Prevent melt downs in TMCC/L Modes

They'll run as low as 11-12 volts, but you don't have nearly the high-end power for grades or longer consists.  Another issue is any power drop in the layout will compromise the operation.

When I run with a variable transformer for power, I run at 16 volts, but with the PowerHouse, you're pretty stuck on 18 volts, and the 135W PowerHouse puts out closer to 20 volts, at least all of mine do.

I run my 2 180w bricks through a TPC unit. A TPC unit will allow you to lower and set the command voltage to whatever you like. Arcing and "welding" of the track was an issue for me at 18v. I dialed the voltage down to 15 and eliminated the problem.

I have a couple of TPC-300's, I may consider that.

I use a MRC 270 watt transformer and using just 14-15 volts does the trick and have never blown a board or melted anything. There is no need to use 18-20 volts when using TMCC. Also don't trust the meters on the transformer or if your running DCS also on the hand held. Make sure you have a volt meter to know what your transformer is putting out to the track.

At 14-15volts, I've had marginal coupler operation. 16V works for me.

Yep, occasionally the couplers on my Legacy Conrail SD-80 pair won't fire at 16V, which is why a lot of time I just use the PowerHouse and TMCC Direct Lockon.

Voltage can be controlled from a PoewHouse via a PowerMaster as well as a TPC 3/400