My TMCC-equipped locos respond to commands sent from my CAB-1 to locos anywhere on the layout in the Train Room -- a necessity for me. Because my 15x19 feet L-shaped layout has limited-width aisleways around most of its perimeter, I couldn't get to a fixed control panel and transformer quickly enough to avoid an "accident ready to happen" if I was busy "walking along with the loco."
Pushbuttons for accessories are mounted on the fascia boards near the action accessories installed along the "inner edge of the "L" -- handy when some "five-finger engineering" may be required to nudge the Sawmill, Oil Drum Loader, Culvert Unloader and Loader, Barrel Loading Ramp, etc.
All my RC switch controllers are installed at the inside edge of the "L" because I prefer to use that hands-on method for switch control. I considered installing a SC-2 device(s) and throwing the RC switches with that device, but that method requires attention to the hand-held controller (and candidly, a better memory than mine) to instantly recall the appropriate ID number and then trigger the action. I admit I'm "stuck in 1950s" with operational practice -- which can be linked to my enjoyment of the hobby when I was a boy.
I do not want/need the high-tech gizmos for train and layout control, although other hobbyists may revel in it. To each, his/her own style of operating!
Thankfully, Lionel and other O-gauge manufacturers still offer locos that accept Conventional Mode and also TMCC/Legacy, LionChief, Bluetooth, cell phone app, and (recently) Voice Command. Which affirms the maxim: "One can't have too many options for train control." Is this a great hobby, or what?
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394
