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I would like thoughts on controlling DCS with the cell phone app.  I currently operate my layout with DCS and use the hand held controller...it works fine.  I am curious to know if adding the wireless interface would enhance the operation?  Are there more features?  Are there problems with using a cell phone to operate trains.  I have an iphone 6. 

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Clint,

I would like thoughts on controlling DCS with the cell phone app.  I currently operate my layout with DCS and use the hand held controller...it works fine.  I am curious to know if adding the wireless interface would enhance the operation?  Are there more features? 

I suggest that you refer to The DCS Companion 3rd Edition, Part XII - DCS Smart Device Application, If you don't have a copy of the book (you really should! ), then view and/or download the instruction manual for the WIU by clicking here. Either one will I've you an understanding of the DCS App's capabilities.

Keep in mind that the current version of the app lacks many features that will be present in the Pro version of the app, due out later this year.

Are there problems with using a cell phone to operate trains.  I have an iphone 6. 

I use an iPhone 6 and an iPad Mini to operate the DCS App with absolutely no problems at all.


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Last edited by Barry Broskowitz

I would suggest that you download the app on your iPhone and get a feel for it.  You can see the button size, functions, features, etc.

I have used it successfully with a small LG smartphone (Android, of course) with a 3.75" screen and it works OK on that.  Hope they fix the "speed up" button's proximity to the "120mph" area on a new update! (makes for some scary fast runs on your layout!)

Also keep in mind that the WiFi app enhances the experience by allowing you to choose the size of remote (Screen size) of your handheld. No longer is it a "one size fits all", pick the phone or tablet size that is comfortable for you!

Software is easier to update than redesigning a dedicated DCS remote like you have now. New features, control layout and customization are much easier for MTH to implement with an app vs the DCS handheld.

Adding remotes is also as easy as digging out an old tablet or smart phone and installing the app.  Not to mention the falling prices of smart devices make is much easier and cheaper to expand your layout controls.

H1000

Clint,

The DCS App is version 1.1. However, the WIU will most likely be at version 1.0 when you purchase it. Before using the app with the WIU it's important that you upgrade the WIU's firmware to version 1.1.

If you do not have both the app and the WIU at version 1.1, I can pretty much guarantee that you will encounter problems.

There are a lot of great dealers out there. I just got my wifi box from Ray Manley (ray's electric train works). One great thing about him (among many) is he installs and/or upgrades stuff to the latest releases when ordered from him.

 About this wifi, it seems to take a little getting used to. Although everyone raves about it, I have to figure out where stuff is. I haven't found the max speed settings yet. I can't run multiple engine consists yet. I think I need to just get used to where stuff is. I had the remote for so many years, I'm keeping it close by to ease the transition. I do enjoy it so far though. I'm hoping it will make running my G scale with smoking whistles, easier.

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