Can I change a fixed channel to variable?

but is there a way to change a fixed channel to variable?

Pat,

Like Gregg says, you can use the handles of your transformer.

Otherwise, if you are using a MTH Z-4000 transformer, a remote receiver installed on it will allow you to vary the voltage with the DCS remote instead of having to use the handles. You can leave all Variable channels set to fixed also. Works great!

"How do you make a variable to fixed?"

Here's the command.... Menu/System/ dcs set up/ select the var channel you want to use and hit FXD.   The tiu will remember it's in fixed mode so you only have to set it up once.... the var channel needs full voltage on the input side whether in fixed mode or var mode. 

Gregg & Joe

i am using a 180 watt brick, so I can't adjust the power input.

i need three variable channels, but I really don't want to have to buy a second TIU. I can  alway go with a standalone transformer for one of the loops and not control it through the DCS remote.

thanks

Using a Z4000 transformer and 40-4002 Remote Commander Receiver, Z4K tracks turn the fixed channels to variable.

The other way you can make variable fixed is to load the channel twice on the remote.  Then for one of them, change the min voltage to 22 Volts, thus making it fixed at the highest voltage for Command Engines.  On my layout, I have T1 CMD, T1 Var, T2 CMD, T2 VAR, etc.  This allows me to run any engine on any track (Command or Conventional).

Allan,

The other way you can make variable fixed is to load the channel twice on the remote.

You're solving a non-existant problem.  

To use a variable channel as either fixed or variable, just set it to Fixed mode and leave it alone. When you want to run it as fixed, just do so. When you want to run it as variable:

• Press TR
• Select the variable track
• Press the thumbwheel
• If there's already voltage flowing through the Variable channel, press the TVZ soft key.

The Variable channel will be in Variable mode and will stay that way until you cycle TIU power. At that time, it will once again be in Fixed mode.

This and a whole lot more is all in "The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition", now available for purchase as an eBook or a printed book from MTH's web store site! Click on the link below to go to MTH's web page for the book!

Gerald,

    You are right on the money about the Z4K side receiver, both Barry's book and the DCS Video guide explain exactly how to set it up for running, a very slick feature for running conventional and DCS engines on the same track, at the same time.

PCRR/Dave

"Then for one of them, change the min voltage to 22 Volts, thus making it fixed at the highest voltage for Command Engines. "

That will shorten the life of 18-volt bulbs, and may melt the plastic of illuminated rolling stock

RJR,

   I agree no need for the 22 Volt min setting, 16 -18 does the job just fine.

PCRR/Dave

Robert and Dave,

FYI, the setting of a Variable channel to min. start voltage at 22 will not mean you will get 22 volts at the track. The TIU doesn't supply power. But it will allow whatever voltage you use at your transformer (say 18 volts) to pass the same voltage entered at the input to pass on through at the output without it dropping lower.

Joe,

   I do understand what you are saying, the 22 Volts is still un-needed.

PCRR/Dave

Dave,

If you set the Variable channel for anything less than 22 volts, the remote will display the incorrect voltage. For the remote to display the correct voltage, the Variable channel must be set to Fixed or set at 22 volts. It works the same each way and each will only pass through what is applied at their Inputs.

The handheld regulates voltage in 22 steps. This is a fraction of the total output. Set the voltage  at 12 volts and you will get 12/22 of the voltage on the input side of the TIU variable on the variable output port. With 22 volts in,output equals 12 volts. With 11 volts input the output would read 6 volts on a meter although the handheld says 12 volts.

I agree with Jim,

If you set the Variable channel at 16 volts using it as variable for example and run 16 volts from a transformer to the Input, you will only get 11.6 volts at the Output, but the remote will display 16 volts.

Joe,

   You are correct, I forgot this acts in this manner.

PCRR/Dave