Example 1: Rapido OO 16XX with MS Sound

Kit: MS580N18; IceCube18X13X07 speaker

Same as our other guide for the Rapido 16XX, but this time with an MS580N18 decoder, which just plugs in, and no problems with motor control.

As before, we remove the factory SugarCube speaker and replace it with an IceCube18X13X07, which fits nicely in the same space, and offers a noticeable improvement to the sound.

Example 2: Adding more stay-alive

Same MS580 sound decoder and speaker, but this time adding a pair of mini GoldCaps in series for stay-alive.

Here the 2 mini GoldCaps are joined in series.

The MS580 is designed so you can extend the onboard Tantalums with more 5V capacitors - the GoldCaps in series is 5.4V, within range, and indeed what Zimo recommend. We tin the Tantalums themselves and NOT any solder pads on the decoder, and add some wires. The GoldCaps are connected to these wires, wrapped in Kapton, and fit neatly at the rear of the PCB.

NOTE that we could have just gone with the MS580'G' variant, which has no Tantalums onboard, but instead comes with the wires pre-soldered, and supplied with a pair of the GoldCaps.

Final touch is a couple of chappies in the cab - our 3D printed OO figures.

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.