Is DCS programming limited to serial cables and USB? What about access to programming via LAN (hardwired) or WiFi?
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Nope. USB and serial only.
It's wired only.
You can do it via LAN OR WIFI with a network serial port. Ultimately you are still using the serial connection, but you can use the network as a bridge. Such devices get configured just like USB/Serial adapter so it appears in your list of COM ports. If it's an issue, this will allow you to link your computer and TIU(s) over a much greater physical distance.
Thanks Dave- funny, I had one several years ago testing it for a buddy to avoid island hopping while servicing/rebooting IT boxes--- Back then I think I paid $199 but $79 is a deal! Thank you--- I just can't get excited about dragging a laptop to my Secretary and connecting serial cable--
and then, because I can I will. So now that I've got LAN connectivity why not an APP? Why not some fun stuff?
You can run RS-232 over surprising distances using low-capacitance cable. I've had 9600 baud runs of 600-700 feet with no issues. It really comes down to the quality of the RS-232 ports. In addition, you can use an RS-232 to Current Loop Converter for really long runs, and then you can use plain CAT5 cable or similar for the wire runs.
John,
I have a home-made ribbon RS-232 cable that runs about 45 feet from the work area in the train room to the area where are the TIUs and Legacy Base. The TIUs, which are under the layout, have extension cables for the serial,ProtoCast and ProtoDispatch ports that come up to a central point. This allows upgrading of software for all devices without removing them from the layout.
Works just fine!
45 feet is child's play with RS-232, as you say, no sweat. 
Maybe this is something for the next version of DCS. Everything else is getting to be WIFI connected. Then again, the kid next door could high jack your trains....:-)
I have enough of that already in the home. The new DVD player which I bought at a cheapie store for round 40 bucks now has it's own LAN and wireless.
I guess I am gonna have to buy a switch to keep the OSI going around here.
I adjusted my sig to reflect how little I know...
