Model Railway LAYOUT CONTROL & Automation inc' TT:120 & DC HMDC vs DCC HMDCC Beginner Basics | ml43

[@markhudson2684]

Hi Andy, brilliant communication style thank you! A Question I use Z21 lite with tablet Apps really works for me, just looked at the full version of Withrottle and it only talks about dual throttle does it definitely have four? Also if I understand correctly what ever decoder address programmed into Z21 Withrottle will pick up when used?

[@modeloco]

Hello Mark, I obviously have a Digitrax Loconet system that endorses WiThrottle & yes it definitely has that 4 throttle option on one screen with Apple on the App Store & as I used in the paid version. In your App Store, if you scroll the pictures left don't you see it? Are you on Android? Regarding Z21 I can't say what they endorse for use with that & your Command Station's capabilities. It all works great with Digitrax DCS 210+ and iPad Pro Gen 1. Hope that helps!

[@michaelball68]

Really interesting info about the Digitrax system and interfacing to Mac, has clarified a lot for me, thanks!

[@modeloco]

Thanks Michael. It’s the beginning of a journey, into automation that began some time back now and this had to include Mac for me 👍

[@michaelball68]

@@modeloco Me too in the future, as I'm all Apple. Just started on the hobby again after many decades, and although I've started with an NCE Powercab, at some point down the line I want a more complex and capable system and, like you, get into block detection and automation.

[@thelittlewesternmodelrailway]

Good overview, I myself picked up a HM7000 decoder and I am waiting to fully test it. I use DCC-EX as a command station with the EngineDriver App (which allows 2 locos at once) and I am very satisfied. I may give Withrottle a try. With my friend having a digitrax system I am curious how "Place and Play" the HM7000 will be, be it via bluetooth or using the set DCC number. Thanks - James

[@modeloco]

Hi James, I find it all quite endearing. Both Hornby and the Digitrax systems seem to run my trains well in DCC mode with HM7000 fitted locomotives. The HM|DCC app is very well thought through and the dongles too work well. The shortcomings seem to come from the xpressnet protocol though don’t see a reason why this couldn’t be made as embracing as loconet or why an Elite couldn’t use its USB output for Mac Computer connectivity. The Digitrax hub idea seems better in that regard with separate dual hand throttle so maybe Hornby will introduce a hub to replace the Elite? If anything Digitrax does seem to respond quicker and feels more solid but, can’t quite tell you why I feel this. Regards, Andy.

[@stuarthiggins9161]

Another very interesting video - thank you for making it Andy. I’m beginning to think you have more controllers than locos! In my case I’d be starting with HM7000 and no other controllers but want to get to the same destination as you are trying to. So if I had the Digitrax command station, WiFi adapter and used WiiThrottle on an IPad, would I need the Digitrax throttle ? (I’m assuming you can buy the command station without a throttle but I don’t know if that’s the case.)

[@modeloco]

Do have Railmaster Pro too which was a mistake. 😂 Digitrax really needs a controller I’d say, otherwise how would you program non Bluetooth DCC decoder trains. I hear you about iTrain but, I’m only on my first steps with that. I still think it would leave you lacking in some way without. The WiThrottle only picks up on the trains programmed with addresses so okay if you’ve only got Bluetooth addressed locos in DCC mode, in theory. Can understand your thinking as it would save on cost and wonder if there’s a newer command station with usb interface or cheaper throttle. I dunno is the honest answer but, for my DCS 210+ I’d say you need some way to use it to the full and getting the package did save too. Hope that helps

[@stuarthiggins9161]

@@modeloco Thank you Andy for clarifying the need for a throttle. I also have Railmaster + eLink. Perhaps bigger things are planned for HM7000.

[@modeloco]

@@stuarthiggins9161 yes, very true and we’re both well equipped if so. George Waller comes over very well. Hope he gets the support he needs to bring that forward. Just unsure of how many block detection units it could handle with the present Bluetooth accessory units being only to a maximum of 12 outputs or 3 units but, that’s probably plenty for most

[@stephenbromley2302]

As much as I like the hm7000 decoders I could never get my devices to connect quickly to it,iPad 5 th gen,Samsung s7 tablet it would take 3 to 4 minutes sometimes to connect to a decoder then I used a note 4 and it connects quicker so have always run them on Dcc.I have the same digitrax system as you which is good but I bought a cheapish Esu ecos which I find great then connected my digitrax to the ecos for throttles around the layout plus I can still run the Wi-Fi app with the lnw1

[@modeloco]

If memory serves me correctly, you may have mentioned that before & sure I did respond if so, with it might be the cross gadget antennas, all with Bluetooth enabled fighting for the same signal but, what a shame. Have had no issues at all. It does baffle me why other sound decoders are so expensive when the Hornby ones have that added antenna but, far cheaper?

[@stephenbromley2302]

@@modeloco yep I did comment before on devices I’ve used since then I’ve tried Samsung s21 which worked but couldn’t take pictures in the app so I dug out an old note 4 which for now works

[@modeloco]

Glad you got up and running. My iPhone 6 wasn’t compatible but, iPad Pro gen 1 seems made for the job tbh. My newer iPhone after that has no issues either 👍

[@lgrfbs]

Since my last comment disappeared. Thanks for a nice video, there is a LocoNet to XpressNet bridge from mxion Part number: 7004

[@modeloco]

Disappeared, how very odd. Certainly not me at this end. I know sometimes I don’t see comments but, that’s rare. A bridge, now that does sound intriguing. I’ll look it up 👍

[@modeloco]

This adapter, though hard to find here in the UK does look great. I’ve managed to get the manual but, don’t think anyone sells them over here. WiFi built in too, from what I understand and the added electronics for Digitrax. Isn’t it strange, like languages, religions and borders keep us all from connecting so do our devices. I’d certainly love to try one and thanks for your persistence 🙏

[@wamgoc]

I think Hornby are more on the ball now with HM7000, and l’m sure they are looking at block detection. At my club we use the Z21 system, and I must say it seems to work really well. 😊 Thanks for the great content!👏

[@modeloco]

Thank you 🙏 it was a deep one but, they often are, once you dig in. One thing leading into another. Do hold George Waller at Hornby in very high regard. All systems we have are reaching their limits as layouts we build grow, they say. Do wonder how big a layout Hornby have in mind for this new system. Railmaster Pro in principle was a great concept. I think that had it been on a Mac, less issues would have arisen but, a Mac never got a touchscreen which Railmaster embraced too so, we will have to wait and see. iPad loves the HMDCC app. The Z21 comes with its own router which is much better than using your home one but, then, the additional cost if you want an actual handheld throttle and I like the Digitrax dual design… all good stuff 😂

[@benbedothu]

You can use your Digitrax throttle with a Z21.

[@modeloco]

@@benbedothu If fully compatible, great news. Thank you! Guess my evolution bundle did save on investment. Can you use WiThrottle with Z21?

[@benbedothu]

@@modeloco Only through JMRI, but the native Z21 app can do everything WiThrottle can and much more (it has turnout and signal control for example with occupancy detection).

[@modeloco]

@@benbedothu four throttles on one screen option?

[@timharrison2894]

Hornby should be thinking of adding the feature of having multiple trains controlled on 1 screen to the hm7000 app, don't you think?

[@modeloco]

Great on iPad Pro, must try on my iPhone but, yes I do although it is a shame they went Xpressnet rather than Loconet. Maybe they could get them to talk but, it seems a stretch I'd say. Interesting to hear the big announcement tomorrow. Any rumours or ideas what that might be?

[@StevenTT120Layout]

Good job thanks

[@modeloco]

Hello Steven. Thank You!

[@odenviking]

thanks for a intresting video. my thought on the two dcc systems is digitrax has a more wifi based system and hm 7000 i a more bluetooth based system. there are pro and cons from a system point of view. Pro on digitrax is you can connect it to a pc con is that you hav to buy system blocks ie wifi. And the ease of use of i trains on both mac, win, linux. Pro on HM 7000 is that it uses bluetooth witch in it self a smart way to conect to. Con it uses ip system . It uses a difren protocol than digitrax. Pro the app is a smart way to control your dcc layout. and the systems dcc chips are i think the best way to convert locos to dcc. I n my view the digitrax is a good dcc system and HM 7000 is also good system. I think that it is up to witch system you feel at home with or both in you case. 🇸🇪🇸🇪🇸🇪👍👍👍👍

[@modeloco]

The HM|DCC app can't connect to a computer, in my case a Mac, only gadgets & this being the big one for me & the little bonus of four throttles per screen is sweet. 4 Dongles & two adapters on an Elite would work out over double the cost of a Digitrax Wifi unit & app if you've a Digitrax system & using at the 4 gadget max capacity per £75 unit. Naturally the Dongle being the cheaper option if used on one gadget for DCC & HM|DCC control. As you say, both are good systems & Hornby one with the half price decoders offering almost free control if you've a recommended device and power source. For me, it's block detection & multiple accessory options that really sets them apart if you're prepared to invest time & money?

[@MarkJT1000]

Only £9.99 for the app ..... once you've bought the Digitrax Command Station at 400 quid and then the wifi interface for another £75. Versus the HM7000 app which is free.

[@modeloco]

I do agree entirely and love the HMDCC App and elite which is about the same plus dongles of course for DCC fitted locomotives but, it’s Achilles being the xpressnet. Digitrax being Loconet offering the all important iTrain connectivity for those like myself with automation ideals and wanting a wireless handheld walkabout. For anyone on the fence and needing a system like this. There are other options, that’s all I’m really saying and if you do want computer automation in future, this being really for those but, there might be some like me who have digitrax and didn’t know about the app or not knowing that you can run HM7000 locomotives. Can you see my point here?

[@MarkJT1000]

@@modeloco Yes I see. You have far more experience than me and are venturing into much more complicated methods of train control. I'm only just trying to find my way around the Elite at the moment. I'm happy with the HMDCC app but I've bought the Elite so that my young grandson can play as well. Thanks for your advice.

[@modeloco]

@@MarkJT1000 That's a great vision you paint & perfect for that. Adding a Dongle into the Elite would enable him to use his own gadget too if, compatible & if he has one of course. Sounds Perfect!