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Reply to "Question about control systems"

I'm a Lionel loyalist who collected O-gauge trains for years and initially operated them conventionally with KWs. When I purchased several TMCC-quipped locos, I installed the TMCC system (PowerHouse, Command Base, and PowerMaster). When I purchased Lionel LEGACY locos, I "passed" on buying the full-blown LEGACY control system because those locos would respond to my existing TMCC gear (although without the fancy features of LEGACY). Then I bought a MTH Aerotrain set with DCS and PS-3. I bought the cheapest MTH control gear (Remote Commander) for it, which was adequate for my intended use.

I installed a two-position "Knife Switch" to route track power from one control system to the other, but not both simultaneously - although I understand that is possible. My 15x19 feet L-shaped layout isn't big enough to run two trains headed by two locos of different systems simultaneously anyway - except with CONSTANT ATTENTION to every movement.

Always a devotee of KISS, I opted to keep my control systems simple, read the instruction manuals carefully, enjoy fun with trains, and share good times with my two great-grandsons. I'm content to leave it to the Lionel and MTH techies to design and keep their systems running without my attempts to "improve" them.

I realize other operators are comfortable with having all the "bells and whistles" available to them for use at the highest levels of command and control. More power to them! But I don't need to go there and prefer to spend money for other hobby stuff.

And so it goes ...

Mike Mottler    LCCA  12394

OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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