some LCS questions from a newbie

If you have a Legacy system the Lionel Layout Control System, LCS, can be added to the layout. I would start with the wireless module and then develop a plan for what all you want to control with the LCS modules. The LCS wireless can be connected to your home wireless or operated as a standalone wireless network. I have mine set up as an independent network. No connection to my home network router. The LCS app is for the iPad and an Android version has not been released. I would not try to put the LCS app on an iPhone, stay with the iCab app for the iPhone. While engines can be operated with the LCS app on an iPad it is not really set up for that purpose and full functionality is not available. If you are running conventional engines with your Cab2 adding LCS will not change that.

Using LCS on a modular layout that is set up and then disassembled for shows will present some design challenges and set up issues. It depends upon what is controlled from the LCS components and how many LCS devices and interconnecting cables there are. Lionel has not released a splitter, or Y adapter, for the LCS system. That means all the devices have to be connected in series from one end to the other end. It is not possible to route the connecting cables in two directions from a central control panel. My layout is modular but is not disassembled periodically. It was disassembled for shipping on a one (hopefully) time basis.

The system is fantastic when set up and running. I have no manual controls on my layout, only the LCS.

Art Lites posted:

I am both ton see if our module group should add this system to generate interest in the train hobby.

I have several questions after watching U tube.

1. Is this for Apple products only or is there an android app?

Currently and for the foreseeable future it is Apple Only

2 Does the same app apply for both pad and phone?

iCab will work on both but is optimized for iPhone.  LCS Layout Control App is iPad Only.

3.  Will this operate in an area with weak or no Wi-Fi signal? Does it have to connect to my router?

It has to connect to the LCS WiFi module either via a router in "Join Network" mode or directly in "Access Mode".  It depends entirely the Wifi signal.

4. Can you operate conventional engines with this system as with legacy?

You can operate conventional engines by varying the transformers voltage much in the same way as a Cab2 BUT the LCS Layout App's engine and train control IMO is tedious.  The iCab is much better for running trains.

thanks for your help.

Art

Thanks  for the info. .  I don't think we would add accessory or switch control.  However, it would be interesting to invite kids to download the app and let them control trains.  If I understand you correctly, this could be used in a location that does not have access to Wi-Fi ? 

Art Lites posted:

Thanks  for the info. .  I don't think we would add accessory or switch control.  However, it would be interesting to invite kids to download the app and let them control trains.  If I understand you correctly, this could be used in a location that does not have access to Wi-Fi ? 

I doubt the kids will download the app.  The iCab is $50.  LCS is free but again is horrible for running trains other than for some switching operations.

I've asked Lionel more than once to have a free version of iCab similar to MTH to get folks interested.  I just don't think iCab is a priority especially now with the LC Blue Tooth app.

Wow $50 in addition to cost of equipment.  If you have several phones, this could be pricey.  Guess we should look elsewhere.  Thanks for your input.

Art Lites posted:

Wow $50 in addition to cost of equipment.  If you have several phones, this could be pricey.  Guess we should look elsewhere.  Thanks for your input.

Well lets understand how this works.  If you have 4 phones all under the same iTunes account the cost is still $50 period.  If your running under multiple iTune accounts then you will have to purchase separate apps like any other setup.  I have iCab on 3 devices all under my iTunes account.  I paid 1 time.

Bottom line is Lionel needs a free "limited" iCab app to get people interested.  They are pandering to the hardcore Legacy guys (me included) but are forgetting that they need to pull others in.

There are other apps available, too:

You can find out more about the LCS Partners here:

• http://www.lionel.com/lcs/LCSPartner/index.html