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Hello All,

As usual I have found a plethora of useful information on this forum which has saved me quite a bit of frustration. I just purchased a DCS system for the first time. I actually have no command control locos at this time, but plan to add in the near future so I figured I'd get the unit and remote since it was a good price. Upon receiving the "like-new, O/B C-8" unit, which didn't work (Ebay!!), this forum helped me with the very inexpensive diode replacement and the unit functions fine. I also had it upgraded to the 6.1 operating system. All good. Here are a couple observations/questions I was hoping for some feedback and guidance for (all conventional control on variable output of course):

- I notice the amps drawn on the transformer are substantially higher when running the identical loco through the DCS as opposed to just the transformer itself. Is this just because the throttle is turned all the way up on the transformer even though I'm only delivering 9 volts to the loco?

- I notice the loco tends to buzz on occasion even at low voltage when running through the DCS. Is it actually getting more voltage than the remote says? I suppose I could use a multimeter on the track to test this. Related: I notice the whistle function is spotty if the transformer isn't turned all the way up.

- This one seems odd, but likely related to voltage/amperage delivery: One of my non-derailing crossovers seems to trigger when running through DCS (It actually opens (or closes as the case may be) the opposite track turnout). This does not happen when I run conventional through the transformer. I've checked my wiring and don't see any frayed wires or touching posts on the little remote switch. I suppose it's possible that because my switch remotes are using a buss line format (temporarily as I just put the remotes next to the switch until I run them all back to the control area) that a 'signal/ground spike' is travelling through the ground to the other remote. Again, doesn't occur when running just off the Z4000.

- Lastly, should I have circuit protection off the out ports? I not the internal fuses are 20 AMPS, which seems really high to me. If so, what the best way to add circuit protection to the out ports? Thank you all!



Best,

Steve

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What transformer are you using? Secondly are you running the conventional locomotive at 9 volts using the transformer throttle or the remote? What channel are you running through (Fixed or Variable)?

A electronic or magnetic/hydraulic circuit breaker between the power source and TIU inputs is an excellent idea if you aren't using a modern transformer (like a Lionel 180W Power House brick). Another option is fast blow automotive fuses with a rating of 7.5 or 10 amps.

Thank you! I use an MTH Z4000 and it's connected to the variable input and a jumper to the fixed voltage in. The variable out is the connected to the track. I use the remote wheel to apply voltage to the conventional locomotive on the track and I make sure to put the Z4000 at 0 (or off entirely) anytime I switch engines on the track. Just kinda strange behavior, though I realize the unit is really for running command control equipment. I'll likley just put the banana plugs back directly to the track when I run conventional to avoid the issue (phantom switch throws, buzzing in the locomotive, etc.) altogether, or at least until I familiarize myself a bit more with the proper operation of the unit. A bit of a learning curve I suppose. Thanks as always!

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