@G3750 posted:So the Base 3 will finally do what DCS has done (badly) for 20 years? - there, fixed for you.
To be fair, I will point out that the 2-way communications protocol has been a known source of difficulties for DCS since its introduction. And I think Legacy also had some issues with this initially.
It will be interesting to see how this feature actually works in practice. Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should.
George
I've had 0 issue with DCS or TMCC/Legacy. There are many advantages to two way communication, such as:
Being able to load sound files to a locomotive without having to send the board back to the manufacturer.
Being able to upload the correct software to the boards in a locomotive if there is an issue without having to send the board back to the manufacturer.
Being able to get run time readouts from the locomotive (mileage, hours of operation, etc).
Being able to read the locomotive on the track and have it's information populate in the remote.
Legacy has never had 2 way communication, the Base 3 and new locomotive electronics from these past two catalogs and on will be the first to have 2 way communication. So far it looks like run time and remote population will be a feature of new Lionel locomotives with the Base 3. As of now the ability to change locomotive sound files and software is still locked. That's a HUGE disadvantage vs DCS or DCC, and something Lionel should consider addressing.
