This one area where the best of both worlds co-exist side by side.
• For those who are “Gun-shy” when it comes to computing, or just don’t want their hobby time invaded by the computer that’s on their desktop every day at work – don’t panic… You DO NOT have to use a computer with your DCC system!
• For those who would like the benefits of added computer assistance for control, accessory interface, decoder programming, track and signal interlocking, automated running or just for the information – you CAN.
DCC and Computing
An installed DCC system is easier to operate with than a conventional controller and control panel. It is a great example of technology bringing enhanced performance and flexibility with simplicity and ease of use to our hobby
In the same sense as a microwave oven, DVD player or mobile telephone, a DCC system, no matter how large or small, is, in itself, a form of computer control…. it contains a set of Pre-programmed software” and is directed to take action or make decisions by the addition of new information created by pushing buttons or turning knobs.
The biggest difference between your DCC controller and your desktop computer is the fact that the programming and information that controls your models is largely “embedded” into the command station, handset and decoders, and the complexity of operation is reduced to simple decisions – faster, slower, on or off etc…
Basically, if you can make a simple call on the mobile, turn on the microwave, or watch a movie with your DVD player, you are already quite able to use DCC, no problem at all. No complications needed – just read the manual, plug it in and operate.
HOWEVER - If you want more – you CAN have your cake and eat it too – because what you have in front of you is a “User friendly interface”. A computing device that is pretty well ready to connect with other computing devices like your Mac or PC, exchange information and act according to your wishes.
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Which models can be connected easily?
Many DCC systems already have a "port" ready to accept a direct connection to your computer. Here are a few examples – all are popular brands with exceptional reputations. We don’t pretend that this is a totally comprehensive list, however we would be delighted to add any brand and any relevant information provided to us.
Please feel free to email us and * let us know what we missed * add data… or * correct any errors.
NCE: is "Computer ready" right out of the box:
• “Powerhouse Pro” has a direct connection via serial cable.
• Manual has simple instructions for executing extended instructions via computer keyboard.
• Easily interfaced with ALL model popular railway software.
Zimo: is “Computer ready” right out of the box:
• MX-1 has a direct connection via serial cable.
• Manual has simple instructions for executing extended instructions via computer keyboard.
• Easily interfaced with ALL model popular railway software.
Digitrax: Varies model by model, but add-on computer interfacing is comprehensively covered:
• MS100 computer interface available for standard computer connection
• RLPM100 available for interface with “palmtop” computers (see website for details)
• PR1 decoder programmer available to simplify Digitrax decoder programming.
Lenz: has an easy to use computer interface module:
• The LI101F allows hhigh-speed connection of your Digital plus system to a computer.
• All system functions are available to computer programs via an RS232 interface.
• A 4-wire connection links the LI101F to XpressNet.
Other: we’d love to add more brands and models here:
• If you use another brand and interface it with a computer, send us the information
• Include as little or as much data as you feel will be useful
• Include web links if possible
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Neat peripherals to help you program decoders and work with DCC
(As with all chapters on this site, if you manufacture, use or recommend any useful item, email me with information and I’ll add it with pleasure).
SPROG this is a stand-alone decoder programmer and is also able to generate DCC information for testing and set-up of DCC components. To paraphrase the SPROG website:
• SPROG is a computer-based programmer for DCC decoders. Born out of the frustration felt by many trying to use the PR-1 and inspired by the MERG standalone programmer.
• SPROG is available with either RS-232 or USB interfaces and is supported on a range of hardware platforms and operating systems by DecoderPro.
• SPROG is capable of generating any valid (or invalid) DCC packet to facilitate testing of DCC components. This was originally intended for use with a small 'tail chaser' test track or rolling road for decoder testing, running-in, performance tuning, etc.
• DecoderPro, from version 1.3.8a, includes throttles for SPROG allowing it to be used as a computer based command station/booster for small layouts. The SPROG on-board power supply is limited to 1amp. Please contact me if you want more details, as there are currently some issues with this mode of operation.
• Other possibilities include using SPROG as an interface between a computer and a DCC accessory bus
• Please visit http://www.sheerstock.fsnet.co.uk/dcc/sprog.htm for more information.
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Software and software links
Once DCC is established on your layout, it becomes possible to do almost anything with accessory, signalling or route control, and things like timetable operation, automatic train control and integration of automated lighting, onboard video systems and sound-scapes becomes a reality. To service this need and make use and operation easier, a whole host of hardware and software projects and manufacturers has sprung into existence. Because DCC is standardised, all are almost guaranteed to function with all major DCC brands. Take a look at these options – it will really open your eyes to the true potential for the integration of DCC and model railway operations.
Sourceforge/Decoder Pro This is a global software project that has been conceived, created and continues to be evolved by a group of enthusiastic programmers and railway modellers.
• This is a FREE Software package – It is a superb program with real value.
• Global input has created, evolves and maintains a widely accepted and user friendly program
• Decoder Pro now encompasses far more than simple decoder programming – it can also be an interactive control panel, a DCC controller and much more.
• Highly recommended – visit http://jmri.sourceforge.net/
Railroad & Co… is one of the worlds leading product line-ups of computer programs for digitally or conventionally controlled model railroads.
• TrainController™ is among he worlds leading software suites for computer controlled model railroads.
• TrainProgrammer™ makes programming of decoders as simple as a few clicks with your mouse.
• TrainMonitor™ is the world's first program, which is especially made for indication of train positions on the computer screen. The software is based on train detection and train tracking and can be used for DCC or conventionally controlled layouts.
• The Railroad and co. Handheld is the world's first remote control especially designed for computer controlled model railroads.
• Check out Railroad & Co on http://www.freiwald.com/
KAM Industries… has been producing professional model railroad software since 1991. All of KAM's software is scale independent.
• Supports the popular command stations CMRI, CVP:EasyDcc, Digitrax:LocoNet, LGB:MTS, Lenz:XpressNet, NCE:PowerPro and others).
• KAM software operates on Microsoft's current operating systems: Windows CE (PC2002 and PC2003, Windows 2003 Mobile 2nd Edition), 2000, Xp, Windows 2003 & Windows .NET.
• Run your trains from the internet - all KAM software products are internet enabled
• Try out wireless networks -- Loco CE or Drive trains with RailDriver Commander®
• Check out KAM industries on http://www.trainpriority.com/
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E-groups that will help you learn more about Computer control
E-groups have been established for most brands, and for most special interest groups within the Model railway hobby. We highly recommend that you consider joining the E-group for your chosen brand, or for any potential brand, prior to making the final decision.
E-groups are a fantastic resource for the DCC owner – and a great research resource for the prospective DCC “convert” – however, do remember when you ask for recommendations or information that owners will invariably “evangelise” and praise their chosen brand, or at least minimise any “downside” – so take all advice as well meaning but not necessarily as unbiased.
DO expect the odd additional qualifying question and respond as well as you can. DO say “I don’t know” if you aren’t sure – best advice requires a real awareness of the questioners level of understanding. On occasion there may be Argumentative response, and perhaps the odd answer may wander off the point, but that’s OK – after all, E-group users are only human, and all time spent replying is at the respondents choice.
E_group courtesy - It’s courteous to say hi – and introduce yourself to lists on your first post – and to sign your name at the end. If you ask for advice or help please explain things as clearly as you can, and acknowledge replies (usually best to wait several days for an aggregation of responses – some people only “log on” once or twice a week). Apart from that “treat others as you expect to be treated”. Simple courtesies are accepted and expected on Railway E-groups… and their omission (especially posts without names) may gain a bit of flack… So, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” is a sensible approach.
LIST OF RECOMMENDED E-GROUPS for DCC (Email me if you’d like a group added to the list)
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jmriusers/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/NCE-DCC/>
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DigitalPlusbyLenz/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/digitrax/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/railroadandco/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/DCC-Sound/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/merg/ (MERG Membership required)
