to rak-dcs update from st paul

[CB&Q]

so far all is well & running strong. I did try an experiment put the TIU back under my layout about a foot so far it responds a-okay. so I guess I created my own elec short by not runing power from TIU into TMCC blk power controllers to begin with. if I want to use conv engines using DCS would I be better off using the variable 1&2 channels instead of the fixed 1&2 ? that way I could run all types of engines- Dif manuf& command-conv engines. thx for all the help on this system it is appreciated have a smokin day.

[spankybird]

Controlling your conventional engines thru Var 1 & 2 is the normal way of doing it. If your TIU is powered from a fix supply, you can also control them on the fix channels by dropping the voltage, like the old fashion days of using the transformer to control them.

[Jim Duda]

I have mine the way Tom suggested: My LW Txfrmr goes into VarIN comes out VarOUT to the track. (The TIU is powered by the RS 18V wall Txfrmr.) I select either Variable or Fixed via the handheld: Menu-System-DCS setup, then choose Fixed or Variable.

If set to Variable, you can control your conventional stuff with the handheld, OR, leave the handheld OFF and control through your Txfrmr handles - just like the old days.

If set to Fixed, run your TMCC and/or DCS locos through the handheld. I like this approach because I can control the voltage to the track, even in DCS/TMCC. On my small table, I never supply more than 10 - 12 volts (usually less) to the TIU which saves bulbs, smoke heating elements, etc. Couplers, and all the DCS related components function perfectly at this reduced voltage...at least they do on my table.

[ChiefEagles]

Got a call from my train lady this AM. The word is, wait a few days on the upgrade to 3.1 and see. I don't have any GG1's so I really do not have a problem. I think the wait is due to the last upgrade having "bugs" and had to be re-issued. I find that my old conventional [1952 or earlier] engines run better and the whistles blow better on fixed voltage and moving the transformer handle like DCS was not there. The newer conventional engines [like Williams, Polar Express] work better using variable and the remote.

[Anonymous]

StPaul,

Glad to hear things are working well.

All of my transformers, at the moment, are Lionel 180 Watt Power Bricks (Z4000's would not fit in either portable set-up). Conventional locomotives are operated strictly off the variable channels. On those occasions when I do not want to run conventional, the variables are toggled to "Fixed" voltage. On those occasions where I want to run a conventional locomotive on a loop connected to a "Fixed" Channel, I just swap the banana plugs.

The Lionel Command Base is permanently connected to the TIU via the special cable. All four channels have the DCS and TMCC signals always on. In response to your question, you can all types of engines from the variable channels-all at the same time if you want (this gets a little sporty sometimes).

What Jim and Tom have said about operation of conventional trains is absolutely correct as well (they are both very sharp on DCS).

You have many options for how to run things with this system.

By the way, your comments on this and the other thread, absolutley "made my day"![:D]