Running MTH DCS with Lionel Legacy

Mike,

The only real issue in operating DCS and Legacy (and/or TMCC) on the same layut and even on the same tracks, at the same time, is that some, but not all, Legacy or TMCC engines may interfere with and degrade the DCS signal. DCS engines do not affect Legacy or TMCC engines.

However, this is easily remedied by inserting a 22 uh RF choke between the offending Legacy or TMCC engine's pickup rollers  and electronics.

The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition has everything that you need to know about operating DCS, including an entire section on operating Legacy and TMCC with DCS.

This and a whole lot more is all in MTH’s “The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition", available for purchase as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!

Howdy Mike,

I have both DCS and Legacy Lite (Cab 1L and Base 1L) and they work perfectly together.  In fact, I have used my LIONEL Legacy SD80 MAC as a "Helper" using the CAB L1 controller while running the MTH lead engine using the DCS Controller.  A little tricky, but it can be done.  I use the "Star Wiring" technique from Barry Broskowitz's  Book, The DCS O Gauge Companion, (Get the book, you'll not be sorry) by simply attaching an 18 gauge wire from the Base L1 "U" terminal directly to the Ground (Negative) distribution block for my STAR wiring.  I run mostly MTH engines as well.

Chief Bob (Retired)

Thanks Bob and Barry! 

I only run a small floor layout that at its max will only be approximately 8x8. Do you think in the small space I have the DCS signal still could be degraded? 

Mike,

Do you think in the small space I have the DCS signal still could be degraded? 

If you have a Legacy or TMCC engine that causes a DCS signal degradation, the closer it is to a DCS engine, the worse it will be. It has nothing to do with the size of a layout.

I also have both systems and they work very well together.

I would also suggest you get Barry's book mentioned above. It will more than pay for itself over the course of your use of DCS and MTH equipment. Get the print copy, you can take it to the layout with you.

I now have a more permanent layout. Until last fall I had only a few small temporary layouts with one power feed to the entire loop of track and used only DCS. I would get some DCS error messages. On my permanent layout I used blocks, following the guide lines in Barry's book, and it works perfectly. Have not had an error message since. 

As Barry mentioned a 22uh choke could be needed on some of Lionel's engines or other brands using TMCC. I only have a couple of newer Legacy engines and have not had any problems with them interfering with DCS signals. They all work perfectly together here.

Thank you all! 

I appreciate the feedback that you have given me. When I get the chance to purchase a DCS set I will surely look into getting the book.

I missed a question, I think the DCS sets are available, pretty sure I saw one at my LHS this morning and they had been out of them for some time.

The MTH DCS sets do indeed seem to be "in stock", as I saw a dad and his son purchase the set last Saturday morning (6-20-2105) at our local hobby shop.

Our layout also has Legacy, TMCC and DCS equipment operating all at the same time. In fact, I tend to operate my Sunset/3rd Rail steam models, equipped with EOB, with the Legacy Cab-2, as they seem to run smoother.

Barry,

I had the same question has Mike and found your answer extremely helpful. Also, just ordered your book.

Thanks for sharing your expertise.

Sincerely,

Frank

Pennsy Pride 94,

   I added Legacy to my DCS layout about a year ago, Marty F advises using the opposite outside rail from your DCS line attachments, for your Legacy base wire.  Then use the out (Black) DCS Terminals to connect your Legacy Base line, then run the TIU/Legacy joint line to the DCS outside rail.   This sets up a strong Legacy signal form your legacy Base on both outside rails, and does not degrade the DCS signal.  Along with building in Blocks, with 14 or 16 Gauge good wire, and using the 12 track join rule, I have no problems with my Legacy signal or any DCS signal, thru out my multi level layouts.  

Welcome back to the OGR!

PCRR/Dave 

Frank,

Also, just ordered your book. Thanks for sharing your expertise.

On the contrary, thank you!