Using light blubs to Clear the Rf Signal

I'm sure the guru's will chime in, but from what I remember the early

electronics had to see a constant load to function properly.

Lionel even had some fast track with lights built in to try and solve

some communication issues.

 

Now with the newer electronics and maybe a software change or 2 the lightbulb

thing is no longer needed. If it works for your friend great. Most systems don't

need it....

 

As a friend once told me. "communications is 50% luck and 50% voodoo"

 

 

Either the club member has a poor understanding of what the bulbs are for, or you misunderstood his explanation.

 

The light bulbs have nothing to  do with circuit protection. They are used to improve the DCS signal when used with older TIUs. They are typically unnecessary when using the latest, Rev. L, DCS TIU.

 

This 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!

 Thanks for you quick response, I wasn't sure about what he the club member said, but my TIU was bought 2008, so I'm not sure about how old is old and thanks for your understanding,

Chuck,

 

From reading your post, I would think that your friend is using the lights to indicate that power is being supplied to the track and that there are no shorts. If the bulb is lit, then there is good power going to the track. A short or other power problem would cause the light to go out. 

Thank you, others have replied with the same answer, which is what I first felt this club member meant.

Thank You,

Chuck

Date: Sun, 29 Jun 2014 08:13:41 -0700