ah, yes, I get why a new one is desirable. I could stand a new one. But a second, cheap one is handy to give to visitors!! Especially kids.
@Mike H Mottler posted:My story ... uncomplicated is best for me.
My 15x19-feet L-shaped layout is dual-wired for TMCC and DCS. A knife switch is the selector for which system is connected to the track. I can't have both systems active simultaneously.
When TMCC is selected for track power, the path to the tracks is:
* 135w Lionel brick
* TMCC Command Base
* TMCC PowerMaster
* TMCC Direct Lock-on - with branch pathways to four lighted lockons on the layout.
* CAB-1 Controller.I have several Lionel Legacy locos, but they require larger-radius curves than the O42 track and switches on my layout - the max curvatures possible in my modest-size L-shaped train room. Those locos rest on display shelves -- until I win the lottery and can afford to add a "train wing" onto the house to contain a larger layout with O72 curves.
Because of the size limit of the layout, I didn't buy a Legacy Command Base, a Legacy PowerMaster, and a CAB-1L.
I previously designed a ceiling mounted layout with O72 curves to provide a route for those locos, but the logistics inherent in building it above the existing layout are complicated and therefore expensive.When the DCS is selected for track power, the path to the tracks is:
* MTH Z1000 brick
* MTH DCS Remote Commander (the cheapest form of DCS)
* MTH DCS Remote Controller (not deluxe, but it has the basic control features).
Because I have just two MTH locos, I opted for the cheapest DCS gear to operate them. Admittedly not elegant, but sufficient for me.To reserve the output of the bricks for track power only, I installed a second MTH Z1000 as the source of 14v power to all 11 O42 switches, lighted buildings, and action accessories.
Carrying on, regardless ...
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394
Hello Mike,
Thank you for this condensed list of how to set-up TMCC vs. DCS on the same layout. There are so many options out there in terms of setup that anyone trying to figure it out will be thoroughly confused.
Lists like the one above help clarify what is needed for a command control layout.
Kazar
