ZTC CONTROLS
ZTC was founded by Robin Palmer in the 1990's and was one of the
first systems to emerge after the development of the NMRA approval code. When
Robin decided it was time to move on after offering ZTC to Sherwood Models/PLS
Layouts it was acquired by David Nicholson - we did not take up the offer as we
are not digital electronic engineers and believed that ZTC needed to move
forward, something we could not achieve. We remained as retailers/installers
during the ownership of the Nicholson family but on their decision to cease
their association with ZTC we decided it was time for us to stop retailing as
much of the system was in need of upgrade and was being overtaken by global
manufacturers. However we have many years experience with ZTC supply, installation
and trouble shooting (we
believe more than anyone else!) so if you require
some assistance with installation issues please do not hesitate to contact us.
If you have purchased ZTC apparatus and are struggling with your
installation we offer a specialist ZTC installation service using your ZTC components.
We also supply many more advanced components that as NMRA approved items will
work with your ZTC system but are more efficient and more reliable.
Some words of advice for ZTC users or potential users:
-
We would suggest the use of a DCC circuit breaker between
the ZTC controller and the layout to help prevent problems caused by
protracted short circuits or failures on the layout. Breakers should also be
fitted between booster units and the track block.
-
Do not use the ZTC310 converter interface and ZTC360 capacitor
discharge unit as recommended to allow the operation of Tortoise or
similar stall type turnout motors on the ZTC304 accessory decoder even if
using a separate booster unit for turnouts. It is likely that you will have
stability issues particularly when powering up. Choose a specialist stall motor
enabled decoder e.g. Team Digital SMD82. We have layouts operating over 60
Tortoise motors off one ZTC550 booster unit without any problem using Team
Digital SMD82 switch machine drivers (accessory decoder).
-
If you have a return loop, turntable or crossing that needs
to reverse power do not use a ZTC550 booster unit. Use a DCC auto reverse
module as this is much more economic and more stable.
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If you are experiencing instabilities with ZTC locomotive
decoders initially check their age of manufacture. Very early decoders are
prone to 'running away', these usually have a black heat shrink covering to
the decoder. The more recent white sleeved decoders are more reliable but
greater stability can be obtained from manufacturers such as TCS.
-
The ZTC302 DCC turnout motor is only suitable for direct
mounting to Peco turnouts. It is not suitable for mounting below the base
board on an adaptor plate. The motor has insufficient power to work reliably
under the base board without direct mounting. It is therefore necessary to
cut out the baseboard to accommodate the motor.
Despite ZTC now being a little out dated we still prefer
to use the ZTC511 for programming locomotive decoders. It has a very
simple CV programming interface and has advantages over some systems when
programming. The ZTC511 when using the program track output reads CV's
very easily and allows a locomotive to run on the program track once
programming mode has been exited.
If you are new to DCC and
are looking to purchase a DCC control system and may need help from
Professional Layout Services in system installation or the construction of
your layout please contact us before purchasing for advice.
ZTC Manual Archive
ZTC Controls Limited manual or instruction archive
based upon the ZTC127 All Manuals disc. This disc contained manuals
for most products available and includes
ztc217, ztc255, ztc302, ztc304, ztc310, ztc313, ztc335, ztc450, ztc451,
ztc470, ztc471, ztc472, ztc473, ztc4004, ztc4005, ztc4006, ztc4007,
ztc505, ztc511, ztc550, ztc555, ztc620, ztc622, ztc640 and general
decoder manual. Please email for a user name and password then click here to enter.
