That's all good information. Looks like a nice layout. I'll try to explain what might be goin on. I have never used the MTH Realtrax switches. If one rail is insulated for the non-derailing feature, most likely the frog rail, with the 2 switches back to back you have created a short section where only one outside rail is transmitting the TMCC signal. With that the SD40t-2 may have a poor antenna connection and the signal is too week for it to read. I think Some TMCC engines had an issue with frequency match being slightly off that could cause problems also. There is a fix for the track issue using a small value capacitor across the insulated gaps on the switches. I will have too look up the value unless someone chimes in with it. The capacitor is too small to carry any current across it but will carry the signal. It is something like a 1mfd or .1mfd capaictor. Mike Reagan explained this is his service class several years ago. I have never done this modification on our layout at the club or at home.
As for the RS-11, does it run in conventional mode with the command base turned off? Has it ever worked on your layout? Will it work on someone else's layout? I would assume not but when TMCC is not working right it can be real troublesome to diagnose.
DCS has its own issues. We do not need a purple vs. orange box debate.
Forest
