TMCC Legacy and MTH DCS Together

[Bruette]

I agree, thank you everyone!

[casconi]

dbaker48 - Thanks so much. Great info.

[dougdagrump]

They work great together on the layout, either at the same time or separately. We use the Lionel 180 bricks for TMCC, Legacey and DCS. Is the new ZW compatable with the PS2~3 systems, chopped sine wave/pure sine wave format? I have tried some of my PS1~2 engines with my lowly CW-80 and they were totally confused but they run fine with the older Lionel transformers.

[dbaker48]

Casconi,

You WILL need to purchase both the TIU and DCS remote for the PS3.  With that added to your Legacy you will be able to; (You will also need a special cable from MTH to interconnect the Legacy Command Base to the MTH TIU, cost about $19)

- Obviously run your PS3 engine with the DCS system.

- You will also be able to run TMCC engines, and Legacy engines (with a couple of restrictions*) with the DCS system.

- Conventional engines with EITHER the DCS remote or the Legacy remote.

* The Legacy restrictions are a couple of features, vibration of the DCS remote, Quillable whistle will only function as a standard whistle with the DCS remote.  And a couple other minor functions.  BUT you WILL be able to operate all engines with the one DCS remote.

You can NOT run the PS3 engine with the Legacy remote other than in the conventional mode.

Opinion: Go for the DCS capability, then do a side by side comparison of the Lionel vs MTH rolling stock, detail, & quality.  Try to consider comparing like cost of different items, I think you will find a better value on much of the MTH product line.  Just MY opinion.  I have both and use the DCS most of the time.  I have all my switches, accessories, connected to the DCS AIU, and love it.  I wouldn't give up either system.

Hope this helps.

[casconi]

If I were to invest in DCS, I would most likely considering buying more MTH engines. What I am looking for is what is needed to make both Legacy and MTH DCs work together.

[BigAl 956]

The MTH engine will run conventionally the same as your older Lionel engines do. I own an MTH with PS3 and thats how I run it with with my ZW.

If you invest in DCS for just this one engine that could be overkill. DCS does interface with a Lionel TMCC command base but it will not operate Legacy engines.

[casconi]

Hello,

I have a layout in which I run 7 trains all controlled by a modern Lionel ZW and Lionel's Legacy TMCC. I am considering purchasing a MTH engine with PS3, but I do not own a MTH DCS System to control it with. It is my understanding these two systems can be connected to a layout simultaneaously. I also understand that DCS can operate TMCC engines without all modern Legacy features while the Legacy system cannot operate DCS locos at all (command mode, not conventional).

My question is, what do I need to purchase to do this? Do I need both the MTH DCS remote AND a TIU or can I just buy the remote since my tracks get power via Legacy and the ZW? MTH offers the DCS set but I also see their products are sold individually. Just wanted to clear this up so I know the correct item to purchase.

Any help is appreciated!

Thanks!