DCS Software Version 4.02a Description
The latest version (4.0a2) of the software used in the DCS system adds the largest selection of new features to the DCS system since it's release in 2002 and fixes a few problems with the 4.00 March 2008 and 4.01 April releases. We've described the changes found in 4.02 from previous 3.X releases below in five groups; 4.0 New Features, 4.0 Improvements, 4.01 Additions, 4.01 Fixes and 4.02 Fixes.
Because the memory assignments are dramatically different in software Versions 3.X and earlier, upgrading the code is required in both the remote and the TIU. The system will not function correctly if only one of the two components has been updated. In addition, if the remote and the TIU are currently running any version of 2.X DCS software, both must be reset using the appropriate System menu commands prior to uploading the Version 4.01 software into the remote and the TIU. By resetting both components, all previous information and settings (engines, accessories, switches, etc.) entered into the remote and TIU will be lost and must be reentered by the user after the software update has been completed. Users upgrading from 3.X and higher will not have to reset the remote and TIU prior to uploading the new 4.00 software.
There are two software files attached to the download. Both feature the same numeric code and should be used together (the appropriate file for the remote and TIU) when migrating from Version 3.X or earlier.
The user must use the most recent DCS Loader Program, Version 1.83 in order to upload Version 4.02 into the TIU and Remote. Earlier versions of the DCS Loader Program will not function with the Version 4.01 code.
Version 4.00 & Later New Features
- All mode includes MTH lash-up control
- Boost/Brake settings can be set to stay instead of always returning to zero
- Ability to play quillable Proto-Whistle Sounds (locomotive dependent)
- Adds Speed mode to remote to increase command throughput
- Adds Auto-Coupler Slack sound
- Adds Double-tap brake to send engine speed to 0 SMPH
- Adds TMCC Lash-up capability
- Adds Relative Speed control in TMCC mode
- Adds ALL Track control to TIU and Z4K Tracks
- Adds two softkeys for ALL Tracks to allow one-button power on/off of your Z4K and TIU tracks (TSV/TZV softkeys)
- Adds Remote Power down timer from 1-60 minutes
- Adds Remote Cloning Feature (requires Data Loader.exe)
- Adds Quickset Speed
Version 4.00 Improvements
- Improves TMCC interface on DCS Remote
- Improves Super TIU mode operation
- Improves E-Stop functionality in Track Mode
- Sped up Master Volume +/- operation
- Improves Remote Messages On/Off operation
- Improves Reset Remote feature
Version 4.01 Additions
- A Hold message is now displayed on the remote LCD when resetting a TIU
Version 4.01 Fixes
- Variable 1 on Rev G TIU not having any voltage output or DCS signaling
- When exiting PFA playing two coupler slack sound if the speed is changed
- Boost from 0sMPH would not play coupler slack
- Engine 99 is missing from Engien List - This can only be corrected if the remote is Reset. Cloning the remote will not restore engine #99
- AIU switch relays sticking intermittently
- ACC/DEC Rates changing intermittently when using Boost/Brake
Version 4.02a Fixes
- Corrects missing engine at address #1. Requires Remote reset to get engine location restored
- Corrects PFA Lash-up issue. Previously, the head engine would pull away at the end of the PFA sequence while the trailing engines would not move
- Removes inactive feature "Recover Engine" from the remote code found in Version 4.02
DCS 4.00 & Later Operating Instructions
Users can learn more about the DCS 4.00 new features by downloading the 4.00 Addendum to the DCS manual. The Addendum is located HERE.
Previous DCS Software Release Features
DCS software releases prior to version 4.00 have included a variety of features and enhancements not included in the original 2.0 release in 2002. Users interested in learning more about these releases can do so by CLICKING HERE.