The Base3 supports use of memory modules originally used with the Base2 and Cab2. These modules perform various functions with the Base3:
- Included black writable memory module can be used to make a multi-engine module (MEM) to help transfer your Base2 engine roster to the Base3.
- Included black memory module can backup and/or restore the Base3’s database (2-Digit only)
- Included black memory module can be used to update a Cab2 remote’s firmware.
- Upload older Legacy engine information with orange memory modules to the Base3’s database.
- Create engine-specific memory modules using the B3SU.
The following table describes the different memory module types and their compatibility:
Module Color | Type | Description | Compatible with |
Orange | Factory Engine Module | Contains engine information | Cab2, Base3 |
Tan | Generic Engine Module | Contains generic engine information | Cab2, Base3 |
Blue | Factory OS Modules | Firmware | Cab2/Base2 |
Black | Writable User Module | Shipping blank | Cab2/Base2, Base3 |
Black Writable Memory Module #
The Base3 includes one black writable memory module. The information saved to this module can be rewritten so that the module can be reused over and over again.
The black module is used for a few different tasks:
- Transfer engine data from your Legacy Base2 to your new Base3
- Backup and/or restore your Base3’s database (2-Digit only)
- Update your Cab2 remote’s firmware
Multi-Engine Module to transfer Base2 roster to Base3 #
The black writable memory module can be used to make a multi-engine memory module (MEM). You can store up to 99 TMCC IDs on the module. This can help you transfer your engine roster from your Base2 to your new Base3.
Creating a MEM with the Base2 #
This part requires the Base2 be connected to a PC (Windows only) so that the Legacy System Utility (LSU) can build the MEM. The LSU can be downloaded from the Lionel support site here. The Base2 can connect to the PC either by using a DB-9 serial cable or by using the LCS Wi-Fi module. See their respective manuals for more information.
- Connect the Base2 to the PC and open the Legacy System Utility (LSU) application.
- Insert the black writable memory module into the Base2.
- Navigate to the “Engine Data” tab in the LSU. After all engine data has been loaded, click on “Make Multi-Engine Module” under “Make Engine Module” on the right.
- Once the data has been written to the module, click “OK”.
- Remove the module from the Base2.
Use a MEM module to update Base3 database #
Engine information from a MEM module can be imported into the Base3’s database using a few different methods. Using a Cab2 or the Cab3 APP, only one engine entry can be imported at a time. If you wish to import all of the engines saved to the MEM module at the same time, then you must use the B3SU.
MEM with the Cab3 APP #
- Insert the MEM module into the Base3.
- Connect your smart device to the Base3 and open the Cab3 APP.
- Connect the Cab3 APP to the Base3.
- Press ENG, enter the number of the TMCC ID you wish to write information to, and press Enter. Swipe UP to navigate to the Engine Configuration screen.
- Tap the “Load Module” button.
- Use the left and right arrows to navigate through the various engines saved to the MEM module. Once you find the engine you wish to import, tap “Load Engine”.
- Tap “Back” and then tap “Yes” to update the engine record. The engine information is now stored in the Base3’s database.
Updating Cab2 firmware using black memory module #
- Download the latest Cab2 firmware from the Lionel Support Site.
- Plug the black memory module into the Base3
- The firmware can be installed into the black memory module using one of two ways:
- After the firmware has been downloaded to the black memory module via the previous step, unplug it from the Base3.
- Turn off the Cab2 remote and plug in the black memory module.
- Press and hold the SET and CTC buttons. Wait 10-15 seconds and your screen will display the main page. The remote firmware is now updated.
Orange Memory Module for older Legacy Locomotives #
Your Legacy engines perform best when all its options are loaded into the Base3 database. Older Legacy locomotives included an orange memory module, which is one way to load these settings.
Orange Memory Module Procedure using Cab2 #
- Address a Legacy engine with its TMCC ID#
- Press INFO
- Select LOAD with the soft keys
- Insert your Orange module into your remote
- Follow the on-screen prompts to load the engine info
Information about your engine will be downloaded into the Base3 database and associated with the ID# you entered in step 1. This information will now be used by all remotes connected to the Base3.
Tan Engine Memory Modules #
These modules are used for custom engine information or for multi-engine information.