Installing the N8048 is very straightforward. Its tiny size and thin construction will allow it to be placed in many locations, even in the smallest scale structures. Because the module has circuitry on both sides, care must be taken to be sure that the components or wires soldered will not make contact with any metal object (such as a locomotive frame) causing a short circuit.

Included with the module are two 6” lengths of #32 insulated wire. If necessary, these can be used for power input wires. If used, we recommend the blue wire be used for the + DC connection. It would be connected to solder point 1 as shown in Fig. 1. This wire could also connect through a switch to the + DC connection for remote control of the lighting effect. The other (green) wire should be connected to – DC and to solder point 2.

Any well regulated DC power source can be used to power this module providing the voltage is at least 6VDC and doesn't exceed 18VDC. Our N3500 and N3512 Power supplies are ideal for this use. Also, due to the very low power consumption, this device can also be powered by a battery, such as a standard 9-volt.

Important note: A low-wattage iron with a pointed tip should be used for connection of wires. Too much heat or solder can easily damage the wires or module and void the warranty.

                                Figure 1

Important note: A low-wattage iron with a pointed tip should be used for connection of wires. Too much heat or solder can easily damage the wires, decoder or module and void the warranty.

Connecting LEDs

Using wire appropriate for the size of the LED and its placement in the structure, connect the LED cathode (the – connection) to point 3 on the module and connect the LED anode (the +) to solder point 4. Again, this LEDs will use the on-board current limiting resistor so it can be wired directly.

The N8048 is configured to support two (2) additional LEDs for a total of three (3). Each additional LED must be wired with an external resistor in series to limit the current flow through the LED. Included with this module are three 1/8-watt surface-mount resistors (two 81Ω resistors, plus a spare).  These resistors are tiny for easy placement and have pre-tinned tabs so soldering is easy. The second LED’s cathode is to be wired to solder point 5 on the module. The resistor should be wired in series between this LED’s anode and point 6. The third LED's cathode is to be wired to solder point 7 on the module. The resistor should be wired in series between this LED’s anode and point 6. See Fig. 2 below for a complete overview of wiring.