I've wired a Rev. L MTH TIU to two loops (using two channels) that is about 150 running feet of track for each loop. No insulated blocks were required, and signal levels ranged from 8 to 10 for the entire loop on each channel. Before you start doing backflips and redoing the wiring, try it the simple way first.
The recommended wiring for DCS is a worst-case scenario, that's not normally required. This is an installation that is also running Legacy at the same time, no issues there as well.
Thanks for your reply.
At present i am using mth realtrax. Considering changing over to atlas 0.My layout is small. I am using passive dcs for now , & will be adding additional power blocks when i expand layout.
I use a mth brick to power the track through the tiu.
Can i hookup the lionel power houses to the tiu so that i can use my legacy system ?
What brand of track is being used!?
In order to use DCS there has to be insulated rail joiners every 10 to 12 sections of track, then the power has to be fed to the track block. All the wires have to go back to a central terminal where the power and data signals will be sent to the track for controlling the engines or locos.
You can use passive DCS were the TIU is powered from a transformer, just to send the DCS data signal to the tracks through the power terminal. DCS is about sending control data to the ProtoSounds computer.
The voltage can be kept constant using a Track Power Controller that is powered by a Lionel PowerHouse 180.
Power the track with Lionel PowerHouses through the Legacy base to the tracks.
Andrew
Watch my videos on-line at https://www.youtube.com/user/AndrewNeilFalconer
Need help to install, & operate dcs, & legacy control systems together on a layout.
What is the best way to get power to the track?
How do i operate tmcc engines using the legacy system?
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