Notes on New WTIU Mike Wolf Demo Created on December 7, 2024 at 11:20 AM TIU Overview (00:00 - 10:00) Upgrade process Use the app to upgrade via home network. New app feature for streaming music through the train. TIU Features Four independent channels rated at 10 amps each. Can run four separate layouts or multiple trains on large layouts. Expandability options Daisy chain or run up to five TIUs for 20 channels. Can run four loops with 10 amps on each. Channel Types Outer channels are variable. Can run conventional trains by setting voltage. Compatible with both AC and DC power. Inner channels are fixed outputs. Digital signals added to the power for communication. Allows running conventional and command engines on the same track. App and Network Connection App download instructions Available on Android Play Store or Apple Store. Basic version is free; premium version costs $25. Connecting to home network Use WPS button for easy setup, or manual connection if not available. Power the TIU using the included transformer or compatible transformers like Z1000.Powering the Unit (10:00 - 19:55) Z1000 can power the unit. It is more efficient to use Z1000 for the track. The power supply only powers the processor. Banana jack cable is required for connection. Barrel jack connector needed for input. Cables and Connectors A special pigtail connector is necessary. Connects RS232 to USB. Remote control usage requires a handset cord. Old RF remotes are obsolete. New system uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Compatibility and Features Old TIUs can still be used. New WTIU incorporates Wi-Fi features. App allows for multiple users to control trains. Grandkids and friends can join in by downloading the app. App Functionality Users can add and manage engines via the app. Active engines appear on the layout. Inactive engines stored for future use. TMCC engines require manual setup. Users must input engine details and addresses. Doppler Sound Feature (19:55 - 29:48) You can set up a loop to simulate Doppler sound. The loudest point occurs at the setup location. Allows for music playback through the train. Useful for Christmas music while the train runs around a tree. Sound Menu Access to various train sounds through the menu. Includes forward signal, reverse signal, and crossing signal. Protosound 2 and 3 trains include these features. Many features are not utilized when running trains conventionally. Custom Sounds Ability to upload custom sound files. Can record real steam engine whistles or personal messages. Sounds can be named for easy identification. Examples include "Happy Birthday" or "local cab chatter." Maintenance and Tracking Features Odometer tracks scale miles and power usage. Can set maintenance alerts for oiling. Voltage meter detects voltage drops on the layout. Helps identify areas needing track cleaning. Engine and Sound Settings Individual sound settings for volume adjustments. Includes engine roar, horn volume, bell volume, and accent volume. Clickety clack sound feature for realistic train operation. Activates at speeds over 30 miles per hour. Track Control Variable channels for remote control of track voltage. Emergency track setting available to turn off voltage. Direction buttons and sound controls for bells and whistles. Compatible with conventional mode engines. Track Transformer (29:49 - 39:38) Set maximum voltage to prevent accidents. For example, limit to 10 volts to avoid trains flying off the track. TIU and AIU AIU allows control of multiple switches and accessories. Each AIU can control 10 switches and 10 accessories. Daisy chain up to 5 AIUs to each TIU for expanded control. Switches and Accessories Switch ports can be opened/closed; accessory ports allow momentary or on/off functions. Name switches and accessories for easier identification. Example: "movie theater switch" for a switch near the movie theater. Routes and Scenes Routes for switches; scenes for accessories; both are macros. Macros allow multiple actions with a single command. Example: Activate three rides at once with a "rides scene". Recording and Playback Record and playback up to 45 minutes of operations. Set up complex scenarios with trains, announcements, and accessories. Ideal for showcasing the layout to guests without manual operation. Advanced Features Import/export sound files for engines. Ensure compatibility with wheel diameter and gear ratio. Ability to recover engines that lose connection. Parts and Sales New parts availability has increased significantly. Ongoing efforts to photograph and catalog parts for sale. Partnership with Mike Reagan to manage parts and sales effectively. New Website Features (39:38 - 49:37) Launching a new website in 2-3 weeks. Users can input item numbers to view service areas and parts. Will include exploded views for easier part selection and ordering. Product Availability Increased availability of parts compared to four years ago. Rubber tires, smoke units, couplers, etc. are now more accessible. TIU and Wi-Fi Information New TIUs and Wi-Fi boxes are available. New pigtails for TMCC and remote coming in about a month and a half. App Installation Assistance Assistance offered for installing the app on phones. Users must know their Apple ID for installation. Signal and Layout Concerns Discussion on improving signal quality. Users should check connections and run additional feeders to enhance signal strength. Importance of maintaining a loop in wiring to avoid digital signal crashes. TIU Power and Train Management TIU can manage multiple trains based on power supply. Running five engines requires sufficient power, typically around 10 amps. Users need to reprogram trains when upgrading to the new TIU. Cannot import trains from the remote; setup must be done through the app. General Setup and Wiring General advice on connecting multiple TIUs for effective signal distribution. Insulate sections and use separate channels to avoid cross-talk between TIUs. AIU connections for managing switches and controls are available. Lionel Remote and Command Base (49:37 - 57:01) Lionel remote communicates with command base. Remote sends signals via USB to the Lionel box. Lionel box connects to the train using a proprietary system. Upgrade options available for Proto Sound engines. Upgrade from Proto Sound 1 to Proto Sound 3 is possible. Requires trained personnel to avoid damaging components. New Product Announcement New product features an all-white trash truck. Truck includes Trump figure and voice. Pre-orders expected to be popular. App and Manual Information Users can download manuals from the website. Product number needed to access specific manuals. Latest app version is 4.0 for Apple and build 57 for Android. Manual for WTIU available in the app's user manual area. Explorer vs. TIU Explorer designed for smaller layouts. Popular among users with limited space. TIU provides more advanced features. Users have reported varying experiences with both products. Production and Shipping Updates F3ABA units for Santa Fe are currently shipping. Orders are expected to be in the warehouse soon. Insulated track information discussed. Tracks can be controlled independently with insulators.