Operating system questions. A or B??

If you want to access the latest and greatest from both companies you will need to invest in both systems. You can only access PS-2/PS-3 advanced features from DCS and you can only access full Legacy features from a Legacy base/CAB-2.

If it is your wish to run MTH in command mode of operation, then DCS is the route and then you run your Legacy equipment in TMCC mode with the DCS thru the TMCC base and then have the best of all worlds.I have both and love and use it all. Happy Railroading!!!!-Don Klose


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In order to get the TMCC mode in DCS you need a TMCC base. I'm with Chuck. If you are going to get the most out of your engines, run the appropriate command system for each (Legacy or DCS). I have both and love them. When it comes to controlling switches, running conventional and controlling accessories, I still prefer DCS because I think it gives the most bang for the buck.

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I want to take full advantage of all the technology that each company has built into there loco power.

Does this clarify why he would need both base systems?

Jeff

To run Protosound 2 equipped locomotives and access all their capabilities you will need to buy the MTH 50-1001 DCS Remote Control Set. This includes the DCS wireless remote and Track Interface Unit (TIU). The TIU as 4 channels, each of which is capable of handling 10 amps. Two of the DCS channels (the variable channels) also have the ability to control output voltage so you can use them to run conventionally from your DCS wireless remote.

The MTH TIU has gone through several hardware and software upgrades. The latest hardware version is Revision L. Buying a new "Rev L" TIU is highly recommended. It has improved internal components and has more reliable communication with locomotives thanks to some nifty technology.

MTH also makes cables to connect your TIU to a TMCC or Legacy command base. With the TIU linked to TMCC or Legacy through the cable you can use the DCS remote to operate TMCC or Legacy equipped locomotives in TMCC mode.

Legacy has more features than TMCC. If you want to run your Legacy locomotive and be able to activate all the features you will need to buy the Legacy command control system. Legacy can also control all the features of TMCC locomotives.

Both DCS and TMCC/Legacy locomotives can and often do operate at the same time on a layout and coexist nicely. However, each system has some technical quirks that can cause impediments to reliable communication. Those quirks and the techniques to address them are known and quality advice is available here on the OGR TMCC/Legacy and DCS forums.

My suggestion to you is to go ahead and buy DCS and hook it up to your layout. Run trains and use the DCS signal strength check feature. Most layouts work well with DCS right off the bat. If you have some problem areas read the Barry Broskwitz Ten Commandments of DCS and follow them. By following the Ten Commandments of DCS and by addressing a few things that help TMCC/Legacy (good grounding, no wire for plaster hardshell scenery and consideration for parallel yard tracks) you can have locomotives from all 3 rail manufacturers running together on your layout and be able to enjoy them to the fullest.

Note regarding the Ten Commandments: With Rev L TIUs the light bulb trick is not necessary.

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All my trains are currently Lionel. Some TMCC, one Legacy

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On my new layout I want to run the Lionel Legacy engines as well as the best from MTH. I want to take full advantage of all the technology that each company has built into there loco power.

Why would he buy DCS at this point in time if he doesn't own a single MTH PS-2 or PS-3 locomotive? He already HAS a legacy locomotive?

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Will either system do all that I want it to?

No. You will need BOTH systems to do all that you have requested. The systems do not interfere with each other but they are both closed systems. You can't access Legacy features from DCS and you need some form of TMCC command base (either a Legacy base or the original). TMCC/Legacy can not control PS-2/PS-3 locomotives in command mode.

quote:

If it is your wish to run MTH in command mode of operation, then DCS is the route and then you run your Legacy equipment in TMCC mode with the DCS thru the TMCC base and then have the best of all worlds.I have both and love and use it all.

Ditto. You will not be able to access all the Legacy features if you are running your Legacy locos in TMCC mode with your DCS remote, but IMO, that's a small price to pay. Works for me as I have very few Lionel locos. If I want to run my Lionel engines with the TMCC remote, I just grab that instead.

Thanks for all the replies! From reading them it's obvious there is no one size fits all application. ARGH!

Now it comes down to the OP, how much $$ I want to spend and how much time I want to invest.

Thanks Again to all who responded especially Chuck.