DCS

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Will the MTH DCS system work with a 1946 Lionel Z transformer. It wasn’t listsed in the manual as being compatable.

Thanks Steve

2

The Z transformer has close to the same voltage output as a pw ZW so it should work fine. The ZW has a whistle and direction features while the Z has just four track outputs. However you will need to add better circuit protection and add TVS(transient voltage protection) devices, very low price but needed item for use with older transformers and newer trains, or you can cry over your burn-up circuit board without a TVS unit.

Lee F.

3

Thanks Lee,

I’ve heard of putting and inline fast blow CB on the power line but have never heard of a TVS. Can you explain what this is and can it be purchased at Radio Shack. Thanks STEVE

4

I’m runnng a quick acting circuit breakers between my PW ZW’s and my TIU. TVS’s after the TIU and before the track connections. I get mine from Scott’s Odds and Ends. Some will say you do not need the circuit breaker with TVS’s. I will still trip a breaker at a “short” like a derailment.

5

A while back Bob Nelson made mention of a website that sold the TVS units, I think it is Mouser Electronics. www.mouser.com part # 625-1.5KE36CA-E3 a 1500 watt 36 volt bidirect TVS unit. The TVS unit looks like a large diode in size.

Lee F.