I am getting ready to install a Digitrax DCC system on my large N Scale layout under construction. I have the choice of using PC (Windows) or Mac as my computer interface. Which is the best choice for programming and other JMRI tasks? Which Java version should I be using as well. I am comfortable with both PC and Mac devices, but slightly prefer the Mac OS.
Thoughts?
Well, From a Multi-OS user I would say to use what ever your more used to for me I use Windows 11 since I’m familiar with it and Mac is just a Modified version of Linux
What are the specs of the PC and the MacBook/Mac device?
Thanks for the quick reply. To answer your question:
My PC is a Lenovo “Think Pad” with an Intel Core 17 vPro (8th generation), running Windows 11 Pro.
My Mac is a M3Pro, running Sequoia15.4.1
1 Like
What do you prefer using on a Daily basis for anything usually most of the year?
I switched from DOS/Windows to Macintosh a LONG time ago. Still, if I had both, I would install JMRI on both and try it out. I suspect the differences would be minimal.
Its usually the OS that has the effects I like Windows 11 better than Windows 10 or macOS because is simple and really easy to use in any situation with little to no limitations
does JMRI perform any better on Windows or Mac?
JMRI should have all this information available on their website. The current recommendation for running JMRI 5.10 on Windows 11 is Java 17. However, Java 11 will still work.
HTH,
Tom
Although there are obvious differences between the way Windows and Mac OS work, JMRI runs in a Java virtual environment so it will work pretty much the same under either one. I would say to use whichever machine fits your personal situation (tastes, availability, etc.) better.
As far as versions, I would start with the most recent Production version of JMRI (5.10 as I type this). That requires at least Java 11, but I’d recommend Java 17 instead since I believe 17 will be the required version before too long.
As Tom mentioned, all the info you need to get started (and more!) is on the JMRI website. The developers go through a lot of trouble to document all the various JMRI abilities, hardware connections, etc. In addition, I’d join the JMRI user’s list at jmriusers@groups.io | Home . The developers, as well as a lot of very knowledgeable users hang out there and are happy to help with usage, troubleshoot issues, and so forth.
Steve
Using JMRI on Windows with Digitrax for 22+ years
Hello All,
I have been using Apple computers since 1986.
Currently, I am using a Mac Mini with the M2 Chip (2023).
I also have my old Mac Mini with the dual-core Intel Core i5 processor (Late 2014).
This processor can run Windows natively- -the Mac becomes an actual PC.
Using the Boot Camp application, I partitioned the hard drive and installed Windows.
Now I can switch between the Mac OS and Windows at startup.
The newer M2 Chip does not have this capability.
To run Windows on a Mac, with the M2 Chip, you have to use emulation software.
I run JMRI Decoder Pro on both the new and old Mac Minis through a Digitrax PR3 USB to LocoNet Interface with Decoder Programmer (superseded by the PR4) for my stand-alone programming track, CV calculations, and documenting my motive fleet.
This begs the question, “Why go through all the trouble of using the old Mac Mini to run Windows when JMRI Decoder Pro works with the new Mac Mini with the M2 Chip?”
My answer is…
“Because I use Digitrax SDXH167D Series 6 Sound Decoders.”
The first generation of these did not support “Rule 17 dimming” although the manual stated they did.
I contacted Digitrax and was sent a file to upgrade the decoders.
This required using their Sound Loader application, which is only available for Windows.
For daily programming needs, I use the “newer” Mac Mini (M2 Chip).
Hope this helps.
1 Like
I always knew there was something a bit off about you, jjdamnit!
[don’t anybody get in a huff. I’m just kidding!] 
1 Like