It can be used in many different ways:

For limited speed sections, automated station entries etc.
These are simple cases that don’t require any programming except for some CV programming in the MX9 itself.

In “Module autonomous mode” (w/o a PC):
The logic of stopping a train in front of a red signal or block control is defined by special MX9 CV’s.

In “System autonomous mode” (w/o a PC):
Here, the command station is the executing organ. After the track sections are connected to the MX9, the individual track sections are defined as limited speed, brake or stop section with inputs through the cab. A common scenario for this method is block control without the help of a computer.

Computer control:
With the help of a computer program (i.e. STP), truly prototypical train control is possible (CTC). Not only can you choose between manual train control, automatic train control or a mixture of the two, but you the engineer will always be in full control of any train at any time by pressing a dedicated button on the cab; without informing the PC first. That is a unique feature, found only in ZIMO and is what makes prototypical operation possible!

With “ARS” (Automatic Route Sequences):
Collision avoidance and layout automation without a computer are possible thanks to the new RailCom technology and using the MX9 as a position code indicator.

MX9 Functions

MX9V and MX9B - Occupancy detection for 16 track sections:

• any power consuming vehicle will trigger occupancy detection.
• standby current of decoder or resistors across axles is all it takes for triggering.
• local occupancy state is indicated by 16 LED’s on the MX9.
• bulbs or LED’s can be connected to MX9 for external occupancy indication.

MX9V - “Signal controlled speed influence” independent for 8 main sections (2 track sections = 1 main section):

• automatic stop of trains in front of a red signal executed by the command station (in case of “system autonomous control”) or a computer with appropriate software (i.e. STP); without loosing control over headlights or any other loco functions.
• signal dependent speed limits applied in 5 steps for brake sections or limited speed sections.
• full control of all loco functions even when stopped or in limited speed sections.
• override the signal control speed influence individually for each loco by pressing the “MN” key on the cab.

 MX9V - “Location dependent function control”:

• the MX9V track section module sends “just-in-time” information to mobile decoders to the relevant track sections to turn specific functions ON or OFF, using the signal controlled speed influence technology.
• the selected decoder outputs are switched ON or OFF in specific sections automatically; at present only available in the ZIMO function decoders but will be added to other ZIMO decoders soon.
• “and”, “or” or “not-and” combinations are possible.

MX9V - Position codes for ARS’:

• the track sections connected to a MX9V receive a position code (defined by MX9 CV’s), which instructs the locomotive about its current position on the layout.
• the decoder can use this information for internal functions or can send the information, along with its own routing code (which indicates the kind of train and/or its intended route), via bidirectional communication back to the command station.
• once the command station receives the information it can direct the train to its intended destination using the Automated Routing Sequence (ARS) method.

MX9V - Loco number identification/location:

• by automatically evaluating the loco number pulses from ZIMO decoders, the loco can be identified and located on the layout (which section the loco(s) is currently in).
• loco numbers can be displayed on MX9ZIA display modules or on a computer (i.e. with STP software).