About
Train Control Systems Inc. (TCS) is a leading manufacturer of DCC (Digital Command Control) decoders and control systems for model railroad enthusiasts. Based in Blooming Glen, PA, TCS is best known as the home of WOWSound — a flagship line of audio decoders that deliver realistic steam, diesel, and electric locomotive sounds to HO, N, G, and Z scale model trains. TCS's product catalog spans the full spectrum of model railroad control needs. Their WOWSound decoder lineup includes WOWSteam, WOWDiesel, and WOWElectric variants, as well as WOWMotherboards and WOWSpeakers. The brand also offers non-sound decoders for function-only and scale-specific applications, along with a wide range of accessories including KeepAlive capacitor modules, LED lighting solutions, harnesses, connectors, and turnout controllers. On the control side, TCS provides Wi-Fi throttles such as the flagship UWT-100 (large screen with programmable buttons) and the compact UWT-50, plus the LT-50 DCC Starter System — a wired handheld command station ideal for smaller layouts. Their CS-105 Command Station and B-106 Booster round out the DCC system lineup, all with LCC (Layout Command Control) and RailCom® support. TCS also offers installation services, firmware updates, technical documentation, a community wiki, and a dealer network. It's a comprehensive solution for model railroad enthusiasts seeking reliable, high-performance DCC control and sound.
Key Features
- WOWSound Decoder Lineup: Industry-renowned WOWSteam, WOWDiesel, and WOWElectric decoders deliver highly realistic locomotive sounds across HO, N, G, and Z scales.
- Wi-Fi Throttles (UWT-100 & UWT-50): Wireless handheld throttles with programmable buttons and large displays for intuitive locomotive control; compatible with LCC and RailCom®.
- Complete DCC Control Systems: Full ecosystem of command stations (CS-105, LT-50), boosters (B-106), and booster adapters for layouts of all sizes.
- KeepAlive® Technology: Proprietary capacitor-based module that maintains smooth decoder operation through dirty track and power interruptions.
- Accessories & Installation Support: Broad range of accessories including LEDs, harnesses, connectors, and professional decoder installation services with picture documentation.
Use Cases
- Model railroad hobbyists upgrading locomotives with realistic DCC sound using WOWSteam or WOWDiesel decoders
- Layout builders setting up a complete DCC control system with command stations, boosters, and Wi-Fi throttles
- Train club operators deploying multi-throttle wireless control across large club layouts using UWT-100 or UWT-50 throttles
- Beginners starting their first DCC layout with the all-in-one LT-50 DCC Starter System
- Advanced modelers integrating KeepAlive® modules and LED lighting for smooth, realistic locomotive performance
Pros
- Comprehensive Product Ecosystem: TCS covers the full DCC control chain — from decoders and sound systems to throttles, command stations, and accessories — all designed to work seamlessly together.
- Acclaimed WOWSound Quality: WOWSound decoders are widely regarded among modelers for their realistic, high-fidelity locomotive audio reproduction.
- Strong Support & Documentation: Extensive resources including firmware updates, a community wiki, PDF documentation, video tutorials, and a technical support ticketing system.
Cons
- Hardware-Only Product Line: TCS sells physical products; there is no software-only or subscription option, making entry costs dependent on purchasing hardware.
- Phone Support Is Limited: Technical support is handled via ticket submission rather than direct phone calls, which may slow resolution for urgent issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What scales do TCS decoders support?
TCS decoders are available for HO, N, G, and Z scales, covering a wide range of model railroad gauges and locomotive types.
What is WOWSound?
WOWSound is TCS's proprietary sound decoder technology offering highly realistic audio for steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, including dynamic sound effects tied to throttle and operating conditions.
Do TCS throttles support Wi-Fi operation?
Yes, the UWT-100 and UWT-50 are Wi-Fi enabled throttles that allow wireless control of locomotives on a DCC layout, with LCC and RailCom® support.
Does TCS offer installation services for decoders?
Yes, TCS provides professional decoder installation services for customers who prefer to have decoders installed by experts rather than doing it themselves.
How do I get technical support from TCS?
Technical support is available by submitting a support ticket through the TCS website. Phone inquiries are for sales only and not for technical support.
