Example 1: Dapol / Model Rail OO Steam Sentinel with Zimo MS Sound

Kit: Zimo MS490; SugarCube6 speaker; LifeLink + 5x 470uF Tall Tantalums

Time for a revamped guide for the OO Steam Sentinel, using one of the latest MS490 decoders. It still needs to be hard-wired to make the best use of space, so we disassemble and connect orange/grey decoder wires direct to the motor, and replace the pickup wires with some nicer red and black wires.

With unwanted lighting wires removed, we wire up the MS490, SugarCube6 speaker and an array of 5x 470uF Tall Tantalums for stay-alive via a LifeLink. On the MS490 we could connect up to 1000uF for stay-alive directly, but if we want to go higher, then the LifeLink is required. This little model needs all the help it can get!

The Tantlaums are connected in parallel, then covered in black electrical tape to insulate and disguise, and the speaker enclosure it painted black to hide it too.

Using BlackTack, the Tantalums are stuck into the roof first, the decoder on top, and speaker forward of that, all rear of the open windows so you cannot easily see any of the kit.

Example 2: MS sound with bigger stay-alive

Kit: MS491R; SugarCube6; STACO3A stay-alive

Similar kit, but this time using a Zimo STACO3A stay-alive (PCB connector with a pair of mini GoldCaps). Once charged, this solution provides masses of back-up time, so well worth squeezing in.

Please note that these guides are provided as useful resources for you, as-is. YouChoos cannot be held responsible for errors in the information, or for any damage caused to your models or equipment if you choose to follow any of the steps detailed here.