I have read and seen posted a number of places about the "Missing Features" when running TMCC, or Legacy engines with DCS. I ask this question with only the curiosity stated, I have all three systems, and Like ALL of them!! I wouldn't give up anyone as long as I don't have too.
What features am I missing? I have only noticed a couple. I would like to have full advantage of the operating systems and can't see what I'm missing, or have overlooked.
TMCC - I have not identified anything missing. (As far as I know I have full control with the DCS, even the street horn works with DCS.)
Legacy - (The only items I have identified that I can NOT do with DCS is the following, otherwise I have full control.)
- I Can't "quill" the whistle.
- I don't have the hand held "vibration mode" with the DCS remote.
I have even been able to do a Record/Playback feature with ALL the engines, the only thing I have to do is "Start" the TMCC/Legacy engines prior to initiating the DCS Record/Playback feature.
Please, REALLY I am NOT trying to incite a heated discussion, but only looking to see what I'm missing.
Thanks
EDIT: I THINK I NEED TO FURTHER CLARIFY THAT I HAVE ALL THREE SYSTEMS INTEGRATED. I DO NOT WANT TO IMPLY THAT YOU COULD RUN ALL 3 WITHOUT HAVING THE LEGACY, AND TMCC COMMAND BASES.
Don
As far as I know, DCS can access almost all of the TMCC features, since the control codes were published by Lionel. I know that there are 2 or 3 that DCS won't do, but my memory is fuzzy today. DCS cannot emulate ANY Legacy features, as the control codes have not, and will not be published.
hope this helps---
A Day Without Trains is a Day Wasted
You can't emulate the Legacy steam blowout sounds with DCS, and if you had a Vision Line engine equipped with blowout steam feature you could not activate that either.
Brent,
You may be right, haven't tried that will have to give it a go.
Would I need the TMCC base to operate a TMCC engine with the DCS base unit? I have just the DCS TIU and AIU. If I need the TMCC base I won't buy any TMCC stuff.
Lee F.
Yes.
But they are now very cheap. You only need 1 for an entire layout, not several like the DCS(TIU) system.
Rob
One of the advantages of the forum is to be able to share information amongst each other. What is really great is that when it is done without having product "flame wars". As Brent posed an query regarding the steam blow-down and release. I was really inquisitive to try it. And sure enough, it did work with the DCS remote. I needed to push the AUX 2 button then the number 3, or 6. And they both responded as in TMCC mode. The Legacy of course doesn't require depressing the AUX 2 button, since the icon is on the keypad.
One advantage of having the three remotes, is if I have a visitor who is unfamiliar with the Command Control Systems, I will typically let them use the TMCC Cab-1 Remote. It is a lot simpler and not overwhelming with buttons and displays.
Lee, An advantage of getting the TMCC Command Base is that it opens the door to a very wide selection of operating equipment, and the cost is not too bad. Especially for the flexibility. But, we don't know what will happen in the future. I know for example the new Vision Line features, may preclude use of the DCS controller for many of the Advanced features, many of which haven't been released yet. I did have an opportunity to run the Pennsy 0-8-8-0 on my layout, and was able to run it with DCS as well. I'm just having too much fun with all this stuff.
DON ..... fabulous info .... I'm debating going ahead and grabbing a DCS system now . As far as the future .... lord knows it won't be all that long before lionel brings out another system anyway . The same dcs system is still upgradeable from the git go .... and more updates all the time .
Lee as Don stated ... those command bases are going really low priced at times on ebay ... may be worth checking every week with a search .
Ole Timer - I doubt you'll see another control system from Lionel. The Legacy System is very impressive.
Thanks for the info about TMCC! I doubt that I will be buying it anytime soon, as finances are too bad.
Hopefully I wil go to the next train show in Deerfield Beach FL and sell some stuff.
dbaker48 I have read and seen posted a number of places about the "Missing Features" when running TMCC, or Legacy engines with DCS. I ask this question with only the curiosity stated, I have all three systems, and Like ALL of them!! I wouldn't give up anyone as long as I don't have too. What features am I missing? I have only noticed a couple. I would like to have full advantage of the operating systems and can't see what I'm missing, or have overlooked. TMCC - I have not identified anything missing. (As far as I know I have full control with the DCS, even the street horn works with DCS.) Legacy - (The only items I have identified that I can NOT do with DCS is the following, otherwise I have full control.) - I Can't "quill" the whistle. - I don't have the hand held "vibration mode" with the DCS remote. I have even been able to do a Record/Playback feature with ALL the engines, the only thing I have to do is "Start" the TMCC/Legacy engines prior to initiating the DCS Record/Playback feature. Please, REALLY I am NOT trying to incite a heated discussion, but only looking to see what I'm missing. Thanks EDIT: I THINK I NEED TO FURTHER CLARIFY THAT I HAVE ALL THREE SYSTEMS INTEGRATED. I DO NOT WANT TO IMPLY THAT YOU COULD RUN ALL 3 WITHOUT HAVING THE LEGACY, AND TMCC COMMAND BASES.
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