In order to accommodate the vast array of lighting and sound options available with DCC, WOWSound decoders come with two distinct operational modes. These two modes are Sound mode and Light mode. DCC allows for the use of 28 buttons on a throttle. Other decoder manufacturers make use of these buttons for both sound and light functions. On a WOWSound decoder, TCS gives you access to all 28 buttons exclusively for sound functions in “sound mode.” In order to control your lights, WOWSound decoders also have a “Light mode,” allowing for up to 12 additional programmable light functions.

When first powering up a WOWSound decoder, it will default to Sound Mode. In sound mode, you can use buttons 0-27 to control sound functions. In Light Mode, buttons 0-12 control additional lighting functions such as ditch lights, beacons, firebox flickers, cab lights, and more. You should refer to your decoder literature for the number of available light functions on your decoder. 

To toggle between Sound mode and Light mode, all you have to do is press button 8 twice in a row. Audio Assist will announce the active mode. In order to change back, just press button 8 twice again. Be careful not to press too fast, or the decoder may register 4 presses and enter the Audio Assist program. 

By default, the only light function available in sound mode is F0 for headlight control. In order to access light functions beyond F0, you must enter Light Mode. Light mode buttons will correspond directly to their numbered function output unless otherwise programmed. For example, button 1 in light mode controls lighting function 1. Buttons 0-12 may be dual-enabled on a WOWSound decoder, allowing you to activate both a sound and a light function at the same time. For example, you could tie your shoveling sounds and firebox flicker to the same button. This would simulate the opening of the firebox. 

The functions in both modes can be changed or remapped. The easiest way to do this is by using Audio Assist. However, you can also remap functions with CV programming. You should refer to your decoder literature for the default mappings.