As of current I find having 3 is handy. 1 with Cab software 1 with base software and 1 multi engine module.

Had I realized and seen John’s post before buying 3 it would’ve saved me some cash.

My vote is just use the one you have. It’s real easy, I have found heating the case a little helps loosen the glue holding it together

@zhubl posted:

My vote is just use the one you have. It’s real easy, I have found heating the case a little helps loosen the glue holding it together

I am leaning towards that route, popping it open and a quick little mod rather than the extra cash I could use towards something else. Wasn't sure if there was a necessity to own a black own or more than one if it's writable but thanks for the advise! I won't order a black one and will mod a blue when the time comes.

What software version are you at? There won't be any more upgrades with the discontinuation of Legacy.

I've been running 1.4  in my 990 since it was released. My 993 came with 1.6 and it works just fine with the 1.4 base.

I bought a pre programmed 1.6 base module from Charles  Ro because upgrading isn't feasible with my 20 year old desktop computer.

@RickO posted:

What software version are you at? There won't be any more upgrades with the discontinuation of Legacy.

I've been running 1.4  in my 990 since it was released. My 993 came with 1.6 and it works just fine with the 1.4 base.

I bought a pre programmed 1.6 base module from Charles  Ro because upgrading isn't feasible with my 20 year old desktop computer.

The 993 I have is unopened and factory sealed so I will crack it open and check the software soon. I assume it's 1.6. I see 1.7 available for the Cab-2 and will most likely do that but I do not actually have a Base-2 right now. I am waiting for one to come up on the cheaper side but ultimately waiting for the Base3 to be released.

I like to have 3 as well.  I use my 2 system modules to do upgrades for friends and at the Legacy Users Group.  The 3rd as mentioned is nice for the multi-engine module.  I just posted information about Base3, Cab2, and V1.7.  1.7 has specific code for using Base3.  While it will still work on older software V1.7 does have some specific programming which Dave did not elaborate on.

@papajoewill posted:

Just like the title asks, should I buy a black module to write onto or use GRJ's magic technique and mod the blue one that comes with my 993 set?

Thanks,

Joe

Go for it!  The Blue won't be used anymore so why not try it.

Some of the Black modules on eBay are a waste of money, ridiculous prices.

FWIW, I have converted blue modules to writable “black” with no problems.  Works just as intended.  As Marty sez, I use the original black module for an engine data module.  It’s true, cutting the modules apart takes the most time.  Overall, it’s really pretty easy.

@RickO posted:

There won't be any more upgrades with the discontinuation of Legacy.

Rick,

Just a small observation, offered with the utmost in restraint: Be careful with your words.  You may start an unintentional firestorm.

Mike

@Mellow Hudson Mike posted:

Rick,

Just a small observation, offered with the utmost in restraint: Be careful with your words.  You may start an unintentional firestorm.

Mike

Point taken. But....firestorm???...or cheerleading session?

@RickO posted:

Point taken. But....firestorm???...or cheerleading session?

Sis boom bah!

Both work. Just know the black modules are going the way of the 990s riding off into the sunset.

Pete

@Norton posted:

Both work. Just know the black modules are going the way of the 990s riding off into the sunset.

That remains to be seen.  Since the upcoming BASE3 has the ability to use the black modules, it would be a bit surprising to see them disappear.  I know they were included in the list of discontinued items, but having the capability on the BASE3 makes me wonder why.

In any case, there's still a generous supply of now useless blue modules that can be repurposed.

Free Black Modules for Legacy

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

That remains to be seen.  Since the upcoming BASE3 has the ability to use the black modules, it would be a bit surprising to see them disappear.  I know they were included in the list of discontinued items, but having the capability on the BASE3 makes me wonder why.

In any case, there's still a generous supply of now useless blue modules that can be repurposed.

Free Black Modules for Legacy

To confirm I don't "need" three black modules like mentioned above? Just a blue modded module will cover all of the future writes/updates?

If you can write the writable module yourself, you need just one.  It's probably more convenient to have two, which is what I do.  It can be the commercial black modules or the hacked blue modules, they end up exactly the same as far as functionality.  I keep a couple of sets of the current Legacy software on "black" modules handy for when someone wants to update their systems.

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

If you can write the writable module yourself, you need just one.  It's probably more convenient to have two, which is what I do.  It can be the commercial black modules or the hacked blue modules, they end up exactly the same as far as functionality.  I keep a couple of sets of the current Legacy software on "black" modules handy for when someone wants to update their systems.

I like your idea. I have an order for a transformer and may see if they can invoice me for the black module. That way I can have a back up.

I just received a brand new #990 set. The base and cab are running 1.60. In the box are two blue and one black modules.

From what I can gather from the forum posts, that black one is the rewrite-able one that is required to perform upgrades using the Lionel Legacy System Utility.  Do I have that correct? Thanks for any guidance.

Correct, and with a little work, the blue ones can be made into black ones.

Free Black Modules for Legacy

Each Base3 is going to come with a black module.