Hello everyone,
I am brand new to the forum so forgive me for jumping straight to a question about my DCS Commander by MTH.
Okay, so I have the commander system, and an NS SD70M-2 with proto-sound 3.0. About 2 hours ago it was working perfectly. Applied track power, engine address automatically is selected. Just pressed start up and away it went, with full sound and features. It's awesome.
Then all of the sudden, nothing. I accidently hit the E-stop, but all you do is unconnect and then reconnect track power. I think I intentionally reset the system for whatever reason. But now I cannot get my loco to run. I apply track power, go into DCS mode, and then I get no engine address, and even when I hit ADD engine, it gives me an error. I cannot fix this. I have tried switching tracks, different wiring but I can't figure it out.
The kicker is, I can't even power the locomotive in conventional mode. This is an MTH NS SD70M-2 with proto-sound. It doesn't make any sense! Because I can put an analog DC Chessie SD40, and run it in conventional mode just fine. WHAT?! I'm so frusterated, I need answers, and I need help. Is it the Loco? I hope not because I love it. Again, it was working about 2 hours ago, and now nothing!
Can anyone help please?
Thanks, Alex D
davidmbedardBring back your DCS system and purchase a DCC system. David B
Shame on you adding one to your post count to tell him that.
But, hey, I just added one to mine too, and I agree with you.
Bring back your DCS system and purchase a DCC system.
Rich
Alton Junction
Alex D,
To the Forums,as has already been mentioned,too many bugs in a DCS system..You would be better off with a DCC system.
Cheers,
Frank
Welcome aboard!
What scale do you model in? DCS is much more accepted in O, while DCC rules in HO and N. There are a few DCS users here, who will hopefull drop by a bit later to help you out.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
Yes, and much as you're very welcome here, the Classic Toy Trains forum might have a larger stock of DCS knowledge for you to tap into.
Good luck!
Stu
Streamlined steam, oh, what a dream!!
I would have to agree with all here I have had plenty of bad experience with DCS in O and HO. If you can return it I would MTH HO locos are DCC compatible now. It is not user friendly and conks out for no reason I just had mine serviced and it came back after nearly 3 months in the same condition I mailed it to them in other words not working the xact samething that happened to you. I got maybe two months use out of it before it decided it would do what it wants to do.
Kev
Can't stop working on the railroad!
ad1013Okay, so I have the commander system,... Then all of the sudden, nothing. I accidently hit the E-stop, but all you do is unconnect and then reconnect track power. I think I intentionally reset the system for whatever reason. But now I cannot get my loco to run. I apply track power, go into DCS mode, and then I get no engine address, and even when I hit ADD engine, it gives me an error. I cannot fix this. I have tried switching tracks, different wiring but I can't figure it out.
Hello again, thank you everyone for your help. To answer some of your questions you had for me...I am modeling in HO scale and no I haven't contacted MTS support.
So you guys think I should just switch to DCC and get rid of DCS? Funny you mention that because I was considering switching, even after I bought the DCS commander. I was skeptical. I was looking into the NCE power cab, and I was reading deep into the forums here and found a few opinions on it. But for this specific topic, could you guys give me your input on the NCE power cab, if not that, what would you recommend for DCC.
All I wanted was locomotives with sound and lights and smoke if accessible. I know that the DCS controlls only MTH trains. I did not know about any bugs to be honest, couldnt find anything about it, but thankfully I have you guys now to tell me. lol
So switch to DCC. Which control device is best to run an approximately 4' X 10' layout? I do wish to have more than one train running at a time so. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. Again thanks for the help, I hope it's not a locomotive issue because I love that thing!
I use Digitrax and like it a lot. NCE is a good brand as well. Both are expandable systems. Both have wireless throttles available. These seem to be the top 2 systems. Joe
ad1013So switch to DCC.
I didn't want to bias your decision earlier, but I do think that's the best choice. MTH actually makes some nice locomotives, including a few that no one else has produced, but their roster is limited when compared to the universe of other manufacturers. While some DCS engines, including most of the HO scale ones, will run on DCC, no DCC engines will run on DCS. What's more, you can't take another engine and put a DCS decoder in it, because MTH doesn't sell their decoders, only engines. So, if you run DCS, you are limited to what MTH produces, period. With DCC, you can run anyone's engines, or mix and match from many manufacturers, including MTH.
FYI, I have a Lenz DCC system that I got in 2005. It's still running well, and I have no complaints. Part of my decision-making process was playing with different throttles. I like the Lenz because the buttons are large and easy to find.
One thing that's not always obvious about DCC is how and where all DCC systems are interoperable, and how and where they're not. All decoders will operate with all DCC systems, so everything on the "track side" of the system is compatable. However, everything on the "control" side of the system is not, and, in general, nothing is compatable. You can't use a Lenz throttle on a Digitrax system, or an NCE throttle on an MRC system. So, make sure you like the available throttles for the system you choose, because that's what you'll be using.
On the other hand, don't be afraid to choose. All of the systems are very good. I would avoid the very low-end "starter" systems like the Bachmann EZ Command, but other than that, you will probably be happy with whatever you choose.
I'm sorry I have lots of questions. It hasn't been too long since I started model railroading but I had a lionel O27 scale train back in the day. It was nothing special with standard 3-rail track. But the only power I had for that was a throttle lever. I got rid of that and moved to HO not too long ago. The layout I'm building is decent size. 10 feet long. I had a small throttle dial power supply that came with an HO set from like '98.
I'm obviously a fan of MTH. But now that I look at it, all brands in HO are pretty detailed. I'm leaning towards the NCE Power Cab because it looks simple but with a variety of features. I've heard good things about Digitrax but I feel there stuff is a bit pricey and look a bit more difficult to install. (I'm purely just going off of what I see) So I am just undecided still. What about MRC? Again pricey, but apparently I've heard its top notch.
I just want something that gives my layout realistic trains and a prototypical atmosphere.
Thanks again so much guys, I really appreciate it.
ad1013 I was looking into the NCE power cab, and I was reading deep into the forums here and found a few opinions on it. But for this specific topic, could you guys give me your input on the NCE power cab
I was looking into the NCE power cab, and I was reading deep into the forums here and found a few opinions on it. But for this specific topic, could you guys give me your input on the NCE power cab
I've been using the Power Cab since it first came out in 2006 and like it very much. I find both the buttons and the LCD screen prompts intuitive.
I don't know if this will be helpful or not but here's a link to an initial review and impression that I wrote about the Power Cab right after I bought it. It's worth noting that a few things have changed with the most recent Power Cabs (V1.65) that weren't available with the original V1.1 Power Cabs when I wrote the review:
Anyhow, the newest Power Cabs - although no different externally - add more function with its current operating system (OS).
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
ad1013 I was looking into the NCE power cab, and I was reading deep into the forums here and found a few opinions on it. But for this specific topic, could you guys give me your input on the NCE power cab, if not that, what would you recommend for DCC.
Back to the NCE topic more and more people I know (and operate on their layouts) are switching to the NCE system. Makes it kind of nice I don't have to remember which brand of throttle to take with me.
BTW In addition to the NCE ProCabR I also own the Lenz System 100 (which I consider my primary), A Digitrax Zephyr, the NCE twin, a CVP Easy DCC, and two really old MRC systems.
I can highly recommend the radio option. Not having to be tethered to the layout is great.
Which control device is best to run an approximately 4' X 10' layout? I do wish to have more than one train running at a time so.
Thanks again guys. The last few posts really helped out. I've pondered it all day and I think I've decided on the Power Cab. Its the cheaper starter system with lots of features and functions so I feel that is good for me. In the future I will more than likely consider more in depth, high tech DCC controllers.
I was just thinking though, going back to the original topic. You all helped pretty much solve my issue about the DCS except for one. It doesn't make sense that the locomotive wouldn't even run in conventional mode....does it? My non-DCC loco ran under track voltage. Why wouldn't my SD70 run on conventional mode?
ad1013 I've pondered it all day and I think I've decided on the Power Cab. Its the cheaper starter system with lots of features and functions so I feel that is good for me. In the future I will more than likely consider more in depth, high tech DCC controllers.
I've pondered it all day and I think I've decided on the Power Cab. Its the cheaper starter system with lots of features and functions so I feel that is good for me. In the future I will more than likely consider more in depth, high tech DCC controllers.
Actually, ad, if and when you want to upgrade than all you have to do is add the Power Cab (as is) to the NCE Powerhouse (PH) Pro and it automatically becomes a ProCab throttle. No modifications necessary.
And, since the Power Cab retains its original function and portability, you can use it to program locomotives away from your layout - e.g. at your bench or at a friend's house. All you need is the PCP panel, wall transformer, and a section of track. I put mine on a 30" long piece of 1x 4.
FWIW...
tstage ad1013 I've pondered it all day and I think I've decided on the Power Cab. Its the cheaper starter system with lots of features and functions so I feel that is good for me. In the future I will more than likely consider more in depth, high tech DCC controllers. Actually, ad, if and when you want to upgrade than all you have to do is add the Power Cab (as is) to the NCE Powerhouse (PH) Pro and it automatically becomes a ProCab throttle. No modifications necessary. And, since the Power Cab retains its original function and portability, you can use it to program locomotives away from your layout - e.g. at your bench or at a friend's house. All you need is the PCP panel, wall transformer, and a section of track. I put mine on a 30" long piece of 1x 4. FWIW... Tom
And, in that regard, I will give a resounding recommendation to the NCE PH-Pro 5 amp system which I have to run my DCC layout. Two years ago, I converted it to wireless by adding a wireless base station and antenna. My two Pro Cab throttles were converted to wireless by sending them in to NCE for modification.
tstage Actually, ad, if and when you want to upgrade than all you have to do is add the Power Cab (as is) to the NCE Powerhouse (PH) Pro and it automatically becomes a ProCab throttle. No modifications necessary.
I looked up prices for the NCE powerhouse pro, and its a bit high but I see the controller there as well. Can you purchase the powerhouse transformer alone? I'm a bit confused.
ad1013I was just thinking though, going back to the original topic. You all helped pretty much solve my issue about the DCS except for one. It doesn't make sense that the locomotive wouldn't even run in conventional mode....does it? My non-DCC loco ran under track voltage. Why wouldn't my SD70 run on conventional mode?
Texas Zepher,
I honestly looked everywhere and it said nothing about resetting the locomotive, or any information on how to do it. If that is the case with the new controller I don't know where to find info on it.
The manual for the loco didn't explain anything like that, nor did the commander. so.... i don't know!
ad1013 tstage Actually, ad, if and when you want to upgrade than all you have to do is add the Power Cab (as is) to the NCE Powerhouse (PH) Pro and it automatically becomes a ProCab throttle. No modifications necessary. I looked up prices for the NCE powerhouse pro, and its a bit high but I see the controller there as well. Can you purchase the powerhouse transformer alone? I'm a bit confused.
Yes, you can purchase the PH Pro transformer separately. However, it would be more cost effective to purchase the Smart Booster (SB3a or SB5) if you were wanting more power (i.e. amperage) and versatility to your layout.
The SB3a/SB5 is a 5A booster and can be used with any NCE throttle. It will also allow you to disconnect the Power Cab from the layout w/o shutting down the entire layout. (That's because the Power Cab is a command station/booster/throttle all rolled-up-into-one.)
If you go to the review page on my web site, there's a review of both the original SB3 and the upgraded SB3a. NCE released their new SB5 several months ago to address the problem the older versions had when used with auto-reversers and circuit-breakers.
ad1013 I looked up prices for the NCE powerhouse pro, and its a bit high but I see the controller there as well. Can you purchase the powerhouse transformer alone? I'm a bit confused.
When we are giving advice on the forums, we always have to be mindful of our fellow members financial circumstances and hobby budget, but I will say this.
If you want to dabble in DCC, get the Power Cab.
But, if you want to grow into the hobby with maximum flexibility, get the PH Pro 5 amp system. Better yet, get the wireless version. Once you do this, you are set for life, at least until something bigger and better comes along - - LOL.
I bought the PH Pro 5 amp system ten years ago when I first got into HO scale, and it has served me well ever since.
Rich makes a good point. When I bought my Lenz System 100, one of the selling points was that it was a 5-amp system. At the time, some other systems were in the 2-amp range. Yes, they are expandable, but boosters are expensive. If you go with a 5-amp system, you will never have to worry about running a room-sized layout, unless you hit the lottery, and then, well, you won't have to worry about anything, right?
Enjoy your DCC system. You're on the right track. When I started mine up for the first time, it took 50 years off my life, but in a good way. When I picked up the throttle and ran my first engine down the short run of track I had laid, suddenly I was 8 years old again, and loving it.
richhotrain When we are giving advice on the forums, we always have to be mindful of our fellow members financial circumstances and hobby budget, but I will say this. If you want to dabble in DCC, get the Power Cab. But, if you want to grow into the hobby with maximum flexibility, get the PH Pro 5 amp system. Better yet, get the wireless version. Once you do this, you are set for life, at least until something bigger and better comes along - - LOL. I bought the PH Pro 5 amp system ten years ago when I first got into HO scale, and it has served me well ever since. Rich
Funny you say budget, because I forgot to mention that yes, I am good financially just not enough for those $300+ systems. The power cab is only $150 ish and that works for me. I'm glad you consider that because I am doing the best I can with what I have. I have a lot for a low budget so that's why I want to make the best of it.
I'll check out the PH Pro and definately upgrade to that in the future. You guys helped me out so much and I thank you for that. No one else seemed to be able to answer my questions, so I greatly appreciate it.
ad1013I honestly looked everywhere and it said nothing about resetting the locomotive, or any information on how to do it. If that is the case with the new controller I don't know where to find info on it.
http://www.mthtrains.com/sites/default/files/download/instruction/20as14017i.pdf
It is certainly not a process like any DCC system, I've ever used.