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"What I am looking for is the "Microsoft Model Railroad Control Package" or some such thing. A package that is user friendly that is plug and play and will control a layout as a whole."Capt,I think the packages are out there, but the "user friendly" part depends a lot on the user. [:)]The biggest problem, of course, is that everyone's layout is different, so any program has to be flexible. There will always be a need to specificly set up a system for your layout. That adds a lot of complexity. It shouldn't involve writing code or binary numbers, but if you have more than a simple oval, it gets complicated.Systems like CMRI and JMRI have the basic things you want, but setting them up to control a layout is still more than simple plug n play.Perhaps the ideal program would let you draw your layout ala the existing CAD programs and the program would then generate the specs and operating software, screen, etc for your system. It could tell you where you'd need sensors, blocks, wiring diagrams etc. depending on what you wanted to do.It's a shame part of this thread has taken on a DC vs DCC tilt, because the "ultimate" control program can be operating system independent. If you look at what is needed - train location sensing and automation, its irrelevant how you control the engines. You are still locating engines, setting their speed, setting speed and stops, setting turnouts for routes, etc. Whether that's done via a cab block system or DCC is irrelevant, a computer can handle that detail.Mike Tennent
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