So I can only use a manufacturers contol with that dcc system UNLESS I am using JMRI in which case a phone can be used upstream of the dcc system. BUT I can use anybodys circuit breakers, reversers, etc. downstream of the command system. Is that correct? Thank you.
Yes, that's basically correct.
The NMRA Standards and RP's for DCC describe how the power and signal are put on the tracks, so anything that uses or controls ("controls" as in a circuit breaker or auto reverser) the track power should be compatible.
But the NMRA intentionally left the throttle to command station communication out of the Standards and RP's so that manufacturers would be able to have some amount of freedom in designing their DCC systems.
JMRI gets around that by "knowing" the throttle protocols of the various DCC systems, and translating the WiThrottle/Engine Driver commands into the correct protocol.
CVP Products makes wireless throttles which may be used with other systems. I have a Lenz system but use CVP wireless throttles. I think they make slightly different models for each system they support. I don't think, for example, that my throttles would work on anything but Lenz.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
They only work with Lenz. It still is a different base station than the one you would use with a CVP DCC system.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
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