FAQ

What motor controllers will this work with?

  • This controller should work out of the box with any motor controller that has, or can be configured with, a 0-5V input. It has thus far been fully tested with 4QD, Dimension Engineering (Syren and Sabretooth), and Nevitas controllers. We are in the process of testing with Curtis and others and will update this as we go along.

What voltages will it work with?

  • That is dependent on the motor controller rather than the locomotive controller, however the LCRC100 needs 12v DC to operate, so you may need to buy a converter from your locomotive’s voltage to 12v.

Is there a version for gas powered locomotives?

  • We do have a controller coming for gasoline powered locomotives. Specifically one for Titan Trains locomotives and one that can be adapted for other gas powered locomotives. These controllers will have some slightly different features like engine temperature, fuel level and hydraulic pressure (if applicable). They will allow MU operation between a gas powered loco and one or more electric units.

Why use wired connections between locos in a consist and not wireless?

  • The short answer is radio clutter and connection security. The longer answer is two-fold. First, to have a variable number of radios connected in a network requires they be configured to talk to other locomotives- this introduces a security risk whereby you may have control of someone else's locomotive unintentionally. Second, having multiple radio units controlling a consist creates issues in the event of packets of data getting lost due to reception issues. Data is sent between locomotives in the consist a minimum of four times per second, and while errors could occur with wired connections, it’s been found to be significantly less likely than with wireless connections.

What is the maximum range of the handset?

  • The answer to this question depends on the surroundings, as well as the type and mounting of the antenna on the locomotive. Nominally, the range is between 600 and 800 feet, however interference from radio emitting devices in the same band can cause unwanted interference. This is true of any radio receiver. It also depends on terrain. You’ll get much better reception with a “line of sight” connection than you will if there’s a tunnel or building between you and your locomotive. Even at 500’, however, that’s still 62 8’ cars between you and your locomotive.

Why not use Bluetooth radios?

  • Bluetooth is a very limited power radio standard with a typical range of about 100' or less. While this may be plenty enough for you if you’re riding right behind your locomotive, any remote switching would likely incur a dropped Bluetooth signal and cause loss of control of your locomotive.

Can the controllers be controlled by phone based options like WiThrottle?

  • No. Cell phones are sub-optimal controls for live steam sized locomotives. Considering that phone screens need to be on bright while outside to be able to see them and some railroads (Mill Creek Central, for example) have almost no cell reception, this will lead to very short battery life. Also keep in mind that adaptive touch screens used in phones will react in unpredictable ways when they get moisture on them, which may cause unintended and unwanted movement of your locomotive.

Do I need to change the handset batteries?

  • No. The handset battery is a Lithium Polymer battery and is mounted inside the handset. It should last you many years before needing replacement. Please contact us if you feel the battery needs to be replaced. It should last 10+ hours of continuous use. Also, if you do find yourself running out of battery power, you can use a USB power bank to charge the handset while operating. Power banks are readily available at most gas stations, WalMart, Target and Amazon, among other places.

Can I buy a spare handset?

  • Yes! We do sell extra handsets for the LCRC100 system. If you purchase an additional handset, you will also get an additional radio unit that goes inside your locomotive. The radio units are permanently paired, so if you’re using a replacement handset, you’ll need to swap out the radio unit inside your locomotive. This is a simple task and should only take a few minutes.

Is the system waterproof?

  • No. While the manufacturer has conformal coated the circuit boards and used sealants to limit water ingress into the housings of both the handheld and locomotive side devices, they are not waterproof. The handset is water resistant and should withstand some rain without issue. The control system locomotive box is not water proof and should be mounted somewhere inside the locomotive where water will not easily get to.

Is there a warranty on the system?

  • Yes! The LCRC100 comes with a 1 year limited warranty from date of purchase. See your instruction manual for more information.

Can I MU locomotives from different manufacturers together?

  • Yes! You can MU any locomotive that uses the LCRC family of controllers. The total number of units that can be MU'd depends upon where in the consist the "master" (the single locomotive with its handheld powered up) unit is placed. Up to seven locomotives can be MU'd when the "master" is at either the head-end or back-end. A consist of 13 locomotivs can be built with six locomotives forward, and six locomotives aft of the "master".

Does the system support helper or DPU locomotives?

  • We are considering the manufacture of a MU Bus wireless bridge to be able to operate helper or DPU (Distributed Power Units or “Mid Train Helpers”), and we will advertise when they are available for purchase. There is currently no timeframe for their release.

Do I need a big antenna on my locomotive to use the system?

  • No. A large rubber antenna is not necessary; however antenna performance does influence the reach of the radio link. There are several different commercially available antennas for our system that have a minimum aesthetic impact upon the locomotive. A “dome” antenna is probably the best option while providing good range. Antennas that are designed to replicate antennas like the Sinclair “Skate” or “Firecracker” antennas are in the works, and provide the best looking options, with as yet to be determined impact upon performance.

Do I need to be an electrical engineer or DCC expert to MU locomotives?

  • Nope! An Electrical Engineer already took care of that for you! Unlike DCC based systems that require you to “consist” your locomotives together, the LCRC100 automatically consists locos, determines the direction and location in the consist, speed matches them, limits to the speed of the slowest locomotive, adjusts speed tables, and determines headlight behavior. Just 3 steps to consist your locomotives. Couple. Safety Chain. MU cable. That’s it.