Trying out TMCC and a new ZW-I have quesitons...

[Captaincog]

Okay, according to my LHS and the manual for the new ZW that I got, I can control convetional locos via the CAB1 TMCC through varying the output of the ZW. The LHS stated that I essentially have 4 powermasters in the ZW, so in going to TMCC, this was supposed to be the better choice.

Now, the questions...

1. Since I am wanting to run at least 2 trains on separate loops, can I control one loop in convetional mode while running a TMCC engine on the second loop using the ZW and the TMCC CAB1?

2. Can I control two more blocks from the ZW in the same way if I end up having four loops that are blocked in power, i.e. through Fastrack switches. I would like to be able to transition engines through different blocks to where I want to run them.

Thanks for all the help. I have been reading and asking questions about the TMCC for about 8 months and still I am slightly confused....

[dougdagrump]

Don't worry Capt. No matter what system you use there will be times that will confound and confuse even the most experienced of us. Someone with more ZW experience will probably be along shortly to give you some assistance.

[Anonymous]

Okay, according to my LHS and the manual for the new ZW that I got, I can control convetional locos via the CAB1 TMCC through varying the output of the ZW. The LHS stated that I essentially have 4 powermasters in the ZW, so in going to TMCC, this was supposed to be the better choice.

Now, the questions...

1. Since I am wanting to run at least 2 trains on separate loops, can I control one loop in convetional mode while running a TMCC engine on the second loop using the ZW and the TMCC CAB1?

Yes. A and D (the throttles with the handles) can be used for conventional control, you also have the whistle/horn and bell controls for these outputs.

B and C startup at 'full throttle' I leave mine at max. You can still vary the output to these 'throttles' but you don't get the whistle/horn and bell controls unless you are using the CAB-1.

2. Can I control two more blocks from the ZW in the same way if I end up having four loops that are blocked in power, i.e. through Fastrack switches. I would like to be able to transition engines through different blocks to where I want to run them.

You can do this, HOWEVER I would not recommend crossing outputs on the ZW. If you want to do that I would recommend buying SPDT switches, or rotary switches (have 15 rotary switches I would be willing to sell you for 1/2 price) to 'select' the power source. If you cross from one power source to another your voltages could be slightly different (even if you have your ZW handles all set to 8, 10, 12, 20 - whatever mark you choose) and this can cause problems. Bob Nelson can explain this more.

Thanks for all the help. I have been reading and asking questions about the TMCC for about 8 months and still I am slightly confused....

No problem... I've been doing this for 10+ years and am still confused! LOL!

[kpolak]

  1. Since I am wanting to run at least 2 trains on separate loops, can I control one loop in convetional mode while running a TMCC engine on the second loop using the ZW and the TMCC CAB1? 

2. Can I control two more blocks from the ZW in the same way if I end up having four loops that are blocked in power, i.e. through Fastrack switches. I would like to be able to transition engines through different blocks to where I want to run them. 

Running on 2-separate blocks will require 2-channels of the ZW.  The TMCC requires full power, and conventional is variable voltage.  This can be very dangerous if the conventional loco enters a TMCC block.

There is an advanced technique outlined in the Lionel Guide to Command Control, Page 28, that illustrated how to operate a TMCC and a conventional loco with your CAB-1 by varying the track voltage.  But you really only have control of 1-engine.   http://www.lionel.com/products/productnavigator/InstructionManuals/71-2911-250.pdf

If you purchase a TPC you can run your conventional and TMCC Loco with the CAB-1 on the same or seperate blocks.  This is also covered in the guide.

Kurt

Edit:  Sorry Brent...I was typing while you were posting.