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We at Lionel are very excited by the creative software work being done by the wider model train community. The Legacy Command Protocol is freely available and can be downloaded here. Using this document and an SER2 module, anyone can write code and send both TMCC and LEGACY commands to their train layout. Those who would like to connect to the LCS system via Wi-Fi or directly control the features of LCS products like SensorTrack can request additional, detailed protocol information through the LCS Partner Program.
Today, LCS Partners are helping to grow and enhance the Layout Control System. Each developer brings their own unique perspective to software-based control of your layout. And there’s room for more! Interested individuals, clubs, and companies are all welcome. Are you interested? Please send an email and we’ll get back to you with details. Write us at: lcs-dev-support(at)lionel.com and please replace the (at) with the @ symbol before you send.
Read on to learn about LCS Partner products AVAILABLE NOW for iOS, Android and Windows-based personal computers!
High Rail for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch allows you to control your Lionel Legacy Engines and Lionel LCS SensorTracks like never before. The idea is simple. You want to control your Lionel Legacy engine without having to stare at your device. High Rail’s innovative gesture control feature allows you to control your engine’s most common features without having to hunt for a little button.
Above, High Rail shown running on iPad. In the left area of the screen, you can see the Engine roster with optional custom styles. Drag your fingers over the area on the right to operate High Rail’s unique gestural locomotive control.
Above, High Rail’s engine style page shown running on iPhone or iPod Touch. Engine Styles give each locomotive icon a unique appearance for quicker identification.
High Rail still has great LCS Module and SensorTrack features. For example, you can view a full inventory of all connected LCS modules and control your LCS SensorTracks directly from the app, without having to press the track’s buttons.
Find out more about what’s new in High Rail by visiting this link.
eTrain Command Console (L) is a Windows-based software program that works with LCS. Developed by LCS partner Harvy Ackermans, this great new program is loaded with Legacy features for controlling locomotives and building lash-ups, as well as providing specific support for Crane Cars, Station Sounds Diners, Vision Tank Cars and more. It also operates switches and routes. And the program’s unique “scenario” feature lets you record a series of commands from any Lionel CAB remote or the eTrain program, then playback these scenarios at any time. eTrain Command Console (L) uses a wired serial-port connection from your Windows PC to the SER2.
The eTrain Command Console (L) has been tested on Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8. A Lionel LCS SER2 (6-81326) with a Lionel LCS DB-9 Cable with Power Supply (6-81499 ) and either the #990 LEGACY Command Set or the CAB-1L/Base-1L Command Set are required.
Click here for purchasing information and find out more by reading the FAQ and the User’s Guide.
Here are a couple screen shots from this great program:
Legacy Engine Control Panel (detail)
Full Engine Control Panel (click to enlarge)
Also available is the optional companion eTrain Command Mobile, an Android App which works in conjunction with the copy of eTrain Command Console (L) running on your PC. Using this app, you can control TMCC and Legacy engines, switches and accessories wirelessly from your Android phone or tablet. Uses your existing home WiFi network, LCS WiFi not supported (See eTrain Command Console (L) requirements listed above).
Two screen images from the eTrain Command Mobile companion app for Android
The first available LCS Partner APP is “BlueTrain” from industry innovator Bob Krivacic. It’s an Android APP that connects to LCS Wi-Fi and operates TMCC, Legacy and Vision products. It can be used simultaneously with any other LCS-compatible smart device or Lionel Cab remote controller.
You can find BlueTrain on Google Play following this link. Here’s a pair of screen shots from this great app:
