Lionel TPC question

If you are just running Legacy, the TPC is probably unnecessary since you don't need variable voltage control.  Many Legacy users run a 180 watt brick through a Direct Lock-On to get some extra overcurrent protection, but others run the brick directly to the track. 

 

I would strongly recommend adding a TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) for an extra 50 cents.

The PowerHouse 180 protection is probably good enough, for a 135, I'd want something like the TMCC Direct Lockon for added protection.  I agree with Dale, the TVS is dirt cheap protection, no reason not to have them.  I put them in all my TMCC Direct Lockons, convenient place to stick them.

Thanks for the replies guys. I guess i did overkill it with the TPC, though it is kind of nice to have variable voltage should i ever decide i want to run something non legacy, since i have it already, might as well keep it for now. 

 

Dale, i'll look into the TVS also, thanks!

I like my TPC unit allows the ability to power up or down the track via the remote, I've used the emergency stop on more than one occassion. Additionally should you ever "aquire" an interest in MTH locos it will run them very well  conventionally.

Exactly what I would say!  I can't imagine running my layout without being able topower up and down with theremote and emergency stop.  Plus being able to trigger PS2 couplers and sounds easily if you don't have DCS.

If I am not mistaken if you ever decide to add more power you can connect two 135 watt bricks to the TPC 300?????????

I'm thinking trains, accessories, lights etc if the brick is all you have.

Joe

I agree with Joe Fauty's comment above. On a layout now dismantled, for several years I operated a single power district on paralleled 135 watt PoHos linked to a TPC 300, a system capable of supplying up to 270 watts.This was a separate elevated line line where I ran two long, lighted passenger trains that had occasionally tripped a single 180 watt PoHo.

Generally a better solution is to convert passenger cars to LEDs as opposed to using power-soaking incandescent bulbs. Also modern can motors use less wattage than the multi-motored locomotives such as my elderly MU-ed Weaver E-8s, double-headed steamers and such that I was running.

 

I have a "Bypass" switch on each of my Powermasters and my TPC.  When in the Bypass mode, I can run my conventional gear with the handles on my PW ZW without touching the CAB remote.  The simple single-pole single-throw switch connects the transformer Hot to the track Hot, leaving the TPC powered, but bypassed.

Overkill? Perhaps, but as suggested in a previous post only the TPC 300 and 400 devices will allow you to safely control 15 to 20 amps of current (respectively) with proper circuit protection built in. Additionally, with a TPC between your powerhouse and track you can turn power on and off remotely using the Legacy remote, whereas a direct locking requires you to manually flip a switch (don't get me wrong, I am a huge proponent of Direct Lockons, regardless of power controls). I recommend TPC's to anyone who "thinks" they will want to run conventional locks AND who "may" run lash ups with up to and above 5 livid, because of the ability to grow(by being able to add an additional powerhouse to boost available current. All other devices we make limit you to 10amps, max! Thanks, Mike