Decoder Buddy

NixTrainz’s Decoder Buddy allows for super-easy 21 pin decoder installs from vendors such as ESU, SoundTraxx, Digitrax, NCE and TCS. The 21-pin-friendly board replaces the standard DCC 8-pin loco motherboard and easily allows taking full advantage of all the functions and features of the latest new feature-rich decoders.

Decoder Buddy – Version 5
$17 CAD
The Decoder Buddy V5 was developed for the 12 output decoders and include a couple added features.
This mother board does not include the 21-Pin Decoder. This mother board requires soldering.
The V5 comes with standard 2.2K resistors onboard.
The mother board includes:
- One 21 Pin Decoder receptacle
- Two pairs of track input pads
- One pair of motor input pads
- One set of stay alive pads (U+, GND on the V5. The V5B has the “W” pad for a Power Pack)
- Two pairs of speaker pads in parallel by side
- 12 lighting outputs on a separable “small connector board”
- Lighting outputs A11 and A12 are replicated on the “motherboard”
- Note: the printed circuit board is not intended for use in a DC system
- Dimensions: 0.67″ x 2.20″ x 0.35″ (17mm x 56mm x 9mm)
- Item #DBV5

Decoder Buddy Mini – 1K Ohm Version
$15 CAD
The Decoder Buddy Mini was developed to fit into smaller steam and diesel applications. There has also been interest in HOn3 and S-Gauge applications.
This mother board does not include the 21 Pin Decoder. This mother board requires soldering.
The mother board includes:
- One 21 Pin Decoder receptacle
- Two pairs of track input pads
- One pair of motor output pads
- One set of stay alive pads (U+, GND and if necessary, a third control wire) If using an ESU ‘Power Pack’ we recommend A10 as mentioned below.
- Two logic outputs to control a Power Pack, smoke unit(s) or servo. The two logic output pads are 5 volt outputs with no resistors and controlled by A10 and A6 as labeled.
- One pair of speaker pads
- The correct headlight orientation is shown on the Mini
- Note: the printed circuit board is not intended for use in a DC system
- Dimensions: 0.65″ x 1.35″ x 0.35″ (17mm x 35 mm x 9mm)
- Item # DBM1K

Decoder Buddy Mini – 0K Ohm Version
$15 CAD
The Decoder Buddy Mini was developed to fit into smaller steam and diesel applications. There has also been interest in HOn3 and S-Gauge applications.
This mother board does not include the 21 Pin Decoder. This mother board requires soldering.
The mother board includes:
- One 21 Pin Decoder receptacle
- Two pairs of track input pads
- One pair of motor output pads
- One set of stay alive pads (U+, GND and if necessary, a third control wire) If using an ESU ‘Power Pack’ we recommend A10 as mentioned below.
- Two logic outputs to control a Power Pack, smoke unit(s) or servo. The two logic output pads are 5 volt outputs with no resistors and controlled by A10 and A6 as labeled.
- One pair of speaker pads
- The correct headlight orientation is shown on the Mini
- Note: the printed circuit board is not intended for use in a DC system
- Dimensions: 0.65″ x 1.35″ x 0.35″ (17mm x 35 mm x 9mm)
- Item # DBMoK