Simple TIU Pwr Distribution Question

Don(Cerritos)OGR Forum Member

I'm rewiring my layout, and might have myself confused, or just forgot. I am running the TIU off of a ZW-C Controller (2 Bricks).

My intent is to use the ZW A handle for the Fixed 1 Channel, (thereby enabling me to manually control the track voltage by adjusting the "A" handle.)

Doing the same with the ZW D handle for Fixed 2.

Using the ZW B and C for the Variable 1 and Variable 2 channels.

The goal is having my two main tracks as Variable to use for my "command" engines, and THEN if I want to run conventional, I can using the "variable" option of the hand held remotes.

The "Fixed" channels will be used for my sidings, which will be primarily 14-16v for command, THEN if I want to use a conventional engine, I could use the B & C handles of the Controller if so inclined.

This should work, I think.

Thank you for your replies.

8/24/1711:52 PM

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Barry BroskowitzOGR Forum Member MEMORIALIZED MEMBER

Don,

That sounds fine. However, I'd offer one slight modification.

Set both variable channels to fixed mode of operation. That way, when you power up the handles on the ZW-C, each handle will immediately send power directly to the tracks for command operation. Then, if you want to operate the variable channels conventionally, just use the TR screen to adjust the variable channel's output.

The first time that you use the TR screen to adjust voltage on a variable channel, the channel becomes variable until the TIU is powered off and then back on again.

Set a variable channel to fixed mode as follows:

Press: Menu/System/DCS Setup
Select a variable channel's TIU Track
Press the FXD soft key to toggle between Fixed and Variable mode.

This and a whole lot more about DCS is all in MTH’s “The DCS Companion 3rd Edition!"

This book is available from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!

8/25/178:53 AM

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Don(Cerritos)OGR Forum Member

Barry,

Thank you very much! Really appreciate you comment! Should have just looked it up in your book.

Don

8/25/1710:38 AM

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walt rappOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

Barry - would you add that his setup only works if he has the TIU powered off of aux???? At least I think so. If fixed 1 is used for a siding I would think that he would want to kill power to sidings when not in use. In his case he would kill power to the TIU too.

sorry to sound like I know what I'm talking about and trying to amend your statement, but you usually warn people of any side effects of things that are asked about.

- walt

8/25/1710:45 AM

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Barry BroskowitzOGR Forum Member MEMORIALIZED MEMBER

Walt,

would you add that his setup only works if he has the TIU powered off of aux????

Actually, it will work powered via either the Aux. Power port or Fixed #1, as long as Fixed #1 is powered regardless of which channel he's using to run trains.

Further, your comments are always welcome!