My understanding is the MTH Z500, Z750 and Z1000, are chopped sine wave, while the Z4000, is pure sine. I have a Z1000 and a Z750, and all my engines are Protosounds1 (QSI). They all run just fine on my existing transformers.
If I buy an MTH engine with Proto 2 or 3, am I going to need a different transformer, i.e., pure sine wave?
If you just use the brick from the Zxxx units, they're pure sine wave, it's the controller that chops the waveform.
FWIW, I'll add to this by saying that although it might be frowned upon, I have a z-1000 w/ a z-controller inline with one of my fixed TIU/DCS channels that has operated PS2 & PS3 without any problems. When used, the z-controller provides smooth operation of some conventionally controlled units (handcars, ballast tamper, speeders and some other larger conventional or PS1 units) that would normally "take off" at the 5.5 volt minimum starting voltage that is system preset within the DCS Remote.
Not meaning to hijack this thread: I do wish MTH would lower the DCS minimum starting voltage below 5.5 volts. If the argument for the 5.5 volt min. is DCS signal degradation, I think MTH is short-sighted w/ regards to digital and conventional layout co-operation. If your running PS2/PS3/TMCC, the operator should know and will need to set the variable voltage to the higher required level.
I think the fixed channels are straight thru, but the variable channels are chopped by the TIU. If I remember reading Barry's book correctly? I have trouble keeping it all straight sometimes.
Also, this was posted by Barry the other day, may have a fix for you.
