TMCC and Power

[dbaker48]

Would really appreciate any thoughts regarding whether or not I am thinking right........

I have the TMCC remote, and controller, I currently have only one TMCC equiped loco. (I'm sure that will grow!) I am currently using the "old" ZW, and powering 3 different tracks. My objective is to run my non-TMCC locos with the Remote. I have determined that I have 2 options....(I think)
1. Purchase a Power Master (6-24130) module and cable or,
2. Purchase the new ZW, which includes 2 of the Power Master units.

I am inclined toward option 2, as that our layout is going to expand to an area of about 16'x22' , with numerous routes and switches. Therefore, the old ZW and single Power Master may not be adequate. And, would require adding additional transformer capability. And, the new ZW is expandable with additional units. (Then use the old ZW for switches, accessories, etc..)

Does this make sense? I assume that the new ZW package would have all the necessary cable, and essentially be ready to go with both the TMCC and non-equiped TMCC engines.

Thanks !!! You guys are better than Lionel

Blue skies and warm days to you all !!

P.S. Have any of you purchased the voltage and amp meter pack that fits on the ZW's.? I thought they would be good to have to monitor outputs.

Thanks Again

[Anonymous]

I did your option # 1 for a while with an old ZW. You could also use a TPC 300 or 400 with a zw instead of a Powermaster. I recently removed the powermasters and run mostly TMCC. When I run conventional, I use the transformer handles for a change of pace.

Now I use a ZW and a VW (man is it beautiful) and 2 other mrc power packs to run a 12x22 layout, 2 levels and 7x22 overhead hanging double tracks.
Just my[2c]....Tim

[ADCX Rob]

QUOTE: Originally posted by dbaker48



2. Purchase the new ZW, which includes 2 of the Power Master units.

The ZW would seem to be an even better option, as it actually has 4 Power Masters built in.

Rob

[Anonymous]

I have the new ZW AND the volt/amp package on it as well. I run 2 TMCC steam engines with it and one MTH in conventional, ALL using the remote. It works just fine. Nothing extra to add, just the TMCC remote and controller, hooked with 1 wire to the U post on the new ZW and that's it!! Couldn't be simpler.

[Anonymous]

New ZW woul allow you to add to more PH 180's so you would have control of 720 watts of power, 180 per channel on the ZW. TPC's make sense if you need more than 180 watts per channel OR you have PS-1/PS-2 loco's that you want to be able to access features. TPC's have "macro" buton capability to send short pulse trains to access conventional control features on these loco's. If you don't need this, the new Z is probably your best bet.