Difference between revisions of "Push Button Sound Box"

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(horns)
 
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Line 11: Line 11:
 
| VSupplies=DC 9V-15V
 
| VSupplies=DC 9V-15V
 
| ISupplies=
 
| ISupplies=
−
| IFuncts=Internal: 2W (max)<br /> Line Out: Unamplified
+
| IFuncts=Internal: 5W (max)<br /> Line Out: Unamplified
 
| KeepAlive=
 
| KeepAlive=
 
| ProductScale=All Scales
 
| ProductScale=All Scales
Line 18: Line 18:
  
 
==Overview==
 
==Overview==
−
The {{PAGENAME}} from Train Control Systems is a standalone product capable of playing sounds from TCS' massive library of bells, horns, whistles, and more! Equipped with an internal 2 Watt speaker and adjustable volume control, the {{PAGENAME}} can deliver clear and powerful audio to your train room or around the Christmas tree! Also included is a 3.5mm mono line out for externally amplified speakers. See the section below for Setting up Line Out for more information.   
+
The {{PAGENAME}} from Train Control Systems is a standalone product capable of playing sounds from TCS' massive library of bells, horns, whistles, and more! The {{PAGENAME}} can also play TCS' entire library of steam chuffs and diesel engine sounds, simply by connecting your track power. This product can seamlessly integrate with your existing DC, AC, or Lionel powered track.   
  
−
The {{PAGENAME}} can also play TCS' entire library of motive sounds, but requires an external power pack. See the section below for Setting Up Operation With a Power Pack for more information.  
+
Equipped with illuminated push buttons and an internal speaker with adjustable volume control, the {{PAGENAME}} can deliver clear and powerful audio to your train room or around the Christmas tree! Also included is a 3.5mm mono line out for externally amplified speakers. 
 +
 
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} is fun for the whole family! Fun and engaging for children of all ages (and children at heart of all ages too)! The lighted buttons are satisfying to press, and are designed to be durable and to last. The massive library of sounds available at the press of a button also ensures that the experience never gets stale. Try a new whistle. A new bell. The {{PAGENAME}} has them all. Literally! 
  
 
===Features===
 
===Features===
  
−
*Integrated 2 Watt speaker
+
*Four illuminated, rugged push buttons
 +
*Integrated 5 Watt speaker
 
*Volume control knob
 
*Volume control knob
 
*Mono-channel Line Out for externally-amplified speakers (PC speakers, home stereo system, etc.)
 
*Mono-channel Line Out for externally-amplified speakers (PC speakers, home stereo system, etc.)
Line 31: Line 34:
 
**54 Horns
 
**54 Horns
 
**75 Whistles
 
**75 Whistles
−
**13 Steam Chuff Sets
+
**13 Steam Chuffinity™ Chuff Sets
 
**32 Diesel Prime Movers
 
**32 Diesel Prime Movers
 
**And More!
 
**And More!
Line 38: Line 41:
  
 
===Basic Setup===
 
===Basic Setup===
−
The {{PAGENAME}} includes a 15V power supply. Simply plugging in the power supply is all that is required to begin using this product. In this mode, the Bell, Horn, Whistle, and Change Sound buttons will operate. If no audio is heard, ensure that the Volume Knob on the rear is not turned to the Off position. The volume control only affects the internal speaker, unless set to the Off position. Simply pressing the buttons on the top will operate the sound functions. See the section below for Operational Behaviors to learn more about how each button operates.   
+
The {{PAGENAME}} includes a 15V power supply. Simply plugging in the power supply is all that is required to begin using this product. In this mode, the Bell, Horn, Whistle, and Change Sound buttons will operate. Simply pressing the buttons on the top will operate the corresponding sound functions. See the section below for Operational Behaviors to learn more about how each button operates. If no audio is heard, ensure that the Volume knob on the rear is turned up.   
  
 
===Setting Up Line Out===
 
===Setting Up Line Out===
Line 45: Line 48:
 
You will need to supply your own cable to adapt the 3.5mm Mono Line Out to whatever input is used by your speakers. PC speakers often also use 3.5mm stereo cable, which can be connected directly. Home stereo systems may require an adapter to change the 3.5mm output cable to [[wikipedia:RCA_connector|RCA/component]] in. Consult your stereo's user manual for available input options. The input chosen ''must'' have an internal-amplification in order to be audible.  
 
You will need to supply your own cable to adapt the 3.5mm Mono Line Out to whatever input is used by your speakers. PC speakers often also use 3.5mm stereo cable, which can be connected directly. Home stereo systems may require an adapter to change the 3.5mm output cable to [[wikipedia:RCA_connector|RCA/component]] in. Consult your stereo's user manual for available input options. The input chosen ''must'' have an internal-amplification in order to be audible.  
  
−
The output volume will be controlled by the connected output device, but the output from the {{PAGENAME}} can be disabled by turning the volume control knob to the Off position.  
+
The output volume will be controlled by the connected output device. The volume control knob only controls the built in speaker.  
  
 
===Setting Up Operation With a Power Pack===
 
===Setting Up Operation With a Power Pack===
−
The featureset of the {{PAGENAME}} can be expanded to include Diesel Prime Mover and Steam Chuff sounds when used in conjunction with a DC or AC power supply. Out of the box, only bells, horns, and whistles are playable; however, with a connected DC or AC power supply, the {{PAGENAME}} can play diesel prime mover or steam chuffs, along with other peripheral sounds such as air compressors and others. These sounds will start up once an external power supply is detected, either DC or AC. It is not possible to use DCC to control the {{PAGENAME}}.  
+
The featureset of the {{PAGENAME}} can be expanded to include motive power sounds if the Track Input is connected to a variable DC or AC power pack. Out of the box, only bells, horns, and whistles are playable; however, with a connected DC or AC power pack, the {{PAGENAME}} can play diesel prime mover or steam chuffs, along with other automatic sounds. These sounds will start up once an external power supply is detected, either DC or AC.  
 +
 
 +
The Track Input does ''not'' replace the DC power supply for the {{PAGENAME}} itself. The included 15V power supply is still required.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|It is not possible to use DCC to control the {{PAGENAME}}.
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|''!!!WARNING!!! The maximum voltage allowed into the track input is 24V AC or DC''
 +
|}
  
 
To integrate the {{PAGENAME}} into your layout or display, follow these steps:  
 
To integrate the {{PAGENAME}} into your layout or display, follow these steps:  
  
−
#Turn off your power pack.
+
#Turn off your power pack. Unplug the power supply from the {{PAGENAME}}.
 
#Connect one wire to each of the track output terminals on the power pack.
 
#Connect one wire to each of the track output terminals on the power pack.
 
#Locate the screw terminal plug on the back of the {{PAGENAME}}. Disconnect if necessary.
 
#Locate the screw terminal plug on the back of the {{PAGENAME}}. Disconnect if necessary.
Line 65: Line 78:
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|''NOTE: The track input is high-impedance. Without the load from an actual locomotive on the rails to dissipate the energy from the power pack, the throttle response will not be accurate.''
 
|''NOTE: The track input is high-impedance. Without the load from an actual locomotive on the rails to dissipate the energy from the power pack, the throttle response will not be accurate.''
−
|}
+
|}<br />
−
 
+
===Calibrating Sound Operation===
−
====Calibrating Sound Operation====
 
 
The {{PAGENAME}} can store configurations for '''up to three''' different locomotives. Each of these locomotives can have the throttle/sound response individually calibrated to provide the most realistic operation. In order to use this feature, you must have already followed the steps above to connect to your power pack.  
 
The {{PAGENAME}} can store configurations for '''up to three''' different locomotives. Each of these locomotives can have the throttle/sound response individually calibrated to provide the most realistic operation. In order to use this feature, you must have already followed the steps above to connect to your power pack.  
  
Line 85: Line 97:
 
|''NOTE: Avoid removing the power supply while in calibration mode.''
 
|''NOTE: Avoid removing the power supply while in calibration mode.''
 
|}
 
|}
−
† ''If the bell, horn, or whistle sound changes instead, increase and then decrease the speed control on your power pack. The Change Sound button responds to the most recently played sound type - changing the speed should play a chuff or change the prime mover notch.''  
+
† ''If the bell, horn, or whistle sound changes instead, briefly increase and then decrease the speed control on your power pack. The Change Sound button responds to the most recently played sound type - changing the speed should play a chuff or change the prime mover notch.''  
  
 
‡ ''The calibration process can be repeated for up to three different locomotives.'' ''The calibration process will save the active prime mover or chuff set, as well as the relevant voltage levels.''  
 
‡ ''The calibration process can be repeated for up to three different locomotives.'' ''The calibration process will save the active prime mover or chuff set, as well as the relevant voltage levels.''  
Line 91: Line 103:
 
|''NOTE: The reliability and accuracy of the calibration is affected by the stability of the voltage from your power pack. Using a power pack with poor regulation will affect the accuracy of the calibration process.''
 
|''NOTE: The reliability and accuracy of the calibration is affected by the stability of the voltage from your power pack. Using a power pack with poor regulation will affect the accuracy of the calibration process.''
 
|}
 
|}
−
It is a good idea to have saved profiles for the locomotives you run frequently. Once you have saved profiles, you can select the active locomotive by entering calibration mode, using the HORN button to select the locomotive number, and then pressing the CHANGE SOUND button to exit. Doing so will load the profile for the selected locomotive number, including the calibration levels and engine sounds.  
+
It is a good idea to have saved profiles for the locomotives you run frequently. Once you have saved profiles, you can select the active locomotive by entering Calibration Mode, using the HORN button to select the locomotive number, and then pressing the CHANGE SOUND button to exit. Doing so will load the profile for the selected locomotive number, including the calibration levels and engine sounds.  
  
 
Out of the box, the factory calibration levels are set based on TCS' testing of commonly-available power packs as follows:
 
Out of the box, the factory calibration levels are set based on TCS' testing of commonly-available power packs as follows:
Line 97: Line 109:
 
- Locomotive 1: Bachmann Regulated 16V DC Power Pack (PN 44211)
 
- Locomotive 1: Bachmann Regulated 16V DC Power Pack (PN 44211)
  
−
- Locomotive 2: Lionel Chief 16V AC Power Pack
+
- Locomotive 2: Lionel "Chief" 16V AC Power Pack
 +
 
 +
- Locomotive 3: MRC TechII Dualpower 2800 Unregulated Power Pack
  
 
==Operational Behaviors==
 
==Operational Behaviors==
Line 104: Line 118:
 
On the top of the{{PAGENAME}} are four buttons. From left to right (looking at the front side with the speaker facing toward you), the buttons are BELL, HORN, WHISTLE, and CHANGE SOUND.  
 
On the top of the{{PAGENAME}} are four buttons. From left to right (looking at the front side with the speaker facing toward you), the buttons are BELL, HORN, WHISTLE, and CHANGE SOUND.  
  
−
#Bell Button - Press once to toggle the Bell sound ON. Press again to toggle the bell sound OFF.
+
#Bell Button - Press once to toggle the Bell sound ON. Press again to toggle the sound OFF.
 
#Horn Button - Press and hold to play the Horn sound. Release to stop.
 
#Horn Button - Press and hold to play the Horn sound. Release to stop.
 
#Whistle Button - Press and hold to play the Whistle sound. Release to stop.
 
#Whistle Button - Press and hold to play the Whistle sound. Release to stop.
Line 110: Line 124:
  
 
====Change Sound Operation====
 
====Change Sound Operation====
−
The fourth button on the {{PAGENAME}} is labeled "Change Sound" and does precisely as labeled - the most recently played sound type will be changed to a new sound of the same type if pressed. Therefore, if you would like to change the Bell sound, press the bell button and then the Change Sound Button.  
+
The fourth button on the {{PAGENAME}} is labeled "Change Sound" and does precisely as the name implies - the most recently played sound type will be changed to a new sound of the same type if pressed. Therefore, if you would like to change the Bell sound, press the Bell button and then the Change Sound button.  
  
 
When changing sounds, a short sample of the new sound will be played. A bell will ring, horn will blow, or whistle will chime each time the button is pressed. The sound that is heard will be the new sound that will be played any time you press the corresponding sound button afterwards.
 
When changing sounds, a short sample of the new sound will be played. A bell will ring, horn will blow, or whistle will chime each time the button is pressed. The sound that is heard will be the new sound that will be played any time you press the corresponding sound button afterwards.
Line 121: Line 135:
  
 
===Diesel Operation===
 
===Diesel Operation===
−
When a Diesel Prime Mover locomotive sound type is selected, and a power pack is being used, the {{PAGENAME}} will behave int he following ways:
+
When a Diesel Prime Mover locomotive type is selected, and a power pack is being used, the {{PAGENAME}} will behave in the following ways:
  
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Compressor will kick on.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Compressor will kick on.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Spitter sound will play.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Spitter sound will play.
 
*As the speed of the locomotive increases, the notch of the prime mover will increase. The inverse is also true.
 
*As the speed of the locomotive increases, the notch of the prime mover will increase. The inverse is also true.
−
*After a period of inactivity (while stationary/zero voltage), the prime mover will play a shutdown sequence. To restart the prime mover, increase the throttle/voltage.
+
*After a period of inactivity (while stationary/zero Track In voltage), the prime mover will play a shutdown sequence. To restart the prime mover, increase the throttle/voltage.
  
 
===Steam Operation===
 
===Steam Operation===
−
When a Steam locomotive sound type is selected, and a power pack is being used, the {{PAGENAME}} will behave int he following ways:
+
When a Steam locomotive type is selected, and a power pack is being used, the {{PAGENAME}} will behave in the following ways:
  
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Pump will kick on.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Pump will kick on.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Injector sound will play.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Injector sound will play.
−
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Coal Shoving sounds will play.
 
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Safety Valve sounds will activate.
 
*Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Safety Valve sounds will activate.
 
*When stationary or at low speed, idling sounds (boiler noise) will play. As the locomotive accelerates, these sounds will fade out.
 
*When stationary or at low speed, idling sounds (boiler noise) will play. As the locomotive accelerates, these sounds will fade out.
Line 141: Line 154:
 
*After a period of inactivity, the idle sounds will stop. To restart them, increase the throttle/voltage.
 
*After a period of inactivity, the idle sounds will stop. To restart them, increase the throttle/voltage.
  
−
=== Volume Control Operation ===
+
===Volume Control Operation===
−
The volume knob located on the back of the {{PAGENAME}} will change the volume of the built-in speaker. The Line Out will always be on at a constant level (if connected) as long as the volume control knob is not turned to the OFF position. Turning the knob down all the way will turn off the audio output, either to the internal speaker or any external speaker(s) connected to the Line Out.
+
The volume knob located on the back of the {{PAGENAME}} will change the volume of the built-in speaker. Turning the knob down all the way towards "-" will turn off the audio output completely.
 +
 
 +
The Line Out will always be on at a constant level (if connected) and must be controlled by the external amplifier. The volume knob will not affect the Line Out volume in any way. If the volume of an externally connected speaker is too quiet, ensure that the external amplifier is connected properly and the volume control is set appropriately.  
  
 
==List of Sounds==
 
==List of Sounds==
 
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
 
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
 
|+Bells
 
|+Bells
−
|64 Bells
+
|Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley S4 #8223 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Allentown & Auburn SW #206 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|BUDD RDC Bell
 +
|-
 +
|GE E-Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Fairbanks Morse Trainmaster Bell
 
|-
 
|-
−
|
+
|Galloping Goose #3 Bell
 
|-
 
|-
−
|
+
|GE 45 Tonner Bell
 
|-
 
|-
−
|
+
|GE 80 Tonner Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Norfolk & Western GP9 #620
 +
|-
 +
|Western Pacific #2100
 +
|-
 +
|Conrail GP30 #2233
 +
|-
 +
|Niles Canyon Mongo Speeder Bell
 +
|-
 +
|PRR GG1 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Quincy RR SW8 #1100
 +
|-
 +
|Richmond Pacific SW900
 +
|-
 +
|RRMNE GE U23B Bell
 +
|-
 +
|RSD1 #1956
 +
|-
 +
|RSD12 #2958
 +
|-
 +
|C&CV S4 #3051 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Santa Catalina JLA2 Critter
 +
|-
 +
|SMS Lines AS616 #554 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|SMS Lines GP38-3 #2003 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|SMS Lines U23B #4212 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Southern Pacific #1423
 +
|-
 +
|Southern Pacific #3100
 +
|-
 +
|Southern Pacific #5472
 +
|-
 +
|Southern Pacific #5623
 +
|-
 +
|VO-1000 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Western Pacific #713
 +
|-
 +
|Western Pacific #918D
 +
|-
 +
|C&O Bell (Type 1)
 +
|-
 +
|CSRR Museum #491
 +
|-
 +
|C&T #484 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Heisler-Class hand-powered Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Replica John Bull hand-powered bell
 +
|-
 +
|Leetonia RR Shay #1
 +
|-
 +
|Lehigh Coal & Navigation #1
 +
|-
 +
|Lehigh Valley Bell (Type 1)
 +
|-
 +
|Lehigh Valley Bell (Type 2)
 +
|-
 +
|Norfolk & Western #611 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Strasburg RR #89
 +
|-
 +
|Philladelphia & Reading Camelback #592
 +
|-
 +
|PRR H3 #1187 hand-powered bell
 +
|-
 +
|PRR H3 #2846 hand-powered bell
 +
|-
 +
|PRR #7002 hand-powered bell
 +
|-
 +
|PRR Bell
 +
|-
 +
|PRR American #1223 hand-powered bell
 +
|-
 +
|Reading Railroad Bell (Type 1)
 +
|-
 +
|Reading Railroad Bell (Type 2)
 +
|-
 +
|Reading Railroad Bell (Type 3)
 +
|-
 +
|Reading Railroad Bell (Type 4)
 +
|-
 +
|Richland, Fredricksburg & Potomac Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Richmond Pacific SW900 Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Strausburg #475 air-powered Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Strausburg #475 hand-powered Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Strausburg #90 hand-powered Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Strausburg #90 hand-powered bell (Alternate)
 +
|-
 +
|Tweetsie RR Bell 1
 +
|-
 +
|Unknown Bell 1
 +
|-
 +
|Unknown Bell 2
 +
|-
 +
|Virginia Truckee RR #260 hand-powered bell
 +
|-
 +
|Williams Grove RR Bell
 +
|-
 +
|Black River & Western #60
 +
|-
 +
|Cass Shay #3
 
|}
 
|}
−
<br />
 
 
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
 
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
 
|+Horns
 
|+Horns
Line 184: Line 318:
 
|SMS Lines GP38-3 #2003
 
|SMS Lines GP38-3 #2003
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley S4 #3051  
+
|Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley S4 #3051
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Hancock Air Whistle (Type 1)
 
|Hancock Air Whistle (Type 1)
Line 455: Line 589:
 
|ALCo 251D 6-Clinder Turbo
 
|ALCo 251D 6-Clinder Turbo
 
|-
 
|-
−
|ALCo 251C 12-Cylinder Turbo
+
|ALCo 251C 12-Cylinder Turbo (Century)
 
|-
 
|-
 
|ALCo 539T 6-Cylinder ALCo Turbo (RS1)
 
|ALCo 539T 6-Cylinder ALCo Turbo (RS1)
Line 511: Line 645:
 
|Cummins 6-Cylinder (80-Tonner)
 
|Cummins 6-Cylinder (80-Tonner)
 
|-
 
|-
−
|GE FDL-12 (U23B)
+
|GE FDL-16 (U25B)
 
|-
 
|-
−
|GE FDL-12 (Type 2)
+
|GE 7FDL-12 (U23B)
 
|-
 
|-
−
|GE FDL-16 (U25B)
+
|GE 7FDL-12 (Type 2)
 
|-
 
|-
 
|GE 7FDL-16 (C39-8)
 
|GE 7FDL-16 (C39-8)
Line 525: Line 659:
 
Peripheral sounds not individually listed here include:
 
Peripheral sounds not individually listed here include:
  
−
* 11 Diesel Air Compressors
+
*11 Diesel Air Compressors
−
* 13 Steam Air Pumps
+
*13 Steam Air Pumps
−
* 9 Diesel Air Spitters
+
*9 Diesel Air Spitters
−
* 6 Steam Injectors
+
*6 Steam Injectors
−
* Brake Squeal and Brake Release sounds
+
*Brake Squeal and Brake Release sounds
−
* Steam locomotive Rod Clank sounds
+
*Steam locomotive Rod Clank sounds
  
 
[[Category:TCS Products]]
 
[[Category:TCS Products]]
 
[[Category:Trackside Devices]]
 
[[Category:Trackside Devices]]

Latest revision as of 23:56, 19 September 2024

Push Button Sound Box
Push Button Box Lights On (3).png
Device Information
ManufacturerTrain Control Systems
TypeTrackside WOWSound
SKU3200
Release Date[Unreleased]
Retail Price[To be announced]
ProtocolsDC; AC (Optional)
Power SupplyDC 9V-15V
Output RatingInternal: 5W (max)
Line Out: Unamplified
ScaleAll Scales
Dimensions (LxWxH)3.94” x 5.91” x 2.28”
100mm x 150mm x 58mm

Overview

The Push Button Sound Box from Train Control Systems is a standalone product capable of playing sounds from TCS' massive library of bells, horns, whistles, and more! The Push Button Sound Box can also play TCS' entire library of steam chuffs and diesel engine sounds, simply by connecting your track power. This product can seamlessly integrate with your existing DC, AC, or Lionel powered track.

Equipped with illuminated push buttons and an internal speaker with adjustable volume control, the Push Button Sound Box can deliver clear and powerful audio to your train room or around the Christmas tree! Also included is a 3.5mm mono line out for externally amplified speakers.

The Push Button Sound Box is fun for the whole family! Fun and engaging for children of all ages (and children at heart of all ages too)! The lighted buttons are satisfying to press, and are designed to be durable and to last. The massive library of sounds available at the press of a button also ensures that the experience never gets stale. Try a new whistle. A new bell. The Push Button Sound Box has them all. Literally!

Features

  • Four illuminated, rugged push buttons
  • Integrated 5 Watt speaker
  • Volume control knob
  • Mono-channel Line Out for externally-amplified speakers (PC speakers, home stereo system, etc.)
  • Includes TCS' complete library of Steam and Diesel sounds! (See List of Sounds for comprehensive list)
    • 64 Bells
    • 54 Horns
    • 75 Whistles
    • 13 Steam Chuffinity™ Chuff Sets
    • 32 Diesel Prime Movers
    • And More!

Setup Instructions

Basic Setup

The Push Button Sound Box includes a 15V power supply. Simply plugging in the power supply is all that is required to begin using this product. In this mode, the Bell, Horn, Whistle, and Change Sound buttons will operate. Simply pressing the buttons on the top will operate the corresponding sound functions. See the section below for Operational Behaviors to learn more about how each button operates. If no audio is heard, ensure that the Volume knob on the rear is turned up.

Setting Up Line Out

The Push Button Sound Box can be connected to external speakers using the included Line Out jack on the back. The output is mono-channel, but the jack has been configured to work with mono or stereo cables so that the same sound will play through both L and R channels, rather than one or the other. If a cable has been plugged into the Line Out jack, the internal speaker will be disabled.

You will need to supply your own cable to adapt the 3.5mm Mono Line Out to whatever input is used by your speakers. PC speakers often also use 3.5mm stereo cable, which can be connected directly. Home stereo systems may require an adapter to change the 3.5mm output cable to RCA/component in. Consult your stereo's user manual for available input options. The input chosen must have an internal-amplification in order to be audible.

The output volume will be controlled by the connected output device. The volume control knob only controls the built in speaker.

Setting Up Operation With a Power Pack

The featureset of the Push Button Sound Box can be expanded to include motive power sounds if the Track Input is connected to a variable DC or AC power pack. Out of the box, only bells, horns, and whistles are playable; however, with a connected DC or AC power pack, the Push Button Sound Box can play diesel prime mover or steam chuffs, along with other automatic sounds. These sounds will start up once an external power supply is detected, either DC or AC.

The Track Input does not replace the DC power supply for the Push Button Sound Box itself. The included 15V power supply is still required.

It is not possible to use DCC to control the Push Button Sound Box.
!!!WARNING!!! The maximum voltage allowed into the track input is 24V AC or DC

To integrate the Push Button Sound Box into your layout or display, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off your power pack. Unplug the power supply from the Push Button Sound Box.
  2. Connect one wire to each of the track output terminals on the power pack.
  3. Locate the screw terminal plug on the back of the Push Button Sound Box. Disconnect if necessary.
  4. Connect both wires from the power pack to the terminal block. The polarity does not matter. Ensure the screws are tight. Reconnect the terminal block to the back of thePush Button Sound Box if it was removed in the previous step.

Recommended Practices:

  • It is recommended, but not required, that you tin the wires before connecting them to the terminal block. Ensure that no strands of wire are protruding from the terminal block.
  • For DC-powered layouts, particularly with older power packs, it is recommended that you use an analog filter to stabilize the voltage output from your power pack.
  • For power packs that have more than a single output, DO NOT connect both outputs to the Push Button Sound Box at the same time! If you would like to be able to use each output with the Push Button Sound Box, you should connect a double-pole double-throw switch (break before make or center-off) switch to change the input to the Push Button Sound Box between the controls.
NOTE: The track input is high-impedance. Without the load from an actual locomotive on the rails to dissipate the energy from the power pack, the throttle response will not be accurate.


Calibrating Sound Operation

The Push Button Sound Box can store configurations for up to three different locomotives. Each of these locomotives can have the throttle/sound response individually calibrated to provide the most realistic operation. In order to use this feature, you must have already followed the steps above to connect to your power pack.

To calibrate the throttle response for a locomotive, follow these steps:

  1. Run the locomotive you would like to calibrate for a minimum of three minutes before calibrating to warm up the motor and ensure it is working.
  2. Place the locomotive on a straight and level piece of track (if possible).
  3. Turn on your power pack.
  4. Slowly turn up the voltage on your power pack until the idling sounds start, then wait ~5 seconds.
  5. Press the "Rotate Sound" button until you hear the correct prime mover or chuff set you would like to use for the locomotive.†
  6. Enter calibration mode by pressing and holding both the BELL and CHANGE SOUND button for ten seconds.
  7. Select a "locomotive" by pressing the HORN button.‡
  8. Follow the steps as given by the audio prompts to perform the calibration process.
  9. Exit Calibration Mode by pressing the CHANGE SOUND button.
NOTE: Avoid removing the power supply while in calibration mode.

† If the bell, horn, or whistle sound changes instead, briefly increase and then decrease the speed control on your power pack. The Change Sound button responds to the most recently played sound type - changing the speed should play a chuff or change the prime mover notch.

‡ The calibration process can be repeated for up to three different locomotives. The calibration process will save the active prime mover or chuff set, as well as the relevant voltage levels.

NOTE: The reliability and accuracy of the calibration is affected by the stability of the voltage from your power pack. Using a power pack with poor regulation will affect the accuracy of the calibration process.

It is a good idea to have saved profiles for the locomotives you run frequently. Once you have saved profiles, you can select the active locomotive by entering Calibration Mode, using the HORN button to select the locomotive number, and then pressing the CHANGE SOUND button to exit. Doing so will load the profile for the selected locomotive number, including the calibration levels and engine sounds.

Out of the box, the factory calibration levels are set based on TCS' testing of commonly-available power packs as follows:

- Locomotive 1: Bachmann Regulated 16V DC Power Pack (PN 44211)

- Locomotive 2: Lionel "Chief" 16V AC Power Pack

- Locomotive 3: MRC TechII Dualpower 2800 Unregulated Power Pack

Operational Behaviors

Button Operation

On the top of thePush Button Sound Box are four buttons. From left to right (looking at the front side with the speaker facing toward you), the buttons are BELL, HORN, WHISTLE, and CHANGE SOUND.

  1. Bell Button - Press once to toggle the Bell sound ON. Press again to toggle the sound OFF.
  2. Horn Button - Press and hold to play the Horn sound. Release to stop.
  3. Whistle Button - Press and hold to play the Whistle sound. Release to stop.
  4. Change Sound Button - See below:

Change Sound Operation

The fourth button on the Push Button Sound Box is labeled "Change Sound" and does precisely as the name implies - the most recently played sound type will be changed to a new sound of the same type if pressed. Therefore, if you would like to change the Bell sound, press the Bell button and then the Change Sound button.

When changing sounds, a short sample of the new sound will be played. A bell will ring, horn will blow, or whistle will chime each time the button is pressed. The sound that is heard will be the new sound that will be played any time you press the corresponding sound button afterwards.

Change Sound can also be used to change the motive power (Chuff/Prime mover) sounds. In order to do this, you must have set up and connected a power pack as described in the power pack setup section above. Locomotive sounds will start up once an external power supply is detected, either DC or AC, and the voltage input reaches a certain threshold. Increase and then decrease the speed control on your power pack - changing the speed should play chuffs or change the prime mover notch. So long as no other sound buttons are pressed, the Change Sound Button will change the locomotive type. When changing locomotive types, the Push Button Sound Box will toggle between steam chuff sets and diesel prime movers.

NOTE: The "mute" locomotive type will disable the engine sounds completely, but will not interfere with the sound buttons.

Many of the peripheral sounds, such as the air compressor and air spitter, will change along with the locomotive type. The sounds will be automatically changed to be the most accurate for the locomotive type selected. It is not possible to change these sounds manually.

Diesel Operation

When a Diesel Prime Mover locomotive type is selected, and a power pack is being used, the Push Button Sound Box will behave in the following ways:

  • Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Compressor will kick on.
  • Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Spitter sound will play.
  • As the speed of the locomotive increases, the notch of the prime mover will increase. The inverse is also true.
  • After a period of inactivity (while stationary/zero Track In voltage), the prime mover will play a shutdown sequence. To restart the prime mover, increase the throttle/voltage.

Steam Operation

When a Steam locomotive type is selected, and a power pack is being used, the Push Button Sound Box will behave in the following ways:

  • Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Air Pump will kick on.
  • Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Injector sound will play.
  • Periodically, when at idle or at low speed, the Safety Valve sounds will activate.
  • When stationary or at low speed, idling sounds (boiler noise) will play. As the locomotive accelerates, these sounds will fade out.
  • After remaining stationary for some time, then starting to accelerate, Cylinder Cocks sounds will play. Once a certain speed has been reached, these sounds will stop.
  • As the locomotive accelerates, Rod Clank sounds will fade in. As the speed continues to increase, these sounds will fade out.
  • Chuff sounds will change pace with changes to the speed/voltage.
  • After a period of inactivity, the idle sounds will stop. To restart them, increase the throttle/voltage.

Volume Control Operation

The volume knob located on the back of the Push Button Sound Box will change the volume of the built-in speaker. Turning the knob down all the way towards "-" will turn off the audio output completely.

The Line Out will always be on at a constant level (if connected) and must be controlled by the external amplifier. The volume knob will not affect the Line Out volume in any way. If the volume of an externally connected speaker is too quiet, ensure that the external amplifier is connected properly and the volume control is set appropriately.

List of Sounds

Bells
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley S4 #8223 Bell
Allentown & Auburn SW #206 Bell
BUDD RDC Bell
GE E-Bell
Fairbanks Morse Trainmaster Bell
Galloping Goose #3 Bell
GE 45 Tonner Bell
GE 80 Tonner Bell
Norfolk & Western GP9 #620
Western Pacific #2100
Conrail GP30 #2233
Niles Canyon Mongo Speeder Bell
PRR GG1 Bell
Quincy RR SW8 #1100
Richmond Pacific SW900
RRMNE GE U23B Bell
RSD1 #1956
RSD12 #2958
C&CV S4 #3051 Bell
Santa Catalina JLA2 Critter
SMS Lines AS616 #554 Bell
SMS Lines GP38-3 #2003 Bell
SMS Lines U23B #4212 Bell
Southern Pacific #1423
Southern Pacific #3100
Southern Pacific #5472
Southern Pacific #5623
VO-1000 Bell
Western Pacific #713
Western Pacific #918D
C&O Bell (Type 1)
CSRR Museum #491
C&T #484 Bell
Heisler-Class hand-powered Bell
Replica John Bull hand-powered bell
Leetonia RR Shay #1
Lehigh Coal & Navigation #1
Lehigh Valley Bell (Type 1)
Lehigh Valley Bell (Type 2)
Norfolk & Western #611 Bell
Strasburg RR #89
Philladelphia & Reading Camelback #592
PRR H3 #1187 hand-powered bell
PRR H3 #2846 hand-powered bell
PRR #7002 hand-powered bell
PRR Bell
PRR American #1223 hand-powered bell
Reading Railroad Bell (Type 1)
Reading Railroad Bell (Type 2)
Reading Railroad Bell (Type 3)
Reading Railroad Bell (Type 4)
Richland, Fredricksburg & Potomac Bell
Richmond Pacific SW900 Bell
Strausburg #475 air-powered Bell
Strausburg #475 hand-powered Bell
Strausburg #90 hand-powered Bell
Strausburg #90 hand-powered bell (Alternate)
Tweetsie RR Bell 1
Unknown Bell 1
Unknown Bell 2
Virginia Truckee RR #260 hand-powered bell
Williams Grove RR Bell
Black River & Western #60
Cass Shay #3
Horns
Allentown & Auburn RR SW #206
SMS Lines AS616 #554
SMS Lines DS44 750 #102
SMS Lines S12 #303
VO-1000 Horn
Budd RDC #41 Horn
Fairbanks Morse Trainmaster
GE 45 Tonner
GE 80 Tonner
SMS Lines U23B #4212
Southern Pacific #3100
Norfolk & Western GP9 #620
SMS Lines GP38-3 #2003
Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley S4 #3051
Hancock Air Whistle (Type 1)
Leslie 125
Leslie 200 (C&CV S4 #8223)
Leslie 200
Leslie 3-Chime
Leslie RS3
Leslie RS3L
Leslie RS5T
VIA Rail SCV-42 Leslie RS5 variant
Nathan K3
Nathan K3H (Type 1)
Nathan K3H (Type 2)
Nathan K3LA
Nathan K3LL
Nathan K3P (C&CV S4 #102)
Nathan K5H
Nathan K5HL (Type 1)
Nathan K5LA (ACS-64 High Horn - Type 1)
Nathan K5LA (ACS-64 Low Horn)
Nathan K5LA (Amtrak SC-44 Charger)
Nathan K5LA (SEPTA ACS-64)
Nathan K5LA (Type 1)
Nathan K5LA (Strasburg RR #8618)
Nathan K5LLA
Nathan M3 (C&CV S4#8223)
Nathan M3 (Type 1)
Nathan M3 (Type 2)
Nathan M3 (Type 3)
Nathan M3 Tilt
Nathan M3 & Leslie 200 (C&CV #8223)
Nathan M5
Nathan P3
Nathan P5
Nathan P5A
SEPTA SPAX #80 Horn
SEPTA SPAX #80 Horn (Alternate)
Quincy RR SW8 #1100
Southern Pacific RSD12 #2958
Galloping Goose #3
Wabco E2 - 3-Chime
Whistles
Air Chime Corporation #6
Alamo Michigan Plant Whistle
American Steam Gauge Single Note
Santa Fe Original 6-Chime
Santa Fe Reproduction 6-Chime
Tweetsie RR Baldwin 3-Chime
Baltimore & Ohio 3-Chime
Boston & Maine 6-Chime
Buffalo Creek & Gauley 3-Chime
Canadian National 5-Chime
Canadian Pacific 5-Chime
Cass Scenic RR Shay #5
Central NJ 3-Chime
Chicago Burlington & Quincy RR 3-Chime
Cleveland Cincinnati Chicago & St. Louis 5-Chime
Crosby Steam Gauge 6-Chime
Cumbrees & Toltec #488 K36 5-Chime
Cumbrees & Toltec #484 K36 5-Chime
Cumbrees & Toltec #484 K36 5-Chime (Alternate)
Grand Trunk & Western 6-Chime
Great Northern RR 5-Chime
Great Northern RR 5-Chime (Alternate)
Hancock 3-Chime Short-bell
Illinois Central Nathan 3-Chime
Kingsly RR 4-Chime
Lehigh & New England 3-Chime
Lehigh Valley RR Crosby 3-Chime
Lehigh Valley RR Hancock 3-Chime
Louisville & Nashville 3-Chime
Lunkenheimer Single-note
Lunkenheimer 3-Chime
Nathan 5-Chime
Lehigh Coal #126 Nathan 5-Chime
Lehigh Coal #126 Nathan 5-Chime (Alternate)
Nickel Plate Road #765
Norfolk & Western "Hooter"
Norfolk & Western Single-chime Long-bell
Norfolk & Western Single-chime Short-bell
Norfolk & Western Nathan 3-Chime
PRR "Banshee"
PRR 3-Chime
PRR 3-Chime (Alternate)
PRR K4 Whistle
Reading RR "Hooter"
Reading RR "Hooter" (Alternate)
Reading RR G2 #179 6-Chime
Reading Pacific G2 6-Chime
Reading RR 6-Chime
Reading RR 6-Chime (Alternate)
Rio Grande Southern RR #41
Southern Pacific 5-Chime
Southern Pacific "Daylight" 6-Chime
Southern RR Single-Chime
Southern RR 3-Chime
Southern RR 6-Chime
London & North Eastern Crosby 3-Chime
UK Whistle (Type 1)
UK Whistle (Type 2)
UK Whistle (Type 3)
UK Whistle (Type 4)
Consett Iron Co. Class A #5
Consett Iron Co. Class A #5 (Alternate)
British Single-Chime Whistle
Unknown Whistle (Type 1)
Unknown Whistle (Type 2)
Unknown Whistle (Type 3)
Unknown Whistle (Type 4)
Unknown Whistle (Type 5)
Hancock 3-Chime
Union Pacific 3-Chime Long-bell
Wabash 3-Chime
Wabash 6-Chime
Western Maryland Decapod #1114 Nathan 3-Chime
Western Maryland K2 #204 3-Chime
WW2-Era 3-Chime
Steam Chuff Sets
Chuffinity Chuffset 1 | 0-4-0ST Vulcan Iron Works (Type 1)
Chuffinity Chuffset 2 | K-36 Narrow-Gauge (Type 1)
Chuffinity Chuffset 3 | K-36 Narrow-Gauge (Type 2)
Chuffinity Chuffset 4 | 4-6-0 Baldwin "Ten-wheeler"
Chuffinity Chuffset 5 | 4-6-2 Baldwin "Pacific"
Chuffinity Chuffset 6 | 2-8-4 Lima Locomotive Works "Berkshire"
Chuffinity Chuffset 7 | 0-4-0ST Narrow-gauge
Chuffinity Chuffset 8 | 4-6-0 Rogers Locomotive & Machine Works "Sierra"
Chuffinity Chuffset 9 | 2-8-0 Baldwin "Consolidation"
Chuffinity Chuffset 10 | 0-4-0T Vulcan Iron Works (Type 1)
Chuffinity Chuffset 11 | 3-cyl Shay
Chuffinity Chuffset 12 | 2-8-0 ALCo "Mogul"
Chuffinity Chuffset 13 | 0-6-0ST Vulcan Iron Works
Diesel Prime Movers
ALCo ALCo 244D 12-Cylinder Turbo
ALCo 251B 12-Cylinder Turbo
ALCo 251D 6-Clinder Turbo
ALCo 251C 12-Cylinder Turbo (Century)
ALCo 539T 6-Cylinder ALCo Turbo (RS1)
ALCo 539T 6-Cylinder Buchi Turbo (S4)
ALCo 539T 6-Cylinder ALCo Turbo (S4)
Baldwin Baldwin 8-VO (VO-1000)
Baldwin 606-A (S12)
Baldwin 606-NA (DS-4-4-750)
De La Vergne 608SC (AS616)
MUTE Disables the motive power sounds
Detroit

Diesel

MTU 16V2000 S96R
EMD EMD 567C 8-Cylinder (SW)
EMD 567BC 16-Cylinder (FP7)
EMD 567C 16-Cylinder (GP9u)
EMD 567C 16-Cylinder (GP9)
EMD 567D2 16-Cylinder Turbo (GP20)
EMD 645E 12-Cylinder (SW1500)
EMD 645E 12-Cylinder (Type 2)
EMD 645E 12-Cylinder (Type 3)
EMD 645E 16-Cylinder (GP38-3)
EMD 645E 16-Cylinder (GP38H-3)
EMD 645E 16-Cylinder Turbo (SD40)
EMD 710-G3 16-Cylinder Turbo (SD70-series)
Fairbanks

Morse

38D-8 1/8 (H-12-44)
GE Cummins 6-Cylinder (80-Tonner)
GE FDL-16 (U25B)
GE 7FDL-12 (U23B)
GE 7FDL-12 (Type 2)
GE 7FDL-16 (C39-8)
GE 7FDL-16 (Type 2)
GE GEVO-12 (ES44)

Peripheral sounds not individually listed here include:

  • 11 Diesel Air Compressors
  • 13 Steam Air Pumps
  • 9 Diesel Air Spitters
  • 6 Steam Injectors
  • Brake Squeal and Brake Release sounds
  • Steam locomotive Rod Clank sounds
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