Obsidian posted:Wow, what an interesting diverse set of opinions. This thread is similar to so many others regarding the evolution and integration of technology into our hobby. Similar discussions I'm sure can be found on automobile owner forums regarding "Infotainment" systems without buttons on newer cars vs radios on old. To get the most utility out of infotainment systems you need a tablet phone (I think the term "Smartphone" turns non tablet phone owner off since it implies that they aren't smart). Historically, technology helps sell and improve new consumer products and MTH, not unlike many successful businesses, has effectively embraced technological changes in their products.
I have two DCS remotes that have broken thumb wheels and thus are useless to me. I know I could fix them but not unlike those who don't want to replace the battery in their DCS engines, I don't need another "fixing project". I've been using the DCS app since it became available. While I totally agree that physical buttons are easier to operate without looking, I still enjoy operating and managing my layout with DCS via the app. I hope that future versions of the app will allow users to customize what and where functions are located on the 'home' page of the app. I have a home theater control app (Logitech Harmony) that logically lets me control the amplifier volume from the volume buttons on my tablet/phone. I've been a smart, I mean tablet/phone user since 2008. So I am already familiar with using, loading, updating apps. Yes, its not as simple as the remote. Once the track power is on, I have to go to my phone or tablet settings, switch to the DCS Wifi (since typically I'm connected to my house wifi). Then I launch the app, press "run my trains", then refresh engine list if necessary, select a engine, then start it up. The DCS remote has almost the same # of steps and I could have a dedicated phone or tablet to use as a remote which would reduce steps. I do not think the DCS app is intended nor ideal for brand new tablet/phone users.
That said I agree that the future of DCS controlled trains is via an app that will improve and easily be updated on my phone or tablet. I've been an O gauge collector/operator since the late 90's and I (and my sons) have enjoyed the improved control, sound and features digital control has added. These features make the trains more exciting and interesting to operate especially to people who are new or haven't visited the hobby in a decade or so. When I do train shows, visitors young and old are amazed that they can control multiple trains on the same or different tracks from from anywhere around the layout with an app on their tablet/phone. Some new consumer systems/devices/appliances can only be controlled via a downloaded app (my home theater control system for example). So I agree with MTH to focus on control apps instead of controllers. Ten years ago most cars didn't have a navigation system. In ten years most cars will rely on the drivers phone/tablet for content on the infotainment screen. By then most O gauge operators will use a tablet/phone to access and control the features of their digital command trains and layouts.
Hello Obsidian; We, at the Foley Railroad Museum, would gladly accept your broken remotes as a donation to the museum. We would repair them and use them for years to come. Our Museum is open to the public three days a week. Admission is free. We plan to continue operating our layout with the remotes. Thanks for your consideration.
