What is the newest DCS system available?

Yes, that's correct. 

Rev L is the latest, and has much better DCS signal strength than previous versions.

Make sure that is what you are buying.

Also you want Rev 4.2 of the software. Depending where you buy it they should be able to update before they ship it to you.

You can also update it yourself over the internet.

The good news is you will be able to use your current handheld as well as the new one with the new TIU.

PS-3 is the designation for newer engines. It is an enhancement of the 12 year old PS-2 system.

Rod

BTW; I like the reference to Eric B.

I wonder if he is still around?

Rod

As part of my own research into DCS, Wattage is king according to OHM's law.

Which is the "Largest" (Or most comprehensive) DCS system availible to run a Proto 2 or 3 engine without having to consider purchasing a huge Z4000?

Also are the remotes tethered or over a radio signal?

The DCS Remote is not tethered to the TIU.

DCS doesn't come in sizes.  A TIU has four channels, each capable of ten amps.

OHM's Law doesn't contain a power component.

I lost the V1 on my TIU in December. Mine is an older one, probably 6 years old.

I called MTH, got an RMA number. Turns out it was a diode and IC chip.

Parts were $5, labor was $45 and shipping was $7.75.

Took 3 weeks. I also asked them if they would upgrade it to 4.2 while they had it, and they did....I sent the unit and the handheld.

Seems to me like a deal, even for an old unit.

I must say that 4.2 has a couple of features I like. Maybe someday I will get around to upgrading the 3.1 unit I have! And buying Barry's book also!

Just so you know about other options.

Greg

Lee;

As was said by Gary, each TIU channel will handle up to 10 amps, which is 180 watts at a nominal 18 VAC input. Each channel is internally fused at 20 amps.

You still need to supply power to each channel you wish to use.

For a small layout this can be a 90 watt transformer feeding one channel.

If you use all 4 channels for a larger layout, you can power the channels using ZW,s, KW's, Z-4000, 180 watt bricks, or any combination of these.

Simply put, the TIU is wired between your tranformers and your layout, and recieves the radio signals from the handheld, which it puts on the wires to the tracks for each individual engine to act on. Hope that makes sense.

Rod

It made sense now.

I like it.

Here's a handy explanation.

Fundamentals: Electric Laws Formularyand Audio Equations
Formula wheel	▼	Important formulas
Electrical engineering laws		Electronic engineering laws

Originally Posted by Gary:

OHM's Law doesn't contain a power component.

Here's a handy explanation.

 

Fundamentals: Electric Laws Formularyand Audio Equations
Formula wheel	▼	Important formulas
Electrical engineering laws		Electronic engineering laws

Nice chart, but............

Terms and names are important and necessary for communication and understanding.  Ohm's Law only addresses the relationship between voltage, current and resistance.  It does not, by itself, determine power.

In a similar manner, PS2 and DCS are separate entities, not interchangeable terms.  They may interact, but each has its own individual capability and function.

Too many times I've noticed people misusing names and definitions.  In most cases it leads to longer posts, slower resolutions of questions/problems and general confusion.

Just trying to keep things clear.

Gary,

Just trying to keep things clear.

For which you will most likely be punished...

Yep, expect so.  Oh, well !

My main concern with purchasing a new DCS system was to get one with the USB port, which is probably the most distinguishing characteristic of a later model.  I found you really need to ask before you purchase, particularly with unseen catalog or internet purchases.  Out of five inquiries, only two places had the usb model, all others had the RS-232 connector units.  So for anyone in the market, don't assume you receive the latest and greatest!  I would imagine at some point, the older units (RS-232) will become "blow out" priced items?

Stack