I now have a fully fuctioning zw-c with the 180 bricks and just love it. for $200 wich is what I got this at. I will have 720 watts of power for my layout at less than half the cost of a zwl. that is when I get two more 180 bricks to add to this unit. since I run command only and will not be moving the handles all the time as you would when running convetional locomotives this is just what my layout needed. also the 180 bricks are so much better at least to me than the 135 bricks. I like these units despite all the flaws. I am going to keep an eye out for another one if I can get it for a good price.
Dumb question, if you run only command, why bother with the ZW-C at all? The PH180 bricks have an excellent electronically controlled breaker, and they're all you need for a command-only setup.
John, I have used the ZW- c for around 17 years now without a problem. I still prefer to have it in the loop because of the following reason:
1) I have the add on meters and although it is said that there are not accurate, they are close enough for hobby work and I can see what is going on with the supply from across the room.
2) Although I run in command about 99.9 percent of the time, I do have a PS 1 Galloping Goose that I really love the announcements. Also, from time to time I need to check out a conventional engine and like to be able to do it on the layout (my workbench is two floors down).
3) I really really like that when I am running for or five trains in command and I see an accident about to happen, pushing the panic button cuts ALL power of to the tracks. This is important because I am usually running TMCC and DCS engine at the same time. My set up has the power going from the ZW to the TIU and then to the tracks, so if I happen to be using the DCS remote when I see the problem. pushing the panic button the the DCS remote also cuts all power to the tracks.
4) I am a huge fan of MTH's operating cabooses with the operating brakeman (I have four of them). It can be operated two ways, one using accessory rails and the pickups on the trucks or the easiest for me is to address the track it is on and press the whistle button - works flawlessly any where on the track.
5) I was never able to afford a ZW when I was younger and to this day, I think it is the coolest design for a transformer and i am very please to have one operating my layout (especially with 720 watts of power and those unbelievably FAST breakers in each brick.
6) Unlike the ZW-L. there is a meter for each of the four channels and one can read them without putting on reading glasses.
7) I actually like that when I cut the power on, I have to crank up the power to each track because if while cranking up the power, I see (or hear) a problem, I have the remote in my hand and can reduce power quickly.
To address the potential of a failure down the road, I was able to purchase another controller for $50 thanks to all those who seem to think it is not a good power supply. It also works great so I should be covered for some time to come.
Happy railroading,
Don