Although this sounds like a nice idea, I really don't think that it's a practical proposition.

 

The LionChief (And LionChief Plus) remotes are intended to be simple to use devices. Adding a keypad for controlling switches would not only involve major electronic complications, but would seem to be going against the whole concept of the LionChief system. (One engine, one remote.)

 

I think that your best bet would be to add a CAB-1L system to your layout. (Base, Remote, Legacy PowerMaster and 180W PowerHouse.) This would give you the ability to operate switches and accessories from one remote, whilst also providing the power for running these and multiple engines too.

 

This would also give you the additional options to run Legacy, TMCC or conventional locomotives on your layout should you ever wish to do so.

 

Thanks for thinking of this though. 

Nicole is absolutely right.   The LionChief is intended to operate a dedicated locomotive only, and has been priced accordingly.  Adding switch operation would put the price up much higher.  Then, if it followed that as a LionChief system, would it not operate only a particular set of switches dedicated to a particular remote? More dedicated items, more cost.  It just becomes way too complicated and costly.

Nicole nailed, and Bob puts it well: it's not what the product is intended to do.

 

I've used up to two-dozen Fastrack switches on my layout although I only have two on it now.  All have been the remote type with the wires and switch box, which work very well.  I'd recommend using that.  They operate flawlessly, and they have a nice color-light feature on the switch that tell you the switch position - always nice.  

Just use a wireless remote relay for switches.  You can control up to 6 remote switches (2 buttons per switch) for <$20.

 

 

Unfortunately the problem with LionChief is that folks are missing the point of it.  A simple wireless set for the beginner and mid level hobbyist that doesn't want to expand to Legacy and it's additional costs.

 

All that would happen with LC if all of these addition were implemented is you'd have Legacy and a more expensive system.

Despite how it is said, some folks just want their cake, and then some ice-cream on top, but for the same cost.  Perhaps, not the best analogy, but MartyE is correct.  The cost will increase, and the ease of operation will decrease.

Lionchief can only operate the ONE locomotive it is programmed to. How could it be able to operate switches? 

 

Maybe Lionel could come up with a rempte that could operate numerous things simply by selecting an id# er something

 

LOL…I think this one deserves a mention also…


All jokes aside.. I think Lionel needs to offer a universal programmable reader fob that is able to duplicate multiple Lionchief and accessory remote codes.
This would allow the user a single remote to run all his LionChief stuff, and a few switches..
That would make a nice stepping stone to eventually go Legacy?

K.C.

I certainly think a multiple engine remote is possible in the scheme of things but the switch controlling IMO is probably not something that Lionel would do.

 

How many switches do you control?  2 or so that might be in a starter layout?

I love this one!  Maybe use Morse Code for programming and operating stuff.  Sort of two longs, three shorts, four longs to operate a switch, another, different sequence to operate the bell on the engine, and so on.  Should be simple enough to learn the specific codes.  Methinks this one would do the trick and satisfy the needs of all who want more.

In case you liked the 12-channel remote control idea, here's the link.

 

P4PM DC 12V 12CH Channel Wireless RF Remote Control Switch Transmitter+ Receiver

 

This is the marketing genius of LionChief.  I had a few rtr sets from when I was a kid that I was content in running on my tubular track layout. I then bought the PolarExpress LC set for the kids for Christmas. Needless to say we loved it.  I then got the Pennsylvania Flyer FC set and ran them both on our Christmas layout. Within in a month or two I had upgraded my basement layout with the Cab1L and purchased 1 TMCC and 3 Legacy diesel engines. Now I have the M1A coal set on order.  I call the LionChief the gateway drug of command railroading. 

I can't see Lionel adding an accessory interface into the LionChief remote. But who knows in the future what might come. Maybe they could develop a separate LionChief Accessory Remote system. How much space would be required inside an accessory to add a radio receiver?

Since we're reviving the topic, I'll repeat my thought that Lionel should make a LionChief pairable multi train remote. It seems like a natural progression of the product since LionChief has the capability to run multiple engines on a single track. One track one remote I bet it'd sell and probably become the most popular accessory in recent Lionel history.

       
       


Now I like it...lol


K.C.