I’m guessing with the plethora of Android-based cell phones and tablets that a Windows-based wi-fi throttle is probably not going to happen in the near future?
Tom
With a Windows tablet you should be able to access the JMRI web server and get throttles and control of turnouts that way. You don’t need a specialized app like WiThrottle or Engine Driver. A tablet that runs full Windows can run the whole JMRI suite, actually. And if it has a USB port - you can connect your interface. But for lesser tablets and Windows Phone, it should be able to access the JMRI web server.
–Randy
What Randy said. +1
Here’s the link to the JMRI webThrottle if you’re interested:
http://jmri.org/help/en/package/jmri/jmrit/webThrottle/webThrottle.shtml
Disclaimer: I use the JMRI Web Server for local panels on tablets, but I haven’t used it for webThrottle. For that, I use ED on Android devices because they’re so cheap. For example, I got a Samsung Galaxy S Blaze in perfect condition (and with a case!) for it’s trade-in value of $15.
Thanks for the responses, fellas. I’ll have to wait until I get me layout up and going again before trying out the JMRI throttles. And I do have the latest version of JMRI installed on my 8" Windows 10 tablet, which comes with a USB 3.0 port. Should make programming pretty convenient.
Tom
Use some double sided tape to stick an SPROG on the back of it and you have a very handy portable programmer/tester (SPROG can drive trains using JMRI throttles)
(I’m only half kidding)
–Randy
OTOH, I just noticed on Amazon that the new entry level Kindle is only $50. They even sell them by the 6-pack! That’s cheap enough to use as a dedicated throttle.
If you don’t mind a little hacking. You can also get some generic Android devices for $50 or less which can just load Engine Driver without hacking to get around Amazon’s closed ecosystem.
However, if you already have the Windows device - that’s free. Saves $50. [:D] Cheap Android devices do make a viable alternative to proprietary radio throttles. At least for those not addicted to knobs for speed control.
–Randy
You can get prepaid Android smartphones for less than $30 and use them on wifi without activating them:
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Verizon-LG-Optimus-Zone-2-Prepaid-Smartphone/36182576
EngineDriver is now available via the Amazon App store for the Kindle Fire: http://www.amazon.com/Steve-Todd-Design-Development-EngineDriver/dp/B015P9HATE