More good news:
You can get some of the common DCS features with the DCS Remote Commander for under $50.
Limits :
It only runs one engine at a time, the engine must be in Factory Default settings. (If it's never been on a DCS layout its good to go)
It's IR, not RF, point it at the receiver, not at the train.
Features You get to control;
Bell on/off
Sound on/Off
Startup / Shutdown (The engine will power up dark and silent)
PSA Sound sequence start (Hit DIR to step to the next stage of the routine, repeat)
Throttle + - (Rocker switch) 1 SMPH increments or Hold down for more accel / decel
Whistle (While pressed)
Volume (hit Vol then + or - to adjust)
Coupler (hit then + for front - for back)
Dir (RED) Cycles; N, F, N, R N... (Also steps the sound bytes in PSA)