First let me emphasize that I love Toy Trains, all brands! My collection is predominately Lionel in O gauge acquired over many decades and includes all Lionel eras.
I recently started construction of a new multi level 12' X 16', four loop, layout with Lionel Legacy and two new Lionel ZW-L transformers. The bench work is complete and I am ready to start the wiring; probably in the home run style described in Barry's book, as I would like to also have DCS capability for the contemporary Proto 2 and 3 locos I have acquired, manufactured by Lionel Corporation.
Following the many forum threads I understand the respective capabilities of each system running independently or through the DCS TIU using the TMCC/DCS connection cable. My desire is to control my legacy engines with the Lionel Cab 2 remote and the MTH (Lionel Corp.) Proto equipped engines with the DCS controller. If possible I would like to maintain the ability to run conventional locos with the respective manufacturers remotes on some loops while using command control, either Legacy or DCS, on others.
My questions are these:
1. In order to achieve my operational goals what is the best way to connect the Legacy base to the layout, i.e. to the common post on the ZW-L, directly to the track common, or to the TIU and if so which side (input or output).
2. After connecting the Legacy base which mode should the ZW-L be set in, command or conventional, as the ZW-L's will need to connect to the TIU for DCS capability.
3.Should the ZW-L to TIU input connections be to the fixed or variable ports?
4. To achieve the aforementioned operational goals will one or two TIU's be required?
I realize the questions are somewhat convoluted mixing two distinct operating systems and the ZW-L is a new player in the equation, but I would really appreciate your recommendations and suggestions. With all the knowledge out there, there has to be a way to make this work so I can get maximum operational benefit from both systems and enjoy operating my Toy Trains. Thanks for your help guys!
P.S. Thanks John!
