New DCS user having trouble

The TIU gets it's power from either an aux power supply (separate barrel connection) Fixed Input 1. If you use Fixed input 2 you have to jumper the red & black input wires  to Fixed 1 input to power the TIU, or use an aux power supply connected t the aux port.

There is an automotive type 20 amp fuse on each channel, this could be blown on Fixed 1 causing no power output. If fuses are good and this is a new DCS system and any of the inputs/outputs are not working I would send it back for repair while under warranty or return it to your MTH dealer for repair or replacement.

I would also recommend getting the DCS O Gauge Companion (often referred to here as Barry's book), good DCS info and reference. OGR has a DVD on the DCS system that is also good. In fact Barry might even be along to offer you more advice on your current problems, he helps a lot of folks here with DCS problems, if he sees your post.

I would recommend going with the Z-1000 because it is a 100 watt transformer and then you can use the Z-500 power pack to power your DCS base. In my opinion the Z-500 is a little under power for use with the DCS base.

What I have is a Z-750 transformer pack powering my DCS base unit and a Lionel post war ZW for track power through the DCS unit.

Lee Fritz

if your starting out with dcs ,90% of the common problems are covered in the mth owners manual. when i got mine ,it took me 3 evenings to get it working.it turned out the tiu had a dead channel in it.-jim

Blueline,

    1st I recommend you power your TIU with a Radio Shack 18/28V AC Power Adapter

for best running results.  I also recommend you purchase both The DCS O Gauge Companion and the OGR Video guide and review them both before going any further. 

If the red light on your TIU did not function correctly you may have a faulty TIU.

PCRR/Dave