Now that the Cab3 is out and the Base3 is on the water, I was wondering about the WTIU and new App from MTH. Since my original first generation TIU, that has served me well, is now pretty much dead I was hoping we'll see the new WTIU soon as well. To be honest I need the WTIU more than I need the Base3 at this point so I hope we can get any kind of an update.
Has anyone heard anything? Train World shows August 31, 2024 but I suspect that may just be a place holder.
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I had a conversation with Pat yesterday Marty, Seems the word is MTH is expecting to deliver these in September.
Great news, @MichRR714! I was hoping we'd get a livestream on Trainworld with MTH where they would do a demo of the WTIU and updated DCS App talk about all the new features. I plan to add the WTIU to my layout in the future.
@MichRR714 posted:I had a conversation with Pat yesterday Marty, Seems the word is MTH is expecting to deliver these in September.
Pat?
@MartyE posted:Pat?
Pat Petros
@MichRR714 posted:Pat Petros
Ahh. OK. Hopefully he's right.
Any news?
-Tony
Mike Wolf posted in one of the MTH Facebook groups that they are looking at first week of November
@Wingrunr21 posted:Mike Wolf posted in one of the MTH Facebook groups that they are looking at first week of November
This is kind of confirmed with the MTH website. New Flash 879 (no longer up on the site) indicates Early November for the availability. A Google search still shows a snippet of the page:
MTH's show schedule is loaded heavily this November with DCS Demos: https://www.mthtrains.com/show-schedule
Well, they had one at York, so they do exist. 
MTH has release News Flash 879a ( https://mthtrains.com/news/879a) which states:
October 30, 2024 - M.T.H. Electric Trains will begin shipping the DCS Wi-Fi Interface Unit (WTIU) to M.T.H. Authorized Retailers in early November. Designed to revolutionize the way model train enthusiasts interact with their layouts, the DCS WTIU allows users to seamlessly operate their trains using the MTH DCS mobile app, offering convenience and greater control over their model railroad. Whether through the default dedicated MTH Wi-Fi network or integration into an existing home network, the WTIU is an all-in-one system that is easy to set up and begin using.
There are new versions of the iOS and Android apps slated to be released publically on Friday, November 1, 2024. Users should make sure their devices are upgraded with the new apps when they're released as you MUST have the new apps to use the WTIU.
The WTIU, which replaces the original Track Interface Unit (TIU) and WiFi Interface Unit (WIU) offers two distinct modes of operation, catering to different user preferences. In "MTH Wi-Fi Network Mode," users can operate their trains via a dedicated Wi-Fi connection, ensuring a streamlined experience without internet access. Alternatively, the "Home Wi-Fi Network Mode" allows users to connect the WTIU to their home network, enabling internet access while running their trains. Both modes allow users to easily set up and control their model trains through the MTH DCS app, available on both iOS and Android platforms. Most users will find connection to your home Wi-Fi network the best option since your devices will automatically connect when the DCS system is powered up.
The WTIU brings a host of additional features, including variable channel control for both AC or DC powered layouts. Previous TIU models only allowed users to output variable AC track voltage for conventional control over older locomotives not equipped with command control modules. The new WTIU expands that functionality to now include variable DC power output. Using the app, users will now be able to control conventional, older locomotives including HO and G Gauge models that operate on DC power as well as any Lionel or other O Gauge manufacturer's models that operate on AC transformers.
In early 2025, additional features will be released that allows users to download and wirelessly install WTIU firmware updates as well as locomotive code and sound files via the app. These functions will replace the need for the PC controlled DCS Loader Program and will work on iOS or Android devices ensuring that virtually all DCS functionality will now reside in the app.
The WTIU will continue to work with the DCS AIU Accessory Interface Unit via the AIU cable and will function the same way it did on the original TIU Track Inteface Unit. Simply connect the AIU to the WTIU and you're on your way to full layout control of switches, lights, accessories and more!
Users wishing to control their TMCC and Legacy locomotives in command mode can continue to do so with the WTIU. Simply connect the Legacy Command Base - including the new Cab 3 Base - using the required cables and you'll be running any command equipped locomotive on the same track at the same time as your Proto-Sound 2.0 or later locomotives. Visit the MTH DCS page HERE to see the connection schematic for the WTIU.
MTH Electric Trains continues to innovate within the model train industry, providing cutting-edge technology to enhance user engagement. The new WTIU allows for seamless integration with track power and offers a simple setup with easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you're a seasoned model train operator or just getting started, the DCS WTIU provides an enhanced level of control and flexibility that takes your layout to the next level.
Users wanting to see the DCS WTIU in action may want to check out one of the many DCS Demo Events being held at select MTH Authorized Retailers throughout November and December. For more information on those events, visit the MTH website event page
The ability to program engines and WTIU firmware wirelessly is a big win IMO.
In early 2025, additional features will be released that allows users to download and wirelessly install WTIU firmware updates as well as locomotive code and sound files via the app. These functions will replace the need for the PC controlled DCS Loader Program and will work on iOS or Android devices ensuring that virtually all DCS functionality will now reside in the app.
I'm interested in the new app updates, and I hope it runs smooth. I haven't been that happy with the Cab3 app from Lionel to this point.
Mike
Steve Nelson is taking new orders for the WTIU. With regard to an earlier thread,
"Compatible with past DCS Remote Handheld units (50-1002 and 50-1038) using separately sold cable connecting the remote to the WTIU", This means to me the telephone cable used to update the handheld can be used to connect a handheld to the TIU to run your trains. I could not see what the relationship would be with the "L" and "I" TIUs I am currently using. While I like using my iPad mini with the Lionel Cab3, I think I will keep using my 6 DCS handhelds. I only have three Cab2 remotes so I do need to use the iDevices for Legacy. The Autel drone world has similar chipset issues. My V2 is no longer supported after 2 years. At least I have used my DCS system since 2003 so I may skip this new hardware unless using the WTIU with TIU versions" L" and "I" might permit use of both interfaces ... May be in super mode?
So I read that you have to upgrade an app to use the WTIU. I Don’t use the app now. I guess the old DCS remote is not compatible with the WTIU?
@pennsyfan posted:So I read that you have to upgrade an app to use the WTIU. I Don’t use the app now. I guess the old DCS remote is not compatible with the WTIU?
Not currently. They are working on a USB tether. That will be the only way to use the current remote.
Boat was in Baltimore last week. Expect delivery to the MTH warehouse next week.
Do I need to pay for the DCS app to use the WTIU?
No. If you already have paid for the upgrade it will transfer when you update the app. The free version of the app will allow limited functionality for three engines.
I have a TIU and DCS remote. What other hardware and software do I need to use the WTIU?
@pennsyfan posted:I have a TIU and DCS remote. What other hardware and software do I need to use the WTIU?
A WTIU? 
@pennsyfan posted:I have a TIU and DCS remote. What other hardware and software do I need to use the WTIU?
So to be more helpful...
The WTIU is a TIU with the WiFi built in. If you already have a TIU and don't want to spend money on a new WTIU the you can purchase a WIU 50-1039, and connect it to you TIU basically giving you the same WiFi capabilities (minus and new functionality of a WTIU might have).
You will still need to download the MTH app which I believe still comes in 3 flavors, Free (very basic), $5 (somewhat more featured), $25 for full version. Your TIU should be updated to at least 5.0.
Brady's Trains Outlet posted a video about the WTIU from their demo event:
MTH has posted the user manual for the WTIU on their website: https://www.mthtrains.com/site...ction/50as19846i.pdf
That video presentation does not do anything to sell WTIUs in my book. Mr. Wolfe spent most of the time going over features that have always been present. If you don't plan to run DC power somewhere on a layout...should just stick to the present setup...at least, until your remote controller breaks.
What am I missing??
@SD60M posted:What am I missing??
Nothing, other than the fact that you can't buy the current generation of TIU's. I'm in no hurry to upgrade to something that offers a major downgrade to my current capability, that being the use of the DCS remote! So, I'll be sticking with the current TIU/WiFi unit.
So I have to be Wondering, if there is a USB/ Serial Port to plug in the Wired Remote, Why can't there be Engineered a "Remote Receiver Module" that could plug into that port ??? Maybe with it's own receiver antenna? Anyone have any thoughts or comments ? Thanks, Otherwise I am with GRJ keeping what I have, with some spares.
@RWDeano posted:So I have to be Wondering, if there is a USB/ Serial Port to plug in the Wired Remote, Why can't there be Engineered a "Remote Receiver Module" that could plug into that port ??? Maybe with it's own receiver antenna? Anyone have any thoughts or comments ? Thanks, Otherwise I am with GRJ keeping what I have, with some spares.
Well, one issue I suspect is that in order to support multiple remotes, the internal software has to be aware and have the ability to manage multiple simultaneous remote connections. I don't see how you could do that in an external module without changes to the internal WTIU software. Without knowing what the link data looks like, there's no telling how hard or easy that might be.
I'm pretty sure that a single remote wireless connection could be made with a remote receiver module on that port, it's having two or more that's the sticking point.
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