MTH DCS Issues with TMCC/Legacy

Evan CihlarOGR Forum Member

Hi all,

I have been having some issues with my DCS system lately. I have a DCS/Legacy hybrid system where my TIU is connected to my Legacy base so I can run TMCC locomotives from the DCS handheld and TMCC/Legacy locomotives from the Legacy handheld. An issue that I have always had and cannot figure out the solution to is why there is always a problem with starting up a locomotive if it is on the same track as a TMCC/legacy locomotive. If the ground is connected to the track with a TMCC locomotive, even if it isn't in the same block, the DCS engine will not turn on (even though there is power to the track) and I get the error message, "Engine not on track" or "Engine not found." I have to turn every single engine but that engine off after that happens just to be able to run it. It's very weird and disappointing as I love the DCS locomotives that I have (when they work right lol) otherwise, I don't even bother adding them again to the remote until I have time. Have any of you guys have/had the same problem? It's really irritating when DCS doesn't work right but the TMCC locomotives do from the same handheld.

8/7/1812:12 AM

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Rigatoni Express RailroadOGR Forum Member

Some time back I remember reading how some Lionel engines interfered with the DCS signal. Other, more informed members will hopefully correct me if I'm in error.

I think that it was recommended that a choke be installed to reduced the issue (or was that just for some of the lighted rolling stock?). In any event, there is some sort of fix for any incompatibility issues and some of our more well versed electronic guys will surely jump in to help you.

8/7/188:23 AM

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MartyEOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBERDIGITAL SUBSCRIBERMEMORIAL SUPPORTER

A RF Choke (not sure if it's the same 22uh value) between the pick up roller and the engine's TMCC / Legacy board will help solve the issue with Legacy and TMCC interference. The same (22uh choke) for some constant voltage lighted cars. Of course this could get tedious depending on the amount of Legacy, TMCC, or CV lighted cars. It also doesn't seem to be all Legacy / TMCC engines.

This information comes from "The DCS Companion" 3rd Edition. Well worth the purchase price for issues like these.

8/7/188:32 AM

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J DaddyOGR Forum Member

Evan- I am new to DCS, But one thing I did notice when I hooked up to the layout. I hooked the transformer up directly to the TIU, then to the track... and leave it that way. The Legacy system hooks directly to the track in another location of the layout.

The two play nice together and I have 9s and 10s in the DCS system throughout the layout. I have had no issues with adding an engine or runaways... Give that a try.

8/7/188:36 AM

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Barry BroskowitzOGR Forum Member MEMORIALIZED MEMBER

Evan,

As discussed above, some but not all TMCC or Legacy engines, as well as some illuminated cars (most notably older GGD passengers cars and Atlas cabooses), will interfere with the DCS signal. The solution is to place a 22uh RF choke inline with both of the offending engine’s pickup rollers.

In the case of a TMCC or Legacy steamer, it may be necessary to do so with both the engine and its tender.

Everything that you need to know about DCS is all in MTH’s “The DCS Companion 3rd Edition!"

This book is available from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!

Everything that you need to know about DCS WiFi is all in MTH’s “The DCS WiFi Companion 2nd Edition!"

This book is available from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!

8/7/1810:00 AM

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Evan CihlarOGR Forum Member

Barry Broskowitz posted:
Evan,
As discussed above, some but not all TMCC or Legacy engines, as well as some illuminated cars (most notably older GGD passengers cars and Atlas cabooses), will interfere with the DCS signal. The solution is to place a 22uh RF choke inline with both of the offending engine’s pickup rollers.
In the case of a TMCC or Legacy steamer, it may be necessary to do so with both the engine and its tender.
Everything that you need to know about DCS is all in MTH’s “The DCS Companion 3rd Edition!"

This book is available from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!
Everything that you need to know about DCS WiFi is all in MTH’s “The DCS WiFi Companion 2nd Edition!"

This book is available from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!