Digital ZW

Dave,

Base 2 and Base 3 (and Base 1 for that matter) do not interact with the power feed to the tracks in any appreciable way, unless you're using a PowerMaster, or similar feature in the ZW-C or ZW-L, in order to control track voltage from your Cab x.

They simply transmit radio signals.  These are very low power and so can't affect the track power in any substantial way, of and by themselves.

What you describe appears to be a coincidence, unless you're also using a PowerMaster or the ZW-C/L's PowerMaster feature.

So, I suggest that you check your tracks, engines, and rolling stock for a short circuit or heavy load that somehow appeared while you were installing the Base 3.  At a minimum recheck every wire you removed, and then reinstalled, during the transfer.

Mike

The older ZW-C with the bricks had a known issue with Legacy signals, there was a processor replacement years ago to fix that.  I suspect finding that now will be like looking for hen's teeth, I haven't seen one in years.

Thank you for your advice.

Dave, I ran into the same problem that you are experiencing after installing Base3, I have two of these ZW-C units an older one and a newer one, same problem with both (never had a problem with Cab2 Legacy Base). I chased this issue for hours and days, thought I had a solution several times, put everything back and BOOM! there it was again, very frustrating. Currently everything is working as it should be, and has been for several days. My solution was, I reset the ZW using Cab2 remote to ID#0 as described on page 12 of the users manual, at this point all function with all four handle returned to normal. Additional steps, I now first power up the PH180 bricks that are connected to the ZW, be sure all handles set to zero voltage (so TMCC/Legacy engines do not power up in conventional mode with no signal present). After ZW is powered up then turn on the Base3 power switch, then you should be good to go. I thought I was the only person with this issue, hope this is helpful.

Thank you Dennis, followed your advice and Bingo, it’s working perfectly. Fingers crossed it will continue. 🤞🏼🚂

Dave, one more thing that I have found interesting is when I received the Base3 and installed it everything on the layout worked as it should. I did not have a problem until I installed Firmware 1.32 on the Base 3.

Interesting Dennis, I haven’t updated yet, but hearing your result I will wait.

Dennis,

Just bought an unopened ZW-C 6-22982 at a great price to go with my Base3.  I’m building a new layout having recently coming back to the hobby.

if you were me, would you return the ZW-C and just get a ZW-L?   Lots more $, so I’d prefer not.

Also I don’t have a Cab2 remote.  Can I reset this ZW to ID#0 without a physical remote? (I assume I can using Cab3 app, but I’m not yet fluent in command control)

Thanks,

Alex