Can someone please confirm if I will be able to hook up the DCS system to my 1965 Lionel trains without modifications and use an Apple iPhone for controlling speed and direction ?
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I too would like to know about this!
By using the variable channel outputs on the TIU with the WiFi unit with your phone it works just fine.
Yes, you can run conventional locomotives with the App as long as you purchase the Premium upgrade for the app.
The TIU has two Variable output channels that can be used to control the voltage, bell, whistle, and direction for two independent tracks.
Thx Jeff and H1000. Happy New Year !
H1000 posted:Yes, you can run conventional locomotives with the App as long as you purchase the Premium upgrade for the app.
The TIU has two Variable output channels that can be used to control the voltage, bell, whistle, and direction for two independent tracks.
Will I need to upgrade my 60 watt transformer to 180 or even 275 ?
Cheers , Dave
Comox Valley RR posted:H1000 posted:Yes, you can run conventional locomotives with the App as long as you purchase the Premium upgrade for the app.
The TIU has two Variable output channels that can be used to control the voltage, bell, whistle, and direction for two independent tracks.
Will I need to upgrade my 60 watt transformer to 180 or even 275 ?
Cheers , Dave
Not necessarily. If a 60 watt transformer was working before adding DCS, then it should still work after.
Now, if you add more trains, or run two tracks, or add more accessories, then 60 Watts will probable get weak on you pretty quickly. The beauty to the the TIU is that you can you can use any transformer power source you want and if you operate on two loops, you can run two transformers independently through one TIU.
The Lionel PH180, or MTH Z4000 are excellent choices. They provide good power output and circuit protection. I have used one PH180 to run two tracks independently on one TIU without any problems. I like the Z4000 for its AMP & VOLT meters plus its ability to operate trains with classic conventional controls.
Thx again H1000, I find it very reassuring to get advice from a veteran user like yourself. Do u like the PH over the Kw or Zw ?
Will I be able to have more than one train per point to point ? Eg. Can I number the locos and have them going in opposite direction using a yard ladder or siding for one ?
Any other tips are much appreciated as I'm still at the layout planning stage. I'm thinking of 2 P2P tracks with reversing loops and wyes on the branch lines and sidings and yards on both main lines.
My budget only allows Lionel and Sakai manual switches which I'll rig up for manual control with hockey table-like technology. I think that this tactile approach will work really good with the wi-fi system and allow my toddler granddaughter to play trains with grampa.
Cheers, Dave
Glad to help you out Dave!
Currently I use a PH180 to run two tracks in command mode. I output 18 volts continuously to both tracks to accommodate DCS & Legacy engines. ZWs & KWs are also great transformers, easy to find, and reasonably priced. I would just add additional circuit protect to each output you use with a 10 amp fuse or breaker.
Of the two available variable voltage outputs on the TIU, you can rename them to anything you like. The default names are VAR1 & VAR2 which correspond with the labels on TIU itself. Just remember to keep them electrically separate.
Manual switches are awesome, fool proof and very reliable. Your layout sounds interesting, Post some pics when you have things running!
Awesome info H1000. Thx so much for ur time and thoughtfulness. I'll be a regular to this forum so up and running will happen sooner rather than later.
Cheers, Dave
