Sorry voor het engels.
Trying to get more switching power from a k83 decoder, I added a power pack with 470 uF capacitor (+ resistor and diode to avoid cs3 startup surge) for controling of vintage signals (lights and semaphores), but that did not make a difference. Sometimes they work, sometimes not. Green/Red signal 7188 is most troubled. Track turnouts on the same decoder work all of the time, so no electronics fault.
I installed a new M83, which did not appreciably improve signal performance. I did not include a switching power supply.
When I use decoders (old and new) on a short test track, signals work fine. So, it seems a large layout (pulse?) power issue. My layout uses 3.5+ amp, based on cs3 reporting. Red/brown power supply wires to decoders are 18 gauge. Together, that should give enough juice from 5amp system, but perhaps not for start pulse of old signals' solenoids.
Another test would be using a 60175 mfx booster for switches+signals, but that is an expensive test ($240+). I also considered a used 60174, but they are rare.
Other suggestions to test and/or improve decoder functionality?
Bedankt, Ben.