I am ignorant about TMCC. I will study it later but right now I am building my benchwork. I though I would run some of the wiring before I cover the benchwork. My other, conventional, layout uses a single #10 buss wire for the common wire for four loops and all the accessories and it works well. My new 11 X 34 layout will have two loops plus a trolley line. I might do one loop of conventional and one TMCC. Will a single common wire be a problem? Is this even a relevant question?
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No problem, single common ground is fine for TMCC. G
G
Thank you
Al
Al, I started my layout 32 years ago and did just that. Number 10 common ground. In later years when TMCC and DCS came out, it stands tall and works perfect. No TMCC issues and no DCS issues. Go for it. I also have 4 loops. My layout is 26X46 feet. Use this for track only and do the same for accessories. I have nothing but track on my buss wire.
Unless I am mistaken (which is possible here, so others keep me accurate), because the TMCC connection is made on the Common terminal, a single ground would mean the TMCC signal will be present on both loops. This shouldn't be a problem on the conventional loop, however, unless you placed a TMCC engine there and tried to operate it in conventional mode. If recognized by TMCC it might not respond in conventional as expected.
As long as the command base is plugged into an outlet and is on, a TMCC engine will "see" the base and wait for its command from your remote. It will run in command mode on either loop if the ground is attached to both loops. The ground does run through the common side of your plug in your wall outlet as well.
Unless I am mistaken (which is possible here, so others keep me accurate), because the TMCC connection is made on the Common terminal, a single ground would mean the TMCC signal will be present on both loops. This shouldn't be a problem on the conventional loop, however, unless you placed a TMCC engine there and tried to operate it in conventional mode. If recognized by TMCC it might not respond in conventional as expected.
you are correct.
Guys, the trains still need a ground. This will cover conventional, operation as well. As long as ground is present on all loops, you are correct. Ted outlined things well. Not bad for a J-E-T-S fan. We will have an adult beverage together this week Ted.
Thanks for the help guys
Al
I made a living as a fix and repair man (Electrical contractor). The one common ground is a good idea. Keep in mind, and this was often a problem with wiring, an open in the common circuit can really mess-up voltages, especially if there are two or more power sources, and is very hard to located. Spend a little extra time to be sure your common circuit is complete and well done. IMO 
Mike CT
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