality of a given installation. It is imperative that you follow the directions, and never remove
the protective heat-shrink from the decoder; there are no adjustments that can be made to the
hardware and this will void your warranty.
The difficulty of an installation depends principally on the modeler, and may be more or less
challenging according to any given circumstance. However, an installer should generally have
basic modeling skills, be comfortable disassembling a model, and be able to identify wires, such
as power pickups and motor leads.
Note: In the event that you damage the decoder during installation, our warranty policy is
outlined in the User’s Guide and on our website. It includes information about returning the
decoder to SoundTraxx for repair or replacement.
Further documentation regarding steam, diesel, or electric versions of your decoder:
If you’re new to DCC and sound, refer to the Quick Start Guides for default operation and
programming highlights.
Refer to the User’s Guides for in-depth instructions regarding operating and programming
your digital sound decoder.
Refer to the Technical References for details regarding each CV included in your Digital
Sound Decoder.
Refer to the Sound Selection References for a quick guide of CV values to adjust sound
effects in each version.
Refer to the SoundTraxx Guide to Successful Soldering for soldering tips and
recommendations.
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All Aboard!
Pre-Installation Considerations
Carefully read the instructions that are printed on the decoder’s packaging. Then, finish reading
this installation guide. While installing the decoder, keep these precautions in mind:
Handle the decoder carefully in a
static-free environment. To discharge
static electricity before handling the
decoder, touch a water pipe or another
grounded metal surface.
Never remove the decoder’s protective
shrink tubing; this voids your warranty.
Never make connections to the decoder
while it is receiving power.
Make sure all electrical connections are
insulated. Avoid using electrical tape; it
tends to unwrap over time. We
recommend using heat-shrink tubing
instead.
Never allow the decoder leads to come
in contact with any DCC track wiring not
specifically designed for that purpose.
Never allow speaker or motor outputs to
be shorted together.
Do not exceed the output ratings for
which the decoder is designed.
Do not choose a locomotive with a stall
current exceeding the decoder’s rating;
always test the stall current of your
locomotive before installing the decoder.
If possible, mount the decoder in an
area with some airflow to provide
ventilation for the decoder.
Mount the decoder away from other
heat sources (such as the motor or
lamps) to avoid overheating.
Always use a proper speaker enclosure
(baffle) and select the largest speaker
possible.
Choose an appropriately rated speaker.
Take your time and have fun!
Testing the Decoder Prior to Installation
In rare cases, damage received during shipping or improper handling can cause a decoder to
fail prematurely. We recommend that you test all Digital Sound Decoders and accessories
within the item’s warranty period prior to beginning the installation. Proper bench testing of
decoders can save countless hours of headache and frustration if problems are discovered after
the installation process has begun
Testing the decoder on your workbench can be accomplished by connecting the wires/pads
from the DSD to a surplus motor, 8 ohm speaker and 12 volt lamps. Refer to the appropriate
wiring diagram for your decoder when making these connections. Also ensure that the wire
connections are mechanically sound and well insulated to prevent damage to the decoder or
accessories during testing.
When the appropriate connections have been made, test the motor by running it in both forward
and reverse directions. Test each lighting output by turning on the corresponding function key.
Lastly, check the audio output of the DSD by blowing the horn or whistle, ringing the bell and
listening for changes in prime mover notch, exhaust chuff or traction motor whine.
If you should discover any issues during this test, please contact our Customer Support
department for assistance.
Note: Neither Tsunami2 nor Econami require a programming track booster.
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All Aboard!
Miniature Speakers, Baffles, and Gaskets:
We have a variety of miniature speakers, baffles, and gasket kits for use with our digital sound
decoders; choose the largest speaker the installation will allow.
Wiring Aids
Micro-connectors can be used to facilitate easy separation of components. NMRA-Compatible
Connectors are used for converting universal-style decoders to a “plug-and-play” format.
DBX-9000 Wiring Kit facilitates easy separation of the locomotive and tender. Super-flexible
wire is ideal for working in tight spaces.
DCC Accessories
The CurrentKeeper helps maintain decoder performance during momentary power losses.
Microbulbs and LEDs let you take advantage of our Hyperlight lighting effects.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
In addition to the common hand tools found on most modeler’s workbenches, you should have
the following at your disposal:
Low-wattage soldering iron
Rosin-core solder and electronics
safe flux
Hobby knife
Miniature screwdriver set
Diagonal wire cutters
We have a variety of accessories to aid your installation. For more information about our full line
of installation accessories, visit www.soundtraxx.com/access/index.php.
Handheld rotary tool
Multimeter
Double-sided foam tape
Heat-shrink tubing
Silicone RTV
Drill bit assortment
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Installation
Installation
Step 1. Test the Motor Stall Current
Test the locomotive’s stall current to ensure that it is compatible with the decoder that you have
chosen:
1. Place the locomotive on a section of track powered by a conventional DC powerpack set to
the same track voltage as your command station (typically 12-14 volts).
2. Referring to Figure 1, connect a DC ammeter in series with one of the track feeders. If your
powerpack has built-in meters, you may use them for this purpose.
Figure 1: Testing the Locomotive’s Motor Stall Current
3. Immobilize the locomotive by holding it to the track, and turn on the powerpack.
4. Firmly press down on the locomotive or hold the motor’s flywheel to stop it from spinning.
5. Ensure the powerpack voltage remains the same to receive an accurate measurement.
6. Measure the current the locomotive is drawing while the motor is stalled; this is the stall
current.
7. Ensure the motor stall current is less than the decoder’s rated capacity.
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Installation
Mini Cube Speakers
28 mm (1”) Round Speaker
16 x 35mm Oval Speaker
Step 2. Plan the Installation
The sound quality you will receive from your
Digital Sound Decoder depends upon your
speaker selection, the way you install the
speaker, and the location of the decoder
within the model. Consider the following as
you plan your sound installation:
Provide ventilation for the decoder if
possible.
Mount the decoder away from other
heat sources (such as the motor or
lamps) to reduce the chance of
overheating.
Always provide a proper enclosure
(baffle) for the speaker. Lack of a
speaker baffle will cause poor sound
quality.
Speaker Considerations
Select the largest speaker that your model
permits to achieve higher volume and better
quality low-frequency response for a more
realistic sounds. We offer a range of
speakers that you can use with your model.
Note: Be sure that your speaker is rated to
match the audio amplifier of your decoder;
failure to do so could cause damage to your
speaker. Check the packaging and our
website for ratings for each decoder format.
Note: If a single large speaker isn’t an
option, you may be able to use two or three
smaller speakers to improve the frequency
response. For details, refer to “Wiring
Multiple Speakers” within Step 6. Install
and Wire the Decoder (Pg. 13).
Speaker Enclosures
A speaker enclosure (baffle) should be used
to allow air pressure to build up and amplify
sound.
The enclosure should fit the speaker. The
pressure building within an enclosure that is
too small for the speaker will compromise
certain frequencies and muffle the sound
response. As a guideline, enclosures for
speakers measuring less than 3” in
diameter should be built using the cubic
relationship between height, length and
width. For example, a 1” speaker should be
paired with a 1” x 1” x 1” enclosure.
Note: Employing a proper speaker
enclosure cannot be emphasized enough;
the absence of an effective enclosure is
almost always the cause of poor sound
quality.
Speaker enclosures should also be:
Fixed with stiff walls to prevent
vibrations and buzzing
Installed flush with the speaker
dimensions to create an airtight space
for the speaker cone to build pressure
and produce a strong sound response
We offer various snap-together baffle kits
like the one shown below.
SoundTraxx Speaker Baffle Kit
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Installation
Steam Locomotive Considerations
Sound quality is greatly affected by speaker placement, which depends on the size and type of
locomotive. The speaker will produce higher quality sound when fixed within an airtight
enclosure with the front of the speaker facing open air. Most steam engines have a tender that
can be used as an enclosure. You can orient the speaker face up toward the coalbunker or face
down toward the floor – both offer quality sound.
In small tenders, the speaker can be mounted in the coalbunker area with higher walls covering
the speaker magnet. If this isn’t possible, you may need to get creative and install the speaker in
the boiler or smokestack. We also offer an assortment of baffle kits, or you can create
enclosures from sheet styrene, basswood, or cardboard. If you’re in a pinch, try using a plastic
bottle lid, a 35mm film canister, or the paperboard core from a roll of paper towels.
Figure 2 shows a typical sound installation for a steam locomotive with the speaker pointing up
through the coal load. The tender shell acts as a baffle for the speaker. To allow the sound to
escape, the plastic coal load can be perforated with small holes.
Figure 2: Steam Sound Installation
Diesel Locomotive Considerations
When planning a diesel installation, we recommend providing additional airflow if possible.
When possible avoid mounting the decoder above the motor; the motor will raise the decoder’s
temperature during operation.
Figure 3 shows a typical diesel installation where the speaker has been mounted in the fuel tank
with the decoder under the fan grilles. Opening the fan grilles and drilling a number of small
holes through the underside of the frame will create some airflow, and the fuel tank will act as a
baffle for quality sound.
Figure 3: Diesel Sound Installation
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Installation
Step 3. Isolate Motor and Lights from the Frame
Note: If you have a DCC-ready model with an NMRA 8-pin connector, NMRA 9-Pin “JST”
connector, or 21-Pin “NEM” connector, proceed to page 15.
To ensure only the decoder’s motor outputs are driving the two motor connections, isolate the
motor connections from the locomotive frame, left rail, and right rail pickups. Many locomotives
are “DCC-ready,” and this step may not be necessary, though it varies depending upon the
manufacturer. Under Step 6. Install and Wire the Decoder, refer to “Installing into DCC-Ready
Locomotives” for more information regarding DCC-ready installations.
Note: Failure to properly isolate the motor may damage the decoder and we recommend
always practicing this step during the installation process.
To verify that the motor terminals are isolated from the chassis and rail pickups, refer to the
following procedure:
1. Make sure to have an ohmmeter or
continuity tester that you can use to
confirm that each motor terminal is
isolated.
2. Remove the body shell from the
locomotive (and the tender shell for
steam installations).
3. Examine the locomotive wiring and
locate each wire and where each wire is
connected; identify the power pickups
for the left and right rails and the
positive (+) and negative (−) motor
connections.
Note: The positive motor connection is
connected to the right rail (engineer
side) power pickup.
Figure 4: Conventional DC Power Pickups
4. Disconnect all wires that lead to motor
terminals.
Note: Some motor connections are
made by a spring contacting the “live”
chassis. In this instance, remove or
modify the spring contact. Be aware that
the motor and frame are permitted to
make contact when the body is
reinstalled in some locomotives.
5. Set the multimeter to continuity or
ohmmeter, and touch both meter probes
together. Ensure it reads 0 (short circuit)
to verify the meter is functioning
correctly.
6. Touch one probe to a motor terminal.
7. Touch the other probe to the
locomotive’s frame, then to the power
pickup wire for the left rail, then to the
power pickup wire for the right rail and
ensure the meter indicates an open
circuit.
8. To complete the test, remove the probe
from the terminal that has already been
tested and touch it to the other motor
terminal. Then, ensure the meter
indicates an open circuit by performing
the same test with the other probe:
touch it to the frame, the left rail pickup,
and then the right rail pickup.
9. Disconnect all lighting wires.
10. Using the ohmmeter (or continuity
tester), verify each lamp lead is isolated
from the locomotive’s frame, the left rail
pickup, and the right rail pickup.
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Installation
Figure 5: For some models, you may
have to heighten sidewalls to provide
clearance for the sound system.
Figure 6: For models with a molded
coal load, create a subdeck to
provide a flat mounting surface.
Figure 7: If necessary, replace the
slope sheet and inside walls with
sheet brass or styrene to
accommodate the sound system.
Step 4. Modify the Tender or Body Shell
A certain amount of “bodywork” may be necessary to accommodate the speaker and sound
system. This typically includes removing weights, mounting brackets, and internal bracing, as
well as modifying other structural features.
Steam Modification
Installing a decoder in a steam locomotive often involves modifying the tender and tender floor.
Heighten Low Tender Sidewalls
On tenders with low sidewalls, the speaker will often be
mounted face up in the coalbunker to provide adequate
clearance for the sound system fixed to the tender floor.
To heighten the sidewalls, add wooden retaining boards:
1. On the tender deck, trace around the speaker.
2. With a jeweler’s saw, cut an opening around the outline.
3. File and remove all sharp edges and burrs.
4. Contour a piece of fine mesh or foam and cover the coal
load to disguise the speaker.
Note: Tenders with flat decks across the coalbunker are
less difficult to modify.
Styrene Subdeck Speaker Mount
Plastic tenders often have a molded coal load already in
place. The inside surface is contoured to match the coal load
and does not provide a flat mounting surface. A subdeck can
be fabricated from 0.060” styrene to fit tightly against the
tender sides below the coal load:
1. Cut a large circular opening appropriate for the speaker’s
diameter into the styrene sheet.
2. Glue the subdeck to the inside of the tender shell.
3. Using a No. 60 drill bit, drill through the coal load several
times at random angles between the coal “nuggets” to
allow sound to escape.
Tenders with Exposed Coal Slope Sheets
More prototypical tenders have fuel bunkers that extend to
the tender floor. Consider tender size before mounting the
speaker:
For larger tenders, the speaker should be mounted on
the tender floor.
For smaller tenders, the slope sheet and interior walls
will interfere with the speaker and the sound system. It
will usually be necessary to remove and replace them
with sheet brass or styrene to create a flat-decked tender.
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Installation
Figure 8: For speakers mounted on the
tender floor, drill holes below the speaker
to allow the sound to escape.
Modify the Tender Floor
Speakers can be located on the tender floor in many instances. Consider the following when
mounting the speaker to the tender floor:
1. Determine the exact speaker location within the tender and verify that there is clearance
between the tender body and speaker magnet.
2. In the pattern shown in Figure 8, drill 10-15 holes to provide an opening for the sound to
escape; each hole should measure roughly 1/4” in
diameter.
3. Take care not to alter the tender underbody detail
and drill towards the center of the circle, only within
the specified area.
4. Once you have drilled the holes, file all burrs and
uneven edges and ensure no solder joints, screw
bosses, or mounting studs obstruct the speaker
mount; the tender floor should be smooth and flush
against the surface of the speaker.
Diesel Modification
Consider the following for diesel models:
You may need to remove weight from the fuel tank or replace the model’s fan grilles with
some open-grille detail parts.
You will need to fashion a mounting plate for the speaker and seal it well.
If you place the speaker under open fan grilles, consider using a separate speaker baffle
rather than the body, as it may be difficult to seal the chassis well enough to achieve the
desired results.
Figure 9 shows some common diesel modifications:
Figure 9: Common Diesel Body Modifications
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Installation
Step 5. Mount the Speaker
After you’ve modified the model appropriately, arrange the speaker components and secure
them in place.
Mount the Speaker
Once bodywork is complete and the speaker has been fitted in place, it must be secured tightly
to the enclosure. For the best sound, the seal around the speaker’s edge should be airtight. We
offer several speaker gasket kits for easy and neat speaker mounting. You may also hold the
speaker in place using a silicone RTV to provide a seal and allow the speaker to be removed in
the future. Using epoxy or other hard glues does not allow this. Be careful that you don’t get any
RTV onto the speaker cone, as this will cause sound distortion.
Speaker Gaskets
We recommend using a speaker gasket to secure the speaker into place. Please visit our
website for a full list of speakers, speaker enclosures, and speaker gaskets.
Installing Speakers with Gaskets
Consider the following as a guide for mounting the speaker with a gasket:
For each side of the gasket, peel back the paper backing with a pair of tweezers or a hobby
knife and expose the adhesive.
Fix the gasket to the speaker, and fix the speaker to the desired surface.
Take care not to fix the gasket to the speaker cone.
Figure 10: SoundTraxx Speaker Gasket Installation
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Installation
Figure 13: Multi-Speaker Wiring
Note: Values assume 8-ohm speaker impedance.
Step 6. Install and Wire the Decoder
Track Connections
1. Connect the decoder’s red wire to the
right rail power pickup.
Speaker Connections
1. Connect the decoder’s purple speaker
(+) wire to one of the speaker terminals.
2. Connect the decoder’s black wire to the
left rail power pickup.
2. Connect the decoder’s purple speaker
(−) wire to the other speaker terminal.
Motor Connections
1. Connect the decoder’s orange wire to
the motor’s positive (+) terminal.
2. Connect the decoder’s gray wire to the
motor’s negative (−) terminal.
Figure 11: Track and Motor Connections
Figure 12: Soldering to Speaker Terminal
Connections
Wiring Multiple Speakers
Refer to Figure 13 when wiring multiple
speakers. Be aware of the speaker
polarity. If a speaker is wired backwards
relative to another speaker, the two
speakers will release opposing sound
waves and will be unable to reproduce
sound effectively. This will result in
diminished volume levels. If the speaker
does not indicate polarity on its terminal,
wire terminals to corresponding terminals,
i.e., wire left terminals to left terminals,
and right terminals to right terminals,
respectively.
Note: The polarity of the speaker terminals is only important when using multiple speakers (see
above). If you have installed multiple speakers, make sure they are phased properly, i.e.,
positive lead to positive lead and negative lead to negative lead of each speaker. On smaller
speakers, solder the wires to the outside edges of the solder pads.
Note: Do not use SoundTraxx Digital Sound Decoders with speakers with a total impedance
less than 8 ohms. Doing so may result in erratic operation, or even cause component failure.
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Installation
Lighting Connections
Up to 6 lighting outputs are connected by way of the Function Common (Blue wire or “+” pad) and
the Headlight, Backup Light, FX3, FX4, FX5, and FX6 function wires (or corresponding pads)
found on the decoder.
Because of the wide variety of lighting used by model manufacturers, it’s important to know the
voltage rating of your locomotive’s lamps or LEDs. Connecting lighting rated for less than 12 volts
(such as 1.5V microbulbs, 3.3V LEDs, 3V lamps or 6V lamps) directly to the decoder can cause
damage to the on-board circuitry as well as damage to the lamps or LEDs themselves.
Refer to the information below for proper wiring of the most common types of lighting installed in
locomotives.
Wire the decoder to 12V Lamps
Refer to Figure 14 to use 12V Lamps. Wire the 12V lamps
directly to the headlight and backup light. The 12V lamps
may also be wired directly to FX3-FX6 lighting outputs.
Wire the decoder to 1.5V Microbulbs
To use 1.5V microbulbs, refer to Figure 15. Wire a small
current-limiting resistor with each lamp to prevent lights from
burning out. A separate resistor must be used for each
bulb even if you connect it to the same output. We
recommend using a 560-ohm, 1/4-watt resistor with each
bulb. However, you may need to adjust the resistance to
achieve the appropriate brightness. This is determined by the
output voltage for your command station. Lower resistance
will increase the lamp brightness.
Note: Econami PNP and Tsunami2 PNP format decoders are equipped with a 1.5 Volt
regulated output. Refer to the wiring diagrams on page 21 for more information.
Wire the decoder to LEDs
SoundTraxx decoders support the use of LEDs wired in-series using 1K (1000) OHM, 1/4 watt
resistors.
Unlike incandescent bulbs, LEDs are sensitive to polarity:
Figure 17: Wiring 12V Lamps
Figure 14: Wiring to 12V Lamp
Figure 15: Wiring to 1.5V Microbulbs
The negative (−) LED cathode (shorter lead) connects to
the decoder’s corresponding lighting output.
The positive (+) LED anode (longer lead) connects to the
decoder’s blue Function Common wire.
Tsunami2 and Econami Installation Guide 14
Figure 16: Wiring 3.3V LEDs
Page 15
Installation
DCC-Ready Locomotive Installations
NMRA 8-Pin Sockets
If your locomotive is wired with an NMRAcompatible 8-pin socket, you may solder a
mating connector to the decoder’s wire
harness to allow simplified plug-in
installation for all wiring excluding speaker
connections. We offer a package of four
connectors (P.N. 810123) that meet NMRA
specifications. Wire the connector according
to Figure 17.
Note: Some models equipped with 8-pin sockets may not be compatible with the NMRA
standard. If you are unsure of the wiring standard used in your 8-pin socket equipped model,
please refer to the Technical Note entitled “Testing NMRA 8-Pin Sockets” found on our website.
NMRA 9-Pin “JST” Plug
Many models are being equipped with this DCC “Quick-Plug” connector for easy installation of
TSU-2200 or ECO-200 decoders. The following procedure can be used when installing these
decoders:
1. Remove the factory supplied 9-pin
dummy plug from the model and ensure
that the NMRA 8-Pin dummy plug (if
equipped) has been removed as well.
2. Using a hobby knife, remove a small
amount of shrink wrap from the decoder
around the 9-pin plug.
3. Pull gently with even force applied to all
9 wires to remove the SoundTraxx wire
harness from the decoder.
4. Plug the decoder into the NMRA 9-pin
“JST” wire harness located in the model.
21-Pin NEM Connector Interface Figure 19: 21-Pin NEM Wiring Diagram
Please refer to page 19 for more information
about this interface and SoundTraxx 21-Pin
NEM decoders.
Note: SoundTraxx 21-Pin NEM decoders
are designed for use with factory supplied
motherboards which support the NEM
specifications. Our decoders are not
intended for use with 21-Pin NMRA
standard sockets.
Figure 17: NMRA 8-Pin Wiring Diagram
5. Refer to the wiring diagram for TSU2200 and ECO-200 decoders for
connection of the speaker and any
additional lighting functions.
Figure 18: NMRA 9-Pin “JST” Wiring Diagram
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Installation
Step 7. Test the Installation
At this point, you should be ready for the test track. We recommend your test track be equipped
with a fast-blow fuse appropriately rated for your decoder (1-amp decoder = 1-amp fuse).
Test the installation according to the following:
1. Place the locomotive on the track and turn the power on.
2. Set your controller to locomotive address 3.
3. Verify that your locomotive will move in both directions and turn the headlight and backup
light on and off with the corresponding function keys (F0 forward and reverse).
4. For steam decoders, verify the airpump is running automatically in the background.
5. For diesel decoders, verify the engine RPM is at a steady idle.
If your locomotive responds to direction changes incorrectly, the motor connections have been
reversed. Refer to the following to correct them:
1. Turn the power off.
2. Reconnect the decoder’s orange wire to the motor terminal previously connected to the
decoder’s gray wire, and reconnect the decoder’s gray wire to the motor terminal previously
connected to the decoder’s orange wire.
3. Place your locomotive back on the test track and verify correct movement in the forward and
reverse directions.
After successfully testing your installation, secure the decoder and all loose wires with Kapton
tape or double sided foam tape to prevent interference with the locomotive’s shell, motor or
other drive-line components. Trim, insulate the ends and secure all unused FX lighting outputs
to prevent accidental contact with other components during reassembly.
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Page 17
Wiring Diagrams
TSU-1100/ECO-100
The TSU-1100 and ECO-100 are “universal” style decoders for hard-wired installations in many
W scale and small HO scale models.
Wires are color-coded according to the NMRA Standard (where applicable):
Power, Motor, Headlight, and Backup Light Wires:
Black: Left Rail Pickup (-)
Gray: Motor (-)
Yellow: Backup Light
White: Headlight
Speaker and FX Wires:
Purple: Speaker (+)
Purple: Speaker (-)
Green/Yellow Stripe: Ground
Blue: Function Common (12V)
Orange: Motor (+)
Red: Right Rail Pickup (+)
Green: FX3
Brown: FX4
CurrentKeeper Installation
The TSU-1100 and ECO-100 both include an optional 220µF, 25V capacitor or may be used
with a SoundTraxx CurrentKeeper to maintain performance during momentary power losses.
To install a CurrentKeeper, remove the connector and trim the blue and black wires to about 3”.
Strip and tin the ends of the CurrentKeeper’s wires, as well as the decoder’s blue (Function
Common) and green/yellow stripe (Ground) wires. Slide a piece of heat-shrink tubing over each
of the CurrentKeeper’s wires. Solder the blue CurrentKeeper wire to the blue decoder wire, and
the black CurrentKeeper wire to the decoder’s green/yellow stripe wire. Slide the pieces of
heat-shrink tubing over the connections and heat to insulate.
Figure 20: TSU-1100/ECO-100 Wiring Diagram
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Wiring Diagrams
TSU-2200/ECO-200
The TSU-2200 and ECO-200 are considered to be “universal” style decoders for installation in a
variety of models. These decoders are equipped with a NMRA 9-Pin “JST” plug for easy
installation in many DCC ready models.
Wires are color-coded according to the NMRA Standard (where applicable):
Power, Motor, Headlight, and Backup Light Wires:
Black: Left Rail Pickup
Gray: Motor (-)
Yellow: Backup Light
White: Headlight
Green/Yellow Stripe: Ground
Speaker and FX Wires:
Purple: Speaker (+)
Purple: Speaker (-)
Green: FX3
CurrentKeeper Installation
These decoders are equipped with a 2-pin socket specifically for the CurrentKeeper. You may
need to trim back a small amount of the heat shrink surrounding this connector before plugging
the CurrentKeeper wire harness into this socket.
Blue: Function Common (12V)
Orange: Motor (+)
Gray: Motor (-)
Red: Right Rail Pickup
Brown: FX4
Green/White Stripe: FX5
Brown/White Stripe: FX6
Figure 21: TSU-2200/ECO-200 Wiring Diagram
Note: If you’re replacing an older TSU-1000 decoder with a TSU-2200 or ECO-200 format
decoder, you will also need to upgrade the speaker prior to completing the installation. Newer
DSDs are equipped with a higher powered amplifier that will damage older, low power handling
speakers. Please refer to our website for a full list of speakers rated for use with the TSU-2200
and ECO-200 decoders.
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Wiring Diagrams
TSU-21PNEM/ECO-21PNEM
The TSU-21PNEM and the ECO-21PNEM have a 21-pin, dual-row, bottom-entry connector
arranged according to the NEM Standard. Orient the decoder so that Pin 1 on the factoryinstalled board lines up with the appropriate connector on the decoder, which is indicated by the
white dot on top of the decoder. Plug the decoder into the factory-installed board. Solder or plug
in the purple speaker wires to the appropriate location on the factory-installed board.
CurrentKeeper Installation
In most cases, a CurrentKeeper may be soldered to the locomotive's factory-installed board to
help maintain performance during momentary power interruptions. Please contact our Customer
Support at (970) 259-0690 or support@soundtraxx.com for assistance with determining the
correct soldering locations.
Figure 22: TSU-21PNEM/ECO-21PNEM Wiring Diagram
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Wiring Diagrams
TSU-PNP/ECO-PNP
Designed as a factory board replacement format decoder, the TSU-PNP and ECO-PNP both
provide mounting points for many Athearn, Atlas, Bowser, Kato, and Intermountain Railway Co.
HO scale models.
Current Keeper Installation
Plug the CurrentKeeper wire harness directly into the 2-pin socket located next to the motor
connections on the decoder.
1.5V Wiring Diagram
Figure 23: TSU-PNP/ECO-PNP 1.5V Wiring Diagram
LED Wiring Diagram
Figure 24: TSU-PNP/ECO-PNP LED Wiring Diagram
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Wiring Diagrams
TSU-4400/ECO-400
Wiring the TSU-4400 and the ECO-400 is done by way of two terminal blocks on the circuit
board. Use a small flathead screwdriver to loosen the screws on the top of the block. If
necessary, trim any excess length from the wires to prevent them from interfering with
installation. Strip about 1/4" of insulation off each wire, tin the end, and insert it into the
appropriate terminal. Tighten the screw to make the connection.
CurrentKeeper Installation
The TSU-4400 and ECO-400 include a socket designed for the CurrentKeeper’s quick-plug for
easy installation.
Figure 25: TSU-4400/ECO-400 Wiring Diagram
Function Common is rated at track voltage minus 1.5V.
Note:
This rating will vary between command stations and layout
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