Opening the Western Master eLink Train Set

[@FiveElms]

Hi Will, you could also just download the latest trial software for Railmaster from the Hornby site. Its the same program and just becomes unlocked to the full version with your activation code. Jason.

[@Hobie167]

I was a bit scared about getting a e-link for all the problems of getting the computer working but decided it's the future thanks for such a great video will being setting up my western rail with e-link in the next few days can't wait to get that big grin 😁

[@hegz1484]

Absolutely love the sarcasm when you were reading the box.

[@CharliePhilippe1990]

I like that it works with older computers. They're a lot of folks (like myself) who have older laptops hanging around that could be re purposed as dedicated model train controllers.

[@WillPoulton]

Just ordered this online. Very excited now.

[@SDJR7F88]

Superb set mate! Very interesting new control system! Not sure how I would get on with it though! LOL! Great work and will be watching your GWR Passenger Freight Set Review soon!

[@bus131]

Beautiful piece of equipment is the e-link. The possibilities really are endless with this system. Although as Will said the 1amp transformer does need upgrading if you plan to have numerous locos & accessories running, I have found its much better with the 4amp transformer connected to it. The beauty I have found is that you can load railmaster up on 1 PC then, network it to another. I have a server under the layout then networked over to my laptop wirelessly so I don't have loads of wires round my control system. iPhone, iPad, Android all have apps available although I haven't done this yet. I think Jason Five Elms touches on the iPad version.

[@jerbulogicalliamandjoe3100]

I usually don't like those trains but that looks sick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@baconbapfilmstudio]

that's actually quite a cool product from hornby, genuinely impressed that it works as well!!

[@AnthonyRailwayBVideos]

Hello. Great review! I bought the Hornby Elink separately in the summer. I managed to use it easily with the analogue power track easily with no problems.

[@daved4757]

The Hornby Pannier with the open cab comes from a much earlier era than the Bachmann one which partially explains why it looks more basic, the Hornby type would be correct for say 1900 - 1930 and the later type Bachmann make for 1930 to the end of steam, important to consider if anyone is looking any kind of accuracy with their layout.

[@AnthonyRailwayBVideos]

The same thing happened to me when the Elink was updating. Because I still had all my trains on my layout it caused a short circuit.

[@tubemaster567]

This is a rather pleasant surprise, I was looking for a Weston master v light metre, but this is also good, I really must fix my layout.

[@jacobporrett]

Awesome video well done. That is the longest and best review ever. I want one now, it looks awesome. fantastic video well done.

[@EastCoastSteam4468]

Been using a very similar device, the SPROGII for a while now. Programming a loco on a PC is much better than the handheld device, really makes life easier.

[@EastCoastSteam4468]

Oh yeah, it has so much to offer when it comes to programming and even small layout operation.

[@ryandavey3712]

CV "I have no Idea what half of that means... But it sounds really really cool" For some reason I couldn't stop laughing! Thanks I needed that XD

[@BRRailwayVideos]

That's a amazing set

[@FiveElms]

I got the E-Link up and running on my layout if anyone would like to see it! Jason.

[@railandmodel]

Good stuff Will.

[@fredblair8230]

longest unboxing ever xD very thorough good job! I will have to consider gettting this in the future.

[@yellowroseproductions363]

did you hear that Bachmann USA has something like this? it's the same concept, but you can control it with your phone.

[@Licci.PrProj]

Awesome review man!

[@JD1611]

I guess I'm slightly old fashioned, despite only being 21, in that I don't like the idea of controlling a layout with a computer; I want a proper controller, even though some of the DCC controllers are basically computers, that is made specifically for controlling a layout. As impressive as it is that technology allows it there's just something about using a computer mouse/trackpad/keyboard/touch screen that just removes some of the fun.

[@hegz1484]

If you use it for point control (only) e.g. use the elite for engine control. it has the potential to be awesome.

[@JD1611]

This is true, although I have heard and read some pretty disappointing things about the Elite but I see your point.

[@hegz1484]

yeh… If any controller.. I'd go for the dynamis because it's cheap, can do almost everything you could want it to, and it's wireless. also the dynamis's joystick type throttle is the equivalent of the elite's never endinding rotation throttle control

[@JD1611]

Yes the Dynamis does work better, just a shame that they can't combine the two because the Elite has the modern aesthetics whilst the Dynamis seems to have the expected functionality and reliability.

[@hegz1484]

yeh… but hornby being hornby, the price would go up heaps.

[@tanfield02]

my fav car for lowmac the is a mini metro on the way to the scrap heap!

[@godlydestroyer8658]

such a informative revew! keep up the good work

[@dismaldog]

Great review Will,love that pannier!

[@Class66Rocks]

Awesome review mate, that E-Link system looks really good :-)

[@axelsr8981]

Do the majestic set!

[@jacobwilson5468]

Another brilliant Review InterCity82 .. I love this new Hornby Digital eLink System that is included in this Hornby R 1173 Western Master Digital eLink Train Set. I would love to get a Hornby Digital eLink System Train Set, but I would not be sure which one to get. The only thing though that puts me off getting this Train Set is the choice of Rolling Stock it comes with and the fact that when buying the Hornby R 1173 Western Master Digital eLink Train Set, you have the risk of picking one up that comes with the wrong Power Track piece, just like InterCity82 . had in this Train Set he Reviewed in this Video. These things just really put me off from buying this particular Train Set. I would like one with a Steam Locomotive (With a separate Tender), with three or four Coaches, and or one with an 0-6-0 Steam Locomotive (Like the one you get in this Train Set), along with an Open Wagon, a Flatbed Truck or Lowmac with a Container, a Closed Van or Ventilated Van, a Tanker and Break Van to finish the Train off.

[@foxcell]

very nice :-D

[@M50A1]

The pannier tank loco is favorite locomotive It's pretty good at hauling car carriers Ash ketchum

[@rogue2309]

I like it.

[@shappers]

Model zone are still around in some w h smiths stores

[@KeithTucker45]

Great review! Before I saw this video, I thought that the e-link system was wireless, i.e. there was no direct connection between the laptop and the e-link box. Obviously I was wrong. I like the concept of this system but think it would be more usable with a tablet and by using a wireless connection. I see from a comment below that the s/w can be downloaded from the Hornby site so presumably that is how it could be loaded onto a tablet or smartphone.

[@microbusss]

OOOOOOO!!! GIMMIE!! I WANTS!! LOL

[@mjsdecember1990]

Have you considered useing the frizinghall railways and models they have a shop in bradford but their website delivers allover the uk

[@MamodFan01]

I'm thinking of trying elink what are your thoughts on it? Is it worth the money?

[@Ethan_lewis]

Cool

[@kolesoden34]

the low mac does have metal wheels they are just painted

[@FarlandHowe]

I received my ELink and Railmaster about 2 months ago and it still does not run correctly. I have had Hornby on the phone for long periods twice now. I even sent the Elink back to Margate for inspection because I have to time the exact moment I plug the USB cable into my computer for it to hand shake properly with Railmaster. It usually takes several tries. Railmaster also freezes on occasion necessitating stopping it with Task Manager and restarting it again including the USB bit. I am running a Toshiba laptop with an Intel i5 and Windows 8 as the OS. I just thought I would pass that along. Rob

[@dave41184]

Hornby should have you on their payroll Will! A pretty amazing video, and a game changer like you say. Do you think big jumps in technology like this would alienate people or encourage more people to get into model railways? Is there any chance of a power surge going from the e-link to your laptop?

[@zacharycchen]

when is the new layout coming, you said you were going to review it soon two year ago? i really want to see it

[@MCPR1204]

Quit complaining about the lack of details! It looks a lot better than my 60's/70's Hornby pannier!

[@brandondavis-white3352]

Excellent opening that train set does look amazing,I like it,when it tells the accurate speed of the loco Would it say 126mph max speed for a A4 pacific Mallard? 10/10 on review Will.

[@LocoMotionOfficial]

I was kind of annoyed with the e-link because it came out just after I converted my layout to DCC and purchased the track master software and the top of the range elite controller, so I could of saved about £100 if they had brought it out earlier (or if I was telepathic and knew to wait).

[@hatakashi1900]

I wonder if this can be controlled via smartphone, just like the Roco Z21

[@XJoshuamiller]

you like the Etype! its my favourite!

[@trainsplanes5416]

If only Hornby's setrack was nickel silver. My layout uses nickel silver track so I have no use for the metal track which comes with the sets. I guess I'll have to use it for diaromas or mini-layouts

[@daved4757]

Is it difficult to stop in exactly the right place as coupling up in the siding suggested ?, could be difficult to stop a big loco on a turntable in that case.

[@adamjames710]

Hi, I was thinking to changing my dc hornby layout to either dcc or eLink. Is it worth doing because it is hard and expensive to install decoders when you only have one dcc ready out of about 10+ Locos which are dc and can't run smoothly. Thanks!

[@sonarfreq]

Can I ask, what model number is your vaio ultrabook? Very nice!

[@Synthematix]

can you control the speed with the keyboard arrow keys?

[@imissbritishleyland]

Holy Moses! Monster hour long review! Very interesting to see the elink in action. It is a serious contender for DCC upgrade, and costs peanuts in comparison to an equivalent stand alone unit. Hopefully there will be IOS support soon. One very important question for you Will: Does the DCC fitted loco have a DCC jacket factory fitted?!! Have a look for us :)

[@thehole4472]

Run as Administrator is down to Windows User Account Control without using it some software does not install correctly even if your account has administrator privileges.

[@trainsplanes5416]

How could you change the points without motors?

[@PeakeyFortySix]

Great vid and set looks absolutely amazing!!! Does it work with other locomotives from other manufacturers? Cheers, Jack

[@tobyharrison682]

why don't you use the elink for the main layout as apose to the n gauge layout

[@christopheralvis7794]

Can you do Pennine express is a steam loco trains set

[@MrSmokin123]

so do you have to have internet to use this because my railway is to far from the server to get any wifi from it

[@SteveDchannel]

InterCity82 . iv just bought this set because of your review top work I must say yet I'm having big problems in getting the e link to talk to either of my pc Windows. Xp or Windows 8 any advice getting can't find com's and fireware update issues iv followed the hornby guides

[@hegz1484]

-oliver lewer: yeh…. same, although i do have my eyes set on the dynamis.

[@SeaToby11]

It sucks too. A friend has had luck with Z 21.

[@SeaToby11]

SeaToby11 My friend has put in a lot of feeder wires to the track from his bus, and has twisted his bus all the way around his layout to avoid impedance. Impedance isn't good for smooth flow of electricity and command signals.

[@Ryuki3173]

Will I live in Swansea and I havnt heard of that company maybe cause It MIGHT be a war thing or just a old company now not running

[@OwenD8]

do you think you will be using the e-link more often on the new layout

[@michaelmyers7526]

Intercity, I'm looking to buy a new locomotive for my railway and I've been looking at Bachmann Panniers, Hornby J94s and Hornby 42xx locos. Each of these all cost £80+ but I don't know if I should just buy ' The western master ' set. Hornby trains can be lower quality than Bachmann so I'd rather a Bachmann but anyway, is it worth me paying around £80 for a single loco or is it worth me paying £100 for a less detailed cheap looking loco with track and wagons etc?

[@jimniiskskq]

how dare you underestimate the pocket rockets (0-4-0■

[@Ryuki3173]

InterCity82 . was there someone else in ur house will cause im sure after u said im gonna look at the manual I heard someone say one than again but quieter after put the power cable in the elink

[@deanforestentainment4136]

I find the modelzone shop at whsmith in catdiff

[@IrishModelRail]

Wow! Amazing system, but I think I'd prefer to control the soured in the traditional way:)

[@SeaToby11]

Me too. DCC is too fussy for my liking. I prefer NOT to glance off my beautiful wonderful trains while operating them, not even for a half second. I rather use my touch of feeling to control my controller.

[@SeaToby11]

SeaToby11 Plus with a great controller, and with proper pickups on the locomotive, one can achieve good slow locomotive speed as well. With a properly wired layout with individual twin lines, one can run a train in opposite or the same direction with DC too. In real life trains wait for the next block of track to clear with the signals anyway. Trains don't follow each other closely, why should you do so with DCC.

[@tanfield02]

are you going to do a video on a g scale train?

[@ianhaynes5898]

I found Railmaster a bit of a brute to install. Took me back to the old days when computers did not recognize any new hardware. The driver would not automatically install and I had to uninstall the driver Windows chose and put in the correct Railmaster one. Windows 7 then fussed about the Com port and did not like it at all until restarted and then all was wonderful in Railmaster World.

[@woopoo7]

Can you do a hornby Sentinel?

[@streamleazefishhouse]

Can you tell me. Where is the pistons to that tank engine?

[@famaliyof4]

I wish it would come out on Mac :(

[@scanialover9544]

Thats Why We have Windows

[@famaliyof4]

Mac's are not rubbish, neither are windows pcs, I dont want a flame war so lets leave it at that. But it really depends on your needs, since your a gamer a Windows PC would be better for you, but not me.

[@scanialover9544]

Mr.FuzzyPants1119 We Have windows Not To say that the are better I have a mac Very nice pc But I Use my windows more just for stuff i cant do on MAC

[@DENPTrains]

Being an ex-android fanboy I think the reason it won't work is because the Apple software doesn't have the right things...sorry thats as technical as I can go...I am not a computer geek anymore, more like a train fan! Hah

[@minecraftmagic9162]

Mac can be used via an programme called astronauts

[@bikutoso]

Do you have some good recommendations on DCC beginner sets? I want to begin, but i have no idea what to buy

[@shed67]

Sacret Western engine look like. For the Thomas & Friends.

[@deanhartland5]

Can you run the train without the computer 💻 just a simple controller

[@trains6824]

Hi will just wanted to sigjest somthing to you ..... Could your do some dcc train videos for new reviews on trans with the e link which your conservatory layout I think that would be nice and try running 2 maybe 3 engines at one to see how it would work. Just a hint of what I and probably others want to see and looking forward to other videos by you and see you in the next video, Trains6824

[@CharliePhilippe1990]

Would this work for o gauge?

[@ClamTram96]

You wanna swap that set for my J50?

[@Trainlover4472]

TOAD & PANIER OMFG

[@adamghezal3381]

i was watching this on a huge big 10 year old laptop :o

[@46harry]

erm? and?

[@SteamTech_4468]

Is this going to be used on the permanent layout?

[@jordansfrye]

Do you have trains you are selling plz let me know

[@richiesutton3079]

hi ic82 can the hornby rail sofwear run bachmann locos ?

[@mitchellthomas2674]

Yes it can, it's just DCC control but via a computer program so it should all be compatible.

[@PayasYouListen]

Say what you want about Hornby products their customer care is top notch.

[@JulieAV]

Now we just need this sort of thing for North America

[@Splop10]

Would importing one be possible, or would the NTSC vs PAL difference be an issue?

[@keikuru1]

Wouldn't there be a much easier option of just downloading the program instead of making an ISO? >_>

[@joereynolds976]

How much is the elink on it's own and dose it work with n gauge??

[@TheTrainChannel]

The eLink, as with any other DCC system will work with any gauge (provided that there is enough power available) - you just need locos with DCC chips. The eLink is about £84.99 (from the Hornby website), but will vary between retailers.

[@benearlam2489]

price ?

[@LB91119]

Where did you get it from?

[@aidenwhite1792]

intercity82, it looks like duck from thomas tank engine.

[@PalomboDylan]

Will, you need to run your other DCC locomotives on this system now that you have it. please tell me where you bought this set because I am going to chip my other DCC ready locomotives and I am going to run them on this system. and can I buy those driver and fireman figures from you if your not going to use them because I need some and they are so overpriced on ebay it's mad. Thanks from Dylan. Great vid by the way. :))

[@chezars1234]

whats wrong with vista

[@terrancemcglon8322]

try Life Like trains

[@terrariafanthefloran]

Terrance McGlon what do you mean?

[@xxxarkxxx]

This works best on a widows XP system.

[@rossmallett799]

GIVE ME THIS NOW

[@eothetrainmaster]

Can you run any DCC loco ????

[@SeaToby11]

Yes, all DCC locos default at 3.

[@SeaToby11]

While DCC is great for large layouts, with small layouts they are far too much trouble, especially for kids. As you showed with the Toy Story 3 train kit, it doesn't take five minutes to lay it out. It took you more than an hour to lay out this DCC eLink Western Master, far far too long for kids, even for teenagers.

[@SeaToby11]

LateNeverEarlyR Surely anyone with any discipline can easily keep their number of locos down to less than ten no matter how large their layout is. When I get tired of a layout I sell it and start another, always keeping the size small as I don't have much space. I prefer the small tank engine trains because my layout is the size of a bedroom door.

[@joshysmonsterfilms3669]

Can iPads do it

[@46harry]

No

[@TheMobius001]

lol you can download rail master from horby web site then use you registration key you did it the hard way.