There seems to be some confusion on wheather the direct lockon degrades the dcs signal.
I would like to change my transformer to Lionel's 180 bricks and I need to know if there is a problem of degrading the dcs signal if I use a direct lockon.
Dave
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Why don't you just connect the PH-180 to your TIU input(s)? Don't need the Lock-On that way. I have had mine like this for several years with no problems. The PH-180 has a very good breaker, possibly the best available for our trains. It's also manual reset, which I much prefer to the auto reset items which I think the Lock-on is?
CT McCormick Hardware has an adapter called a 'PH-TIU' that converts the PH-180 to Banana Plugs.
Go Here: Transformers & Remote Controls scroll down to Transformers & Remote Controls section.
They are also available on ebay, but cost a little more there. Lionel also has a wire adapter kit, but I was never able to find one a few years ago, so I got the ones from McCormick.
The TMCC Direct Lockon will kill the DCS signal if you put it between the TIU and the track. If you put it on the input power to the TIU, it's fine.
OTOH, with the PH180, I see no reason for the Lockon.
Looks like I know the answer, thanks guys,
Dave
With the bricks you don't need a Lock On. Both have breakers equally fast. The only time you need a Lock on is with an older transformer with slow breakers. I use one with LW between the transformer and the TIU.
Pete
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