Lionel Command Control Switches

You'll need a TMCC or Legacy command base and at least one remote, but no other wiring will be required.  Yes, there's no restriction on operating your locomotives with the DCS system.

AAMOF, I have such a configuration, I have the DZ-2500 command controlled switches and I have DCS and Legacy on the system.  I run my DCS locomotives with the DCS remote and my Lionel locomotives and the switches with the Lionel remotes.  I don't have any AIU's connected, they're still resting in a box under the layout.

Thank you for your reply.  I think I know what to do now.

If you are just looking to operate the switches, then any TMCC base/remote will work for that. It'll be the much cheaper option, compared to Legacy.

This is exactly how I ran my basement floor layout. 9 fastrack command switches using legacy remote and DCS remote with TIU for running the engines.  

Thank you for your replies.  I believe there is good information there.  My entire history with O Scale has been with MTH.  About 6 years ago, or so, I built a large layout using all MTH track, switches, and operating power.  I am familiar with the TIU, AIU, hand controller, and of course the Z4000 to the point I am comfortable using them.  I was seriously disappointed with the MTH switches which is why I opted for Lionel Command Control switches for my present layout.  I know very little about Lionel TMCC etc, so what you have said is enlightening if I understand it correctly. 

I can go ahead and use my TIU for operating my DCS rolling stock.  I do not need to install and wire up an AIU to control the Lionel Command Control switches, but only need purchase a Lionel remote for switch control.  I  have inferred from your replies that there is a difference between the Legacy remote and TMCC base remote.  Is this correct?

Scrapjockey

@scrapjockey,

There's no difference functionally when it comes to operating your command control switches.

There's a bigger difference from a user interface point of view.  You basically have 4 choices:

  1.)  6-12969, Classic TMCC Command Set (Cab1/Base1); does TMCC Only

   2a.)  6-37155, CAB-1L Remote Controller; does TMCC and most of Legacy

   2b.)  Base-1L, Part of 6-37147, Cab-1L/Base-1L Command Set; does TMCC and most of Legacy

  3.)  6-14295, Legacy Command Set (#990), Cab2/Base2; does TMCC and all of Legacy

   4.)  2208010, Base-3, No Cab3 will be produced; you'll need to use use an existing SmartPhone, a Cab2, or a Cab1L with this; does TMCC and all of Legacy, but depends specifically on which Cab you use with it.

Be aware that the Cab1/Base1, Cab2/Base2 and Base 1L are no longer manufactured, only Cab1L.  Also, Base3 is forthcoming and not yet in production.

Mike

Thank you Mike.  I am driving over to Mario's Trains on Friday and will see which he has. 

Scrapjockey

I'd recommend using fixed voltage for the switches, which is pretty simple to do with Fastrack switches. The switches run well at 10-14 volts with less heat on the lamps. Plus, you get maximum amperage to your trains. As for Lionel Command Control, it's really easy. I've been a Legacy user for a few years, and I love it.

I believe I understand what you are saying, but I also believe I would have to run power wires to each switch.  I have 19 switches in place which means I would have to tear up my layout to install the wiring to each switch.  I know, I should have done this before I installed the track, but I was not that familiar with Lionel Command/Control switches.  It is too bad they do not have external wiring points similar to MTH switches.  If you know some way of doing it without pulling up the switches, I am all ears.  Thank you.

It appears for me to convert my Lionel Command Control switches to constant power, I will have to remove them from my layout and change the wiring underneath.  I know that I have to remove the jumper, but I am confused about only one wire added in the AUX terminal.  I have a GW-180 Lionel transformer which gives me a programmable constant voltage terminal on the back.  I will use this for my constant power.  I do not understand why only one wire runs to the AUX terminal on the switch.  I plan on installing a bus powered by the GW-180 programmable output accessories terminal.  Usually, two wires are needed for powering anything, one hot, and one ground.  Will someone put me out of my misery and explain what I have to do?  Am I making this more complicated than it really is?  Thank you in advance.