MTH DCS Frequently Asked Questions
by Phil Greenberg - Traintek, LLC

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Q: What do I need to get started in DCS? 

A: All you need is your existing transformer, an MTH DCS Starter Set which comes with a Track Interface Unit (TIU)and a DCS Remote Control handheld, and your trains.  You don’t even need a DCS equipped train to get started!!  Connect the track power leads from your transformer to the Fixed input 1 and a variable out (if you’re running conventional (non DCS equipped) locomotives). 

Next connect the Variable out to the track.  Remember RED should be connected to the center rail, BLACK is for the outer rail!  Once all your connections are secure, power up your transformer to full throttle and the DCS system will do the rest.

**It is recommended if you have a smaller transformer, like the Lionel CW80, you should upgrade to a larger power supply such as the MTH Z1000 or a Z4000 transformer to accommodate more engines running.  Remember, if your transformer can’t handle it without DCS, it won’t be able to handle it with DCS.

Q: Can I run my older (Conventional) engines with DCS on my layout? 

A: DCS is equipped with two Variable outputs.  Using one of those outputs you can use the DCS handheld just like you would use your transformer to run your conventional engines. 

You can also isolate your Variable tracks from your Fixed output tracks if you choose.  This way, you can run your conventional locomotives with the DCS remote acting as your transformer, and the DCS/TMCC (command) equipped locomotives on a separate track.

With DCS you can even run your conventional engines on the same track as a command equipped engine.  As long as there's enough power to the track, the command engine will respond to command signals, and the conventional engine will function just as it would if you were using a transformer.  It is important to remember when changing direction for the conventional engine, your command engine will "flinch" at the voltage drop, but will continue in the same direction until you send a DCS command to it.

Q: Can I program my conventional locomotives to run automatically? 

A: Yes you can!!  With DCS, if you are using the Variable output, your handheld takes the place of your standard transformer.  As such, you can record and playback your conventional train’s operations just like you can with your DCS or TMCC equipped Engines.  It is important to remember, for out and back type operation, please remember the exact location the engine is starting from when you begin recording.  All engines whether they are conventional, DCS, Legacy, or TMCC tend to “Walk”.

Mark a wheel location before you start. Have your engine(s) do their thing and bring it back to the marked location. 

**Even though it may work well one day or one moment in a day, that doesn’t mean it’ll come home every time.  Variations in temperature, voltage, grading, etc can cause the engine to miscount, especially conventional locomotives.  Leave plenty of walking space at both ends of the out and back and watch for walking.

**In many cases, you may want to consider a PS2 upgrade.  Upgrading your  conventional locomotive with PS2 will enhance the sound and add DCS compatibility to your existing engines. 

Q: What do I need to run TMCC/Legacy using my DCS system? 

A: If you have DCS 4.1 or higher, all you need is the TMCC command base, the MTH DCS/Legacy connecting cable and trains!!

DCS 4.1 allows you to not only run and access TMCC features and functions, but also allows you to address your TMCC/Legacy engines from the DCS remote.

If you have an earlier version of DCS, you’ll need to upgrade it to 4.1.  You can download the DCS loader software and latest version of DCS from the MTH website for free, or for a fee, send it to TraintekLLC and we'll do it for you!

Q: Do I need a Legacy or TMCC remote to edit a TMCC engine address? 

A: No, you can address your Lionel locomotives with the DCS handheld as long as your DCS is software version 4.1 or higher. You can change an engine’s TMCC address via the DCS handheld.  The engine must already be in your DCS remote’s engine list.

1. Press Menu	2. Select System	3. Engine Setup	4. Edit Engine	5. Edit Address

 

6. Scroll to the TMCC equipped engine in the active engine list.	7. You will be prompted to put the prog/run switch on the engine into the PROG position	8. Select a TMCC address that is not already taken using the thumbwheel. Press the thumbwheel to select the address.

You will then be prompted to return the program/run switch on the engine to the RUN. You’re all set! 

Q: Can I Upgrade my conventional locomotive with DCS?

A: In many cases, yes.  You can purchase an upgrade kit, however there are many items to consider first.

• Most older locomotives have AC motors.  DCS (and TMCC) both require DC motors to operate properly.  As such, you may have to replace the motors as well as install the upgrade kit.

Q: My locomotive already has DC motors, can I do the install myself?

A: If you’re not afraid to do some soldering, you can install the upgrade kit yourself.  However, there is no warranty from MTH if you do it yourself.  There are many connecting wires and components when you open the box.

ProtoSound 2.0 Diesel Upgrade Kit

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