Page 2: System Requirements
The Digital Command System (DCS) allows you to achieve realistic operation heretofore unknown in the hobby. DCS was designed so that even the most advanced operations can be performed easily, so you can quickly begin to enjoy the hobby at a whole new level.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Making The Engine Go............... 20 Reversing Direction................21 Activating Basic Sounds............... 21 Shutting Down A Locomotive............22 “Jumping” Between Active Egnines..........22 Controlling All Active DCS Engines At Once........ 23 Chapter 3: One-Touch Locomotive Control.............. 24 Labor/Drift......................25 Boost/Brake......................26 Coupler Operation....................27 Smoke On/Off Control..................
Page 4 TIU Setup....................... 72 Add/Edit/Delete TIU................. 72 Super TIU....................73 Reset TIU....................74 Adjusting The Remote LCD Contrast.............. 74 DCS Setup......................74 Track Signal......................75 Remote Setup......................76 Setting The Remote Control Address..........76 Remote Powerdown................77 Remote Back Up................... 77 Quickset Speed..................
Page 5 Recording/Playing Back An Operating Session..........94 Resetting Engine Features................... 96 Reading Engine Information................97 Configuring DCS For 50 or 60Hz AC Input........... 97 Chapter 8: Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation........98 Advanced Wiring....................99 Wiring Thru A Variable Channel Only..........99 Connecting TMCC To A DCS Layout..........
Page 6: Chapter 1: Introduction To Dcs
Chapter 1 Introduction To DCS DCS Remote......... 7 Track Interface Unit (TIU)....8 Accessory Interface Unit (AIU)..9 Recommended Wiring......10 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 7: The Dcs Remote Control
PROTOCAST - Search for TIUs, AIUs and READ - Activates DOPPLER - Proto-Doppler™ Proto-Sound ® 2.0 Engines on the track Programming Port - Tether attaches between remote and TIU for programming new software features DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 8: The Track Interface Unit (Tiu)
Introduction To DCS The Track Interface Unit Also known as the TIU, the Track Interface Unit is the brains behind the DCS system. Connected between the transformer and the track, the TIU receives signals from the DCS remote control and relays those signals to each train you are controlling via the rails.
Page 9: The Accessory Interface Unit (Aiu)
Connecting the TIU to the AIU output may cause damage to earlier model AIU’s. IN = Armature of Relay 1 = NO (normally open) 2 = NC (normally closed) IN = AC Common 1 = Straight 2 = Curved DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 10: Recommended Wiring Methods
Poor wiring and bad connections offer resistance and can interfere with receipt of the DCS signal and limit the number of engines and cars you can run on your track. Be sure to use proper wire (we recommend 16-gauge or larg- er paired wire, like speaker wire) and good connections (good connections mean crimp or solder).
Page 11 Note: This very quick wiring scheme (through the Fixed In 1 and Fixed Out 1 inputs) allows for operation of the connected loop of track in DCS command mode only. Please see the “Advanced Connection” section of this manual in the “Universal Operation” chapter for all the wiring options if you have more complex wiring and operational needs, including conventional mode and TMCC operation.
Page 12 12 amps, virtually any commercial AC hobby power supply will work with DCS. (See Transformer Compatibility Chart, p. 114) Bear in mind that as you begin to run more and longer trains together, you need to have lots of power on the track. For this reason, we recommend that railroaders with large layouts and long trains use M.T.H.’s Z-4000®(Item No.
Page 13 Any transformer employing two parts, a brick (step down transformer) and a controller (used to vary the voltage output) may cause opera- tional problems due to low power or poor DCS signal. To correct this problem, MTH recom- mends connecting only the brick to the TIU Controller inputs.
Page 14: Chapter 2: Quick Start In Command Mode
Accessing The Engine......17 Selecting & Starting The Engine..19 Making The Engine Go...... 20 Reversing Direction......21 Basic Sounds......... 21 Shutting Down The Engine....22 "Jumping” Between Active Engines.. 22 Controlling ALL Engines At Once... 23 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 15: Overview
2. Connect the TIU Out Channels To The Track. Connect wires from the red and black “Fixed (DCS) Out1” banana jacks to your track or lock-on. If you connect directly to the track, red (hot) must be connected to the center rail and black (ground) to the outer rail.
Page 16: Using The Remote Control
The two Fixed and two Variable channels of the TIU are built differently and serve dif- ferent functions, although the same DCS signal is sent to the track on all four channels. Variable channels have internal circuitry that allows them to vary track voltage from within the channel.
Page 17: Accessing A Locomotive
When a Proto-Sound 2.0 engine is placed on a track con- up the track, your Proto-Sound nected to a TIU, the DCS system will bring it up in com- 2.0 locomotive remains silent mand mode by default. Because DCS command opera- and dark.
Page 18 Wiring” section of this manual in the “Universal Locomotive and Accessory Operation” chapter for instructions. See the System Menu/Engine Setup sec- tion in the “Menu Operation” chapter(s) of this book for instructions on renam- ing, renumbering, or deleting your engines. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 19: Selecting And Starting A Locomotive
Press the thumbwheel to select the engine. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 20: Making The Engine Go
S1 key (under INA) to move the engine to the inactive list. DCS Tip: Operators who remove engines from the track when not in use will find READ the easier method, while those who park their engines in a roundhouse – still on the track –...
Page 21: Reversing Direction
Quick Start: Command Mode Reversing Direction Because there is no neutral in DCS command mode, DCS engines go directly from forward to reverse. There are two ways to change directions in command mode: Press the red DIR (Direction) button while you are in motion to drop the locomotive’s speed to 0 smph and change its direction.
Page 22: Shutting Down A Locomotive
1. Press the green ENG button. 2. Scroll the thumbwheel until the arrow points to the engine you want to address, DCS Tip: When you press ENG, the and press the thumbwheel to select it. arrow will point at the last engine addressed, allowing you to jump easily back-and-forth between two engines.
Page 23: Controlling All Active Dcs Engines At Once
One-Touch Operation Chapter. DCS Tip: if an engine is listed as active on the LCD but is not on the track or is listed as inactive but is on the track, the ALL command will not work. Press READ to update the active engine list.
Page 24: Chapter 3: One-Touch Locomotive Control
Start Up..........28 Engine Sound On/Off......28 Volume Decrease........28 Shut Down..........29 Headlight On/Off....... 29 ProtoCast On/Off....... 29 Passenger/Freight Announcements.. 30 Read............31 Doppler On/Off........31 Emergency Stop........31 Softkeys..........32 Backlight..........35 Microphone........... 35 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 25: Labor/Drift
The most frequently accessed features can be controlled via the One-Touch buttons on the DCS remote handheld. These buttons will affect only the locomotive selected and shown in the LCD. You can watch the LCD screen to see which engine you are address- ing and what features you are turning off and on.
Page 26: Boost/Brake
The speed will continue to change (keep getting faster or slower) for as long as the button is pressed, before resuming the set speed when you release the button. Please see Page 55 for more on Boost/Brake Operation. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 27: Coupler Operation
To control the volume of individual elements of the sound set (i.e. horn/whistle volume, bell volume, engine sounds volume, and accent sounds volume), see the “Sound” menu in the “Menu Operation” chapter of this book. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 28: Engine Start Up
To control the volume of individual elements of the sound set (i.e. horn/whistle volume, bell vol- ume, engine sounds volume, and accent sounds volume), see the “Sound” menu in the “Menu Operation” chapter of this book. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 29: Engine Shut Down
Off ”). PROTOCAST (8): To activate this feature, you must first onnect an audio source to the DCS system. 1. Plug a male-to-male mini cable (1/8” plug, like that used for the headset with a portable CD/tape player or M.T.H. Item No.
Page 30: Passenger/Freight Announcements
Proto-Cast may cause interrup- tions in the audio. DCS Tip: Because Proto-Cast sends such a large digital signal on the track, it is impor- tant that your track be clean when you run this feature. If you get popping and distor- tion while running Proto-Cast, please clean your track.
Page 31: Read Button
Note: If the TIU is powered by an auxiliary power supply, that power source must be unplugged and plugged back in before the TIU will reset. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 32: Softkey Operation
- Press the softkey (S4) below “More” in the fourth and final softkey screen to access a list of additional softkey features you can scroll and select with your thumb- wheel. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 33 2. Scroll until the arrow points to the feature you want to move. 3. Press the S1 key under “Del” 4. Press the thumbwheel to confirm the deletion. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 34 One-Touch Locomotive Operation Softkeys (S1-S5): (cont’d) DCS Tip: The system is designed to accommodate as many as 100 softkeys To restore a deleted softkey: per engine as we think of new features Because softkeys are associated with an to add.
Page 35: Using The Remote Control Backlight
TIU’s “Proto-Dispatch (Mic)” port and use that microphone. DCS Tip: The handheld MIC broadcasts its signals over an AM frequency to incor- porate a realistic static sound one might encounter with radios. If you want static free voice recordings, you should plug a microphone into the TIU and select that option for your voice-over recording clips.
Page 36: Chapter 4: Menu Operations - Sound
Menu Operations - Sound Introduction.......... 37 Bell, Horn, Engine/Accent Volume.. 38 Proto-Whistle........39 Chuff Rate..........40 Proto-Chuff........... 41 Cab Chatter..........41 Brakes............. 42 Clickty Clack.......... 42 Custom Sounds........43 Auto Coupler......... 47 Doppler Loop........48 External Mic.......... 49 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 37: Menu Operations
4. Activate (or turn off) individual features as described below. DCS Tip: You can back out of a menu level at any time by pressing Menu to move back one level at a time. To escape instantly to normal control, press ENG, ACC, SW, or TR to return to that screen.
Page 38: Bell, Horn, Engine/Accent Volume
You will also hear the change in the selected sound’s volume relative to the other engine sounds. 2. When you have chosen the desired vol- ume, press firmly on the thumbwheel to set that volume and return to the Sound menu list. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 39: Proto-Whistle
Therefore, the softkey acronyms will not be visible on the DCS screen for locomotives not equipped with the proper hardware. Downloading the sound set from a locomotive equipped with...
Page 40: Chuff Rate
Your engine’s puffing smoke is synchronized with the chuff rate, and the smoke puffs will also change rate when you change the chuff rate. DCS Tip: When operating a diesel or electric engine, setting the chuff rate to a value between 1 and 8 will play the corresponding engine rev level.
Page 41: Proto-Chuff
(S1) under the word “OFF.” - To enable cab chatter, press the softkey (S2) under the word “AUTO.” Press firmly on the thumbwheel to confirm the selection and return to the Sound menu list. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 42: Brakes
(S1) under the word “OFF.” - To enable clickity-clack sounds, press the softkey (S2) under the word “AUTO.” Press firmly on the thumbwheel to confirm the selection and return to the Sound menu list. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 43: Custom Sounds
Menu Operations - Sound Custom Sounds With DCS, you can record short sounds of your own making (the kids singing “Happy Birthday,” a recording made from a scanner alongside a railroad yard, or a prototype recording of a whistle you especially like) for playback through an engine’s speakers. The sounds are captured inside the DCS TIU not the locomotive.
Page 44 Menu Operations - Sound Custom Sounds Once the appropriate sound source has been connected to the TIU, press the Menu button on the DCS Remote and select the Sound Menu, then follow the steps below to record the sounds. Record: 1.
Page 45 Custom Sounds: (cont’d) Record: (cont’d) 3. Select Source for sound to be recorded (Dispatch RF - DCS Remote MIC, External Microphone, Audio Jack, PC). 4. Press S1 under REC to record the sound. 5. Press S2 under STP to stop recording.
Page 46 If you want to be able to play custom sounds that were recorded using a different hand- held (e.g. if you want to share custom sounds at a club layout), press Update List to gain access to all custom sounds saved into any TIU on the layout. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 47: Auto Coupler
8. Once the engine goes back to 0sMPH then pulls away at any speed the sound will play again. It will work this way on every DCS engine in your remote until you shut it off. 9. To turn the feature Off, repeat steps 1-3 and press the OFF softkey.
Page 48: Doppler Loop
The locomotive will continue to operate in consecutive Doppler cycles until you press the S4 key under “Off.” A (D) appears on the LCD to indicate when Doppler is turned on. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 49: External Mic
- You need to plug in a microphone into the Proto-Dispatch (Mic) jack on the TIU. - You enable the above jack in the remote. - DO NOT forget to disable it once you are done using the mic. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 50: Chapter 5: Menu Operations - Control
Chapter 5 Menu Operations - Control Smoke Output........51 Ditch Lights........... 52 Maximum Engine Speed..... 52 Acceleration Rate......... 53 Deceleration Rate......... 53 Directional Control......54 Labored Smoke........54 Brake Boost.......... 55 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 51: Smoke Output Control
If you do not have smoke fluid, turn the smoke unit off using the #1 key on the keypad. Check your smoke fluid level frequently when running in MAX mode. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 52: Ditch Light Control
Roll the thumbwheel down to lower the maximum speed (the default is 120 smph) to the setting you want, then press firmly on the thumbwheel to confirm the selec- tion and return to the Control menu list. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 53: Setting Acceleration Rate
Control menu list. The “Brake” button on the remote slows your locomotive’s speed at the rate set here. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 54: Setting Direction Control
(S1) under the word “OFF.” - To enable labored smoke, press the softkey (S2) under the word “AUTO.” Press firmly on the thumbwheel to con- firm the selection and return to the Control menu list. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 55: Brake Boost
25sMPH. If you had selected RET, the engine speed would have gone back to 15sMPH (the speed you started at when you pressed Boost/Brake). This works the same way with BRAKE. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 56: Chapter 6: Menu Operations - System
Accessory Setup........70 TIU Setup..........72 LCD Contrast........74 DCS Setup..........74 Track Signal........... 75 Remote Setup........76 Set Remote Address....76 Remote Powerdown....77 Remote Back Up..... 77 Quickset Speed......78 Operating Mode...... 79 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 57: Engine Setup
LCD Contrast DCS Setup Track Signal Engine Setup This menu is used to manage the engines entered into the DCS system. Add Engine Add M.T.H. Engine Wait until the LCD says the engine was found and returns to the engine screen addressing that engine.
Page 58 (the address you use to address the engine when you run it with the Cab 1®). This number is unrelated to the number DCS assigns the engine in the DCS engine list. 3. Next, select the TIU Address that is connected to the TMCC Command Base.
Page 59 TIU as described in the “Advanced Connection” section of the “Universal Locomotive and Accessory Operation” chapter. See that chapter for instructions on operating TMCC engines via the DCS remote. DCS Tip: The < on the alphanumeric character set is the back character, which allows you to correct any typos you made.
Page 60: Editing Engines
LCD. Note: Once you begin to change an engine name via the character set, aborting the process will leave the original name still intact. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 61: Deleting Engines
2. At the LCD prompt press the thumb- wheel to confirm. DCS Tip: If you wish to delete an entire Lash-up, do it as though you were deleting a single engine. For more information on Lash-ups, see the Advanced Menu/Set Lash-up section in this book.
Page 62: Track Setup
Track Setup This menu is used to manage convention- al mode tracks that can be controlled via the DCS handheld. The DCS system automatically assigns track addresses to the tracks wired to Variable channels 1 and 2 of TIU 1. You must enter and...
Page 63 3. Go through DCS System menu/Track Setup to reach Add Z4K Track. 4. Select Z-4000 address (Z4K1-Z4K3) to tell the DCS handheld which Z-4000 remote receiver to address. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 64 LED display) press E-stop (on the DCS handheld).” For instructions on running a conventional mode engine on a Z-4000 track, please see the “Universal Locomotive Control: Conventional Mode” section of the “Universal Locomotive and Accessory Operation” chapter. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 65: Editing Tracks
1. Scroll to the track you want to relocate within the list of tracks and press the thumbwheel to select. 2. Scroll through the list of tracks to the new location for that track, and press thumbwheel to complete the move. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 66: Deleting Tracks
Track Setup: (cont’d) Delete Track 1. Scroll until the arrow points to the track you want to delete and press the thumbwheel to select it. 2. At the LCD prompt press the thumbwheel to confirm. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 67: Switch Setup
Menu Operations - Systems Switch Setup This menu is used to manage switches (turnouts) that can be controlled via the DCS handheld. An AIU (Accessory Interface Unit, Item No. 50-1004) is required for remote control of switches. Add Switch 1. Wire the switch into the AIU as shown in the AIU user’s manual and...
Page 68: Editing Switches
(for instance if you add TIUs and AIUs as a layout expands), you must tell the DCS system its new path. The DCS System will acti- vate whichever switch is wired into the path listed, whether it is the original switch or not.
Page 69: Deleting Switches
“O-72 no 3.” Delete Switch 1. Scroll until the arrow points to the switch you want to delete and press the thumbwheel to select it. 2. At the LCD prompt press the thumb- wheel to confirm. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 70: Accessory Setup
Menu Operations - Systems Accessory Setup This menu is used to manage accessories that can be controlled via the DCS handheld. An AIU (Accessory Interface Unit, Item No. 50-1004) is required for remote control of accessories. The instructions are very similar to those found under the Switch Setup sec- tion previously found in this chapter.
Page 71: Deleting Accessories
If you change the TIU or AIU a particular accessory is wired to (for instance if you add TIUs and AIUs as a layout expands), you must tell the DCS system its new path. The DCS System will activate whichever accessory is wired into the path listed, whether it is the original accessory or not.
Page 72: Tiu Setup
Menu Operations - Systems TIU Setup This menu is used to manage TIUs that can be controlled via the DCS handheld. TIUs are assigned addresses 1-5 (up to five TIUs per handheld). The system automatically assigns every TIU to address 1 when power to the TIU is first applied.
Page 73: Super Tiu
7. Build lash-ups (again, on same TIU tracks), thereafter, run across multiple TIUs. Note: Certain DCS functions that are controlled by a specific TIU (custom sounds, Proto-Cast, Proto-Dispatch, etc.) will only remain active through a selected engine as long as that engine is in the sec- tion of the layout controlled by that TIU.
Page 74: Reset Tiu
(ie: so that you can operate a Ps2 engine as a conventional engine). Note: The presence of the DCS signal on the track does not interfere with conventional or TMCC operation, so you do not need to do this when you run conventional or TMCC engines.
Page 75: Track Signal
Menu Operations - Systems Track Signal DCS allows you to test the power distri- bution to your track, so you can find and repair weak spots. 1. Go to the active engine list and select the Proto-Sound 2.0 engine you will use to test the track signal.
Page 76: Remote Setup
Out of RF Range and Check Track. The default for Remotes Messages is ON." Remote Powerdown Allows you to adjust the power down (sleep) timer on your DCS Remote from 1-60 minutes. 1. Press MENU 2. Select SYSTEM 3. Select REMOTE SETUP...
Page 77: Remote Powerdown
(cont’d) 4. Select REMOTE POWERDOWN 5. Use the thumbwheel to display the value you wish to set as your DCS Remote's sleep timer (from 1-60 minutes). 6. Press the thumbwheel to select the value. When pressed the remote will say “NEW VALUE SAVED”.
Page 78: Quickset Speed
7. Press the ENG button and then select a DCS-equipped engine from the list. 8. Press down on the thumbwheel (Select) and you will see the display change to indicate “QUICKSET SPEED”.
Page 79: Operating Mode
Menu Operations - Systems Operating Mode This allows you to select whether you want the DCS Remote to operate in Speed Mode or Normal Mode. The difference is that Speed Mode allows for much faster response times and does not require a response from the TIU before moving on to the next command.
Page 80: Chapter 7: Menu Operations - Advanced
Chapter 7 Menu Operations - Advanced Create Lash-up........81 Route Setup........... 89 Scene Setup..........92 Record/Playback........94 Reset Engine.......... 96 Information........... 97 AC Input..........97 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 81: Creating A Lashup
2. Enter the Create Lash-Up menu, scroll to Add Engine and press the thumbwheel to see a list of all active engines. 3. Scroll to the engine you want to add to the lash-up and press the thumbwheel. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 82 The lash-up will now appear on the active engine list as a single engine, and (L) will appear on the LCD to indicate when the lash-up is in operation. Operate it as if it were a single engine. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 83 Be careful not to attempt to run a single engine in more than one lash-up or alone and as part of a lash-up at the same time. DCS Tip: If you want to separate one engine from a lash-up during operations, Note: If you select and attempt to operate a...
Page 84 “U” post on the Command Base. 3. Apply track power 4. Press MENU 5. Select ADVANCED 6. Select CREATE LASH-UP 7. Select TMCC LASH-UP 8. Select ADD ENGINE DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 85 ENGINE function to select the engine to delete from the lash-up. 14. Once you have completed adding engine in the position and which direction they are facing you can now give your new lash-up a name. Select LASH-UP NAME. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 86 DCS remote in the INACTIVE ENGINE list. Note: When TMCC lash-ups are built in the DCS Remote they are placed at locations 91-99 in the DCS Remote. 17. Press the ENG button and scroll down to the new lash-up you built and press the thumbwheel (Select).
Page 87 91-99 to allow room for your lash-up. Just like TMCC engines, your TMCC lash-ups will not operate under ALL mode. You cannot add or edit TMCC engine addresses to 91-99 as these are reserved for DCS Proto-Sound 2.0 engines and TMCC lash-ups. You are free to add or edit TMCC engines to addresses 1-90.
Page 88 - Only the coupler at the rear of the lash-up (whether it is the individual engine’s front or rear coupler) is operational. Over-riding DCS Lash-up Defaults: To over-ride lash-up defaults in particular engines, select the individual engine and make adjustments to it. For instance, to turn the horn on in a middle engine, select that engine from the inactive engine list.
Page 89: Setting Up A Route
The DCS system allows you to set up to Note: your TIU and turnouts must be con- 15 routes per handheld, and you can con- nected through an AIU for this feature to trol up to 250 turnouts per route.
Page 90 Delete Route 1. The LCD shows the switch list. Scroll to the route you want to delete and press the thumbwheel. 2. When prompted to confirm the dele- tion, press the thumbwheel a second time. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 91: Setting Up A Scene
To add or delete a switch from the route select the appropriate softkey (S1 - S3) setting you want. 3. When you have finished editing the route, press the softkey (S4) under DONE. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 92: Scene Setup
The DCS system allows you to set up to 15 scenes per handheld, and you can con- trol up to 250 accessories per scene.
Page 93 You may give the scene a name up to 16 char- acters long. Select the “D” at the end of the character set to signify that you are done with this function. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 94: Recording/Playing Back An Operating Session
TIU you select will be recorded. equipment’s starting locations, press REC, and begin operations. The screen returns to the active engine screen and (R) appears on the LCD to indicate that you are recording a session. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 95 LCD. DCS Tip: Pressing STP will stop a session mid-playback. However, Note: You must note the starting position of because command mode is still opera-...
Page 96: Resetting Engine Features
Select Factory Reset to reset everything in the engine, including engine address and custom name, to the factory default. This step removes the engine from the DCS System’s memory. You must add the engine anew after completing this step. Maintenance Reset In command mode "MAINTENANCE...
Page 97: Reading Engine Information
Note: Initial set-up of the system set to its 60 Hz default position will not harm equipment used in a 50 Hz environment, but you must change the system to 50 Hz before attempting to control tracks via the DCS system. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 98: Chapter 8: Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation
Chapter 8 Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Advanced Wiring..........99-106 Wiring Thru Variable Channels..99 Connecting TMCC To DCS....100 Wiring For A Z4000 Remote..... 101 Large Layouts........102 One Gauge Layouts......103 Track Signal Improvement....104 Setting Up A Programming Track..106 ALL Mode (Track)..........
Page 99: Advanced Wiring
In order for the TIU to function, Fixed In 1 must be connected to the transformer. If Fixed In 1 is not required because Fixed Out 1 is not connected to any track, two addi- tional methods are available for powering the TIU. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 100: Connecting Tmcc To A Dcs Layout
Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Advanced Wiring Connecting the TMCC Command Base to a DCS Layout Note: While the TIU/TMCC Connector Cable (Item No. 50-1018) looks like a standard computer DB-9 cable, two of the pins have been reversed to allow the TIU and Command Base to communicate.
Page 101: Wiring For Use With A Z4000 Remote Receiver
Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Advanced Wiring Wiring with Z-4000 Remote Receiver for Conventional Control of Fixed Channels DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 102: Large Layouts
Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Advanced Wiring One of the great features of the DCS system is that it is expandable and can be adapted to each layout. The installation of the system to each layout may differ as the size and complexity of the layout increase.
Page 103: One Gauge Layouts
Note: The variable channels require 22 volts AC power at the Variable Input to provide the voltage displayed on the DCS Remote. If less than 22 Volts AC is provided to the Variable Input the voltage output to the track will be less than that displayed in the DCS Remote. The TIU Variable Channel will NOT vary DC power.
Page 104: Track Signal Improvements
Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Track Signal Improvements A simple method has been discovered that improves DCS track signal quality on layouts wired according to the MTH DCS wiring recommendations. The method can be employed on any layout where track quality fails to exceed 8 when measured using the DCS Track Quality test found in DCS's remote control features.
Page 105: Track Signal Improvement
By attaching an 18 volt bulb to the output ports (red and black) of the TIU Output Channels (Fixed or Variable) or onto the DCS Terminal Block input ports (red and black), the track signal quality measurements will increase. The solution does not boost the signal it simply cleans up signals reflected back into the TIU from the track.
Page 106: Setting Up A Programming Track
Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Advanced Wiring Setting up a Programming Track DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 107: All Mode Tracks
Voltage). The remote will tell all the tracks (Z4K or TIU, depending upon which one you selected in Step 3) to go to 18V. Similarly, you can roll the thumbwheel up one click and you will get to 18V as well DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 108: All Mode (Track)
5.0-22.0 Volts. 6. When you are finished and want to shut the tracks off you can press the TZV (Track Zero Volts) softkey and all the tracks you were controlling will go to zero volts. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 109: Universal Locomotive Control
1. Wire the layout with MTH’s TIU/TMCC Connector Cable as described in the Advanced Connection section earlier in this chapter. 2. Add TMCC engines to the DCS System as described in the System/Add Engine section of the Menu chapter above.
Page 110: Operating Tmcc Engines
#2 press). It's important to note that it takes two presses of the AX1 softkey on the DCS Remote to equal one press of the AUX 1 button on the CAB-1 remote. If you press AX1/2 so that it's highlighted but do not enter anything on the keypad with- in 3 seconds the DCS remote will automatically disable keypad input.
Page 111 CAB- 1/CAB-2 remote, while rolling down on the DCS thumbwheel is the same as spin- ning the knob on the CAB-1/CAB-2 remote counterclockwise. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 112: Editing A Tmcc Engine Address
Universal Locomotive Control Edit TMCC Engine Address You can change an engine’s TMCC address via the DCS handheld. 1. Scroll through the active engine list and when the arrow is beside the engine you want to renumber, press the S/U softkey (S2) to edit the address.
Page 113: Operating Conventional Engines
The DCS system will send the power variations needed to activate the option, and the engine will respond with the appropriate clinks and clanks.
Page 114: Engines In Conventional Mode
Proto- Sound 2.0 locomotive in conventional mode. Follow the steps below to operate a conventional mode engine via the DCS handheld. 1. Wire and name tracks according to the previous instructions in the Track Setup section of the Menu chapter.
Page 115: Operating With Multiple Users
(cont’d) When in Conventional Mode, the yellow Bell, white Whistle, and red Direction buttons operate the same way on the DCS handheld that they do on other transformers and remotes: Horn/Whistle - To sound the whistle, firmly press the Horn/Whistle button. The whis- tle will sound for as long as you continue to depress the button.
Page 116 Engine Setup section of the Menu chapter above. You should not re-add engines your handheld is already programmed to control. 3. Once everyone who will be using the DCS system in a given operating session has programmed the TIUs and engines (s)he will be controlling, begin operating normally.
Page 117: Switch And Accessory Operation
Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation Switch and Accessory Operation Using an Accessory Interface Unit (AIU— Item No. 50-1004) turns DCS into a com- plete layout control system. Once you have wired an AIU, switches, and accessories to the DCS system, you can control them via the DCS remote control.
Page 118: Smoking Whistle
It works in conjunction with the Proto-Whistle feature. Like the Proto-Whistle feature, the Smoking Whistle is not available on all DCS- equipped engines. This feature will only work on those engines that have the prop- er hardware and an actual whistle smoke unit.
Page 119 Note: When Proto-Whistle is active your regular Whistle/Horn button is inactive. Pressing on the thumbwheel (Select) will allow you to control the speed of your engine. Pressing Select again will return you to Proto-Whistle control. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 120: Appendix A: Softkey Codes/Screen Messages
The following charts detail the meaning behind the 3-digit code visible above the soft- key numbers S1 - S5 on the DCS Remote. The first chart details the codes found when using the TR button. The second chart features the codes visible when operating a Ps2 engine with operating pantographs.
Page 121 Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 122 Resetting the Maintenance Feature To reset the Maintenance feature and eliminate the message, 1. Select the "more" softkey, 2. Then scroll down and select Maintenance from the list. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 123 This will remove the "MAINTENANCE REQUIRED" text displayed when the engine is selected This will also reset the Odometer and Chronometer to 0.0, and begin counting time/miles again to alert you to perform maintenance at the next interval. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 124: Appendix B: Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions Do I have to have an M.T.H. Z-4000™ to use DCS? No. DCS and Proto-Sound 2.0, whether in Command or Conventional Mode, will work with most UL-approved, AC hobby transformers, including any M.T.H. transformer, the Lionel® ZW, and others. We do caution you not to use homemade transformers or Right-Of-Way™...
Page 125 Does Proto-Sound 2.0 with DCS really allow me to control Lionel® Trainmaster® engines? Yes. Proto-Sound 2.0 with DCS is the first train control system on the O Gauge market that allows individual control over TMCC and Proto-Sound 2.0 engines on the same track at the same time.
Page 126 Center. Each kit will require programming of a sound set prior to operation. The sound sets can be downloaded from the M.T.H. website at no charge but will require the DCS system in order to be uploaded into the upgraded locomotive.
Page 127 For more information please visit our website at: http://www.protosound2.com/ When I update the DCS Software, do I have to have the most recent version in my system prior to installing the upgrade? No, each DCS software version is complete by itself. You can install version 2.2 on top of version 2.0 with no ill effects.
Page 128: Appendix C: Trouble-Shooting
Trouble-Shooting Although DCS has been designed and engineered for ease of use, you may have some questions during initial operation. The following table should answer most questions. If your problem cannot be resolved with this table, please visit www.protosound2.com for further suggestions or contact M.T.H.
Page 129 Trouble-Shooting DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 130 Trouble-Shooting DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 131 Trouble-Shooting DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 132 Trouble-Shooting DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 133 Trouble-Shooting DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 134 Trouble-Shooting DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 135 These are available at local automotive stores and also from MTH. The MTH part num- ber is BB-0000030. Remove Screws Remove Screws Fixed Channel 1 Fuse Variable Channel 2 Fuse Fixed Channel 2 Fuse Variable Channel 1 Fuse DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 136 STEP I - Establish communication between the remote and the TIU A. Power up both the DCS Remote and the TIU by turning on a transformer hooked to the fixed input 1 channel and pressing the S5 On/Off button on the remote.
Page 137 TIU and check for either a blown fuse in the TIU or a loose wire connecting the PCB to one of the input/output terminals. c. Make sure that the DCS signal is turned on to that track by pressing the Menu button, then selecting System, then DCS Setup, then press the S3 soft key it will say AON above it on the LCD.
Page 138 C. Connect a MTH recommended transformer to the input side of VAR 1 and raise the throttle to MAX. D. Using the DCS remote press the TR button and make sure there are variable tracks added in to the remote. They should come up as TIU # VAR 1 and TIU # VAR 2.
Page 139 If they do not or there is a later version, go to M.T.H’s website and download new code. See DCS Dealer Loader Instruction on the PS2 section of the M.T.H’s Website by selecting the PS2 icon on the lower section of the homepage.
Page 140: Appendix D: Transformer Compatibility Chart
DCS system. * Use 24 volts maximum track voltage when operating a M.T.H. Locomotive equipped with Proto-Sound 2.0. WARNING: TRANSFORMERS PUT OUT UP TO 32 VOLTS WHEN LOAD IS LESS THAN 4 AMPS DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 141 Transformer Compatibility Recommended AC Power Supplies * Conventional Mode Only * *Use of brick without controller recommended refer to Chapter 1 “Recommended Wiring Method- Electronic Transformers” for more information. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 142: Appendix E: Station Stop Proto-Effects Operation
Learn mode and ensure the engine is in the correct directional state (Forward or Reverse). While operating in automatic mode, the user can toggle between “all stops” and “ran- dom stops” via the FAR softkey. DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 143: Manual Operation
Therefore, the user can select a specific stop and then change this request simply by selecting a different stop by pressing the FSS softkey. Once a stop sequence is saved as a loop, the user can toggle between OAB and loop behavior via the FOL softkey. Station Stop Chart DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 144: Appendix F: Glossary
Engine Address: In DCS, numerical assignment given to each engine or consist. When DCS engines are added to the system, they are assigned to the next available position in the engine list. The Engine Address number (and not the alphabetical or alphanumeric engine name) is the means by which the DCS system distinguishes between DCS engines.
Page 145 RailKing GS-2 running at 48 scale Miles Per Hour (sMPH) moves at 1 actual Mile Per Hour (MPH). Softkeys: S1, S2, S3, S4 & S5 buttons on DCS remote. Softkeys S1-S4 access more fre- quently used DCS engine functions. The S5 button activates the “” arrow that scrolls through the available Softkeys functions.
Page 146: Appendix G: Index
Thumbwheel 16 Route 89-91 TMCC 100, 109-112 Scene 92-94 Track Signal 75 Setting Up Troubleshooting 126-137 Accessories 70-71,117 Wiring Recommendations 10-13 DCS 74 Engines 17-18, 57-61 Super TIU 73 Switches 67-69, 117 TIUs 68 Tracks 62-66 DCS Command System User’s Guide...
Page 147: Service & Warranty
First, e-mail, write, call or fax a M.T.H. Authorized Service Center (ASC) in your area to obtain Repair Authorization. You can find the list of ASCs on the M.T.H. Website, www.mthtrains.com. Authorized Service Centers are required to make warranty repairs on items sold only from that store; all other repairs may or may not be done at the store’s own discretion.
Page 148 ©2014 By M.T.H. Electric Trains® 7020 Columbia Gateway Drive, Columbia, MD 21046-1532 Made and Litho in Thailand to M.T.H.’s Standards and Specifications...

MTHTrains DCS Operator's Manual

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction to DCS

Chapter 2: Quick Start in Command Mode

Chapter 3: One-Touch Locomotive Control

Chapter 4: Menu Operations - Sound/Introduction

Chapter 5: Menu Operations - Control

Chapter 6: Menu Operations - System

Chapter 7: Menu Operations - Advanced

Chapter 8: Universal Locomotive & Accessory Operation

Appendix A: Softkey Codes/Screen Messages

Appendix B: Frequently Asked Questions

Appendix C: Trouble-Shooting

Appendix D: Transformer Compatibility Chart

Appendix E: Station Stop Proto-Effects Operation

Appendix F: Glossary

Appendix G: Index

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