Does any one use the PM-1 or multiple PM-1s to run conventional engines! Just got off the phone with LIONEL and they said the PM-1 has a selectable two position switch so you can use two separate addresses in the TMCC remote. As I understand the TPC300 or 400 can have its address programmed by the remote but the PM-1 can’t. I would like to run two separate loops of conventional engines with one remote. Of course I will also have a command base to run TMCC engines when I get up the funds to purchase one. The two loops will be blocked (6 blocks, 3 on each loop) and interconnected by switches (turnouts) to run off the control panel. I will use ATLAS 215 3 (A, B, off) position switches to select which block is connected to which PM-1. If you can understand this garbled post any input would be appreciated.
Steve
Steve, I’ve never used a PM but instead of just talking to the Lionel rep I would also suggest you take a look at www.coilcouplers.com as well as the Lionel site. Lionel’s tutorial on TMCC is ok but the other, in my estimation, provides better info.
At the museum we use either TPCs or the DCS handhelds for conventional ops.
Thanks a bunch Doug. That tutorial answered the question I’ve been trying to figure out for two months. My local hobby shop dealer is a great guy but just not up on lionel TMCC in convential mode. His solution was to put all my postwar stuff on display and buy all new TMCC locos. ( From him I am assuming ). It appears that the PM-1 can be programed to 1 of 9 addresses. The TPCs 99 addressed. I only need 3. This will save a lot of money because you can get PM-1s for 60 to 70 dollars. TPCs cost twice that.
Thanks again Steve.
I do what you are trying to do. PM-1’s can be programmed to TR1 - TR9 in conventional. It’s called TrainMaster Remote, not TMCC(which is TrainMaster Command Control).
If you need more than 135 watts(for original PM-1’s) or 180 watts(newer, switchable units) per circuit, I have programmed 2 PM-1 bricks to the same TR address and wired them to the track in parallel(be forewarned though - there is no Lionel-approved procedure for doing this). This is about the only way to run full aluminum consists w/ dual motored F-3 A-B-A’s on the point without running out of power with PM-1’s.
Rob
Thanks Rob,
I’ll be running pretty standard postwar stuff. No dual motor or large engines. I’m using a 1947 Z 250w, 1 circut per PM and then assign a separate address for each. I think it might work.
Steve
Had another question Rob,
I’ve seen the PM-1 listed under 2 stock numbers. 12867 and 24130. Is one these the old one and the other the new? Which should I try to get? OOPS, I gues thats two questions.
Steve
The original 12867 is 135 watts max output.
The newer 24130 is 135/180 watts max output switchable.
Rob
Thanks again Buddy. Its all starting to lock in now.
Steve