@Raven87 posted:Since I’m still learning about the Legacy environment and am a big fan of Bluetooth control, what more do I need to be able to integrate non-Bluetooth Legacy units into my layout?
I must admit I’m not clear on what additional hardware (and cost) would be needed to expand that way?
First, the Lionel Legacy and others (TMCC- K-Line, Atlas, Third Rail) will ALL run using the TMCC (Cab 1) OR the Legacy Cab 2) systems. And any of the TMCC, LC, LC+ or Legacy engines will run using a conventional transformer.
To run in that "environment"- you need to buy a TMCC ("Cab1") or a Legacy ("Cab 2") system - which have a Command Base, and a handheld Cab. The TMCC system has been replaced by Legacy (since the late 1990s) and the Legacy systems since.
The differences are that TMCC has fewer features (but more than I ever use). The Legacy system's handheld controller is more sophisticated, with digital readout, while TMCC uses keyed commands. The Legacy system has more "speed steps"- so finer control, than the TMCC system - both have far more "Steps" than a conventional system. And the legacy base/handheld Cab 2 is a rechargeable system.
Prices: a used TMCC System- about $175 with the "Command Base" and the handheld (Cab 1). A second handheld is a plus so two operators can run at once- those are around $100 on that auction site. But each TMCC system can control (I think) 99 locos, or accessories or combination. You can also buy NEW, old stock TMCC sets, but they are getting more rare.
The Legacy Command System is between $ 350-400 new, and used ones are about $100 or so less.
BOTH Lionel systems hook up with ONE wire connected to an outside rail, and the Command Base plugged into the wall for power. NOTE- the TMCC and Legacy systems use the house wiring as an antenna- and the round "ground" post of the power cord is a part of that- you cannot replace the cord or plug with a regular cord, OR plug it into an extension or power strip. This is (IMO) THE big difference- the Lionel systems do not rely on perfect track to track connections, and are not generally affected by the size/ length of the trackage on the layout.
Locomotives: The ability to run from a LionChief Universal Remote, or use a Bluetooth device does not have anything directly to do with the command system- those are built into the locomotive. So an older Legacy engine will not run with the Universal Remote, OR your phone or tablet.
Interestingly- by using a power source (Lionel Power brick, or ZW-L) configured to operate with Legacy or TMCC, you can also control your conventional engines by using the system to vary the voltage to the track. Very cool. IMO- the handheld control is THE thing I like, plus the many features.
There are BOOKS written on these systems, and I have a writeup I can send if you just e-mail me that you want it: mikewyatt49@gmail.com
