Features And Operation; Modes Of Operation - M.T.H. HO 4-6-6-4 Challenger Engineer's Manual

FEATURES AND OPERATION

Now, for the fun stuff! Your new MTH HO Steam engine has more features and
operating capabilities than any HO engine ever built by any manufacturer. We're
going to walk you through everything she does in general but, you'll probably find a
few we forgot to mention on your own.

Modes of Operation

There are 3 modes of operation with different levels of features accessible in each.
We refer to them as analog DC, DCC, and DCS. Here's a little more explanation
before we get into the features of each mode.
Analog DC
This is when there is nothing connected to the rails except a conventional DC power
pack. These power packs generally have at least one variable output controlled by a
throttle of some sort and a means of reversing DC polarity on the track to change
the direction of your engine.
DCC
DCC is a popular digital command control scheme wherein the track power is also a
digital control signal. That is, using a DCC controller, you can communicate with
multiple engines and have them all moving at different speeds or moving in opposite
directions on the same track at the same time. The power/command signal remains
constant and engines are "commanded" to perform as desired. MTH is new to DCC
but, we recognize it's importance to many HO operators. So, we loaded our engine
with more DCC features easily accessible to the operator than any HO engine ever
built previously. You DCC guys are in for a real treat!
DCS or Digital Control System
While the acronyms are close, this is about where the similarities between DCS and
DCC end. Yes, they are both digital control systems however, MTH DCS is NOT
DCC. There are several proprietary versions of DCC on the market but friend, this
is NOT one of them. MTH's DCS system is proven technology in the O and One
gauge markets and now, we've brought its power and simplicity it to you.
First, the power signal in DCS is NOT the command signal. Next, DCS employs a
fully functional bi-directional communication scheme opening a vast range of
advanced features and yet, is so simple and intuitive, you can enjoy them! No
programming tracks, bits and bytes, or conversion of binary to hexadecimal numbers
here! To add an engine in DCS, just press "ADD ENGINE." After that, If you want
to start your engine, just press "START UP" or, to turn the smoke on or off, just
press "SMOKE." No combinations of letters or numbers to remember! We think
you're really going to like this!
M.T.H. HO 4-6-6-4 Challenger Steam Engine
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