I don’t agree Neil. While I have the TMCC remote (I got it for free with a Lionel NYC set when TMCC first came out), the CAB-1 control has to be the most vague and non-user friendly device I have ever seen. The “big red knob” may be fine for controlling non-TMCC locos, but compared to the roller wheel and actual speed readout in MPH that DCs uses, it’s pretty much antiquated technology. I also have the adapter gizmo that allows TMCC control using DCS. While it might not control as much individual features as the CAB-1 controls, it does a “good enough” job with the limited stuff TMCC actually has.
And as I said above, I don’t see any features important enough for me to spend the big $$$ to buy a Legacy remote system and Legacy locos.
"The “big red knob” may be fine for controlling non-TMCC locos, but compared to the roller wheel and actual speed readout in MPH that DCs uses, it’s pretty much antiquated technology.’
I would suggest that is because you learned command on DCS first. Those like myself who were using the cab-1 for six or seven years before the DCS handheld was available find the DCS handheld roller wheel inconvenient, less reliable and less easy to use than the big red knob. It’s all what you’re used to :). The cab-1 big red knob has been replaced by a smaller red knob with detentes on the Legacy handheld, as well as speed readout and a bigger screen than DCS, so those who like a higher tech version with more information can use that instead. A choice, not an echo :).
Jake, if it helps any I understand what you are going through with the MTH download! It seems that my computor won’t transfer the files to my DCS unit (the TIU). Looks like I will have to take my DCS unit in to get it updated.
I wish that MTH would have put out a download kit that you can install in the TIU itself or would that be too simple??
To others that mention about TMCC on here please stick to the topic!!
Download the latest “Loader Program” (2.0) to a folder (I made one called “MY MTH”), if not, Windows will default download it to “Briefcase”. “Un Zip”, you will see a group of files, click on “Install”. It will install the Loader Program and put an Icon on your screen. Download DCS files (4.02a), and any sound files you might want to try.
1.Connect a 9 pin serial cable from your computer to the TIU. If you do not have a computer serial port, buy (Radio Shack) a USB to Serial Adapter. All modern Computers have 2 to 6 USB ports.
2.Connect an Audio plug from Proto-Disp to Proto-Cast on the TIU.
3.Connect a power supply to ether “Fixed Voltage In 1” OR “Aux Power Input” on the TIU, do not turn on yet.
4.On your computer screen, click on the MTH Icon. Click on the TIU icon, it will give you a “check list” ending with turn on power to the TIU. The rest is automatic if all files are in the same folder on your computer.
To update the Remote Control.
1.Turn off the power to the TIU, remove the Audio cord from the Proto Disp to Proto-Cast.
2.Add a 4 wire Phone Cord (the kind between the handset and base of your phone, often coiled cord) between the Remote and the TIU “Remote Input” (get the right one, there are two phone jacks on the TIU).
Click the Remote Icon on the DCS Loder Program on your computer screen. Again, a Check Chart ending with turn on power to the TIU.
Neil: You could very well be right with that observation that I am just used to DCS because that’s what I started on. [;)]
My offer to Lee also extends to anyone who is experiencing problems updating their DCS system. I will gladly update them for you for no charge, other than you pay shipping to and from my location. It only takes me about 5 minutes to get the job done. Most of the time is involved with hauling out my heavy Z4000 transformer to power things [:D] . So turnaround time would be immediate. I know some guys (like me) don’t have an MTH service station or train shop nearby. It may be faster and easier or more convenient to send it to me to get it updated. Some folks just can’t get things to work on their comp for whatever reason. I’m more than happy to help out. [:)]