New to LCS - What to get?

I think you need an SC-2 to do programmed "routes". I'm not up on the LCS version, the ASC2, but I don't see programmed routes mentioned.

However you could get the LCS Sensor Track and the LCS DB9 power supply cable for it and do up to 200 programmed events starting when an engine with the ir sensor in it passes over the Sensor Track.

Each Sensor Track can store it's own programming.

That could be cool, eh? Throw switched route when the engine gets to the Sensor Track and then at the next Sensor Track, Throw the route in reverse or to another route.

The Sensor Tracks will also probably replace the engine programming orange modules since running one of these new IR compatible engines automatically programs the Legacy Base with all the info for the engine.

Then if you also buy the LCS WiFi module, you can run the trains with your iPad.

Keep in mind that with the exception of the LCS Power supply cable assembly, none of the LCS modules or Sensor Tracks come with cables. They are extra.

Look here...

http://www.lionel.com/lcs/

I've started with the power supply, some cables, three sensor tracks, the WiFi module, and the SER2 module.  I'm sure I'll need more, but that gets me started.  I also spend $400 for an iPad, something that I didn't own previously.

Yeah! John! You got your iPad!

I have gone over to the dark side!   I still wish this ran on Android.

Dont worry John you didnt sell out, you bought in. Apple works better. I have a bunch of SC-2's for turnout control and I bought the Wi-Fi module and the power cord. Thats all I need for now. I have no intention of buying the sensor tracks since I can see the trains.

John

I went over to the CRapple-side a while ago when LCS was announced. Hate the iPad.

However, I can read digital books without having a Nook nor a Kindle as I just have the iPad's apps for them.  

Well, there's plenty of room for debate there Matt.  

My principal objection to Apple stuff is the fact that it's a closed system.  For a $400-500 unit, no simple way to connect to a computer and transfer files is really annoying!  That's the kind of crap that has kept me from buying Apple stuff for many years.

Thanks for the replies!

The sensor track seems to be what I want but I'll have to read more about how they work in order to figure-out how many I need and where to place them.  Any advice?

I get confused with the older Lionel product lines vs. the new ones.  Isn't TMCC "older generation"?  And since I'm only running the newest locomotive, do I need the SER2 module? 

We'll probably pass on the iPad this year... but we do have iPhones... so the wifi module might also get into the eventual shopping cart. 

And, a little off-topic but... is there a list of "better than average" web suppliers out there somewhere?  I've bought some of my new stuff locally, and a few others here and there with markedly mixed results (I make a lot of purchases through Amazon but they're pretty weak in this department).  The Lionel Store, strangely enough, seems to be out of stock on several items.

Glenn

LCS doesn't work on the iPhone as of now.

What type of files?  I used a Mac/iPad all through college.  The campus was all PC and I was all Apple, never had an issue.  Just plugged in my iPod and pulled the file or emailed it or whatever way I felt like using at the time.

Now with iCloud things are even easier.  You can type up a document on your iPad, go to iCloud.com in your Web browswer on your PC at work and continue working ont he document, then make finishing touches on your phone while sitting in the meeting you should be paying attention too.  

Compatibility with mac hasn't been issue for many years, it is more of a myth (at least that has been my experience, I don't deal with every file type ever made thats for sure).

I have an SC-2 and LCS wifi and i've noticed that the SC-2 doesn't always respond to the iPad command.  I'm using it to turn on/off accessories.  It always works from my CAB2.  Have yo had any similar problems?

My command switches and engines work flawless, it is just my SC-2 that doens't always work.

No offense, but this is a typical Apple fan response.

Use our proprietary software on your devices and you can access your content.  I don't have to do that with any other device I own.  Also, after seeing the widely publicized iCloud issues, I don't get real excited about using it for anything I care about.

HAHA   I won't disagree that it is a fan response. 

I like what other companies do as well, Google, Microsoft, etc...  My only gripe about Google - is people tend to forget that they are not a charity. 

No offense was taken and I hope none given, just trying to point out some awesome services they offer.  Microsoft and Google of course have similar offerings as do many other companies, the more things move to the "cloud" and things can be done in a browser the less and less there is a need to transfer files. 

I bought an Apple six years ago and I have not had to fix a computer since. My biggest gripe with apple is they dont use the equipment to its fullest potential and there is no file management on the iPad/iPhone. But it works and it does everything I really need it to do quite well with no issues

If you have the 990 or the Cab1L command systems, then all you need to automate a route is to have a Legacy engine with an IR sensor, the LCS sensor track and the LCS power/base connector cable.  When the train runs over the sensor track, it will start the automated route by throwing your command controlled switches in the recorded order.  The 990 is the better option, because you can set a precise speed on the legacy engine prior to crossing the sensor track for the first run around.  

Thanks!  That's very helpful!