Layout Wiring

Hi Bill, your layout looks great. As for your blocks I would make the switches the end points. Place your wire terminations mid way between your switches and make your switch the end of the blocks. Use an insulator pin on the center rail of the switch. If you are using the new L version TIU this should be fine.

Power your switches separately from track power, this will help your operation should you ever chose to run in conventional mode.

The DCS signal will travel on the center rail and the TMCC will go out on the return or outside rails. You can insulate the outside rail at the switches as well if you like but I found with TMCC an isolated earth ground plain running beside your track will be the most help.

If you don't get the replies you wont on these pages jump over to the DCS and TMCC/Legacy sites and you will get plenty of help there.

Have fun with your new layout, it looks like it's going to be a blast to operate.

If your layout is large you may consider switching with relays. Described here

 http://www.jcstudiosinc.com/BlogShowThread?id=635&categoryId=426

Dale H

Bill, that's a nice looking layout, love to see some pics when you get the chance. As Mario mentioned, the DCS and TMCC/Legacy forum will be a great help too. Also, I found the DCS Companion the be invaluable for block and wiring advice, and not just for DCS but for TMCC too.

Chad

I have the original TIU but it was modified many years ago when it went bad. I have a printout of the original DCS Companion guide. I guess I will have to read it a little more carefully. I recently ordered the new softback edition and will pick it up at York next month.