I am looking forward to this interface.
I built a simple around the walls n scale Layout Using E-Z command system, Which I bought for $40 brand new sealed. Bought the plug in ports for about $10 each and a walk around companion for $50. All new and sealed in packaging. Was bummed to find that it was nearly impossible to find any more companions. When I did find one, it was overpriced. I see future operating sessions having as many as 4-5 operators.
no matter who comes to visit they can be an operator with their iPhone or iPad And I dont have to purchase several controllers.
i also use the mac program, switchlist! to create operating sessions. I can assign them a train, send them all the associated reports, waybills, switch lists etc. via email pdf. Or make it available on server.
they can have all their paperwork available And drive the train right from their device in their pocket.
JimInMichigan RR Baron You are getting wireless --- BUT only getting use of 4 functions and still without programming capability needed for today's DCC decoders. RR Baron And I will repeat... This post is not about the downfalls of E-Z Commander. Please do not respond with such.
RR Baron You are getting wireless --- BUT only getting use of 4 functions and still without programming capability needed for today's DCC decoders. RR Baron
You are getting wireless --- BUT only getting use of 4 functions and still without programming capability needed for today's DCC decoders.
RR Baron
And I will repeat... This post is not about the downfalls of E-Z Commander. Please do not respond with such.
Jim,
If you can get it for $20...might be worth it. If it costs $120?...not so sweet. That was my main point in my earlier post.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
Only the beginning? Any system that can interface to JMRI already has a smartphone control system that lets you use labels instead of F numbers, so you just have to hit the lights, horn, bell, notch up, etc. button, no need to remember what F number is assigned. And you can swipe to another screen where you can control turnouts without the cumbersome mode switching there is on most all DCC throttles.
And this has been around for years now.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
This only the beginning for using smart phones for MRR control. It will evolve. Everything does.
Patience, grasshopper.
Rich
If you ever fall over in public, pick yourself up and say “sorry it’s been a while since I inhabited a body.” And just walk away.
My reply was about using the E-Z Command Smart Interface.
Notice when using the smart interface its connected smart device acting as throttle can turn on and off 4 of the decoder's functions. When using E-Z Command Control Center, it can turn on and off 9 of the decoder's functions, F0 through F8.
tstage While the E-Z Command is a decent, basic, no-frills starter DCC system - i.e. if had at a discount (bought mine 10 years ago for $50), any accessories/components for it are generally waaaaay overpriced and not worth the additional expense. Far better to save one's pennies and invest in a starter system that allows you the ability to fine-tune your locomotive's running ability and utilize any lighting/sound effects it might have. I'm guessing that the app for the smart phone is probably going to be pretty limited, as well. Tom
While the E-Z Command is a decent, basic, no-frills starter DCC system - i.e. if had at a discount (bought mine 10 years ago for $50), any accessories/components for it are generally waaaaay overpriced and not worth the additional expense. Far better to save one's pennies and invest in a starter system that allows you the ability to fine-tune your locomotive's running ability and utilize any lighting/sound effects it might have. I'm guessing that the app for the smart phone is probably going to be pretty limited, as well.
Every one knows there are better systems out there. This post is not a debate over such. I know I can buy a SPROG3 and team it with JMRI and have many options. BUT, this gives those of us happy with the ease of use with the E-Z Command and gives us wireless throttles with the same features of the E-Z Command. And if not way over priced, this option would be less expensive than say, a Power cab, the componet to connect the powercab to a computer and a computer needed in the train room, along with Wi-Fi. This is just one little box that does all of that.
CSX Robert I was curious about that so I didi some digging and appparently 44901 is the part number of the actual controller and 44902 is the "kit" that comes with the controller, power supply, and track interface cable.
Interesting. My controller came in the " Thunder Cheif " sound value set.
Speculate the E-Z Command Smart Interface with your smart device are the replacement for the 'apparently discontinued' Bachmann E-Z Command Walk-Around Companion, Item No. 44907.
JimInMichigan...My only concern (other than price ) is the brochure states that it plugs into the 44902, I own the 44901...
I was curious about that so I didi some digging and appparently 44901 is the part number of the actual controller and 44902 is the "kit" that comes with the controller, power supply, and track interface cable.
You will find better prices on line.
Micro Mark and The Favorite Spot are two suppliers I have used quite often for Bachmann products. There will be a few others.
Bachmann announced an " E-Z Command Smart Interface "
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/docs/E_Z_Command_Smart_Interface.pdf
Supposedly a simple plug-n-play interface for wireless engine control using a smartphone/tablet. I'm afraid to find out the price. My only concern (other than price ) is the brochure states that it plugs into the 44902, I own the 44901. I have asked Bachmann if it matters.