How well do DCS, TMCC, and Legacy get along with the Lionel O-27 switches? Do they run into interference from the old remote O-27 switches?
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No reason they should have any issues with those switches that I can think of.
Allin,
The only possible issue of which I'm aware is if the switches operate using track power.
In this case, whenever a switch is activated, either via a controller or AIU port or by automatic non-derailing operation, the DCS signal on the track is passed through the switch track's motor or magnetic coil and will typically be temporarily degraded. This degradation may or may not be apparent and will cease entirely when the switch track ceases being activated.
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I use a series 22uh choke for Fastrack switches to prevent the DCS signal degradation.
John,
I use a series 22uh choke for Fastrack switches to prevent the DCS signal degradation.
Well, yes. I just mentioned it with Fastrack as that's what I use. I try to have a choke for anything I power from the tracks so that I don't degrade the DCS signal.
Thank all you very much! I don't think it would be much of an issue as the inner loop on a 4x8 layout is the only part with the old-27 Lionel switches. Basically a double oval, with a passing siding on the inside. I plan on having two power leads on the 0-27 and two on the outer O-36 Fas-track outer oval( with manual switches). This is a really budget use what I have on hand layout I am asking about. I assume that should mitigate most of the issues?
Barry and John know far more than me about the electronics. No input from me there, but if you're using Postwar 1121 switches (like me), you'll burn out their 14V bulbs frequently if running TMCC at 18-20V.
I'd run it in passive mode, because I have too many 12 volt items. Just did not know about switches. While I contemplate getting my first MTH engine, better to ask first I find with some things.
Passive mode doesn't change the fact that anything that is powered from track power can potentially affect the DCS signal.
I have 22 of the lionel 0-27 42inch radius switches on my layout and i am running legacy and TMCC and so far I have had no noticable problems, at least not with signal problems.
Makes sense to me about passive mode and switches, since the signal is propagated in the track.