Märklin Digital for English speakers/Digital components - Example Märklin 60831 m83 decoder

This decoder is used to switch point motors, signals and uncoupler tracks. It supports both the Märklin and DCC digital protocols. The M83 controls 8 separate outputs. identified by coloured LED's

The m84 is therefore capable of controlling 4 points (switches in US?) each point needing to use 2 outputs, or it can control 8 uncouplers or a mixture of these. The address of each unit is best set by dip switches leading to 4 in sequence addresses per decoder.

The m83 decoder derives it electrical power by:
 * being directly connected to the powered track
 * having a separate power supply powering it (citation needed)
 * being plugged into an already powered m83 or m84 unit

M83 maximum current load = 3 amps

The m83 decoder is capable of replacing four 74461 under the track decoders, and at current prices of approx 30 Euros for the m83 and approx 20 Euros for just one under the carpet decoder that makes using the m83 considerable saving.

Effectively each point motor 74461 is wired back to the m83 with three wires - a common and two others for either straight through or to the turning.

The m83 when directed by the mobile station hand controller sends a brief pulse to effect the switch. Continued pressing of the controllers button, does not lead to an extended pulse. The pulse settings can be updated from the mobile station controller