Lighted Bumpers

Aren't the filters a better choice?  They consume no track power and are most likely more effective than the bulb.

The bulb serves as a termination to reduce signal reflections on the longer lines.  The "filter" is also a termination resistor that is coupled by a capacitor to make it work only at high frequencies, minimizing the loading on the power transformer.

 

Dale, TMCC isn't any better than DCS when it comes to the manufacturer providing insight into how the system works!!!

Thanks for the info. I will look into what it takes to build filters into the sidings if the bulb trick doesn't work. Each layout has its differences and requirements so trial and error is the approach I must take.
Thanks,
Tim C.

I certainly don't understand the science behind most of this, especially the bulb trick.  But I do know that I ended up getting 10's from 7 and 8's by using the bulbs.

 

I agree 100% with Dale H. that MTH ought to offer a "reasonably" priced adjustable device which will accomplish what the bulb and filters do.  If not MTH then some other enterprising individual (maybe there is already is and I am not aware).

 

Like TMCC, DCS is a great system but it is only great if you can get it work, and that can only happen with a good signal.  Some things to correct bad signal stength can be done fairly easily and cheaply while others cannot.  

 

I implemented DCS to an existing layout and unfortunately the days of me crawling around under the layout doing a re-wire are over so I have to reply on these tips and tricks to get it to work.   It sure would have been a lot more convenient to have been able to buy a cheap device to help improve signal strength in the beginning.

 

Thanks,

Ed

 

  

Ed,

I agree with Dale as well. It would make it so much easier if there was a product available to help "fine tune" the DCS signal. Maybe one day......

Tim C.