How does a layout work with two (2) TIUs, Wifi, and TMCC?

@jbmccormick posted:

My DCS remote now collects dust.  I had two and sold one.  Once you get the Wi-Fi working my view is you will rarely if ever want or need the remote.

I'll offer you $10 for that DCS remote that's collecting dust, no reason to let it go to waste.

In case you missed it, I agree with RJR, a major problem with the WiFi is no tactile feedback. 

At some of our modular shows, I find myself running two and sometimes three trains, typically a couple of novelty items and a standard consist.  The WiFi would result in far too many crashes for me.  I have a number of Legacy and DCS remotes, and I'll keep using them, thanks.

@RJR posted:

Do not connect transformers in parallel for a single circuit.  When phased, the hots of each are to feed separately insulated blocks.  You can have an RW or LW feed a single channel, and that should be adequate for whatever you will practically be running.  Before my parents gave me a ZW in late 1940s, I had a single type R, 100 watts rating, running two locos, 2 022 switches, and a #97 coal elevator.  I don't recommend emulation.

Agreed. Definitely haven't done that pre-DCS nor plan to with a TIU in between the transformers and tracks.

Ultimately, assuming I keep my existing transformers, my options appear to be:

1. Power each of my 4 mainlines (main level outer, main level inner plus yard, elevated outer, elevated inner) with a separate transformer running each through a separate TIU channel.  I'd use the variable outputs for where I want to run conventional.  Likely use 2 LWs and 2 RWs.  The question there is whether a single LW could handle two trains.  Guess all I can do is try.

If that fails, i can

2a.  Power 1/2 of each main level mainline with a separate transformer and TIU channel. Then I'd need a second TIU (4 channels for 2 main level mainlines and 1 channel each for each elevated since I only intend to run one train on the elevateds).

OR

2b. Get the 180W powerhouses to increase the output to accommodate two trains on a mainline.

Sound about right?

It is possible to connect different "loops" to the same channel of a TIU.  I use 2 TIUs, 6 channels.  There was an issue with one, and while resolving that, I merely hooked its two channels to outputs of the other TIU and ran happily.

The best way to see if a transformer can handle two trains is to try it.  If trains can't get enough power, or transformer starts overheating, it's two small.

Don't overlook the fact that conventional locos can be run through the remote using variable channels.  Walk-around control of conventional locos is great!

@RJR posted:

 

Don't overlook the fact that conventional locos can be run through the remote using variable channels.  Walk-around control of conventional locos is great!

Yep, been doing that via TMCC with powermasters for years.  The TIU makes my powermasters obsolete (or relegated to back up status).

You'll find that the TIU variable channels are pretty coarse control, they go in 1/2 volt steps, and early TMCC Powermasters were the same.  Contrasted with the Legacy PowerMaster with the Legacy command system gives you 200 voltage steps from the remote, much smoother operation.

Given my layouts have always had grades, I never considered conventional as being "smooth."

Besides, the PW transformers always had steps, as the finger moved from turn to turn on the secondary coil