The key to DCS working outside is good track conductivity and feeder wires to insure a strong signal throughout the track. The DCS system is true two way between the loco and the interface unit. You can also view the scale mph on the Handheld. There is an internal odometer in the engine so you know how much run time is on the unit.
My track work is good with about 7 feeders arranged in the preferred "home run" wiring pattern. Every power lead "runs home" to the power source. I am going to add more power leads to a central junction source, water proof it and bury it using a sprinkler system valve box.
The Challenger was also hooked up to DC power from a Bridgewerks. I witnessed the owner filling the smoke unit up with MTH smoke. It takes a LOT of smoke fluid! I don't know how big the reservoir is but the certainly kept pouring it in...
You can control some of the higher functions available to DCS only IF you run it with an AC transformer that has the whistle/bell buttons. You could fire the couplers that way....
