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Spent the weekend rebuilding my 5x10 FasTrack layout and thinking this might be a good time to finally switch to DCS. I've seen some used DCS systems on eBay and elsewhere but they're often the pre Rev L variety. Looking on the MTH site it appears the biggest changes in Rev L is the use of a USB port instead of a serial port and also greater range. Since my layout is pretty compact and I only have two locomotives (a PS2 F3 from a starter set and a PS1 GP45) is it really worth paying extra for the Rev L? Is it only the TIU that's different in Rev L or are there differences in the remote unit as well?

 

Also is it possible to run a PS1 and PS2 engine at the same time? I know you can run PS2 and PS3 at the sametime but my understanding is that PS1 runs of variable track voltage. 

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I have a small Fastrack layout and added a DCS used TIU a year or two ago and run it in passive mode with no issues. I do get an occasional signal loss but I think that is more of me not keeping the track clean as much as I should. So, I think you should be fine and older TIU's can be had for a pretty good price.

 

As far as running a PS1 with a PS2/3 engine it would be a lot like running a conventional engine with TMCC/Legacy since it can be done but enough voltage needs to be present to run the command electronics.

Let me rephrase my question this way: Is a non Rev L DCS system worth upgrading to from conventional control or should I just wait until MTH eventually comes out with their wifi module and iOS app which is how I ultimately want to control my layout? Switching my N scale layout to DCC has given me the itch to switch my O gauge layout to DCS but maybe it's not worth it even as an interim step? 

 

Even if I could find a Rev L system in stock I'd have a hard time justifying the price of the remote knowing that MTH is working on a wifi module and iOS app. Working in the tech field I have a really hard time justifying spending $200 on a remote which is only capable of running toy trains and nothing else. For that same money I can buy an iPad or Android tablet that is capable of vastly more. 

Is a non Rev L DCS system worth upgrading to from conventional control or should I just wait until MTH eventually comes out with their wifi module and iOS app which is how I ultimately want to control my layout?

No matter wether using the app or a DCS Remote, you still need a TIU. The WiFi module will be ann add-on to a TIU, not a replacement for one.

SeattleSUP,

   IMO when purchasing any of the DCS equipment you want to purchase the latest revision, and never purchase from anyone but an autherized MTH dealer, you want the replacement guarantee that comes with the product.  The only other way to pick up the DCS equipment is from one of the MTH certified Tech here on the OGR, they will supply you with good equipment at a reasonable cost. 

PCRR/Dave

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