Legacy, TPC, dz2001 Problem Appear Resolved

I just installed Legacy on my TMCC layout - - 2 TPCs, many DZ 2500s, DZ 2001 data driver - - and have encountered exactly the problems described by Shane.  Where can I get one of these amplifiers?

Here is the contact info...

http://www.trainfacts.com/trainfacts/?p=406

sometimes at the club we lose signal, would this help?

I kinda want to say no. I was hesitating answering this, because I am not sure what function is lost. I am thinking that you are probably referring to a lost of signal between the hand held and the base. This booster will not help that. Nor will it help a loss of signal between the base and the engine on the track.

The booster amp will help if there is a loss of signal between the base and the TPC, ASC, etc...anything where the 2 wire cable connects the db9 connector of the Legacy base and the devices. The issue is that the serial output of the Legacy base is not capable of driving as many devices thru the 2 wire cable that the old command base could.

So if the loss of function from any of those wired devices is lost, it will help.

I'm pretty sure it's the signal power between the base and the layout.  We'll find out soon enough because I've got a booster on order from MANCO.  After I've tested this out, I'll report on what I've found.

Thanks.  it is a loss of signal between the handheld and the base. usually happens when there are a few people on their cell phones inside the club room. doesn't happen all the time.  usually just moving around will fix the issue. never hurts to ask.

I have not experienced the same issues that others have when connecting the Legacy system to TPC's, Lionel Controller devices and the DZ2001 data wire driver. I used the three wire command cable because one of the seven devices I have installed is the ARC which needs the additional wire and also is first in line.

I wonder if this is the difference?

Also, I understand the weakness of the output of the Legacy base but since you may only control one or two devices at a time why would there be any issues?

As long as the devices are hooked up to the wire, they will be loads on the output...even though they are not being addressed.

Does that apply to each of the DZ2500 switch machines installed? If so I have fifteen devices connected and powered.

The switch machines are driven by the DZ2001 which isolates the 2500s from the Legacy base output...but anyway, I don't know how much of a load they are. They appear to be very light loads, but generally if they are wired up, they are loads to their driver.

I just installed the booster from Dale Manquen and it solved all my problems.  I'm able to set up 2 digit routes and control my DZ 2500 switch machines and routes through the DZ 2001 data driver and my TPCs, etc.  Terrific product that does the job!  If you're running Z Stuff DZ 2500 switch machines and TPCs like me - - 2 TPCs controlling 8 blocks and 27 DZ 2500s with 10 different routes through the DZ 2001 - - Dale Manquen's booster is the only way to go.