I was thinking about buying a MTH DCS Explorer Trace Interface Unit. Can anyone tell me if it is worth buying...and is it easy to hook up and use. Any & all opinions are welcome.
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Ultimately, it's your call. I bought it and quickly decided it wasn't for me. I didn't like the limitations like no remote and mine blew fuses quite a bit (ymmv). However, that was three years ago and I was able to replace it with a new TIU & Remote for $315 delivered. I'm not sure what the alternative is right now.
Unless it comes from an MTH train set with a wall-wart power supply, you'll need to provide a separate power supply. The MTH Z-1000 is recommended, but it costs as much as the Explorer. Just FYI.
@Landsteiner posted:Unless it comes from an MTH train set with a wall-wart power supply, you'll need to provide a separate power supply. The MTH Z-1000 is recommended, but it costs as much as the Explorer. Just FYI.
I was told that you buy a MTH Cable #50-1037 which connects between a Z4000 & the Explorer. That is what I was told....that is what I was told by a MTH Dealer. I was just asking about how it operates before I decide to spend any more. Thanks for all replys.
I have one I used a few times to power Christmas layout with PS3 engines, one at a time.
Used the MTH app on an Ipad. I did not use it this year I ran Lionchief engine instead.
With The MTH use MTH wifi and don't bother trying to do it thru a home network.
Also, make sure it's fully booted up before trying to connect to it ... takes a while.
I used Z-1000 to power it.
There is also the issue of controlling your engine using the app by touch on glass ... I'm not a big fan of this however and prefer the remote from the full DCS system ...
The experiences in running my trains with the Explorer using the ipad has convinced me that an upgrade to the wifi on the full DCS is not for me due to the feel by touch on glass vs the remote.
Given the choice today and realizing that I don't run my 15 MTH engines that often, the Explorer for me would be enough considering the prices on the full DCS system and that there are not any around.
Attached picture taken directly from the MTH website. The DCS Explorer will only give you limited capability. In order to get the full DCS experience, you will need a TIU/WIFI combo & remote or order the new WTIU that MTH is coming out with later this year.
Attachments
Images (1)
Depends on what you want to do. I have a few PS 2/3 engines and decided on a remote commander to be able to take advantage of some of the MTH features. I also have a Cab- 1L.
The RC can only run one engine at a time but it is better than conventional control and the crazy horn/ whistle button combos required.
I have been able to run two engines "lashed up" even though the RC doesn't allow for the programming.
IMHO I prefer the feel of a full remote over a touchscreen tablet or phone for running trains. I can keep my eye on the trains and navigate the remote by feel.
Your RR your rules tho.....
I bought one for convenience in quick testing locomotives, and ultimately to feed a display shelf, but it has some drawbacks:
- It can only control a maximum of 3 locomotives.
- It can't configure the locomotives.
- It has only basic functions.
- It's only compatible with the basic MTH DCS Phone App -- the "Pro" version won't recognize the unit.
I picked mine up off eBay about a year ago. I think it was worth the price for what I planned to do with it. I also have two full TIU's and two remotes. If you're doing a layout of significant size, though, you'll need a TIU and adequate power supplies to do the job. For a "tree train" or test loop, the DCS explorer is fine.
I have the DCS Explorer living in a box in my closet. All my stuff is run by real TIU's and real remotes.
@AGHRMatt posted:I bought one for convenience in quick testing locomotives, and ultimately to feed a display shelf, but it has some drawbacks:
- It can only control a maximum of 3 locomotives.
- It can't configure the locomotives.
- It has only basic functions.
- It's only compatible with the basic MTH DCS Phone App -- the "Pro" version won't recognize the unit.
I picked mine up off eBay about a year ago. I think it was worth the price for what I planned to do with it. I also have two full TIU's and two remotes. If you're doing a layout of significant size, though, you'll need a TIU and adequate power supplies to do the job. For a "tree train" or test loop, the DCS explorer is fine.
I don't want to get into a TIU. it is just to confusing for me. I even have a TIU that I am going to sell....and I don't use....and don't want to try and understand how it works
Patrick, Erics trains on You Tube does a video on the set up and operation of the Explorer. Check it out.
Steve
@Rescued Trains posted:Patrick, Erics trains on You Tube does a video on the set up and operation of the Explorer. Check it out.
Steve
thank you...i will check it out
Here is a link to this video ...
Patrick
I believe the TIU is easier than you think and does so much more than you can believe. As stated above if you are only running no more than 3 engines it is OK but does not fulfill the full features. Get Barry's book form the MTH site and a TIU, which you have, and really enjoy trains!
The ONE thing I wish the DCS explorer had was compatibility with the Pro version of the DCS app. It would make things a lot easier since I could have used my regular phone and tablet rather than digging out an old phone.
Can you reset a used PS2 engine with it?
John
Thanks John,
Might be worth it just for that feature. Can't use inexpensive remote commander I bought and don't have access to a full DCS system. No LHS anywhere within 50 miles of where I live.
John
I have the DCS Explorer in my closet, if you're interested, drop me a line. 
Thanks John.
I'll do that.
John 
