Getting Started in DCS

All you need is a DCS remote and TIU.  Are you currently running your TMCC engines with a CAB-1 and base or are you using Legacy?

I just bought the MTH DCS system, so I'm sure I'll be dropping in here with questions as well!

An inexpensive way to get started would be to pick up the DCS Remote Commander (under$40) which will operate your new engine in most of its functions. It will need to be in its factory setting (easily changed) and will give you an idea of running MTH's excellent system.

I didn't need any headache pills either. We like our DCS system.

I'm using a Cab 1

I have a PS/2 locomotive that was "factory reset" and it doesn't work with the DCS Remote Commander.  Several others do, so I'm wondering if the older 5V locomotives may have a problem with that entry level product.

Spence;

Get the DCS system and run the power to the rails through Fixed 1 in and out.

Works fine on most layouts.

If you have multiple power drops to the track you will get more issues, email me for more data or better yet, Buy Barry's book. It's a treasure trove.

John, if the battery wasn't charged the reset won't take.

Try it again and make sure to Reset, power down and remove the engine from the rails.

Any DCS command to the engine can disturb the factory reset condition.

Lots of folks reset it then try to see it on the handheld again, that ruins the reset.

The whole reason I bought DCS was to be able to control *EVERYTHING* through it.  (At the time I did not have any Legacy engines).  Getting the whole system as Russell recommends makes the most sense unless you are on a really tight budget looking for a way to run a ProtoSounds engine.

Not to worry, I ordered the full MTS DCS system, so this will no longer be an issue.   It's supposed to arrive tomorrow, so I'll join the confusion.

gunrunnerjohn,  What components did you get and who did you buy from ?  Thanks

I bought the TIU and remote from Horizon Hobby, they have it on eBay for $269 and free shipping.  I checked and they're an authorized MTH reseller, so I am covered on the warranty.  I also checked to make sure it was the Rev. L TIU.

Here's the listing, they still have them:C:US:3160" target="_blank">M.T.H. Electric Trains DCS Remote Control System

Thanks John,  The time has come, I'll have to get the MTH DCS system and unpack my PS2 engines that are still in boxes.

Well, I'm getting a little tired of having PS/2 stuff that is a PITA to get running, so I decided to make the leap.

Getting ready for my near future purchase of the system as well. I also requested from MTH about 3months ago for the free DVD about all you need to know about the DCS system. I would like to really see this. I just called MTH again today about the estimated delivery. They could not give me a definte answer so I guss I'll play the waitng game.

Well, so far I have mixed emotions.  I like the Legacy controller better, the feel of the speed control knob is much nicer than the thumbwheel.  I'm also having problems where at times I lose control of the locomotive and it just runs along and ignores the remote, not a good sign!

It's too early to totally blame this on DCS, but it's not a good start.

John,

With the engine running goto the menu and check your signal strenght as it rounds the layout. I personally never like to go below an 8, but if you are below I'd say 6 and down, you will run into issues where the engines can do odd ball things and not respond to commands at all for it's getting lost in the mix.

Let me add to that, also the slower you run the unit while reading, the more accurate of a signal measurement it will give you.

Yep, I figure to do some additional testing, the jury is still out.   I'm sure part of it is just getting used to the system.

John,

Let me add to that, also the slower you run the unit while reading, the more accurate of a signal measurement it will give you.

This and a whole lot more is all in "The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition", now available for purchase as an eBook or a printed book from MTH's web store site! Click on the link below to go to MTH's web page for the book!

Hint, hint...

Already bought the book Barry, you're preaching to the choir.

John,

Let me add to that, also the slower you run the unit while reading, the more accurate of a signal measurement it will give you.

Amen, Brother John!  

Well I received my GE Hybrid & DCS remote & TIU. Been working non it for a couple of days. Programmed my TMCC engines & of coarse the GE went automatically. Have figured out most of the problems except 1. Once in a while I show n the remote that there are no active engines. I canb't seem to get them going by hitting read, etc. f I take the engine off the track with power still on & place them back on they work. What am I doing wrong??

Barry, I'm doing something wrong. When I scroll to the GE engine & push select it shows no engine,t won't move to the active list. I got my TMCC moved but can't get bthe Proto 3 to activate & I have ordered your book.

Spence,

When I scroll to the GE engine & push select it shows no engine,t won't move to the active list.

Is the engine powered up? Unlike TMCC engines, PS2 and PS3 engines must be on a powered track in order to be moved from the Inactive to the Active list.

Well I seem to be in business. Every engine is working. The one thing I found out though is that I must turn on my remote first & nthen the power ton the track.hen i do it this way everything works fine. Is this normal or have I somehow crossed my wires.

Barry, thank you for everything.

Spence,

one thing I found out though is that I must turn on my remote first & nthen the power ton the track.

Actually, I do it the same way. However, as long as there's power to the engines when you start using the remote, all should be fine.

Interesting  ~  I power mine up both ways and don't seem to have issues. Oh by the way  my DCS problems where corrected when I discovered all wires running from TIU to terminal block where loose.