Decoders

All ZIMO decoders -  MX620, MX63, MX64, MX69, MX690 and MX82 are fully NMRA-DCC compatible.
Zimo decoders have a reputation among serious model railroaders for many years to be the best performing decoder. 3-way adjustable back-EMF, nonlinear momentum, 40 kHz frequency and user-activated software-upgrade are just a few of the sought after features found only in a Zimo!

ZIMO decoders are working not only with the ZIMO system, but also with other NMRA-DCC compatible equipment.

They are available for all scales from N to G and can be programmed in service or operations mode.

MX620                        small scale decoders

With .53 x .35 x .098 inches (13.5 x 9 x 2.5mm) the MX620 may be small in size but not in performance!
It has all the features of the “big” ones like fully adjustable back-EMF, high frequency silent drive, 5 digit addressing, individual speed table etc.

Decoder Versions:

MX620,   7 highly flexible wires 120 mm in length
MX620N, small (6-pin) interface connector
MX620R, 8-pin interface connector on 70mm wire
MX620F, 6-pin interface connector on 70mm wire

MX620

Features:

  • 14, 28, 128 speed steps
  • 3-way adjustable back-EMF
  • selectable frequency, low 50 to 150Hz / high 20kHZ to 40 kHz for noiseless operation!
  • for all DC motors incl. core less
  • NMRA bi-directional communication
  • speed table
  • short circuit protected
  • thermal protection
  • 5 digit addressing
  • 4 function output
  • all lighting effects with programmable timing and dimming
  • reliable overload protection
  • hard reset
  • can be updated by the user via Internet!
  • Limited sound capabilities (requires amplifier board; available later)
  • Please check out the full list of features here

Specifications:

Track voltage

12 - 24 V

Maximum motor output current - peak (5 sec. max.)

2 A

Maximum motor output current - continuous

.8A

Maximum total function output current

.3A

Total decoder current

.8A

Operating temperature

-20 to +100C

Dimensions                                 .53x.35x.098 in.

13.5x9x2.5mm

MX 63                       HO and smaller scale

The new Zimo MX63 decoder is smaller in size and has more features then ever.

The new MX63 families of Zimo decoders come with all the advantages we have taken for granted on the MX61/2000. Thanks to using the most advanced parts available and an optimum layout configuration it was possible to make it even smaller and add still more exiting features!
The MX61/2000 was already known for its outstanding low speed performance. Yet Zimo managed to further enhance the MX63’s performance.

To the well known features like 3-way adjustable back-EMF, high frequency drive of up to 40 kHz (perfect for coreless motors), all lighting functions, 5 digit addressing, Zimo added some more:

  • bidirectional communication
  • SUSI interface
  • 2 additional logic output

Decoder Versions:

MX63,  9 highly flexible  wires 120 mm in length.
MX63R, 8-pin interface connector as defined in RP-9.1.1.
MX63F, 6-pin interface connector as defined in RP-9.1.1.

Features

  • bidirectional communication
  • SUSI interface
  • 3-way adjustable back-EMF
  • 14, 28, 128 speed steps
  • selectable frequency, low 50 to 150Hz / high 20kHZ to 40 kHz for noiseless operation!
  • for all DC motors incl. core less
  • speed table
  • short circuit protected
  • thermal protection
  • 5 digit addressing
  • 6 function output (4 direct and 2 logic level)
  • NMRA function mapping and more
  • all lighting effects with programmable timing and dimming
  • hard reset
  • can be updated by the user via Internet!

Please check out the full list of features here

Specifications:

Track voltage

12 - 24 V

Maximum motor output current - peak (5 sec. max.)

3 A

Maximum motor output current - continuous

1A

Maximum total function output current

.5A

Total decoder current

1.2A

Operating temperature

-20 to +100C

Dimensions                                 .78x.47x.16 in.

20x12x4mm

MX63 decoders have a built-in sending unit for the bidirectional communication. Decoders sold before the second half of 2003 need a software upgrade for the bidirectional communication to work since the NMRA rulings were not finalized at the time.

MX64                               HO scale decoder

MX64- a new Zimo decoder family, smaller size, more features then ever. Standard version delivers up to 1.0 A, high output version up to 1.8 A. Peak current draw is a whopping 2,0 Amps! And all this for a very attractive price!

The new Zimo MX64 decoders come with all the advantages we have taken for granted on the MX61/2000. Thanks to using the most advanced parts available and an optimum layout configuration it was possible to lower the manufacturing costs and as a result make one of the most advanced decoders affordable for everyone! This is probably the most cost effective way to enjoy  a high performance decoder that includes features like fully adjustable back-EMF, high frequency drive and fully compatible with core less motors (e.g. Faulhaber), bi-directional communication, SUSI interface.
 

Decoder Versions:

MX64:    basic version with 9 highly flexible wires 120 mm in length.
MX64R: with 8-pin interface connector as defined in RP-9.1.1.
MX64F: with 6-pin interface connector as defined in RP-9.1.1.

MX64H: high output version with 9 highly flexible wires 120 mm in length.
MX64HR:  high output version with 8-pin interface connector as defined in RP-9.1.1.
MX64HF:  high output version with 6-pin interface connector as defined in RP-9.1.1.

MX64V1: same as MX64H but with built-in voltage regulator for direct connection of 1.2V               light bulbs.
MX64V5:  same as MX64H but with built-in voltage regulator for direct connection of 5V                  light bulbs.

Features:

  • bidirectional communication
  • SUSI interface
  • 3-way adjustable back-EMF
  • 14, 28, 128 speed steps
  • selectable frequency, low 50 to 150Hz / high 20kHZ to 40 kHz for noiseless operation!
  • for all DC motors incl. core less
  • speed table
  • short circuit protected
  • thermal protection
  • 5 digit addressing
  • 6 function output (4 direct and 2 logic level)
  • NMRA function mapping and more
  • special CV’s to guarantee smooth engine starts and stops
  • shunting function
  • engine won’t stall on power interruption of up to 1 sec. (e.g. dirty track)
  • all special lighting (EFX) functions
  • Zimo’s signal controlled speed influence
  • train number recognition
  • hard reset
  • can be updated by the user via Internet!

This is the first decoder that can activate selected functions automatically at a specific point on a layout (“position controlled function influence”). For example: turning lights on/off, blowing the horn when approaching a level crossing etc.

Please check out the full list of features here

Specifications:

MX64:

  • motor current up to 1 Amp
  • 4 function outputs 0.5Amp each (total)
  • 3 additional logic level outputs.
  • total current 1.2Amp
  • dimensions: 1.02 x 0.63 x 0.12 in.
  • bidirectional communication


High output version, MX64H
, MX64HR, MX64HF:

  • motor current up to 1.8Amp
  • 7 functions outputs
  • total current 1.8 Amp
  • dimensions:1.02 x 0.63 x 0.2 in.
  • bidirectional communication

Both the MX64 and MX64H have a built-in sending unit for the bidirectional communication. Decoders sold before the second half of 2003 need a software upgrade for the bidirectional communication to work since the NMRA rulings were not finalized at the time.

MX69                        large scale  0, 1, 2 etc

Decoder Versions:

MX69L - economy version of the MX69S decoder. Identical in functions to the MX69S but doesn’t have a heat sink and is therefore limited in its output.

MX69S - the standard 3A version with 8 function outputs. Screw terminal for power-in and motor, 16 pin connector for accessories compatible with predecessor MX66S decoder, 3-pin connector for external power supply MXSPEIG and SUSI connector

MX69V - improved heat transfer to increase output (up to 5A if mounted to metal parts that can act as additional heat sink), 14 function output among them for motor drive, a second 16 pin connector for additional outputs, reed switch inputs and bi-directional infrared communication, low voltage supply down to 1.2V for direct connection oflow voltage bulbs, smoke generators etc.

MX69A - special type

Features:

  • bidirectional communication
  • SUSI interface
  • 3-way adjustable back-EMF
  • 14, 28, 128 speed steps
  • selectable frequency, low 50 to 150Hz / high 20kHZ to 40 kHz for noiseless operation!
  • for all DC motors incl. core less
  • speed table
  • short circuit protected
  • thermal protection
  • 5 digit addressing
  • 4 - 14 function outputs
  • NMRA function mapping and more
  • special CV’s to guarantee smooth engine starts and stops
  • shunting function
  • half speed function
  • engine won’t stall on power interruption of up to 1 sec. (e.g. dirty track)
  • uninterrupted driving with external power pack
  • stop by asymmetrical DCC signal (ABC) or DC brake generators
  • all special lighting (FX) functions
  • receives and sends LGB pulse chain commands
  • stores 2 CV tables for easy adaptation to operational changes
  • ZIMO’s signal controlled speed influence
  • ZIMO’s location dependent function control
  • train number recognition
  • hard reset
  • can be updated by the user via Internet!

This is the second decoder that can activate selected functions automatically at a specific point on a layout (“position controlled function influence”). For example: turning lights on/off, blowing the horn when approaching a level crossing etc.

Please check out the full list of features here

Specifications:

Track voltage                                                     

12 - 24 V

Maximum motor output current - peak (3 s)

8A

Maximum motor output current - continuous

3 - 5A

Maximum function output current per group

1A

Total decoder current

3 - 5A

 Max. current adjustable voltage (1.2V)

0.8A(MX69V)

 Dimensions                                1.85x1.02x.47 in

47x26x12 mm

 Operating temperature

- 20 to 100 C

 

MX690            Large-Scale Sound Decoder

Speakers for large-scale sound:

FRS5 made by VISATON.

Full-range speaker:
5cm (1.96”), 8 Ohm, 5W, 150 - 20000 Hz for use with MX690S or MX690V, also together with the enhancement board.

FRS7 made by VISATON.

Full-range speaker:
6.5cm (2.56”), 8 Ohm, 8W, 200 - 20000 Hz for use with MX690S or MX690V, also together with the enhancement board.

Decoder Versions:

MX690S - identical to the MX69S (3A power, 8 functions, 4 special servo outputs etc.) but
with sound.

MX690V - identical to the MX690V (5A power, 14 functions, 3 switch inputs, low voltage output etc.) but with sound.

 

MX690

All of the unsurpassed operating and capability characteristics of the sound decoder, such as light and function effects, clutch and servo control, RailCom preparation and others are copied from the MX69 decoder; the same also applies to the recently introduced special motor characteristics for Maxxon, Faulhaber and other coreless motors, which offer noiseless and more efficient operation at reduced energy dissipation and decoder heating.

The MX690 sound decoder offers an innovative concept for sound adjustment and optimization, which makes these procedures particularly simple for the user. The user can produce usable sound even without a computer or detailed configuration variable settings.

For sound generation, the MX690 is equipped with a 16Mbit sound memory, which depending on the kind of sound samples, corresponds to a total of 2 to 3 minutes of playback time at a frequency of 11kHz to 22kHz. 4 sound channels can played back simultaneously and mixed digitally..
1.1W sinus audio amplifier with its own stabilized power supply, connecting pins for external power pack to prevent sound interruptions due to loss of track power, 8 Ohm (and higher) speakers.
A 10W amplifier is planned that is good for a 4 Ohm speaker, which increases the power of the MX690 eight fold.

Features:

  • bidirectional communication
  • SUSI interface
  • 3-way adjustable back-EMF
  • 14, 28, 128 speed steps
  • selectable frequency, low 50 to 150Hz / high 20kHZ to 40 kHz for noiseless operation!
  • for all DC motors incl. core less
  • speed table
  • short circuit protected
  • thermal protection
  • 5 digit addressing
  • 4 - 14 function outputs
  • NMRA function mapping and more
  • special CV’s to guarantee smooth engine starts and stops
  • shunting function
  • half speed function
  • engine won’t stall on power interruption of up to 1 sec. (e.g. dirty track)
  • uninterrupted driving with external power pack
  • stop by asymmetrical DCC signal (ABC) or DC brake generators
  • all special lighting (FX) functions
  • receives and sends LGB pulse chain commands
  • stores 2 CV tables for easy adaptation to operational changes
  • ZIMO’s signal controlled speed influence
  • ZIMO’s location dependent function control
  • train number recognition
  • hard reset
  • can be updated by the user via Internet!
  • this is the second decoder that can activate selected functions automatically at a specific point on a layout (“position controlled function influence”). For example: turning lights on/off, blowing the horn when approaching a level crossing etc.

Sound Features:

  • select from several different pre loaded sound samples
  • load different sound samples with a computer, the program ZST (ZIMO Service Tool) and update module MXDECUP
  • synchronized sound with cam sensor or virtual cam sensor (software generated)
  • load dependent sound
  • free allocation of sound files to functions F1 to F12
  • “playable whistle” (signal length influenced by function key actuation)
  • situation dependent sound such as cylinder drains, simmering or brake squeal
  • automatic background sound at idle or moving, such as air pump, injector, generator etc.
  • “on-the-main” sound optimization
  • incremental sound programming

Please check out the full list of features here

Specifications:

Track voltage                                                     

12 - 24 V

Maximum motor output current - peak (3 s)

8A

Maximum motor output current - continuous

3A - 5A

Maximum function output current per group

1A

Total decoder current

3A - 5A

Low voltage output current (MX690V only)

0.8A

Sound memory (play time 2 - 3 minutes, depending on sample)

16 Mbit

Sampling rate

11 or 22kHz

Independently playable sound channels

4

Sound output (suitable for 8 ohm speakers)

(Sinus) 1.1W

 Dimensions                                1.85x1.02x.47 in

47x26x12 mm

 Operating temperature

- 20 to 100 C

MX82                          Accessory  Decoders

The most advanced accessory decoder available! Not only does it control any kind of switch motor or solenoid, it does it with back-EMF to assure reliable slow operation! Additionally to driving switches or signal lights it also operates 4 servos.

MX82

Decoder Versions

MX82E for single turnout or 2 light bulbs/LED’s. Its small size of .78 x .43 x .098 in (20 x 11 x 2.5mm) simplifies the installation in many cases.

MX82D as above but protected against water.

MX82V for 2 turnouts or 4 lights. Also features bi-directional communication for turnout position feedback. Dimensions are .78 x .43 x .19 in (20 x 11 x 5mm).

  • The MX82V also features true turnout position feedback. It is achieved with Zimo’s train number pulses or the NMRA bi-directional communication (appropriate software to be added later).

Features:

The new MX82 replaces the MX81 accessory decoder. It comes in 3 versions.
All versions will:

  • control turnouts with solenoid, motor or EPL drives
  • signal lights; bulbs or LED’s
  • slowest movements without stalling are possible with back-EMF; as found in loco decoders
  • slow dimming of signal lights
  • operates 4 servos
  • alternatively, 4 inputs for the direct control of turnouts by train or other switches
  • short circuit protected
  • thermal protection
  • hard reset
  • can be updated by the user via Internet!

Specifications:

Track voltage

12 - 24V

Max. output current for turnouts

3 Amp

Max. output current for lights

1 Amp

Switch time for turnouts

.1 - 15 sec

Standby current (outputs off)

10 mA

Operating temperature

-20 to 100oC

Dimensions see “Decoder Version”

 

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