It appears that the Lionel Cab3 app for both Android (per Dave Olson), and Apple devices is available in the respective stores. As of now, the functionality is strictly Bluetooth, but the app is up and available for download. I guess I got my iPad mini just in time.
Here is a very useful webpage. It would be wise to take a look at it and keep it handy while playing.
Let the games begin.
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Exciting! Getting closer!
@Sean's Train Depot posted:Exciting! Getting closer!
According to the Lionel Store the Base3 is scheduled to ship in about 2 weeks. 7/8/2024.
O Yea!
Downloaded and installed!
Didn’t see it on Apple Store
@LionelAG posted:Didn’t see it on Apple Store
It's there I just downloaded it. The search on the app store is a little funky. Type in "Lionel Cab3 App" All 3 words. If you type in Lionel Cab3 and select the result it doesn't come up in list.
Thanks Marty. Too bad I sold my only Bluetooth engine at DuPage Trainshow about three weekends ago.
@Sean's Train Depot posted:It's there I just downloaded it. The search on the app store is a little funky. Type in "Lionel Cab3 App" All 3 words. If you type in Lionel Cab3 and select the result it doesn't come up in list.
That did it. Thx
Thanks for the heads up Marty. I just downloaded it and tried on a couple of Lionchief engines. While it found them OK it still works like the LC App where only one engine at a time can be connected to. Running multiple LC engines will require a Base 3 where LC engines can be programmed like TMCC engine in the Base3 and then setup as a train.
One anomaly is not all the buttons showed up at once. Both bell and fwd/reverse were missing under blank spots on the screen. Tapping those spots made the buttons appear.
Pete
@Norton posted:Thanks for the heads up Marty. I just downloaded it and tried on a couple of Lionchief engines. While it found them OK it still works like the LC App where only one engine at a time can be connected to. Running multiple LC engines will require a Base 3 where LC engines can be programmed like TMCC engine in the Base3 and then setup as a train.
One anomaly is not all the buttons showed up at once. Both bell and fwd/reverse were missing under blank spots on the screen. Tapping those spots made the buttons appear.
Pete
It can connect multiple locos. Connect one, then go back in the engine connect menu and connect to another. Back on the homescreen, you can either use the left/right arrows to cycle through the connected locos or you can swipe.
The issue with the buttons not showing up at first is known. Will fix it.
I'm going to do a show on Thursday to go over the Bluetooth side of the APP to show features and the like.
@Dave Olson posted:It can connect multiple locos. Connect one, then go back in the engine connect menu and connect to another. Back on the homescreen, you can either use the left/right arrows to cycle through the connected locos or you can swipe.
The issue with the buttons not showing up at first is known. Will fix it.
I'm going to do a show on Thursday to go over the Bluetooth side of the APP to show features and the like.
Dave I found I could switch back and forth between engines it found but how do I MU them?
Pete
You don't. That's not a LionChief feature. You can be connected to multiple engines at one time, but like you said, you'll need the Base3 for lash-ups.
Worked well with two BT equipped Legacy engines, nice that you can have more than one active. 
Well, I'll be looking forward to Marty showing all the things it can do that I'm sure will be in videos as well as discussion. I can't wait to see what this does.
It worked well, I do like the capability of running more than one locomotive. I found a couple of minor issues. At times the dialogue tab and bell goes blue and doesn’t function. The throttle slider tends to be somewhat erratic at times when swiping screens. Considering what it took to design this app, I’m quite pleased with its capabilities, just needs a bit of tweaking. Thank you Dave and the Lionel team!
Gene
@MartyE posted:According to the Lionel Store the Base3 is scheduled to ship in about 2 weeks. 7/8/2024.
That's exciting news, Marty! Now I need to hurry up and get my track layed and wired on my new layout so I can install the Base3 when it arrives.
@Dave NYC Hudson PRR K4 posted:Well, I'll be looking forward to Marty showing all the things it can do that I'm sure will be in videos as well as discussion. I can't wait to see what this does.
While I will be doing some videos as I'm sure others will too, @Dave Olson will have the best and most comprehensive videos for some time to come. He seems to have an inside "track".
Good news. Thanks to Dave Olson and his team for persevering on this over the years and through the pandemic supply issues. Fingers crossed there aren't too many teething pains .
Personally I'm waiting for a while for the Base 3. However I've bought a few LionChief locos over the years, and look forward to the capability of simultaneously using the Universal Remote, the cab-2 and cab-1L, and maybe the app on a future layout, fates allowing.
I downloaded the app and ran a Legacy Engine with no issues.
I expected to see the round dial for speed control, not the lever. Is that being considered?
@Alabama Joe posted:I downloaded the app and ran a Legacy Engine with no issues.
I expected to see the round dial for speed control, not the lever. Is that being considered?
On the Base3 side of the APP, you'll get the choice.
On the Bluetooth side, it's just the slider.
It's still our goal for the Bluetooth side to be simple, and add the additional features and complexity when the command base is used.
Is the Cab 3 app for Ipads or only for iphones?
iPhones and iPads use the same operating system so it should work on both.
@amtrack5899 posted:Is the Cab 3 app for Ipads or only for iphones?
Works on an iPad to a point. Works on Model 7s, not on Model 2s. Not sure where the cutoff is.
Pete
I like that you can choose two additional Bluetooth themes on the app a Christmas theme and polar express.
@amtrack5899 posted:Is the Cab 3 app for Ipads or only for iphones?
I purchased an iPad mini five just for using Cab3 and it seems to work just fine.
if you go to the App Store, it has a list of everything. It works on for iPhone. It does not tell you what iPad it works on but based on the iPhone list, I think you could venture a guess.
@Sean's Train Depot posted:It's there I just downloaded it. The search on the app store is a little funky. Type in "Lionel Cab3 App" All 3 words. If you type in Lionel Cab3 and select the result it doesn't come up in list.
Had the same problem with the Android/Google Play Store. If you type "Lionel" it only shows Lionchief app. I typed "Lionel Cab 3" and it came up.
Runs well on my Samsung Fold 4 in both views
Worked flawlessly for me on my iPhone, but I can't find momentum/smoke options so I must be missing something. Oops...need to swipe up! Duh! LOL
@Garfield Irwin posted:Worked flawlessly for me on my iPhone, but I can't find momentum/smoke options so I must be missing something. Oops...need to swipe up! Duh! LOL
Swipe up.
Marty, where is the sound settings page for volume control and the voice streaming page?
@H1000 posted:Marty, where is the sound settings page for volume control and the voice streaming page?
I was able to get those by swiping right but not the momentum settings by swiping up. Also earlier I had all the buttons on the main screen but now the crew/tower com button was on all the time (blue) and did nothing. Appears to have a few more glitches. Low speed on a Lionchief engine is excellent though. Nice having a speed step indicator.
Pete
Left and Right swipes will get you those menus.
But I don't think Voice Streaming is enabled yet so you can only swipe for the volume settings.
Star Trek LionChief
Works just fine on my I Phone XR
However, on my I Pad (6 th generation), lots of glitches. It runs but the bell, horn and chatter are sometimes present, they come and go and the bell is the most illusive usually showing as blue. I have removed and added the app several times.
Both the I Phone and the I Pad are fully up to date.... 17.5.1
Just downloaded the app on to my IPAD don’t have any trains up now because the layout is seasonal. Thought the app would only work with the base3 happy 😃 that it will work with Bluetooth. Thanks Lionel
Glad to see there's a slider as an option for or instead of the round dial. Never liked the round dial. Give the handheld to a 3 year old just to see how quickly an engine can change directions.
Gerry
@Soo Line posted:Star Trek LionChief
Works just fine on my I Phone XR
However, on my I Pad (6 th generation), lots of glitches. It runs but the bell, horn and chatter are sometimes present, they come and go and the bell is the most illusive usually showing as blue. I have removed and added the app several times.
Both the I Phone and the I Pad are fully up to date.... 17.5.1
Ditto here. Tried it on a iPad Gen 7 and a Gen 9 with no difference. Besides the buttons disappearing, fwd/rev would lock up, cab chatter also not working and could not slide up to get to the momentum screen. Then sometimes it would find the engine, I would press pair, engine would start up and then an error message would pop up say it cannot control this engine. All sometimes worked and later did not on the same engine.
Not ready for prime time.
By comparison the LC App and Universal Remote worked every time.
Pete
I played around with the Bluetooth control on an iPhone 13. I found the voice control worked well if the buttons were disappearing or unresponsive. The LC app has a list of the voice control options if you voice ‘help’. These seemed to work in the Cab3 app.
After 2 run sessions with my iPhone X (I know, it’s time for an upgrade) and having the intermittent blue bell and dialogue buttons, I used my iPad Air 4th gen. and it worked perfectly. Is it possibly a coincidence or is the program responding differently with various devices? I’m sure Dave and his team are working on a software fix.
Gene
Downloaded successfully on my iPhone 15 Pro Max. As others have noted, I had to key in Lionel Cab3 App (all three words) to get to the proper download icon.
This may be premature to ask but for the ones that are not planning on getting a base3 is it better to keep the other app or switch to this one as far as Legacy models go?
Wondering if there will be more features with this app only using bluetooth. I understand mutiple engines can be ran at the same time but what about options like smoke intensity and other sound options?
Brad
I have personally found that the Voice Control seems more responsive than the LC App. I've seen the bell button appear from nowhere but for the most part, at least running my Star Trek and grandson's Thomas is seems pretty good. The Class A gets the full treatment later.
I have been running 3 Legacy engines with the new App on an iPhone 14 Pro. So far I have been very happy with it. It is very intuitive and easy to use. It is great to be able to select multiple locomotives in Bluetooth mode.
The only issues I have run into is the whistle sticks on some times. Usually when I change locos and then press the whistle button on the new locomotive. The other issue is if I switch to another app and come back to the Cab3 app the throttle settings all go back to 0. The engines don’t stop but the slider is back at 0 for all engines. Touching the slider causes the selected loco to stop.
Nicely done @Dave Olson and your dev team. I love forward to running with the Base3.
-Ryan
I just realized the voice help menu exists in the CAB3 app with an expanded list of voice commands.
@MartyE posted:It appears that the Lionel Cab3 app for both Android (per Dave Olson), and Apple devices is available in the respective stores. As of now, the functionality is strictly Bluetooth, but the app is up and available for download. I guess I got my iPad mini just in time.
Here is a very useful webpage. It would be wise to take a look at it and keep it handy while playing.
Lionel Power and Control.
Let the games begin.
Can’t find the App in the Apple Store
You are right! I used that one and it came right up! Was able to install as well !!
Thanks,
Fred
Tried out the new Cab3 app tonight. Did a shakedown run with 3 locos.
A LC+2.0 Doodlebug
Legacy Bluetooth SW-1200
LC/BT RS3 (recent upgrade)
Took a few minutes to adjust to the Cab 3 from the LC app but all 3 engines loaded and I was able to switch between them easily.
Note that I was running 3 generations of boards and all ran well.
Cool stuff.....
I have diverted people from the thread I started 'CAB-3?' to this one as it is more up to date and getting more traffic.
You know what would be really cool? The ability to run Blunami via the CAB3 app BT tab. Maybe not access all the CVs but just be able to run them out of one app.
Does an engine or train need to have Bluetooth on board to run via the App?
@Paul Kallus posted:Does an engine or train need to have Bluetooth on board to run via the App?
Yes. Until the Base3 version and Base3 comes out, Bluetooth equipped is required.
@Norm Charbonneau posted:You know what would be really cool? The ability to run Blunami via the CAB3 app BT tab. Maybe not access all the CVs but just be able to run them out of one app.
Would be great, but we all know Lionel won’t give up that control. They have invested too much into the Base3 for them to do that. They won’t make any money.
@MartyE posted:Yes. Until the Base3 version and Base3 comes out, Bluetooth equipped is required.
I wonder if you could run an old LC or LC+ using the hotspot mode of the Universal Remote?
@gunrunnerjohn posted:I wonder if you could run an old LC or LC+ using the hotspot mode of the Universal Remote?
I guess I should have said that as there is a a little "Remote" icon that I suspect is for hotspot mode but looking at the Power and Control site I couldn't find it referenced.
@Dave Olson would need to chime in.
It would be interesting to see if that is an option. Obviously, with the BASE3, you'd probably connect it to the BASE3 and not the Universal Remote, so they may not have added that path.
I'm joining in just to keep up with the topic. I'm curious if the CAB3 App will still be able to connect to and use the regular Legacy Base with the LCS Wifi installed like was mentioned in the introduction video a few years ago.
@C&O Allan posted:I'm joining in just to keep up with the topic. I'm curious if the CAB3 App will still be able to connect to and use the regular Legacy Base with the LCS Wifi installed like was mentioned in the introduction video a few years ago.
Unfortunately that had changed and the CAB3(L) app will only work with the BASE3.
@C&O Allan posted:I'm joining in just to keep up with the topic. I'm curious if the CAB3 App will still be able to connect to and use the regular Legacy Base with the LCS Wifi installed like was mentioned in the introduction video a few years ago.
Watch this at the 53:32 mark. Dave explains this.
H1000/Marty,
Thanks for the update. I was hoping to have it on my phone so I didn't lose my Cab1 capability since I have so many remotes...
@gunrunnerjohn posted:I wonder if you could run an old LC or LC+ using the hotspot mode of the Universal Remote?
Looks like it can be done John. Page 18 in the book.
I'll give it a go tonight with my A-1 switcher.
@RSJB18 posted:Looks like it can be done John. Page 18 in the book.
I'll give it a go tonight with my A-1 switcher.
What book?
@RSJB18 posted:The instruction book for the UR.
Page 18.....
Please don't tell my wife that I read instructions......
Ahhh. I think we’re just unsure of how it works with the new app. Let us know what you find.
@MartyE posted:Ahhh. I think we’re just unsure of how it works with the new app. Let us know what you find.
Marty- the Hotspot mode didn't work with the Cab3 app.
Worked fine with the LC app.
My engine was my new switcher with a first gen Lionchief board.
I didn't have time to test with other LC engines. To be continued I'm sure.....
Bob
@RSJB18 posted:Marty- the Hotspot mode didn't work with the Cab3 app.
Worked fine with the LC app.
My engine was my new switcher with a first gen Lionchief board.
I didn't have time to test with other LC engines. To be continued I'm sure.....
Bob
@MartyE posted:I guess I should have said that as there is a a little "Remote" icon that I suspect is for hotspot mode but looking at the Power and Control site I couldn't find it referenced.
@Dave Olson would need to chime in.
I did find the reference to the same ICON in the UR manual. It's definitely related to doing Hotspots but just not sure how it is utilized.
@MartyE posted:I did find the reference to the same ICON in the UR manual. It's definitely related to doing Hotspots but just not sure how it is utilized.
Silver lining is that I hadn't gone through the whole book for the UM previously so I now know about hotspot mode. 
Nice added feature to be able to control Gen I boards via the LC app.
I'd expect an update to the app that may enable the feature in the future. The icon is on the Cab3/BT screen, it just isn't enabled.
Bob
@RSJB18 posted:Silver lining is that I hadn't gone through the whole book for the UM previously so I now know about hotspot mode.
Nice added feature to be able to control Gen I boards via the LC app.I'd expect an update to the app that may enable the feature in the future. The icon is on the Cab3/BT screen, it just isn't enabled.
Bob
It may be a while for the CAB3 to enable this. Since the BASE3 directly talks to the original LC boards and allows control from the CAB3 or the Legacy remotes, they have that base covered if you buy the BASE3. Given that fact, I can't see them rushing to stick the hot-spot mode into the CAB3 app.
@gunrunnerjohn posted:It may be a while for the CAB3 to enable this. Since the BASE3 directly talks to the original LC boards and allows control from the CAB3 or the Legacy remotes, they have that base covered if you buy the BASE3. Given that fact, I can't see them rushing to stick the hot-spot mode into the CAB3 app.
I haven't ordered (or will for now) a Base 3 so I'll live with using the LC app for hotspot.
Thanks
Someone needs to explain what the heck a “HOTSPOT” is. I’m sure there are a number of us that don ‘t know.
Also what is a “UR” Booklet.
Thanks!!!
@Fredstrains posted:Someone needs to explain what the heck a “HOTSPOT” is. I’m sure there are a number of us that don ‘t know.
Also what is a “UR” Booklet.
Thanks!!!
The HOTSPOT is a feature of the Lionchief (and CAB3-B) app that allows the APP to connect to the Universal Remote (UR) to control older non-Bluetooth Lionchief and Lionchief Plus locomotives.
@Fredstrains posted:Someone needs to explain what the heck a “HOTSPOT” is. I’m sure there are a number of us that don ‘t know.
Also what is a “UR” Booklet.
Thanks!!!
As H1000 said.....there's a feature of the Universal Remote (UR), called Hotspot mode. Same as using a phone as a Hotspot to connect other wireless devices.
The Hotspot mode in the UR allows you to run non-bluetooth engines (first gen Lionchief) engines via the Lionchief app.
UR book = operating manual for the universal remote.
Sorry about the abbreviations but typing the same stuff over and over gets old fast.
Bob
RSJB18
Thank You so much for the Explanation and what UR stands for. I'm not involved with any of these Engines so didn't know. I run primarily LEGACY Engines. I have a few "PLUS 2", but that's it.
Thanks again.
Sincerely,
FREDSTRAINS
Well, the wait is almost over guys. If Dave's schedule holds true, the base3's arrive Monday and the units should start to ship out the following Monday the 15th. And the cab3 update should be out the date they ship. Here's hoping for the best!
One observation on the CAB3 App vs the Lionchief App showed up here yesterday. The Lionchief App doesn't ramp up the diesel prime mover on Legacy diesels properly, but they seem to have fixed that with the CAB3 App.
@gunrunnerjohn posted:One observation on the CAB3 App vs the Lionchief App showed up here yesterday. The Lionchief App doesn't ramp up the diesel prime mover on Legacy diesels properly, but they seem to have fixed that with the CAB3 App.
So I wasn't imagining that huh?????? 
So far I'm impressed with the Cab3's improvements over the LC app.
Bob
@RSJB18 posted:So I wasn't imagining that huh??????
So far I'm impressed with the Cab3's improvements over the LC app.
I can't speak to what you imagine Bob. 
@gunrunnerjohn posted:I can't speak to what you imagine Bob.
Yea...I scare myself sometimes......
Tried it yesterday. Seems to work OK. Thanks for producing it Lionel.
One niggle: I had to come here to find out how to get to the settings pages. There is nothing on the home page that even gives a hint. The old app had that.
Maybe that should be a necessary change on the next version.
Keep up the good work.
John
@Norm I'm kinda new to all of this...When I entered(2023) the hobby(love it) I immediatly thought the Base3 was an IoT device. I was expecting Internet access and a developer SDK to allow me to run wild and build my own. I dont know the business model for Lionel and MTH but i wonder if the hobby would expand and revenue would increase if they opened it up.
I used the Cab3 app yesterday for the first time and I really liked it. It was my first time EVER to control a train using anything other than conventional control, and it was a blast!
I would encourage people to read the directions on the website or watch a video before using it, as it was not intuitively obvious how some of the features work or how to access the other screens besides the home screen.
A few very minor negatives:
1. I found that swiping to get to screens other than the home screen was a little balky. I assume it will get easier with practice.
2. The app does not allow multi-unit consists. That's about the only Legacy feature I care about that is not included in the Bluetooth app. I'll probably break down eventually and buy a Base 3 in order to do that, but I have higher priorities for my model railroad budget right now.
I would encourage anybody to give the app a try - hey, it's free! Thank you, Lionel!
@Maxandy posted:@Norm I'm kinda new to all of this...When I entered(2023) the hobby(love it) I immediatly thought the Base3 was an IoT device. I was expecting Internet access and a developer SDK to allow me to run wild and build my own. I dont know the business model for Lionel and MTH but i wonder if the hobby would expand and revenue would increase if they opened it up.
Maxandy,
Most people who are toy trains enthusiasts, by a huge margin, could care less about programming anything. In fact they try to avoid it like the plague. If you follow this forum for a more than a few months you'll see this plainly, and we here are largely the most technically-skilled portion of the market.
Now, having said this, there are a few of us for whom advanced control is a desirable goal, my self included. Follow this link. If you go through this entire thread you'll get a good idea of the state of the art here with respect to advanced controls. Realize that it's quite old (6-1/2 years), but so is Lionel's release of the TMCC protocol specification to the general public. (It was published about the year 2000.):
TMCC Control With Arduino (02/18/18) | Don Furgerson
It can be done but is there a huge opportunity here? Not so far (with nearly 25 years of hindsight).
Mike
@Maxandy posted:@Norm I'm kinda new to all of this...When I entered(2023) the hobby(love it) I immediatly thought the Base3 was an IoT device. I was expecting Internet access and a developer SDK to allow me to run wild and build my own. I dont know the business model for Lionel and MTH but i wonder if the hobby would expand and revenue would increase if they opened it up.
The LCS Partner Program would give you the protocols. You just have to email me to sign up. TMCC and Legacy protocols are open, and the LCSPP gives all LCS protocols, including Wi-Fi.
@Dave - Thanks Dave. email request on the way.
I was just at the Lionel store and the shipping date is gone from the Base3, if I remember correctly that means they have them in hand. Correct or not?
@Reading RR posted:I was just at the Lionel store and the shipping date is gone from the Base3, if I remember correctly that means they have them in hand. Correct or not?
@Dave Olson posted:
Woo hoo!
Looks like they took up the whole container!
@Reading RR posted:I was just at the Lionel store and the shipping date is gone from the Base3, if I remember correctly that means they have them in hand. Correct or not?
Dave's going to need bigger hands to hold all those
Thanks Dave, we have a winner, chicken dinner. Or should I say Base 3 dinner.
Thanks for the photo Dave.
I waited a long time for my Strasburg hybrid and it was worth the wait.
I am sure the Base 3 will also be worth the wait.
Cool! I really hope I pre-ordered early enough (DEC 2022) to get the first run! (Will the first run cover the pre-orders? hmm)
I ordered mine from Trainworld at the beginning of last December, so I probably won't get mine until the second run. Although, I could get mine sooner. I'm waiting for the email from Trainworld so I can finalize the order and make the payment.
Just wondering how the Base 3 will connect to existing Base 2 equipment? Or will it? Is it intended to replace all previous bases? What about the TMCC base 1? Thanks for any info.
@Rod Stewart posted:Just wondering how the Base 3 will connect to existing Base 2 equipment? Or will it? Is it intended to replace all previous bases? What about the TMCC base 1? Thanks for any info.
It replaces all existing TMCC/Legacy command bases. There was some discussion about using the original BASE1 with it, but I don't know if that's possible at this point.
@Rod Stewart posted:Just wondering how the Base 3 will connect to existing Base 2 equipment? Or will it? Is it intended to replace all previous bases? What about the TMCC base 1? Thanks for any info.
The original TMCC base will connect using a SER2 on the PDI buss.
Everything using the PDI bus, you will lose the powered Y cord that is on the back of the Legacy base along with the Legacy Base and plug in the first LCS module directly into the back of the Base3.
The Cab2 will search for the Base3 like it does with the Legacy Base. IMO if you are using a Cab2, you won't notice a difference until you start to add LC Radio and Bluetooth engines. When I had the Base3 unit for the Legacy Virtual event last fall the Cab2 interface was seamless.
Check out this site for a lot of your answers.
@Rod Stewart posted:Just wondering how the Base 3 will connect to existing Base 2 equipment? Or will it? Is it intended to replace all previous bases? What about the TMCC base 1? Thanks for any info.
check out the Lionel site dedicated to the BASE 3: https://control.lionel.com/
The Base 2 must be removed if you plan to use a Base 3. The TMCC Base can connect to the Base 3 but you'll need to make the connection through a SER2 on one of the Base 3 PDI ports.
H1000,
For future Ref. which cable ends on the cab2 Y cable go to the old TMCC base and the Ser2 board. Not to seem stupid, but is the legacy base end plug into the serial 2 board connector. There's only 2 choices on that cable.
@Reading RR posted:H1000,
For future Ref. which cable ends on the cab2 Y cable go to the old TMCC base and the Ser2 board. Not to seem stupid, but is the legacy base end plug into the serial 2 board connector. There's only 2 choices on that cable.
This diagram from the BASE2 manual should help a bit:
Instead of the BASE2 in the above photo, the "Y" cable end will plug into the DB9 port on the SER2. The SER2 is then plugged into one of the PDI ports on the back of the BASE3.
I have three transformers running three separate loops of track. Looking at the Base3 hook up instructions pasted below, sounds like I should run 3 wires, one from the ground/U terminal of each of the three transformers and the other end of each wire all connected to the Track U post on the back of the Base3?
Just want to make sure I am reading this correctly.
Bradley
Get your engines running by following the instructions in the quick start guide.
1. Thread the external antenna onto the port on the back of the Base3.
2. Connect a wire to the TRACK U post on the back of the Base3. Connect the other end to the ground/U terminal of your AC transformer or the outside rails of your track.
Thanks H1000,
That's what I thought, just confirming. Thanks a lot.
For Cab3(bluetooth) I dont see startup and shutdown commands. I assume that is via the upcoming Base3 or someone who already has the Legacy Controller.
@Maxandy posted:For Cab3(bluetooth) I dont see startup and shutdown commands. I assume that is via the upcoming Base3 or someone who already has the Legacy Controller.
I don't think BT ever had startup/shutdown, so that makes sense.
Update to Cab3 app is available. You can now search and add your base3.
Neal Jeter
Apple version only. Android still showing 18 June as the upload date. But almost here for us android based devices. That means base 3's will be in our hands any day.
I am glad they updated the CAB3 apps with CAB3 features, so it is ready when we receive BASE3. I updated it and look forward to using it when my BASE3 arrives.
Yep, I looked and the Android version was the original.
The Bluetooth side still has the glitches with missing buttons.
Pete
@Norton posted:The Bluetooth side still has the glitches with missing buttons.
Pete
Try deleting and reinstalling the app Pete. My original download was missing fwd/rev when I first installed it.
Bob
@RSJB18 posted:Try deleting and reinstalling the app Pete. My original download was missing fwd/rev when I first installed it.
Bob
I did that, fwd/rev was there but the bell wasn’t. My experience is every time I bring it up something else is different. It still doesn’t allow me to swipe left and right, only up and down.
Pete
@Norton posted:I did that, fwd/rev was there but the bell wasn’t. My experience is every time I bring it up something else is different. It still doesn’t allow me to swipe left and right, only up and down.
Pete
Dave mentioned that they expect bugs to pop up as more devices download the app.
There's a contact email at Lionel where you can report the issues.
What device are you using? I have a Samsung S 22 and it works fine.
Mine appears to have all the buttons and works with Bluetooth engines.
@gunrunnerjohn posted:Mine appears to have all the buttons and works with Bluetooth engines.
Even the Voice Streaming and Recording features?
@RSJB18 posted:Dave mentioned that they expect bugs to pop up as more devices download the app.
There's a contact email at Lionel where you can report the issues.
What device are you using? I have a Samsung S 22 and it works fine.
IPad Gen7 and Gen9 iOS 16.6.1. Both behave the same.
Pete
@H1000 posted:Even the Voice Streaming and Recording features?
I never tried those as I don't use them.
@Norton posted:IPad Gen7 and Gen9 iOS 16.6.1. Both behave the same.
Pete
See? There's your problem......your devices start with "I".........
Not a Apple fan...... Both of my kids love them......can't say the same.
Oops. I posted on the other thread that your device may need to use Bluetooth5.
I believe Dave Olsen sad that was necessary for voice streaming.
I have an IPhone 15 pro.
All buttons work until I swipe right to adjust audio settings for an engine. When I return to the engine screen the crew talk button is blue and can no longer be activated.
I removed the app and reinstalled with same issue happening.
Thought they would have worked through these issues. Will be interesting to see what bugs show up on the cab3 side.
@BAM Railroad I was able to recreate your problem with a 14 pro max & an iPhone SE
I really think the CAB3 needs something other than an upward swipe to change screens. It's actually way too easy to swipe up to full throttle when trying to change screens! I'd like to see a simple arrow to flip screens.
I did try the CAB3 on an old Samsung Galaxy Note 4 with Android 6, and it worked fine. That's one step up from the Lionchief app, it crashed and burned on the same Note 4 phone.
I don't think Lionel is under any fantasy to think they won't be squashing bugs for a while. They only have access to so many types of devices, resources for testing, and real world experience is always different than testing in a controlled environment. Right now IMO the BT seems to be an improvement of the LC app despite some of the issues.
I would suggest we comment on what we find and let them sort out the issues.
I would also suggest checking to make sure the app you are using is the most up to date version and include that information as well as the device type you are using, engine w/ product number, and any other perinate information to help the process.
The more information you can provide the quicker a solution can be made.
Downloaded the App update this AM. Bluetooth mode issues:
The horn button stayed on (blue color) with continuous sound during the first run. Had to disconnect the engine to turn it off. I have not been able to repeat this during limited testing, but will load up WiFi monitoring program to see what cmds are being sent when I resume operating.
The Bluetooth disconnect button does not dim after disconnect. Have to go to the home screen and back to reset the button dim state.
@Jeff2035 posted:Oops. I posted on the other thread that your device may need to use Bluetooth5.
I believe Dave Olsen sad that was necessary for voice streaming.
I fired it up on an old Samsung Note 4, that certainly doesn't have BT5, works fine. There are other interface issues, but it connected and ran two engines at the same time, big improvement over the LC app.
For Dave Olson ...
How do you want to collect defect reports from forum members? A dedicated thread, Bugzilla, or ???
John,
This same question was asked of Mike Phillips (GM of Lionel) during the LCCA convention. His response was to send the information to TalkToUS@LIONEL.COM They have set up a clearing house to monitor the emails for the Cab3 (and controls) related questions, etc. From what I understand, these are collected and responded to as appropriate, with any new issues/finding that may be of general interested posted on their dedicated controls related website - https://control.lionel.com
I just went to their new site. There is lots of information there.
@Tracker John posted:For Dave Olson ...
How do you want to collect defect reports from forum members? A dedicated thread, Bugzilla, or ???
@Dave Olson works better.
@DaveGG posted:John,
This same question was asked of Mike Phillips (GM of Lionel) during the LCCA convention. His response was to send the information to TalkToUS@LIONEL.COM They have set up a clearing house to monitor the emails for the Cab3 (and controls) related questions, etc. From what I understand, these are collected and responded to as appropriate, with any new issues/finding that may be of general interested posted on their dedicated controls related website - https://control.lionel.com
I just went to their new site. There is lots of information there.
Correct. Please email the call center. I set them up with a bug tracker that reports to me. It's better to get it all from a single source, otherwise I'd be checking forums, Facebook, emails, and bat signals . Please include device information, including OS version, as that's critical in tracking things down.
We have a good list of the things that are needing worked on. There will be periodic updates over the coming months as we nail things down. Basic functionality is there. Just some clean up and a few new features yet to implement.
Cab 3 app for androids now available, update shows 12 July.
The posts about the Base 3 have been deleted in this thread since it is about the Cab3 app. Please keep the discussion about the original topic. If you want to discuss the Base 3, then start a separate topic about it under the same category as this topic.
It appears the Cab3 App has had some tweaks. I only use it for Bluetooth engines. No Base 3 at this time.
Anyway after deleting and reinstalling it a few dozen times since its release all the buttons show up and don’t stick and I am able to swipe in both axes on my iPad Gen7.
I can still only run one engine at a time, even identical engines so double heading is out. My Universal Remote does in fact see two identical engines as one so thats what will be used for my F3 pairs.
Pete
@Norton posted:It appears the Cab3 App has had some tweaks. I only use it for Bluetooth engines. No Base 3 at this time.
Anyway after deleting and reinstalling it a few dozen times since its release all the buttons show up and don’t stick and I am able to swipe in both axes on my iPad Gen7.
I can still only run one engine at a time, even identical engines so double heading is out. My Universal Remote does in fact see two identical engines as one so thats what will be used for my F3 pairs.
Pete
The build number is in the bottom left hand corner.
On the CAB3 app, it wasn't obvious or intuitive that you needed to swipe the left-most window down to reach the "Base Details" screen. From there, the "WIFI Connection Setting" is clearly marked, BUT...after entering the SSID and Password, there is no immediate indication that the information was entered correctly. You then have to go "Back" for the system to acquire an IP address. If it doesn't, it is not clear whether or not the SSID or Password was incorrect or some other problem is occurring.
As @MartyE mentions in another post, double clicking on the speed digits brings up the useful Big Red dial. But that wasn't intuitive or obvious either.
I wonder if micro-font or some ingenious overlay screen can be eventually implemented in the user interface to highlight the hidden screen features of the CAB3 app...(for those of us that don't always read or remember every detail in the manual )
@Bruce Brown posted:As @MartyE mentions in another post, double clicking on the speed digits brings up the useful Big Red dial. But that wasn't intuitive or obvious either.
I wonder if micro-font or some ingenious overlay screen can be eventually implemented in the user interface to highlight the hidden screen features of the CAB3 app...(for those of us that don't always read or remember every detail in the manual
I will again say that the Power and Control website is a great resource of information. I understand the desire to jump right in and try to navigate around yourself but a lot of this information is available there. I certainly do not mind helping but I picked up a lot of what I know from the on-line guide. Unfortunately I imagine any overlay would be impractical given the various screen sizes and devices. Maybe a chart to start (that rhymed) that can be put near your layout might be a better solution.
I encourage everyone to be patient, watch some pretty good videos Sean's Trains are putting out, and keep an eye on the forum. People here are willing to help but this is new to all of us so some things may take time to try and answer.
Marty,
The above graphic and listed screen elements are even more confusing! As an example, they don't show or explain that hidden under area 6 are the sub-screens for Base Details and Engine Configuration.
@Bruce Brown posted:Marty,
The above graphic and listed screen elements are even more confusing! As an example, they don't show or explain that hidden under area 6 are the sub-screens for Base Details and Engine Configuration.
The website breaks out the different screens and tells you how to access them. for instance on the the Base3 Details and Firmware, the instructions explain to swipe up or down depending on which menu you are accessing.
To your point the "Keypad" section is coming soon. That would be beneficial to get up on the site.
I've already suggested via the "TalkToUS" that an indication that swiping will bring you to a different screen even if a small arrow would be beneficial.
@MartyE posted:I've already suggested via the "TalkToUS" that an indication that swiping will bring you to a different screen even if a small arrow would be beneficial.
Actually, if that arrow did the swipe action, that would be even better. Swiping over the operating controls doesn't always yield the result you want. 
Why have a swipe when you can just press a button to change screens?
All about the Cab 3 App by Sean's Trains.
Very well done and answers many questions.
Thanks Sean
@gunrunnerjohn posted:Actually, if that arrow did the swipe action, that would be even better. Swiping over the operating controls doesn't always yield the result you want.
This is why there's an entire segment of software engineering called "human factors".
😉
@rplst8 posted:This is why there's an entire segment of software engineering called "human factors".
Yep, when I was working on cockpit instrumentation, that was one of the steps. The human factors folks would critique all the fine details, right down to how the knobs should be knurled.
Maybe we can make a sticky post with the current "grievances" with the Cab3 app. This way people can check there before making posts everywhere (like what I'm doing) @Sean's Train Depot your 2 videos were super helpful. I think I found a bug but I'd like someone to confirm it - I am a Legacy notice.
Tried creating a train in the Cab3 today with a 2023 VL Big Boy & the UP Vision Caboose that had just come out. I could not get the engine to appear as an option when building the train until I re-addressed it into a 2 digit ID. Originally had it as 4014 but when I changed it to just "14" it showed up 
Can anyone else recreate?
@Rollsington posted:Maybe we can make a sticky post with the current "grievances" with the Cab3 app. This way people can check there before making posts everywhere (like what I'm doing) @Sean's Train Depot your 2 videos were super helpful. I think I found a bug but I'd like someone to confirm it - I am a Legacy notice.
Tried creating a train in the Cab3 today with a 2023 VL Big Boy & the UP Vision Caboose that had just come out. I could not get the engine to appear as an option when building the train until I re-addressed it into a 2 digit ID. Originally had it as 4014 but when I changed it to just "14" it showed up
Can anyone else recreate?
I suspect since you were trying to build a train with a 4 digit and a 2 digit was the issue. Whether that is a valid combination currently I don't know but a note on the Power and Control website seems to indicate 4 digit trains using 4 digit engine is on the future list. I would suspect once you match 2 digit with 2 digit it would work.
It totally did... but no documentation saying as much
4-Digit Trains is currently a future development. It is stated so at the bottom of the 4-Digit page on the control website.
So far I feel it's been a good experience. I think loading data from the Cab 2 to cab 3 helps. I can use it on my phone,pad or firefly 7 (with Google added to obtain the app). I have no 4 digit number addresses to use to date. Just now have to come up with new connection for dcs to talk to base since there is no nine pin connector on cab 3 like 2.
@dk122trains posted:So far I feel it's been a good experience. I think loading data from the Cab 2 to cab 3 helps. I can use it on my phone,pad or firefly 7 (with Google added to obtain the app). I have no 4 digit number addresses to use to date. Just now have to come up with new connection for dcs to talk to base since there is no nine pin connector on cab 3 like 2.
You can use the Lionel SER2 for that.
@Dave Olson thanks! Really good stuff in there somehow I missed that section
Also good stuff on the fuel info - ordered a "SensorTrack 2"
So regarding the swipe up/down issue, speaking for iOS only, Lionel is not honoring the Apple design guidelines, which is fine as long as all gestures are discoverable, but the ones we are talking about in this thread ARE NOT. I was working with the Base3/Cab3 app all weekend, and this drove me nuts. (Also there is a really bad bug...entering engine ID 02 caused the app to crash repeatedly for me). Anyway, what I would recommend on iOS is to use the iOS UITabBarController instead of the roll-your-own tab interface Lionel did at the top of the screen. Essentialy ditch that and move the Bluetooh and Base 3 tabs to a normal tab bar controller at the bottom of the screen, and there will also be room for the functions presently accessed via swipe up/down. I used the Apple Music app for my primitive mock up below, but hoepfully you get the idea.
I know there are reports of the brake slider not working - found another workaround other than brake/boost. It works perfect if you're controlling a train (as in TR). You could in theory add a single engine as a train and use it that way.
I'm a glutton for punishment ... with a desire to have a tablet sized between the phone and iPad, I purchased an Amazon Fire 7" tablet. FireOS is an Android fork without the Google Play Store, but there are guides available describing how to download and install the necessary components (patience is needed here). Once the Google Play Store software was installed, I downloaded the Cab3 App. It connected immediately with the Base3 in AP mode. Surprise! - I expected issues with the underlying FireOS. Connecting to my hidden network eventually succeeded.
A major annoyance configuring network settings in both the Android and iOS apps is swiping down rarely opens the Base Details page. I also found that changes made to the WiFi Configuration Settings page may not work unless the Cab3 App is uninstalled (which deletes the App's data), then reinstalled and new settings made in the fresh install (this also seems to be the case with the iOS version). More experimenting to come ...
Great stuff from all of you! Thanks for pounding on the Cab3.
Other control screens include the Speed Screen and the Lighting Menu. The Speed Screen can be accessed by swiping from right to left on the keypad. The Lighting Menu is accessed by holding down the Aux2 button.
Other control screens include the Speed Screen and the Lighting Menu. The Speed Screen can be accessed by swiping from right to left on the keypad. The Lighting Menu is accessed by holding down the Aux2 button.
Other control screens include the Speed Screen and the Lighting Menu. The Speed Screen can be accessed by swiping from right to left on the keypad. The Lighting Menu is accessed by holding down the Aux2 button.
When connected to a Legacy engine, swipe from left to right to enter the Preset Dialog Menu. These preset dialog options change whether the locomotive is moving or stopped. These same dialog options apply to Legacy Steam, Diesel, and Electric.
Note the icon on the far right of each button; either a radio or a tower. The radio indicates that the dialog is initiated by the locomotive’s crew characters (CrewTalk). The tower indicates that the dialog is initiated by the Tower character (TowerCom).
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