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OK, I'll start by saying that I realize this might be an odd question so here's some background:

My layout is 5x10, two nested loops connected by switches with the loops separated by block sections.

Currently I have two transformers allowing me to run two trains.

I have 3 locomotives: a lionel conventional unit, a MTH PS1 and MTH PS3

I'm going to purchase a CAB-1 and Powermaster with the short term goal being to have better low speed control and also to remove the transformers from my layout table. With used CAB-1 units selling for $100 it's not such a steep investment to get back some real estate.

 

So my question is can I somehow run two conventional trains on two blocked loops using a single CAB-1 remote/base? I'm thinking I'd need one Powermaster for each loop but don't know if a CAB-1 can control voltages on multiple Powermasters. Longer term I plan to purchase some TMCC locomotives and upgrade my current locomotives with ERR boards but doing that requires more money than I'm willing to spend at this time. Worse case is I buy the CAB1 and just one train at a time. 

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Originally Posted by SeattleSUP:

So my question is can I somehow run two conventional trains on two blocked loops using a single CAB-1 remote/base? I'm thinking I'd need one Powermaster for each loop but don't know if a CAB-1 can control voltages on multiple Powermasters.

Yes, the CAB-1 can control an unlimited number of PM-1s in TMCC Conventional control, but only with addresses TR-1 through TR-9. If you limit your power districts to one PM-1 per blocked loop, you can run up to 9 train sets independently.

 

You can also use an unlimited number of CAB-1s to control those 9 TR loops, or up to 99 trains in TMCC Command mode.

Originally Posted by WftTrains:
Originally Posted by WftTrains:

Your PS-1 locomotives will run but without any sounds using a powermaster and CAB-1.  At least that's been my experience. 

 

Bill

 

Bill,  There may be some unique issues with very early PS-1, but my layout uses PMs and ZW-C with no issues running or programming options for my PS-1.  G

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