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MTH TIU and Handheld Remote Antenna Add-on Modification to Extend MTH DCS Handheld Remote Operation Range:
Background of operation: The MTH DCS (Digital Command Control System) utilizes: (1) a wireless handheld remote with LCD screen and (2) a base receiver & track interface called a TIU. (There is a third device, an AIU, for accessories) The TIU goes between the output of an AC / DC power supply and the power lines that goes to the track. The TIU accepts the wireless signal from the handheld remote and converts it into a digital signal that is fed with the power through the track to the MTH DCS equipped engine(s). The wireless remote is supposed to have a 50ft operating range.
I found that since I was mounting my TIU in the basement (behind a wall), it's range was severely restricted (to 10-40 feet depending on where you were).
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Improving the range of the wireless remote:
I have found that adding to the length of the existing TIU antenna would yield a much better range.
**Note: Although I have information on modifying the remote antenna, I recommend just adding length to the TIU's antenna and not modify the remote. In most cases, where you locate your TIU and the TIU antenna mod will resolve any range problems you are having.**
**Caution, ensure you stay grounded when doing these modifications. Static electricity can damage the transmitter board **
Lengthening the TIU antenna
- Flip the TIU upside down and remove the 6 screws holding the top and bottom pieces together and remove the top cover.
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Photo two shows the short antenna that comes with the RF transmitter board. (In this case I've added a solderless joiner)
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- Next:
- Solder the ~13 inch wire to the end of existing antenna wire and heat shrink the new connection. (I used ~20 gauge wire, finely stranded)
- Hot glue the wire to the top of the black audio connector to the right. This will ensure the RF board isn't pulled out of the TIU motherboard if the new antenna is pulled on too hard.
- Drill out a small hole between two of the vent grills so you can push the new antenna through
- Reattach the top cover of the TIU.
- Take a good size screw driver and coil the new antenna wire around it.
- Create an arch as shown in the photos below.
That's it.
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One thing, fresh 1.5v alkaline batteries seem to yield a little better range than the 1.2v rechargeables.
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