TMCC2?

[mickey4479]

I am relatively new to this site. I have seen a reference or question about TMCC. Some time ago I asked a dealer about it and he said there was a rumor about a new system. I was curious about this. From the comments I have read it appears that MTH and Lionel systems are compatable with the right add on equipment, but no one size fits Proto2 amd TMCC locos. Any comments?

[Dr. John]

The long-rumored and anticipated TMCC II did not appear in the new Lionel catalog. If and when it will be released are still matters of speculation. My understanding is that TMCC II is supposed to handle TMCC and DCS equipped locomotives. However, with all of the lawsuits and bankruptcy problems, it may well be delayed until all of the legal issues are settled.

As you said, Lionel TMCC and MTH DCS equipment are compatible with the right add-ons, however, they are not necessarily perfectly compatible. I'll leave further elaboration to those who are more knowledgeable about the two systems.

[Anonymous]

I am far from an expert but my basic understanding is as follows:
MTH's DCS can run Lionel TMCC engines in command mode or in conventional mode, conventional mode by changing the track voltage with the DCS remote. Not all, but most of a TMCC engines features can be used with the DCS system. Lionel's TMCC can only operate PS2 engines in conventional mode. If you have a mix of TMCC and PS2 engines and only want one system then DCS is your best bet as you can operate both type of engines with it.
The best way to go IMO is to have both systems on the same layout, use DCS as the main system and use the Lionel Cab-1/TMCC for other TMCC features not accessable with DCS. But when TMCC2 comes along (my guess is late this year or maybe even into next) this senario my all change???

[CSX FAN]

I read on another forum that MTH will start advertising TMCC II this July under there Major announcement.

Talking to Lou at Lionel I would not count on TMCC II controling a dcs train.

Jamie

[Anonymous]

DCS can control TMCC loco's if you have a command base. You will also probably need a CAB-1 to configure the TMCC engines since only a subset of the commands are supported in emulation mode. DCS can control conventional loco's if you only want 32 speed steps and can deal with a maximum of 180 watts per power district. The new ZW supports 32/64/96 speed steps in conventional mode but can not be controlled by the DCS remote. TPC's support an even larger speed step range in conventional mode and can handle up to 400 watts of power per block/power district. The later can be configured as ENG's and should be controlable by the DCS remote but would require a custom cable that has not been produced that would permit splitting the serial signal that DCS uses to control the command base.

If you want to use both systems to their fullest potential than buy both and configure them to run in parallel.