Lionel TMCC system

[Anonymous]

What is this going to let me do that I can't ordinarily do? I've narrowed down my train choice to either the Nickel Plate Road Super Freight and the Southern Pacific Overnight Freight. I want a high quality train, but I don't want to miss any cool features in the future. What do you guys think?

[pbjwilson]

You know, if your just starting out I'd use a traditional transformer. I'm still working on the 3- position e-unit. I throttle up and take off in reverse all the time - the train skips the track, sparks fly, another scratch on old no.9. I've actually got the TMCC collecting dust in the closet. Traditional running is fine. Wait till you get aquainted with 3-rail operations before you go TMCC.

That's my opinion - Good luck - Enjoy your trains!

[ben10ben]

I agree with what Paul says.

While I use(and enjoy using) TMCC, if you have only one engine and a small loop on the floor, there aren't that many benefits. Definitely keep it in mind for possible future expansion, but, if I were you, I wouldn't even consider it now.

[Chris F]

The main advantage to TMCC is the ability to run more than one train on the same track. How big is your layout ? The bigger the layout, the more attractive TMCC operation becomes.

Also, you can run conventional locomotives remotely with a CAB-1 and a PowerMaster (or better yet, a TPC 300 or 400). I've got TMCC and conventional locomotives, but find I spend most of my time running conventional using the PowerMasters built into my new-style ZW.

[eZAK]

QUOTE: What is this going to let me do that I can't ordinarily do?

The main thing, as I see it, is the ability to remotely control your trains from anywere in the room. This includes, but not limited to, Speed - Direction - Whistle/Horn - Bell -
Railsounds - Smoke - Switches - Accessories, just to name a few.

[Anonymous]

Go with the tmcc train. You can run it in conventional until you get the cab-1. I just went to O -gauge this year. I jumped right in and bought 3 tmcc engines and the cab one. I have a 20' dog bone with two tracks and one siding. I have had no problems learning the system and everything has been great. I would caution you on getting the cab-1 until you have made up your mind on what exactly you want to do with your trains. I have had thoughts of going with the DCS system instead. I am a modern proto typical diesel junkie. MTH offers alot of the engines I would like to have.

[Anonymous]

First timers, recommend TMCC to them. All you have to do is connect the Binding Post (Track U) to your common rails and your TMCC equipted engines will receive a signal from the command base via the commom rail (Outside rail). Make sure your common rails are all electrically connected together. DCS has four out put channel Variable 1 & 2, Fixed 1 & 2. This could lead to confussion on how to wirer a layout for the beginners and a lot of fustration as well.