PS-3 Issues??

Robert,

There are no "complications", only improvements. See below...

don't apply more than 9 volts at the start

This pertains only to operation in conventional mode and is a safety feature that protects the engine against "jackrabbit starts" where someone yanks a throttle all the way to max.

In DCS Mode, this is a non-issue.

let loco sit powered for 15 seconds

This pertains only to operation in conventional mode and only the first time you power up a PS3 engine for an operating session. It's necessary to let the engine's super-capacitor charge for 15 seconds or so before you can actually make it go. The super-capaitor is like a BCR and eliminates the need for a battery. Not a bad trade-off, IMO!

Again, in DCS Mode, this is a non-issue.

DC gives better results than AC

This relates only to using the DCS Loader Program to transfer a PS3 engine's sound file or flash RAM firmware. While I don't have a lot of experience in this specific regard, my understanding from MTH is that these operations on PS3 engines seem to be more error-free and run faster using DC to power the engine while the process is being executed than when using AC power. In fact, some say that the same holds true for transferring PS2 sound files as well, however, I have not personally heard that.

PS3 engines are different not because they're more complicated, rather, it's because they're improved!

I have to agree with Barry.  There seems to be a certain amount of angst because things are slightly different with PS3.  Over the last decade we've all become pretty comfortable with the ins and outs of DCS and PS2.  Therefore, any change raises eyebrows.  The elimination of batteries, increased memory capacity, greater firmware flexibility, improved sound reproduction, all LED lighting, DCC support, and smaller electronics size are all things we will appreciate once we get accustom to PS3.  Many of the subtle difference are easier to understand if you read through the manual for one of the new O gauge PS3 engines.  For those who are interested, here's a link to the manual for a 2-4-1 French steamer w/ PS3.

If I have the layout powered up, with some 16 volts on all tracks, but have a PS2 siting on a siding with the toggle switch off, and turn the toggle on, the loco usually comes up in conventional and I hit the startup button, after which I'm ready to go.  If it were a PS3, would I have to power down the entire "power district" to less than 9 volts (which will halt all running trains) to get this loco started up?

No RJR,

PS3 and PS2 engines behave the same in the situation you outlined.  Press the "start up" button on the DCS remote and you'll be good to go.

The subtle difference in the start up procedure only applies to conventional operation, where you have to wait a few seconds for the capacitor to charge when you first start running.  The other issue of cycling power on conventional DC I believe is being caused by the type of power supply used on the NYSME club layout.  I'm waiting for Mike Pitogo to confirm that they use pulse throttles.

Thanks, Dave.