So I purchased our first O-Scale set (MTH PRR Steam 2-8-0) for our family and after unboxing it and spending literally hours I cannot seem to get either the DCS Explorer controller (using mobile app on iOS) or the Rail King Z Controller (purchased for my toddler to operate) working. I have the green light connector to the track (banana plugs) that has only lit a couple times, not sure what causes it to or not to light, strange. I did get some sound from the locomotive when the green light was on the track, but it seems I cant get it to stay on consistently nor could I get the engine to move, only make some sounds from the app (using DCS Explorer).
I took a multi-meter to the track to look for shorts, continuity, etc. and I dont seem to be running into an issue there. I did try to just take the piece that I broke out the tab for and run it in a straight line, but I dont know if I needed to complete the circuit for it to operate correctly. On the bottom of the engine I found what I thought to be an 'on/off' switch, but there is clearly no switch there and right behind it is the wiring harness to the tender, which is connected and appears to be seated just fine.
I am at a complete loss for what to try next, I've been around model trains for years, but thought I would get a nice starter set that's a bigger size than my HO stuff for my daughter to enjoy and build on (for both of us) over time. I am technically saavy so I connected the DCS to my home wifi so I dont have to keep connecting directly to the unit, I cant seem to figure out something that seems simple... although trains nowadays seem to be way more technical.
to the forum. I'm sorry no one had anything to say about your DCS problem but glad you found, and posted a resolution.
The posts I have seen in the forum about DCS in HO have not been positive. I wish you better luck.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley