LIONEL TO SEEK COOPERATION ON TMCC 2 STANDARD

[Anonymous]

Clyde took down "myths" and put the old hi rail times back issues back.

[Anonymous]

Certainly a CAB 1 will operate a TMCC 2 loco with all TMCC 1 features. and MAYBE a DCS handheld will be able to do this as well, but the NEW features will require a "CAB 2" or a computer interface which may well be "firmware" as in a small plug in adapter similar to what is known to geeks as a "dongle"

[Big_Boy_4005]

Features and functions beyond the basic control mean nothing for my operation. Speed and MAYBE basic sound are all I ask. Lionel doesn't need to sell an interface for computer operation, unless you mean software. TA Studios is working on that, but I may have to write my own anyway, because of my detection and signal system. Lionel has been meaning to write software since day one. The hardware system is just fine.

[nblum]

I think, and this is just an educated guess, certainly it will be backwardly compatible, thus "TMCC 2" engines will still function as expected using the cab-1. My other guess is that computer operation will still be feasible, but Lionel will require licenses for computer software development and not allow MTH access to the codes without a license fee. Individual purchasers will almost certainly have access to appropriate computer codes or be able to purchase appropriate software.

I do hope they continue to license the basics of the TMCC system to all willing manufacturers to preserve at least one relatively open, single standard of control system, in so far as possible. Not to do so would not only be uncollegial, but not in the best interests of the long term health of the hobby and industry.

[Anonymous]

One thing is dead certain. "TMCC 2" engines WILL require a "CAB 2 " for full functionality. I'm sure that definite steps will be taken to render a DCS handheld useless for the purpose, Perhaps Lionel will sell an interface for computer operation.

[Big_Boy_4005]

I certainly hope nothing changes, as far as the open standard goes. Yes, that's what makes it possible for DCS to control TMCC engines, but that is also what makes it possible for me to use a computer to control my trains. I hate propriatary systems.

[Anonymous]

Neil, I agree with your analysis Those who play nice with Lionel will come along for the ride. Those who do not (oh, well) Lionel is asserting its natural position as leader of 3-rail.

[nblum]

John , I don't read this as TMCC is going to be a closed standard. I read it as Lionel is saying this is our technology and you build on it with our cooperation and assent or there are no guarantees that Lionel's new versions will operate with your gadgets. Lionel and its licensees have had "issues" in the past over such freelancing, and I believe Clyde is simply stating that Lionel is the 800 pound gorilla on this bus and everyone must play nice with us or else. There is, of course, no guarantee that Lionel will provide second generation TMCC features to licensees. I 'm sure that will depend on the marketplace, the outcome of the lawsuit, and whether MTH ever gets around to licensing DCS to others. That would be a strong impetus to license the Lionel system unless it was so superior to the existing technology, which seems unlikely, IMO. But we shall see:).

[Anonymous]

Posted on the Coil Couplers web site.

A Look At Some Popular Misconceptions
About The Fate Of TMCC...
by Clyde Coil
November 23, 2004

Hey operators
Yer probably wonderin' about TMCC's future. DANG! I know some folks are concerned. My old train reporter friend, Z.W. Messengetti, found a piece of paper the other day. Looks to me like some folks should be concerned, but if yer into LIONEL, it looks A-OK! YER DANG TOOTIN!

List of Myths:

LIONEL is going under.


TMCC is technologically obsolete.


TMCC is not capable of 2-way communication.


K-LINE has a new system that will always work with TMCC.


K-Line's TMCC modifications will always work with TMCC.


DCS will always be able to control LIONEL TMCC locomotives.


Third Rail's TMCC modifications will always work with TMCC.


ATLAS O's TMCC modifications will always work with TMCC.


Train America's modified products will always work with TMCC.


LIONEL TMCC improvements will not control any LIONEL ever made.


LIONEL TMCC improvements will not retrofit to existing TMCC equipment.