Any thoughts on hardware- versus computer-based control panels?

[robengland]

The current layout is a 'learning" layout, so I'm trying both a traditional hardware track control panel (like the Sunset Valley ones that so inspired me as a kid) and a computer-based one, to compare.

I expect the computer one will be more flexible to change (of course) and easier to have a remote repeater (dispatcher sits remote from the layout but I also want to be able to run it on my own).

But a big panel with lots of real lights and buttons looks SO COOL.

Anyone with experience of both approaches and their relative merits?

[Anonymous]

I am not sure from your question what you want the result to be. I have both so maybe I can help some. A physical panel has the advantage that one can quickly take an action. You could do the same functions from a PC but it takes longer.

The big gain with a PC is automation, or at least semi automation. It's nice not to have to worry about running a train into a turnout set the wrong way, the PC will throw it if it's wrong.

I don't think it's either-or, you can have both. When visitors look at the layout it's the physical control board the look at.

Hope this helps;
Ken

[robengland]

Thanks Ken

confirms my thoughts on this. if either one is at all redundant, it is the physical panel (once we have invested in all the electronics to have a choice), but it is quicker and puts on a show for visitors.

A personal interest is ergonomic design of software, so I'll be trying to address that "quicker" issue for JMRI panels though intuitive design...

cheers
Rob