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Post by dctrainguy on Mar 1, 2024 3:56:05 GMT
Hi all, I dug out some old MTH engines from my dad garage that were just sitting in boxes. Im finally getting back into the hobby after about 10 years and building a layout,I figured I start running some of them and get them on my shelves in my train room.
I changed the batteries, greased them up and they run great!! No issues!! My question is how can I tell if they are proto 1 or 2 engines?
I know proto 1 only runs conventional. I believe 2 can run wireless? Correct me if I’m wrong. I was thinking on trying to get a wireless controller and TCU to run some proto 2 and newer engines.
Sorry guys. Been out of the loop for the past 10 years and a lot has changed since then. Just started back up in the past few months.
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Post by david1 on Mar 1, 2024 6:11:49 GMT
Proto two runs in conventional and dcs. You must have a Tiu to run in command. You can also use a remote commander with limited access.
What ever you do, have fun.
Dave
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Post by 4dogsinjersey on Mar 1, 2024 6:12:32 GMT
The boxes should say what system they have. If you have the model numbers or pics of the end of the boxes, we can determine what they are.
Also, the PS2/5v engines will have a circular, round charging port somewhere on the engine, depending on the model. If the charging port is a small square, it is a PS2/3v.
Tom
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Post by Traindiesel! on Mar 1, 2024 7:03:18 GMT
No need to be sorry! The new WTIU (The DCS Track Interface Unit with WiFi capability) that will be arriving in stores this summer (hopefully). You can also run ProtoSound 1 locomotives, or any conventional locomotive from any manufacturer, with your WiFi capable device by setting one of the WTIU outputs to 'variable' (via the set up menu of the DCS app). The throttle on the app will vary the voltage to the track just like a transformer handle. If you acquire an older TIU you set this up through the handheld remote to do the same thing. This way you are not tethered to a transformer and can follow your train around the layout.You can check out the MTH DCS system information on their website. MTH DCS SystemYou're going to love it!! Have fun!'
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Post by superwarp1 on Mar 1, 2024 13:44:35 GMT
If you have PS1 engines, don't power them up until you change the battery. PS2 5 volt I would change the battery before powering up but you might be ok. PS2 5 volt or 3 volt you should at least charge the battery before powering up on the track see if the battery will hold a charge. Better yet PS1 or PS2 5 volt, 3 volt, change the battery out for a BCR.
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Post by dctrainguy on Mar 1, 2024 20:25:13 GMT
Train Diesel, thanks for the info. I been reading up on the new TIU and some things I’ve been reading says you also need AIU Accessory Interface Unit to operate your switches and accessories. Is that correct? Im thinking of pre ordering the new TIU. Be nice to run the old and new stuff at the same time.
This way I don’t have to worry about the voltage on track 1&2 running conventional and new. I’m almost at the point on my layout to wire my switches in. Waiting on my Ross crossover switch and other switches. He’s backed up on orders 3-6 weeks. That’s another topic for discussion. LOL
As for the boxes of the old MTH I have they just say Protosound on them. Nothing what a number. I’m assuming they are just the 1 PS?
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Post by dctrainguy on Mar 1, 2024 20:43:17 GMT
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Post by harborbelt70 on Mar 1, 2024 21:09:33 GMT
So here is one of the older PS. Nothing on engine or box. That is a PS1 engine, conventional control only with the original QSI sounds that MTH used. It has an electronic reversing unit for transformer control and transformer buttons would give you access to various sound features. What I can’t help you with are the exact button press sequences to use but just about any Protosound diesel manual will contain them in the section describing conventional transformer operation. Also, I think it is always the case that if an MTH engine has DCS command control it will say so on the box.
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Post by Traindiesel! on Mar 2, 2024 6:39:59 GMT
Train Diesel, thanks for the info. I been reading up on the new TIU and some things I’ve been reading says you also need AIU Accessory Interface Unit to operate your switches and accessories. Is that correct? Im thinking of pre ordering the new TIU. Be nice to run the old and new stuff at the same time. This way I don’t have to worry about the voltage on track 1&2 running conventional and new. I’m almost at the point on my layout to wire my switches in. Waiting on my Ross crossover switch and other switches. He’s backed up on orders 3-6 weeks. That’s another topic for discussion. LOL As for the boxes of the old MTH I have they just say Protosound on them. Nothing what a number. I’m assuming they are just the 1 PS?
MTH didn’t give ProtoSounds numbers until PS2.0 was released. Remember that ProtoSounds is the MTH sound system. DCS is the command control. QSI was the sound system of the original ProtoSounds until MTH created their own sound system that they called ProtoSounds 2.0. ProtoSounds 3.0 eliminated the need for the battery to power the sound system.
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Post by curtis on Mar 2, 2024 15:34:27 GMT
Traindiesel is correct in his statements. QSI will be PS1 or JUST PROTOSOUND Labeled. PS2 can be 5v which is a round port or 3v which is a square port for charging. PS3 will not have a charging port or a battery. An AIU will handle 10 switches or 10 accessories. You can also use it to power sidings and many other things. A TIU is the main component between track and transformer. It can be used for Conventional and PS1 via variable control or command (a constant voltage usually 18 volts).
Just remember if it says QSI it will always be PS1 (Conventional) and no TIU is needed. Also you can ALWAYS run PS2 and PS3 conventional!
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