Can someone tell me in plain english how I can run my pw engines with a hand held remote?

Watch these video's.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...u87Ztysg9b4aGAUZPI8=

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...Wk988bMHSnQ81pINdtw=

These should help.

Mike R

I do what you say you want to do. I get "advised" all the time that more technology would be better but I'm sticking with simple.  Hand-held wireless remote (Cab-1)

operating PW style (forward-neutral-reverse plus horns and whistles). PW transformers.

All you need is a Powermaster or TPC connected between each transformer and its loop of track. These devices "translate" the buttons commands from the Cab-1 into what you would do with the levers and buttons built into the transformer. I use Powermasters because I got in early. They work fine but don't play well with some non-Lionel engines. The newer TPC units have better compatibility with non-Lionel engines.

With more than one Powermaster, there's a little setup to do up front. Each one needs to be assigned a unique "Track Number" so they can be addressed individually. They all come out of the box set to be "Track 1" so you leave one as is, then set others to "Track 2", Track 3" and so on. The procedure for that is simple and clear in the instructions.

I'm not familiar with the TPC's but Powermasters require a specific connector cable to fit their plug sockets. That cable also incorporates a quick-acting fuse. The fuse protects the electronics from overloads caused by derailments and other electrical disasters.

Mike R - thanks for the effort but those videos are what made me right my plea for a 'plain english' explaination.   

I feel like the slow kid in class but I am overwhelmed with all the buzzwords and the confusion of what works with what.

A Lionel TMCC PowerMaster (item number 6-24130) for each loop of track and only one TMCC CAB-1 Remote Controller (item number 6-12868) is one solution.  Items at this point would most likely have to be purchased used.

The OGR Wanted to buy forum is a good place to start.

Good luck and happy railroading,

Don

Forget the TPC. Get one Power Master for each loop. One Lionel TMCC power adapter cable number 6-12893 for each power master.

One Cab1 to run them all. Find them on ebay. Very small instruction sheet with the Cab1 will have you running in 5 - 10 minutes. If you buy at the right prices you should come in under $200.

The simplest (and most economical) way is to do as others here have already posted. If you have four transformers, get four powermasters (Also called PM-1). You will also need 4 powermaster to transformer cables, and the Cab-1 remote. I know the Cab-1 is discontinued; don't know about the Powermasters or cables.

To hook it all up, you plug one cable into each Powermaster. Unhook the wires going from each transformer to the rails. Take the other end of each cable, and hook it up on your transformer where the wires going to the rails were. Hook the wires going to the rails on the 2 posts on each PowerMaster. You may need to check the phasing just like you would when hooking up multiple transformers to a layout.

The next thing you would need to do is program each Powermaster. The instructions for that will come with the Powermaster, I can't recall off the top of my head what buttons get pushed. I know it's just a matter of flipping a switch on the Powermaster from run to program, hitting a few keys on the cab-1, and then flipping the switch back to run.

One thing I would suggest is getting a few LTC lockons (if you're using tubular track), or wiring a light bulb to track power for each loop. Once you start running trains like this, it won't be obvious if there's voltage on the track just because the handle on the transformer says there is.

I'm sure everyone who has posted here would agree that it is far harder explaining this than it is doing it.

J White

Link to Lionel TPC (300/400). A 20 page instruction manual that comes with the hardware. It needs to be programmed for conventional use.  It will also run MTH PS1 and PS2 locomotives in conventional.

Hi bja

One of the reasons your head spins is that we all do it slightly differently and a lot has to do with the size/complexity of our the layout. 

Jim in the post above, gave you sound info.  There is a lot of latitude to do what you want to do. It is actually simple.

First. Legacy is more sophisticated for form of TMCC. The cab2 works with Legacy. The cab1 primarily a TMCC tool works with Legacy as well, to a limited degree. Track Power controllers [tpc] are a more sophisticated form of Powmaster. Legacy and TMCC  allow you to connect to them each with an increasing level of difficulty.

THIS IS MY OPINION. 

What you want will cost $$$. You have the transformers. The size of your layout would be the next question. You probably only need TMCC.  A cab1/command base set offered occasionally on the buy/sell forum but certainly on ebay would do the trick. A TPC would be next. They come in two sizes, 300 watts and 400 watts.  The 400 watt version tends to be more available.  Three loops, three TPCs set to Conventional running. The wiring is straightforward, though there will be questions, of course.  Transformer thru to the TPC thru to the Track connections -- power and common.  The command base connects to the TPC and has its own power source, a wall wart --and data commands from the base to the tpc unit.

The PW ZW is either a 250 or 275 watt unit. It may be enough to power your layout again depending on size.  Stay with it for starters. The ZW is wired to the TPCs. Each tpc has a code you set up. Tr1, Tr2, Tr3. If the ZW doesn't have enough power for running, then add one of the other transformers to the mix or all three. These are older models and have some unique wiring that you must be aware of since you own them. 

Power up the ZW. With the hand held, you select Tr1, power goes to that oval. Run your train. Some additional commands -- YOU WILL ACTUALLY HAVE TO READ THE MANUAL FOR THE COMMANDS -- to send commands that alert the second TPC to wake-up, Tr 2 and off to the races on the second oval.  You must read and understand how to manage the speed of oval one while you are working on oval two or you could have a train go off the track. 

Get the TMCC unit - Command base and Cab1. Get TPCs not Powmasters. Limit the number of the transformers you use. Some of the older ones, TW and 1033 might serve you better for accessory power.

Hope this helps. 

Ralph

Do what BigO says.  The reason is:  THe Power Master is still readily available, can handle 180W and is the cheapest of the solutions.  It raises and lowers track voltage when told by the CAB-1.  It can send a whistle/horn or bell signal, and it can reverse direction all via the CAB-1 remote.  It also has a halt feature so you can stop all your trains in the event of a derailment.  Th ePOwer Master works great with PW engines.

You don't need any of the finer electronic controls of the TPCs.

The CAB-1 is the remote.  It talks to the Powere Master directly.  That is why this set up works with out a TMCC COmmand Base.  These are no longer made, so you need to get one used.

The Cable mention just connects your PW transformer to the Power Master.  It has a special connector on one end.  I use several of these on my layout with no issues.  G

Here's a question...WHY would someone want to run their PW engine with a hand-held other than having a layout that is too large to see each train at all times from the transformer?

Here's a link to the Lionel PowerMaster Manual:

http://www.lionel.com/media/se...ents/71-2867-250.pdf

Figure 2 shows how to hook the wiring up.

Like GGG said, all you need is a CAB-1, a PowerMaster, and a transformer.

I was using the PM, CAB-1, and a MTH Z750 to run my engines (conventional and PS2) in conventional mode until I bought the DCS system last September (the day we had an earthquake in Va.)

The Powermaster doesn't have finer (slow speed) control like the TPC 300 or 400 do, but if you don't know do a lot of switching, you don't need to get a TPC.

The big issue is like everyone else has stated...CAB-1 is no longer being made (but can be found).

You are asking about a process that is an effective way to simply run Conventional Locomotives from the handheld that I utilized for better operation of my PS-1.0s when Lou Kovach issued the first TPCs.

The TPC multiplys the number of Locomotive speed steps available.

Unfortunately you need to locate a Cab 1, [new or used on the For Sale Forums], a unit which is no longer available factory new. If you have a defectvive Cab 1 get Dale Manquen to take a look at it for a possible fix. I am not familar with the PowerMasters but apparently they are effective also and someone says cheaper than the TPC. But the Cab 1 is the key operating component needed either with the TPCs or PowerMasters. 

The Command Base is not needed for Conventional operation, only [1]transformers, [2]TPCs or, PMs and [3] a Cab 1.  The instructions in the TPC Manual are not difficult and are good to get you underway.

If you are using more than one AC transformer you should "phase" them.  A dozen or more folks here on the Forum will tell you how to easily do that later when the time comes to wire up you system. Then you can wire all the Commons ["U" terminals] on the transformers together for a single railpower "layout common" for all loops, ovals or power districts.

I'm partial toward Lionel Products but would consider MTH or other brands if it gives better functionality or saves significant cost. 

What do I need to buy? 

Buy a Z4000

and the upcomming reproduction Z4k remote and you are done!

IT's the kis principle at it's finest! 

This simplistic system will allow conventional control remotely and it operates up to two tracks per Z4K!

you will also have a lot of power in reserve to expand you layout and/or operating accessories!

My suggestion also.

The reason for me was that when I was a kid the layout was a rectangle in a corner and I did everything from the control panel on one side. I was a prisoner to the control panel. I also kept the station in front of me, but the yard was too far away to shunt trains and see it close up. Accesories were always within arms length. 45 years later and my adult layout has multiple angles around the perimeter and a large interior viewing space. I can finally set my bar stool anywhere around or within the layout and watch these beautiful trains from various points of view. IT'S LIKE BEING ABLE TO PUT THE CONTROL PANEL IN A NEW LOCATION EVERY DAY. All of a sudden a circle of track doesn't seem like a circle of track. From one angle a train on one side of the layout may look boring, but if I move a few feet, now it looks like a snake working its way around. I can look down any straight a way or any tunnel and control the train speed as the train approaches or passes. I can walk over to the yard and watch the action up close. When I got comfortable with the equipment I hooked my switch tracks to it and a couple of uncoupler sections. I can actually accompany a visitor to any point of action rather than point and yell. The ability to move around increases the action and interest exponentially.

Maybe because they'd like to be able to walk around as they control the trains, and not be tied to the control panel where all the transformers are?

For the inexpensive option, I'd consider the PowerMasters and the CAB1.  You could opt for the complete TMCC set with the CAB1 and command base.  This would allow you to add controls for switches and accessories down the road.  Running multiple loops from the remote may be limited if you can't control any switches, for instance.

well said!

While the Z-4000 and remote will solve one problem, it's a pretty expensive and limited solution.  One can reasonably expect once you have the trains running from a remote, you are likely to want to consider controlling other stuff like switches and accessories as well.  Why go for the closed-end approach?

I'm going all the way, I'm converting a bunch of operating cars to TMCC so they can be actuated anywhere on the layout.  So far I have a milk car, log dump car, barrel car, and the target launcher.

MTH Z4000 and Z4K my vote also

Hey Spud - you still here? Kind of scary how many different response opinions you got. There was a pop song a few years ago called "Who Let the Dogs Out?" and that's kind of applicable to your original question. Every single reply on this thread is correct for someone (except maybe that one about why would anyone want this?).

Bottom line: Simplest, cheapest setup (mentioned a few times) --

Your PW transformers - one per loop.

Lionel PM-1 Powermasters (current catalog 6-24130) - one per loop

Lionel Power Adapter Cable (current catalog 6-12893) - one per Powermaster

Lionel CAB-1 remote - Just one of these will do - discontinued recently but still at many dealers AND -- the many folks who have chosen to move on to newer, more complicated systems are providing the rest of us with a plentiful supply of used CAB-1s. Sometimes the CAB-1 will be packaged with a "Command Base". If the price is right, fine but just set the Command Base aside as it has no purpose related to PW/MPC conventional (forward-neutral-reverse) operation. You might want to consider shopping for 2 CAB-1s so you would have a spare and the ability to invite a friend to operate with you.

That's all. Nothing else needed to run PW Lionel around separate loops with a hand-held remote (well you do need AA batteries for the remote and some spare fuses for the cables...)

What is a tpc? It's a more expensive powermaster type device with some additional features. They are also current Lionel catalog items (there are 2 versions based on amperage capacity). You don't need these unless you will be adding non-Lionel engines. Not entirely necessary even then. I use Powermasters with the CAB-1 for my Lionel PW/MPC engines. When I run my "one" MTH engine, I just use the controls on the transformer.

Spud,

The simplest/cheapest way to do 3 or 4 trains at once is what jlm described very well.

What was not mentioned is that with the TPCs, besides the fact that one is needed for each loop (expensive), you will also need a command base and cables.

Also, the Z-4000 remote system is great, but one Z-4000 has two handles - that means only two trains with independent control, not the 3 or 4 you wanted.

As has been said, the main advantage of the TPCs or the Z-4000 is being able to handle electronics-equipped trains, which you said you're not doing.

Powermasters and Cab-1 sound best for you.

Jim

Here's the Lionel 6-24130 PowerMaster you need, one for each loop.

Here's the connecting cable Lionel 6-12893 Power Adapter Cable

Here's the Lionel 6-12868 CAB1 you will need.

Add some fuses to protect the PowerMasters (I'd fuse input and output) and you're all set.

Will this be for both TMCC and Protosounds??

Well, I quote from the original post.

ALL of my trains are postwar conventional engines with NO electronics.

It would appear that that Protosound functionality is not required.  That being the case, the PowerMasters and CAB1 would seem to do the trick.  Also keep in mind he's wanting to run four loops.  What happens when he decides to expand?  With the PowerMaster solution, just add one more and a transformer to drive it.

To all you nice gentlemen that tried to help.

Please note that it wasn't until Jim Policastro mentioned it above that anyone said you need a command base to control a TPC. I would like to know just how those of you that said you control your TPC's with just a CAB1 are doing it. bja said that he dosen't know and dosen't understand and needs help. Please be accurate. If you can't be accurate please be quiet.

I know that at least 3 people won the lottery today but I do not believe bja is one of them. The Z-4000 system is nice but two of them would be almost twice as much as a full blown Legacy system with TPC's. If he was to go with MTH it would be cheeper to use two TIU's to gain variable control of 4 tracks with his existing transformers.

The Powermasters with a CAB1 is the cheepest way to go although I do not like it since it uses obosolete equipment, the CAB1 is no longer manufactured. Yes they are available now on the used market and yes some of them can be repaired but for how long. For now I believe the best solution would be a Legacy system with TPC-3's or 4's. The solution with two DCS TIU's is a close second but I give the edge to the Legacy system for ease of installation and the likelihood that should he ever purchase a command control engine in the future it will probably have TMCC.

Al

While competition can be a beautiful thing - Lionel & MTH just don't want to play in the same sand box. Which ever one you go with - there always seems to be tradeoffs.

I'm gonna be the dog on the outside track...   Nobody really likes to talk about any systems other than Lionel or MTH. Thanks to Ben (blueline??) - he did a great review - including installationi photos on the remote control system from .....

Aristo Train Engineer.  Use your existing transformers to power the track all the way up.

Install the receiver in each engine unit.

Done. Hit the button. Being the power is applied to all track - even via different transformers - you can operate each engine independently - even when two are on the same track.

The system also has the option of running from a battery pack installed/hidden in a B unit or tender. Now you can take your trains ANYWHERE and run them on ANY layout. Doesn't matter Lionel or MTH or Williams or whatever have ya.

The remote control and one receiver (gets installed in engine) is about $300. Each additional receiver is about $80.

PS - new unit coming out shortly that will also include sound.

First let me say 'thanks' to all of you for the replies. Its be fascinating reading and I've learned a ton.

The transfomer / powermaster / cab-1 solution sounds like what I am looking for.

I have NO intention of adding any sophisiticated locos to my pike. I'm a 100% post war, pre-war, Marx, Hafner kind of guy. IMHO circuit boards are for my laptop not my toys.  Hats off to you guys who dig the new stuff.

Now - here is my next question - why was cab-1 killed off. Isn't there a sufficinet market demand for a simple remote control system?

BJA / Spud

The ZW transformer is obsolete.  They haven't been made for nearly half a century.  Yes they are available now on the used market and yes some of them can be repaired but for how long.  But should we abandon them? 

The Legacy system, as well as TPC-300's & 400's, will be obsoleted very soon too(relatively speaking).

It was obsoleted by the CAB-2.  Lionel thinks if you want to control PM-1's with your CAB-2, you will ante up and buy the PowerMaster Bridge.

I don't know why it was killed off - but when you buy "hardware" you are now locked into that vendor - and as such have to deal with their attitude towards the other players in the biz. A simple remote control is available out there - and yes Lionel and MTH could probably contract with Aristo to add specific software modules for their respective systems. But...nooooooooo. You got to buy their $15000000000 hardware "solution".

Apparently not.  I'd love to see Lionel come out with a low-cost version like the MTH DCS Remote Commander.  I'm not sure it'll happen in my lifetime, but hope springs eternal.

The Legacy system with the track power controllers is the way to go but it will be expensive. Legacy 349.00, each track power controller 300 watt 169.00 and maybe Dale Manquen's signal booster 30.00. Total price = 1055.00 List price to control 4 conventional loops with your transformers. To do a used Cab1, Powermaster system would be Cab1 75-100, Powermaster 50-75 each and cables 15.00 each. I have a Complete Trainmaster Command Set on the buy/sell board now for 145.00 shipped. You actually only need the Cab1 but the command base will give you added functionality for in the future. If you're interested I will throw in the 4 cables you need for the Powermasters for free. If you buy 4 Powermasters @ 60 each you'll have 385.00 total. That runs 4 independent loops of track and with the appropriate devices switches and accessories. I have one Powermaster also that I may be persuaded to sell also. So for about 200.00 you could be running trains on one loop while looking for additional Powermasters.

Ron

For $74 shipped free, I provided a link to the PowerMasters, so that's an option.  The CAB1 was $90.  Since you're throwing in the four cables, your complete system sounds like a pretty good deal, I'd probably go that way if I were in his shoes.

One of the stories circulated at the time was that a lot of the electronic components used in the original TMCC system with the Cab1 were no longer available. As far as some of the comments about the TPC, you can't use that unless you have a command base. They stopped making the command base too. They still, however make the good old Powermaster. IMO the Cab1's are still available and plentiful now that the initial shock of their cancellation has worn off. I bought a brand new Cab1 as a spare in York last October for $50 with a used Command Base thrown in for good measure. Most people walk right by the stuff and few people seem to know or care that the system is no longer made. Those most concerned about it reside right here on the forum and eBay. There is no need to panic that Cab1's are going to disappear. Often Lionel's biggest competitior is their old equipment on the secondary used market. Sooner or later there there will be a "warehouse discovery" etc etc ...

...Which makes sense to me if you have all those PowerMasters.  I know others see this differently, but if the CAB-1 was "killed off" it was because Legacy came along with more features.  True, Lionel wanted to move away from the more "open" system they licensed to a closed proprietary one but that is a different topic.

Although I am a big proponent of DCS and have a Z4K, I can see where the PowerMasters and CAB-1 are a good solution for Spud with his existing equipment.  It is a simple solution and will work.  By my math though, 4 PowerMasters and the cables come to close to $400 and then he needs to get a CAB-1 (and maybe a base) which would add another $140-$150 to the bill depending on how well he does finding them for sale.  He *COULD* get DCS and an extra TIU with the necessary cables and have the 4 variable channels he is looking for and still spend the same or a little less. That solution would work too.

My only concern with buying a CAB-1 and base is the cost compared to buying a Legacy CAB-2 and base.  To me, it makes a lot more sense to go with the newer equipment when the prices get so close.

Eric I gave the original poster the option of a used cab1 and base with the 4 cables needed to hook up the powermasters for 145.00 shipped. Add 4 NEW powermasters for 300.00 and you have the complete system for 345.00. Even less if you find used powermasters.

Ron

That's a good price for the cab1, base and cables.  Getting them from you is a lot more reliable than a crapshoot from someone else.  That makes a big difference and it does help the price.  I'm all about finding what works best for each person.  This is not a one size fits all hobby.