Using CAB 1 remote in a DCS environment

You get one key feature using the CAB1, there is no way to use the SET key using the DCS remote.  If you're programming an engine, they do emulate that keypress, but if you want to do something like program an ERR board or set a stall speed, you can't do it with the DCS remote.

I also prefer the big red knob to the lame thumbwheel.

So if I am using a Lionel TMCC engine on my DCS layout(I have the TMCC Command connected) I should use a separate CAB1 remote just for that(and any other TMCC) engine? sounds good-thanks-Rolf

You can use either remote run run a TMCC locomotive, there are just certain functions that require a CAB1, anything that requires you to press the SET key.

Thanks for your reply- There are some functions like cab chatter, different horn sequences, ect. on a TMCC engine that I want to access- I was wondering if the CAB 1 remote would give me those functions that my DCS remote can't-at least I can't find them on my remote- not a big deal- just want to enjoy all of the features that a TMCC loco has to offer- thanks again-Rolf

Rolf,

You might find the following from page 127 of The Companion 3rd Edition to be helpful:

2. Considerations and Limitations of TMCC Control Using the DCS Remote

• TMCC engines are controlled in the same manner as DCS engines using the DCS Remote. They are selected from the Active Engine List and operated from the Engine Control Screen. DCS release 4.0 and later provides much improved control of TMCC engines as compared to previous releases of DCS through a revamped TMCC engine screen. New soft keys provide the DCS operator with the ability to completely emulate all of the TMCC functions available from the Lionel TMCC Cab-1 remote control. DCS release 4.0 added the following soft keys on the TMCC Engine Control Screen:
• Pressing the AX1 soft key acts the same way as it does on the Cab-1 remote control. After pressing AX1, the AX1 soft key will remain highlighted and number keys may be pressed to invoke specific TMCC functions. This allows operation of all of the features of newer TMCC engines, such as Lionel's Acela. The AX1 soft key will remain highlighted and active until it is either pressed a second time or until a different engine is selected from the Active Engine List and displayed in the DCS Remote's Engine Control Screen. Either event will turn off AX1 mode and restore the DCS Remote's keypad to normal TMCC operation.
• Pressing the AX2 soft key acts the same way as it does on the Cab-1 remote control. After pressing AX2, the AX2 soft key will remain highlighted and number keys may be pressed to invoke specific TMCC functions. This allows operation of all of the features of newer TMCC engines, such as Lionel's Acela. The AX2 soft key will remain highlighted and active until it is either pressed a second time or until a different engine is selected from the Active Engine List and displayed in the DCS Remote's Engine Control Screen. Either event will turn off AX2 mode and restore the DCS Remote's keypad to normal TMCC operation.
• Pressing the SPD soft key allows selection of 128 or 32 speed steps for the active TMCC engine. Only TMCC engines equipped with K-Line's speed control or TAS EOB should be used with 128 speed steps. All other TMCC engines, and Legacy engines operating in TMCC mode, should use 32 speed steps.
• Pressing the MOM soft key allows selection of LOW, MED (medium) or HI (high) momentum for TMCC or Legacy engines.

Pressing the REL soft key allows toggling on and off Relative speed steps and causes the thumbwheel to act like the red knob on the CAB-1 remote. This is useful for operation of the Lionel TMCC crane car. When Relative speed steps is selected, the REL soft key will remain highlighted and REL will appear in the DCS Remote's LCD screen instead of an actual TMCC speed step number. Pressing REL a second time will restore the default Absolute speed steps and the speed step numbers will reappear.

Under DCS releases prior to DCS release 4.0, the DCS Remote may not be able to control some functions on late model TMCC engines that were released since the introduction of DCS. These TMCC engines may require somewhat unique combinations of key presses on a Lionel Cab-1 or Cab-2 remote control in order to trigger new TMCC features.

This and a whole lot more about DCS is all in MTH’s “The DCS Companion 3rd Edition!" This book is available from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at MTH's web store!

Barry Broskowitz posted:

• Pressing the SPD soft key allows selection of 128 or 32 speed steps for the active TMCC engine. Only TMCC engines equipped with K-Line's speed control or TAS EOB should be used with 128 speed steps. All other TMCC engines, and Legacy engines operating in TMCC mode, should use 32 speed steps.

Uhh... what about ERR Cruise? Limiting that to 32 steps seriously limits it's potential.

John,

what about ERR Cruise? Limiting that to 32 steps seriously limits it's potential.

Works OK at the 128 setting.

I know Barry, I was referring to your quote from your book.   Time for another update?

As was stated above, having the CAB 1 on hand is useful for programming engines into the DCS remote. I also find it easier to run engines which don't have speed control (e.g. K Line A5s) with the CAB 1's rotating throttle knob that the DCS thumbwheel. However, I find it easier to run TMCC engines with the DCS app than either of those methods. I would recommend the DCS premium app over all other methods of control. It's phenomenal. 

Aside from that, since I use TMCC on a club layout, the benefit mostly derives from the ability to have an extra remote to run trains with during op sessions. 

Thanks guys- great info-much appreciated-Rolf

John,

Time for another update?

No, I'm not going to even think about another update to the first book unless MTH changes something as regards new features or functions via the remote, which is somewhat unlikely in the near-term.

I see your point about omitting ERR upgrades. In my defense, it's a book about DCS, not TMCC, and I expect that ERR isn't the only company that makes or made TMCC upgrades with a speed control component. I wasn't about to research the subject.  

Thank you Rolf for posting this question.  I like DCS, and most of my engines are MTH.  I do have a TMCC Cab1 and controller and two TMCC engines.  I am with John and Dan on the fact that I like the Lionel big rotating knob over the DCS thumbwheel.  That could be partially because my arthritis happens to be worst in my thumbs.  Taking into consideration I have only explored the basic features of each system, I have not had success running the TMCC engines with the DCS, though I have explored Barry's book on the subject.  I think I just don't stick with it long enough to get the knack.  Since I like the big red knob better, why not go with two remotes?  It's just a personal opinion from someone who doesn't have as many hours with command control than most modelers.

luvatenor posted:

Is there any advantage to having both a DCS Remote and CAB 1 remote in running TMCC Locos in a DCS environment? That is, would I get more functions using the CAB 1 remote than using DCS remote in running a TMCC loco? Thanks

I run with both, usually at the same time.  Have 2-3 locomotives running ... one or two DCS and others TMCC.  Use both controllers, each for its system.  No problems.  I tried hooking them into the DCS but after many frustrating days messing with it gave up to discover later I had one of those earlier defective interface cables.  Haven't tried again yet.

Only problem is "where did I put the xyz remote!?! when running them all.