DCS and DCC

[GearDrivenSteam]

In a nutshell, can someone explain the differences in DCS and DCC? I am somewhat familiar with DCC, having run it before on my On30 stuff. Thanks.

[GearDrivenSteam]

So did I ask an invalid question or one no one knows the answer to?

[Rex in Pinetop]

Here is what Dave Hikel had to say:

"Before getting into wiring details I'd like to clear-up some apparent confusion about the MTH DCS system.  DCS is NOT DCC and it dose NOT work like DCC.  DCC has its own wiring requirements, but they are very different from DCS.  DCC transmits its digital signals buy modulating the frequency of its AC current.  In general this allows for good signal provided you have good electrical continuity in your wires and track.  DCS, on the other hand, uses a 10MHz carrier frequency to transmit data packets over the same wires that provide track power.  DCS is much more akin to DSL internet service from telephone companies which send a 914MHz signal over your phone wires.  This makes DCS sensative to both electrical continuity and electrical impedance.  In data wiring any point that has a change in impedance can cause a reflection that degrades the digital signal.  To treat these problems resistors are installed at these points where there is a change in impedance.  This is where the light bulbs come into play for DCS.  So lets get on to some specifics."

[GearDrivenSteam]

Thanx, Rex. That's way over my head though. I was looking for a simple explanation of the difference in basic operation, that's all.

[Bucksco]

Basically you can do a lot more with MTH's system but it is proprietary -  that is to say you can only run DCS locos with DCS locos- it is not compatible with DCC.

[GearDrivenSteam]

Any sources on DCS information? I've tried searching, but the results are such generalizations, I'll be an old man before I find it. Wait....I am old.

[Bucksco]

Go to the source- http://www.protosound2.com/

[N.S.]

heres a site that will tell you everything you want to know about DCS, also posted a link to a video of some of my dcs locos running on track power..

NS...

http://www.rayman4449.dynip.com/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHpwotqy5Ug

[GearDrivenSteam]

That's Jack. That was the whole point. I didn't know the source.

[GearDrivenSteam]

Thanks for that, N.S.

[Bucksco]

DCS was originally designed for use with O gauge trains which feature a center rail for the positive power pickup. I have used it for "O" but not "G". I believe there are polarity issues that needed to be addressed with "G" gauge and I'm not sure how the signal holds up in the great outdoors.