Extending layout-TIU and AIU Question

Trackhead,

You can indeed extend your TIU to cover your extension. And yes, you could also add a second TIU, and it does not have to be connected to the first one. My layout is roughly 33' x 38', and I have two TIU's with each one supplying roughly half of the layout - no connection between them required.

You will get a much better, detailed answer if you post your question in the DCS forum.

Alex

Hi Ingeniero No1

Ok so the one remote will pickup both TIU's even though my wiring on the extension will terminate at the 2nd TIU's fixed port??

Also, if I use a 2nd AIU, this however will have to be connected to the AIU on my current layout correct?

I believe You can connect the new UIU to either TIU.

HOWEVER, you will need to operate in Super mode to use the 2 TIU's without issues. If you d not the train will not respond while in the other TIU's control area. It is only recognised by the TIU it was Loaded into the remote through or the one it was on at the last READ command. SUPER mode links them together so this does not happen. It does cause a bug sometimes; when scrolling the speed up or down In Super TIU mode, it does not always work properly.

As long as you keep your blocks in the range of 10 to 12 sections of track, the one TIU should be enough power. You can also use the 2 Variable channels if you need more signal. Simply shift some blocks to a terminal block driven by each channel.

I have long advocated alternating blocks from channel to channel to divide the power draw of long lighted consists between 2 bricks.

Hi Russell,

Thanks for your reply. This extension could have been prevented if just added it

all at once with my current layout however; when you are just starting in the hobby (1 year or so), you start small I guess.

Don't feel like the Lone Ranger. I started with a O-31 loop on the carpet, got banished to the basement...

There I made a 6' X 10' Foot Figure 8 with Wyes across the middle. One side was still O-31. I ran this all conventional.

Then I expanded the figure 8 to 11' X 23' with DCS. I had no blocks and one power connection. 5 dead end sidings too. IT WORKED! (Sidings are blocks due to power switching, still no blocks in the main line)

Later I added a second power drop on the far end and switched power to all the sidings. DCS Still worked fine.

Adding more sidings has caused DCS signal to drop out in a couple places but the trains still keep going through them.

I am currently working on a serious upgrade to the layout.

Changing from a single main RealTrax to dual main with Scaletrax and expanding to around the walls at 16.5' X 23.5' - I am still piling up the materials to do this one.

Switches are back ordered to the factory and I need a LOT more lumber.

Now, back to your issue, Just run a wire pair from Fixed 2 to the new area, drop a terminal block there and send runs to each block.  It should be just fine, especially if you have a Rev L TIU.