ESU SwitchPilot 51800

I will start a series to share the experience of the accessory decoders (k83 and k84) that I had used. First, let's start with the ESU Switch Pilot, item 51800. 

The ESU SwtichPilot is a very outstanding decoder in terms of functions and flexibility. It speaks Marklin Motorola (MM) and DCC format, 256 address for MM and 2044 address for DCC, which is a standard for most European made decoders.

There are four outputs with two transistors each, and the dip switch on the housing flips the four outputs between pulse mode(k83) or continuous mode (k84) in MM format. Besides the two preset modes, the "User Mode" is introduced to set individual output in DCC format, e.g. Output 1 and 2 for pulse, Output 4 for continuous. However, the address are grouped in four consecutive number which individual setting is not allowed, e.g. Group 8 (Address 29-32), Group 9 (Address 33-36).

Programming is very easy in MM mode, just hold the programming button until the Status LED starts blinking, then trigger the digital switching command with the preferred address, e.g. Address 33 Green, then rest of outputs are set automatically (Address 33, 33+1, 33+2, 33+3).

The unit could be feeded by digital track power or separate transformer, which is a overwhelming advantage for large layout to save the expensive juice from the control station. Blinking mode and "Fade in - fade out" effect are available to simulate the changing over effect of daylight signals. And the unit could be extended to control servo output (51802) and relay switching (51801).

All in all, the SwitchPilot is a very good decoder with the flexibility and function it offers. The programming procedure is so simple that fits all levels of model railroader. And the cost is only one-third of listed price of Marklin k84 decoder (60840), which made it the best buy in the market.

Hovermotion's channel posted an excellent video showing how to setup the ESU Lokpilot.