HELP! MTH TIU Limitations

Cory,

I am uncertain if the reference to more then 5 Engines means more then 5 Engines just sitting there, not running, or more then 5 Engines that are operating.

It means 5 engines drawing power from the same TIU channel, regardless of whether or not they are started up.

Either way, does using more then one TIU channel indicate the need to install a second TIU, or is one TIU capable of sending out multiple channels?

No, there are 4 TIU channels on your TIU and, depending upon the TIU's model (Rev designation) of the TIU and other factors, each TIU channel is capable of handling 250-400 linear feet of track.

I strongly suggest that you obtain a copy of The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition. It has just about everything that you need to maximize your DCS experience.

The answers to the questions that you asked and a whole lot more is all in MTH’s “The DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition", available for purchase as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!

I'll second the book (DCS O Gauge Companion 2nd Edition) recommendation, lots of info in there that you won't find in the manual.

And a Third Vote for the book, most important thing to get for DCS other than the system itself.

Does sound like you need to hook up fixed 2 to feed some of the sidings at least.

If you only have one Brick for power, jumper power from Fixed 1 in to Fixed 2 in.

Make sure you isolate the sidings from the loop and feed them power direct from the TIU or a Terminal Strip which is fed by one channel from the TIU.

And also you should have a break in the loop center rail on the far side or end from the lockon. This prevents the signal from looping around the track and over running itself. Signals travel at near the speed of light, they WILL overlap each other. Once that happens you are in the electrical equal to the tower Of Babel.

My experience is that DCS, perhaps because it is a technological marvel, can be finicky and skittish at times. Barry's book helps make the operator aware of issues and offers a good deal of good advice, so definitely worth owning. Having said that, the fact that Barry is an actual "live" resource through this site adds tremendously.