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Guys, I fully understand what you all are going thru. This thread reminds me so much of the time we all went to the Legacy 990 system. But so thankful that OGR has this forum for all of you to get the help you need. This has to be the best forum, far and ahead of anything else on the internet. Hang in there, and have fun with your new toy and system you will eventually have this new BASE down in the next week or so.

I'm trying to connect my track sensor (IR sled) to the Base3. The sled has a six pin connector and the Base3 has a five pin connector. Am I missing something here or what? I don't see an adaptor cable listed in Lionels list of PDI cables.

The IR Sled needs an IRV2 LCS Module to plug into.  The Module plugs into the Base3.

@452 Card posted:

OK, so here is my take, and please don't jump on me for putting in my two cents:

Like Joe Walsh said, "I'm an analog man!"

Again, please don't attack. I am just an old traditional user with Hi-Rail ambitions.

Well, it won’t be a command thread without some analog guy who pushes handles telling us how we’re all doing it wrong and we’re all nuts. Lol I’m just kidding.

@452 Card posted:

OK, so here is my take, and please don't jump on me for putting in my two cents:

I am sure that these modern control systems are attractive and fun when they are doing their job. I have been reading this thread with continued interest to see what people are finding in this new technology that encompasses all past Lionel control systems.

Although I will never buy the Base3 system, et al, I do have an MTH Z4000 to control my engines. My only engine with TMCC is a Lionel K4s with Odyssey. Obviously not MTH....

When I was operating trains on the LIRR, I had handles that I had to use to control the train. I find it odd to use my cell phone to move my models. Yes, call me a dinosaur (I am), but that's me. The handles on my Z and all the other Postwar Lionel transformers seem to reflect that user interface. It seems alien to me to stand in one place and move trains on a layout without moving from place to place, as in real life to make things happen. Throw a switch? Move to the ground throw within reach. If it is on the other side of the (planned) layout, move to the control on the board.

Like Joe Walsh said, "I'm an analog man!"

Again, please don't attack. I am just an old traditional user with Hi-Rail ambitions.

I would not have Lionel trains if they were analog.  I have had model trains in one scale or another withe the exception O my entire life.  40 years ago I wanted to get some trains as I had relocated to Los Angeles from Pennsylvania.  I went to a train store in my neighborhood and I looked at everything they had to offer. Of course back then everything was analog.  I ran a few trains and looked seriously at Lionel and found it to be inferior in virtually every way because they were cheaply made, lacked detail and just ran oddly.  I threw a few thousand into LGB and loved those trains.  In 2020, I was retired and living in Florida.  Our condo is only 1600sqf so those big LGB and AristoCraft were no feasible.  I went to a train store by phone because of the pandemic and was introduced to a Santa Fe Super Chief Starter set.  Now, this LionChief diesels run pretty well and I was hooked on Lionel.  MTH had just decided to keep everyone in suspense so I went with Lionel, I bought a 990 cab2 and have about 23 locomotives and about 75 pieces of rolling stock.  I tried some of the older locomotives but to be honest I would never pay money to run a train with a pullmor motor again.  

I haven't received my pre-ordered Base 3 as of today.  I ordered mine from a small dealer because the smaller dealers keep the flame of this hobby burning bright.  

I won't comment any further on the older stuff.  I have no emotional attachment to the toys of the past.  I respect your decision and leave it at that.  But as for me, if tomorrow, some train maker out there came up with a new system, I would be first in line.  I have always been an early adopter of technology, I was writing code on an Apple IIe in 1980.  

I can't wait to see what is next

I received a message from Lionel this morning confirming the Brake Slider and EFX button are identified as bugs and will be fixed in a future update.

Keep submitting bugs to:  TalktoUs@lionel.com

so we can get these issues fixed.  Just posting them here won' get them fixed.

Thank you for your video.  I am very familiar with TMCC but not Legacy.  As I use it, I assume user error and you pointed out issues that I have that are not user errors. You also point out my biggest issue of no instructions for those of us not familiar with Cab2.  I learned a great deal from your video.

Sometimes even I forget the Legacy Basics!  One of my YouTube subscribers reminded me.

So, a bunch of us thought there was a bug on the Startup screen because the Engine ID is always 0000, but on the Engine screen it was correct.

But of course, it is going to be 0000!    The Startup screen is waiting for you to enter another Engine ID (to start up that engine) or to add a new engine to the system and pressing Set.   It is exactly how the Legacy Cab2 worked, lol

You wouldn't want to have to clear it every time you went to startup another engine.

Remembering how the current Legacy/Cab2 works always helps!    HAHA!

Anyone new to Legacy you can get the manual here (just grab the last version) and it will have tons of info that carries over to the Base3.



Legacy Control Software (lionelsupport.com)

Last edited by Sean's Train Depot
But of course, it is going to be 0000!    The Startup screen is waiting for you to enter another Engine ID (to start up that engine) or to add a new engine to the system and pressing Set.   It is exactly how the Legacy Cab2 worked, lol

Not really.  The CAB2 has the engine you were using when you powered down displayed.  I just fired up the layout and the CAB2, and #90 Strasburg was in the display.

Not really.  The CAB2 has the engine you were using when you powered down displayed.  I just fired up the layout and the CAB2, and #90 Strasburg was in the display.

Ok I can restate it then.  The CAB2 remembers it, but it has the ability to type right over any remembered entry because it is not an application with fields, so it's always ready for a new number.

But app fields work differently and so to try and replicate the 990 remote to be able to just type in a new # it is always 0000 to start with.

The app holds the ID on the Engine screen but on the Startup screen waits for an entry, so it's always 0000. 

A lot of applications won't overtype in a field.  You have to backspace or delete first before you can type in new characters.  Tons of software is like that.   With 4 digits now in the mix that could be more of a pain because if it kept the last engine id you'd have to backspace to put in a new one.  Suppose your last engine was 4 digits and it kept those on that screen and then you want to start a 2-digit engine.  If you just typed 2 digits it would still have the other 2 digits in the field.

This way it is always ready to accept a new ID for a new engine or adding one every time.

It is actually smart!  Trying to replicate the way the Legacy remote works in an app.  Same concept as the CAB2 is what I meant.

@jstraw124 posted:

Thank you for your video.  I am very familiar with TMCC but not Legacy.  As I use it, I assume user error and you pointed out issues that I have that are not user errors. You also point out my biggest issue of no instructions for those of us not familiar with Cab2.  I learned a great deal from your video.

You can go to the Legacy page and grab the Legacy manual if you have never worked with the Legacy system.  The Base 3 doesn't change how Legacy works, just the buttons you tap in the app instead of on a remote.  It is still the Legacy system.

Grab the V1.6 manual and enjoy!

Legacy Control Software (lionelsupport.com)

@jstraw124 posted:

Thank you for your video.  I am very familiar with TMCC but not Legacy.  As I use it, I assume user error and you pointed out issues that I have that are not user errors. You also point out my biggest issue of no instructions for those of us not familiar with Cab2.  I learned a great deal from your video.

@MartyE has mentioned this several times, there is a ton of information on the Lionel control web site. https://control.lionel.com/

I am not a major Legacy / Cab 2 user either, but the information on the CAB 3 app / Base 3 is on the web page describing the buttons on the engine control menu of the CAB 3 App: https://control.lionel.com/docs/eng-controls/

Everyone who bought a Base 3 and plans to use the CAB 3 App should methodically go through the related web pages on the Lionel control web site.....

Boost button on the app is described too.

@Kneissl posted:

Anyone use a TPC? I use the boost button to turn on my track power, where is that in the cab3? am I blind!?

Picked up my Cab3 today. Was able to figure things out with the assistance of the Cab3 instructions Dave has on the website. Connection to the Cab2 was seamless in the AP mode. I later learned that it is wise to use the black module to update your Cab2 to version 1.74. Connecting to the wireless via WPS did not work for me but once I read the instructions and learned there were multiple pages to the app by either swiping up, or down, I was able to manually input my SSID and my password for my home network the Cab3 immediately connected. At that point, the app also started to work better on my I phone. With a little patience and playing around with the system I think you will be satisfied with the results!

@hokie71 posted:

@MartyE has mentioned this several times, there is a ton of information on the Lionel control web site. https://control.lionel.com/

I am not a major Legacy / Cab 2 user either, but the information on the CAB 3 app / Base 3 is on the web page describing the buttons on the engine control menu of the CAB 3 App: https://control.lionel.com/docs/eng-controls/

Everyone who bought a Base 3 and plans to use the CAB 3 App should methodically go through the related web pages on the Lionel control web site.....

Boost button on the app is described too.

I hope you realize that the eng-controls webpage linked was not published until the last few days and much of the sub menus were not published until the last 24 hours.  I know because I am a manual reader and read everything available when I received the unit last Wednesday and constantly checking for updates.

My compliment to Sean was providing information when the Lionel documentation was not available and I was digging through specific engine owners manual to figure out what the buttons mean.  Glad to see today Lionel is being aggressive in getting additional information out this week.

@MartyE posted:

EDIT:  I was informed Base3 will work with the LCS app so I will check it out tonight.

For now if you want to use the iPad LCS App you still need the LCS WiFi module.  I still have mine in the chain just for this purpose.  Be aware, that the Cab3 App will attach to the LCS module if set to auto detect.  You won't have a database and things are wonky.  I have set the IP address on the Base3 and use the manual entry on the App's WiFi connection Settings to connect to Base3.

The iPad uses the LCS module to connect for the LCS App and the Cab3 App uses the Base3 all via the home network.  Anything I do on either App as far as switches, Accessories, Blocks, etc is reflected on the LCS App.

TrackerJohn posted this.

LCS WiFi Module and Base3



Just to follow up, yes the LCS App connected to Base3 just fine.  Took a few seconds but once it found the base everything operated as it should.  The LCS WiFi module will be retired.  Base3 is in full operations.

@jstraw124 posted:

I hope you realize that the eng-controls webpage linked was not published until the last few days and much of the sub menus were not published until the last 24 hours.  I know because I am a manual reader and read everything available when I received the unit last Wednesday and constantly checking for updates.

My compliment to Sean was providing information when the Lionel documentation was not available and I was digging through specific engine owners manual to figure out what the buttons mean.  Glad to see today Lionel is being aggressive in getting additional information out this week.

Yeah, this will be a roller coaster for a little while.  I thought a few times I knew how a feature works within the app and then discover I was wrong, and it works another way.  I do like figuring things out, it's like a murder mystery, who done it!  But I will keep posting videos with updates and corrections as we go along.

I was also thinking of doing a comprehensive video on just the Legacy system itself.  Remember, we are still just using the Legacy system with the Base 3.  So, knowing how to use that system helps understand the controls in the App.

I was talking to a Hobby shop yesterday and they are getting lots of calls because a lot of people are actually jumping into command control for the first time with the Base 3 but don't know how to use the Legacy system.

Remember when DCS Wi-Fi came out, lol.   That was quite the ride back then too, but it all worked out.



I was also thinking of doing a comprehensive video on just the Legacy system itself.  Remember, we are still just using the Legacy system with the Base 3.  So, knowing how to use that system helps understand the controls in the App.

I was talking to a Hobby shop yesterday and they are getting lots of calls because a lot of people are actually jumping into command control for the first time with the Base 3 but don't know how to use the Legacy system.

Remember when DCS Wi-Fi came out, lol.   That was quite the ride back then too, but it all worked out.

While it might be helpful, it may also cause some confusion for those starting with Base3.  Yes most of the controls translate over but personally I think people would be better off learning the App rather than throwing the Legacy system into the mix.  I really think you're doing a great job with your videos but I would hesitate to go backwards with the Cab2 to explain Cab3 app too much.  I think you keep moving in the direction you are going with the videos and maybe reference the Legacy system as you feel it's needed. I personally think you are definitely doing a service.

Just my 2 cents.

Last edited by MartyE
@MartyE posted:

While it might be helpful, it may also cause some confusion for those starting with Base3.  Yes most of the controls translate over but personally I think people would be better off learning the App rather than throwing the Legacy system into the mix.  I really think you're doing a great job with your videos but I would hesitate to go backwards with the Cab2 to explain Cab3 app too much.  I think you keep moving in the direction you are going with the videos and maybe reference the Legacy system as you feel it's needed. I personally think you are definitely doing a service.

Just my 2 cents.

Marty, I have to agree with you. Sean is doing an outstanding job with his videos and helping here on the forum(and of course you also), but with some of the confusion I’m reading about this new system, imo it would be of best interest learning the works of the Cab 3 only. The latest release yesterday of the Cab 3 controls section will be a valuable tool for us to reference their functions.

Gene

@Genemed posted:

Marty, I have to agree with you. Sean is doing an outstanding job with his videos and helping here on the forum(and of course you also), but with some of the confusion I’m reading about this new system, imo it would be of best interest learning the works of the Cab 3 only. The latest release yesterday of the Cab 3 controls section will be a valuable tool for us to reference their functions.

Gene

I'll be honest I was going to do some videos as well but I am in no rush as I think Sean's are really good and at this point any I did would be repetitive.  I'll still do videos and probably like a lot of videos out there cover some of the same things getting covered by Sean but as far as basics and initial information he's got it covered.  I will certainly be telling my viewers and subscribers about his videos. (Probably not the smartest move for someone trying to grow a channel  LOL!)  but after all we're all here to help each other learn and have fun.

Last edited by MartyE

I finally got my base 3 working, the problem was I was trying to connect the ground wire to my ZWL and ZW transformers, and they don't want to work with the base 3. After watching some videos, I saw that you can connect the ground to the track which worked. Another mistake I made was assigning an engine as number 1, when I put the engine on a siding with two other engines that are not stored on the base, the other engines acted as if they were in double head mode, if I blew the horn all the engines blew their horns, if I pushed the throttle up all the engines went forward together.

Thanks to everyone who helped me including Sean with his videos, Marty E who told me to reach out to Dave Olson, and Dave Olson from Lionel.

Sorry if this has already been answered. But all of my engines on the multi engine module show up as TMCC ID 1 on the Base 3 app when I try to load a locomotive. Not sure what I’m doing wrong, they all have the appropriate ID on the LSU. Ex My CN 8002 has ID of 2.

Edit: I should add that they were all programmed on the base 2 as their correct IDs (8002 as 2, 4005 as 5, etc.). But now on the module they all show as 1. I’m assuming I’ll need to reprogram each engine manually.

Last edited by CNtomato

One of the train clubs that I help with everything technology, decided to jump on a BASE3 and a few CAB1L controllers. It was nearly a $1000 investment! I and another member were tasked with setup, troubleshooting, and training.

So far our impression is that the CAB3 app needs a lot of work.  We've run into many of the same bugs mentioned here on the forum. Some basic fundamental touch functions need to be addressed, the touch control is sluggish and many swipes are misinterpreted as button presses. Just as soon as we thought we had it all figured out, a member tried to swipe up to get to the engine roster and accidentally sent the current engine on the screen to full speed with the slider. Then the app registered the swipe up and changed screens, more panic ensued as he desperately tried to get back to the home screen and stop the engine. Well that didn't happen in time and his Genset Diesel went sailing into a Challenger in the steam yard. The damage was minimal but the app is now being quietly shunned and members are leery about using it.

The trick we are preaching to prevent this situation is to place your finger on the Engine selector area and engage your swipe up or down to change screens from that spot. This is a pretty safe area to touch that should prevent accidental commands sent to engines.  Our folks have been getting into trouble by trying to swipe the screen up or down using different areas of the home screen.

The only bug I have experienced not mentioned here (or maybe it has been) is with using LC & LC+ Bluetooth engines with the CAB1L and CAB2. We added a Bluetooth LC engine without issue. But then commanded the engine to move forward around speed step 5, hit the direction button, scroll the wheel to one speed step and the engine took off in reverse at speed step 6! The BASE3 stopped the engine with the direction command but didn't reset the speed to zero. So the next movement in reverse picked back up at speed step 5 plus the additional speedstep commanded. We tested this situation with RF engines and did not have this issue.

We also hooked up the DCS System via a SER2 and had no problems controlling engines (even LC & LC+) with the DCS remote and DCS App. The more tech-savvy members with DCS App experience preferred running their Legacy & LC+ engines with the DCS app vs. the CAB3. Hopefully, that will even out in the future as Lionel works out more of the bugs and makes some improvements to the CAB3.

@Norton posted:

@H1000 given you have a SER2, does you club also have a TMCC Base? And if so any chance you could check and see if a Cab1 can run TMCC engines through the Base3?

Our club has a few members who only have Cab1s and it would be a requirement they could continue to use them if we buy a Base3.

Pete

I am heading back out there tomorrow night and will take my TMCC Base / CAB1 along and see if that works.

@Norton posted:

@H1000 given you have a SER2, does you club also have a TMCC Base? And if so any chance you could check and see if a Cab1 can run TMCC engines through the Base3?

Our club has a few members who only have Cab1s and it would be a requirement they could continue to use them if we buy a Base3.

Pete

@Dave Olson  said this works. It was asked on the Virtual Legacy Meeting. It’s approximately at the 1:08 mark.

https://www.youtube.com/live/x...?si=axGLgHO-FokJBk2K

Last edited by MartyE
@MartyE posted:

@Dave Olson  said this works. It was asked on the Virtual Legacy Meeting. It’s approximately at the 1:08 mark.

https://www.youtube.com/live/x...?si=axGLgHO-FokJBk2K

For those who do not have the BASE2 Y-cable, what cable do you use to connect a TMCC Base to the SER2? Is it a straight-through DB9 or a null modem?

Last edited by H1000

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