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MTH DCS andProto-Sound questions

S SeattleSUPOGR Forum Member

I have a 5x10 single train layout currently powered by the anemic 30W transformer that came with the Lionel Santas Flyer starter set that got this all started. I've been resistant to digital systems mostly because they look like they'd be too confusing for my 6 year old daughter to operate and also because I spend my day in front of a computer so getting away from all things digital is an attraction for me. That said, I recently watched the MTH DCS Remote Control in action and am intrigued. Mostly I like that the train runs at a constant speed. My layout has a 4.5% grade with 2 90 degree O36 corners and I worry my daughter (or her friends) will forget to power down as the train begins it's descent. I also like the sounds that these trains are capable of. Finally, I want to get another power source to run the lighted buildings and future operating accessories I plan to add to the train and I also want to get a non-Christmas themed locomotive for our set. 

 

With all that in mind, I'm thinking about buying a MTH starter set since they include the DCS Remote Commander which looks like a very simple remote well suited to kids and small layouts, a 50W power supply (allowing the Lionel supply to be used for accessories) and a locomotive with rolling stock. Only part I wouldn't use would be the track since my layout is all FasTrack. 

 

My questions are: 

1) Is this a good way to go given my layout? My layout is strictly single train and won't be growing beyond its current 5x10 size. 

2) What are the differences between Proto-Sound 2 and Proto-Sound 3? Any real reason to avoid one or the other? 

3) Can I use a MTH power supply with Lionel FasTrack including FasTrack remote switches? Can't see why it wouldn't be possible but you never know. 

4) Will I still be able to run the Santa's Flyer conventional locomotive? 

5) Will the Remote Commander work with non-MTH locomotives on the off chance I pick up a Lionel TMCC engine?

 

Thanks!!!

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Pine Creek RailroadPine Creek RailroadOGR Forum Member

SeattleSUP,

  1st you might have been better posting this in the DCS section of the forum,

I will answer your questions here however.

1.  DCS is a good way to run, it works great with FasTrack.

2.  P2 & P3 are almost the same and work from the same DCS TIU. No reason to avoid either.

3.  Yes you can use the MTH power supply on FasTrack, without any trouble.

4.  Yes, but not from the remote, from the transformer.

5.  Your MTH Remote Commander will only run the MTH trains, not the Lionel TMCC or Legacy.  In order to run the TMCC or Legacy Lionel, you must have the full DCS package with the TIU, and with the other Lionel equipment attached.

PCRR/Dave

Last edited by Pine Creek Railroad
Allan MillerAllan MillerOGR Editor-in-Chief SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBER
Originally Posted by SeattleSUP:

 

My questions are: 

1) Is this a good way to go given my layout? My layout is strictly single train and won't be growing beyond its current 5x10 size. 

2) What are the differences between Proto-Sound 2 and Proto-Sound 3? Any real reason to avoid one or the other? 

3) Can I use a MTH power supply with Lionel FasTrack including FasTrack remote switches? Can't see why it wouldn't be possible but you never know. 

4) Will I still be able to run the Santa's Flyer conventional locomotive? 

5) Will the Remote Commander work with non-MTH locomotives on the off chance I pick up a Lionel TMCC engine?

 

Thanks!!!

1.  I resisted command control for a long time, but got rather heavily into it a few years back.  My layout is quite modest in size (fits in an approximately 12x12 room), but once I hooked it up for the MTH DCS system (I also have Legacy, but it's DOA at the present time) I haven't looked back.  I have some five or so locomotives on my layout at any one time, and can control each of them independently--and that with only a couple of wires running to the track.

 

2.  PS2 locomotives (steam) have a tether that connects the engine to the tender.  They also have a battery (both steam and diesel).  PS3 eliminates the big tether and also eliminates the battery.  PS3 locomotives also have long-lasting LED lights.  I have both PS2 and PS3, and like them both so long as the batteries in the PS2 hold up.

 

3.  Yes, you can use an MTH power supply (Z750, Z1000, or Z4000 transformer) to operate your layout, including switches and accessories (via the DCS AIU).  Use your Lionel 30-watt transformer to power your building lights, streetlights, and that sort of thing if you so desire.

 

4.  Yes, you can operate PS2/3, TMCC/Legacy, and conventional locomotives with the full DCS system, but not with the Remote Commander that comes with the MTH starter sets.

 

5.  Your Remote Commander controller will NOT work with Lionel TMCC engines.  You would need the full DCS system to do that.

 

It may seem like overkill to fit a small layout with the full DCS system, but I no longer see it that way since I can have several locomotives parked on sidings and call them up for service at will.  Kind of neat to be able to do that without a whole lot of complicated wiring, etc.  I have found the system to be well worth the investment.

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