> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://aldmodels.gitbook.io/aldmodels/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://aldmodels.gitbook.io/aldmodels/pulse-core/getting-started.md).

# Getting Started

## Wiring your controller

#### **DC mode**

DC mode is for a simple locomotive with a motor and no chip inside. The motor connects straight to the controller.

<figure><img src="https://761432012-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FV5rjGPoL0RykGteAYaQJ%2Fuploads%2FI79rSFeEL5SRXYzwl5Wp%2FDC.png?alt=media&amp;token=e4323b58-2686-4226-842f-92ca0fc4eea7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

#### **DCC mode**

DCC mode is for a locomotive with a DCC decoder fitted. The decoder connects to the controller.

<figure><img src="https://761432012-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FV5rjGPoL0RykGteAYaQJ%2Fuploads%2FiroLHalggBC05VZDKio9%2FDCC.png?alt=media&amp;token=b547600f-3483-4784-a02b-c2e33d2e8989" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Before you change any wiring**

1. **Power off first.** Switch off and unplug the power supply before connecting or changing any wires.
2. **Check your output mode.** Make sure the controller is set to the right mode (DCC or DC) for what you’re connecting. If you’re swapping between a DC motor and a DCC decoder, change the mode in [**Settings**](/aldmodels/pulse-core/navigating-the-interface/settings.md#locomotive) first.
3. Connect the red wire to **+** and the black wire to **-**. Swapping them can damage the controller.
   {% endhint %}

## Connect to your Locomotive

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Switch on your locomotive

{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### On your Mobile Device, Open WiFi settings

Controller WiFi will be called ALD\_\[Locomotive Name]
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Open the control page

The control page should open by itself. If it doesn’t, open your web browser and go to **192.168.4.1**
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### **Stay connected (*****If your device warns you)***

After joining the controllers WiFi, your phone may show a message saying “Internet may not be available”. This is normal. The locomotive creates its own WiFi network, so it doesn’t connect to the internet.&#x20;

Tap **Always connect** (or **Stay connected**, depending on your phone) so your phone keeps using the locomotive’s network.

<figure><img src="https://761432012-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FV5rjGPoL0RykGteAYaQJ%2Fuploads%2FayEynWdcDxUi7kziWCOA%2FInternet.png?alt=media&amp;token=ad6b631b-d7a9-4213-b3e7-641bc2b08c36" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
If you don’t choose this, your phone may switch back to your home WiFi or mobile data and the control page won’t load or will keep disconnecting. If that happens, rejoin the locomotive’s WiFi and choose **Always connect** when asked.
{% endhint %}