Sensor Tracks hitting the Streets.

They are in but I have not personally tried one yet. My display is down at moment..  

Charles Ro website is showing "in stock", along with the cables.  

David

what are the cables for

Ken M

Will pick 2/5 of mine up on Friday from Dave at the Train Station in NJ! Can't wait! Oh Boy!

Thank you Marty

Ken M

Thanks Marty, I'll be ordering some straight away. 

Received mine yesterday.  Probably the weekend before I can try it out.

Jim

I bought mine yesterday and installed it last night.  I am running a Cab1L and Base 1L.  I was able to set it up within a few minutes and ran my RS11 over it to test.  It is a fun item.  You can have it set to do different per-configured commands such as blowing a grade grossing signal or triggering arrival/departure dialogue.  I was also able to program it to record and then run a script of commands for when my RS11 passed over it.  These included any button push on the Cab 1L including running command switches.  Very fun with a lot of possibilities.  I can't wait for the WiFi module so that i can control the layout with my iPad.

The manual previously posted by Rudy (Railsounds) of Lionel!

With the Cab-1L, I can't access the pre set speed steps like on the Cab2.  So, the recording would vary based on speed that I started thereby not hit exact loacations everytime.  I still liked it and thought it was fun to play with even without a Cab2.  I think that when the Wi-Fi module comes out, I will be able to control the train speed more accurately when I cross the sensor track.

It would be interesting to see if having two of them spaced apart could fix the speed issue.  I think the first sensor could set the speed of the engine and the second could then run a more detailed script. I will have to pick up another sensor track to play with it.  I also think the sensor and circuits can be removed from the fastrack and used on other tracks.  It looks like the brains are attached with screws to the fastrack and could be taken apart easily.  I haven't unscrewed them yet to see if it would work.

Unless I am not doing it right, the one thing I do not like is that the sensor track is talking to the base on a regular basis without the ability to shut it off.  Another thing is that I would like to change the preset programs without having to physically press the program button on the track.  It would be nice to be able to turn it on and off or reset it remotely to prevent the scripts from running all the time.   

As far as I can tell from Lionel's literature and their LSC Sample Diagram, until they release their SER2 module it would not be worthwhile for me to buy any sensor tracks.  I will lose the ability to operate my TPCs and DZ-2500 switches.

Ron

With the Cab2 this is unnecessary.  Depending on your set up of course.  On a loop, you can set the speed, using Cab2's preset speeds, entering to create the recording.  Once started the speed can be adjusted.  Before ending the recording, select the same preset speed.  The engine will then enter the track at the same speed it entered when recording.  I found this to make a very accurate recording.

Again on a loop.

I imagine it will take some time to figure out all the various ins and outs to make the best of the sensor track. 

Remember if you do have a Cab2, the fuel gauges will show up on the RR Speed Keypad indicating fuel and if relevant water levels.  Play with labor, speed, and such to increase or decrease consumption.

Miken, you can turn SensorTracks on and off remotely from your CAB-1L or CAB2, without having to push the physical buttons on the track. See pages 26-26 on the SensorTrack owner's manual:

SLEEP ALL SensorTracks
Press CAB buttons ACC, 99, AUX1, 0
All SensorTracks on layout will:
• no longer play preset actions or user recordings when locomotives roll-over,
• terminate a currently playing user recording,
• exit record-armed or program mode if active.

Wake ALL SensorTracks
Press CAB buttons ACC, 99, AUX1, 1
When you WAKE all SensorTracks, all normal operations are restored, but activities interrupted by SLEEP are not resumed—they must be re-triggered.

Terminate Currently playing User Recording
While a recording is playing back press and release the RECORD button, OR, Press CAB buttons ACC, nn (track’s TMCC ID), AUX1, 0
The currently playing recording is terminated, but can be triggered again.

Disable Legacy Base updates on ALL SensorTracks
Press CAB buttons ACC, 99, AUX1, 3

Enable Legacy Base updates on ALL SensorTracks
Press CAB buttons ACC, 99, AUX1, 4

Confirm SensorTrack TMCC ID
Press CAB buttons: ACC nn (TMCC ID), AUX1, <0>.
The SensorTrack matching the ID entered will illuminate its PROGRAM LED.

Future smart device apps will have the ability to control additional SensorTrack functions without having to press the physical buttons. 

Yes. The Vision Big Boy will include a SensorTrack as well as the required 6-81499 LCS DB-9 Cable with Power Supply.

That's great news about the future smart device control!  Looking forward to all the new cools "stuff".

Marty,

is the sensor track compatable with other track systems? like MTH Realtrax? Are there any plans for adapter tracks?

Thank you Rudy.  I did read that part in the manual, but it did not sink in until you pointed it out again.

No, but it has been discussed a number of times.  At the Last Legacy group meeting at York, Rudy stated that they were thinking about it, but Fastrack would be first and at some time in the future other track systems could be considered.

Lionel would be foolish not to offer LCS Sensor Track "functionality" for other track systems.  Fastrack is nice, but few if any folks are gonna make their track plan decision based on Fastrack having an exclusive LCS sensor track.  Ain't gonna happen.  Fastrack has its audience, but so do Ross, Atlas-O, Gargraves and MTH track systems.

David

I agree David, and I suspect it'll happen, just when it the big question.

Jon Z knows they need to look at other track systems but a GRJ said, Fastrack first others possibly later. Of course when you get one it's your track to do with what you want. 

Where is the cheapest place to buy the sensor track?

Thank You

Ken M

And don't forget with a Cab2 setup it loads your engine info without the orange module too on engines equipped with the sensor of course.

Pretty cool watching the info load up.

The sensor track is another way to load engine data like the orange

module.

The fuel/water level displays will show on the Cab2 but will only work

with engines made after about 2010 that have the sound of fuel loading

when the zero key is pressed. Vision Hybrid engines will not indicate

fuel levels.

Railsounds,

How large is the end of the connecting cable for the LCS?

I am guessing I would need a 1/2" hole in the deck for it, two if it's daisy chained to another device.

I wish the connector would have been smaller.

I think you could use the existing Fastrack to tubular transition piece for the time being and then use adapter pins to go to Gargraves and Ross track. Might not look too good but it should work.

Just buy the Lionel LCS Sensor Track, remove the components and install in any track you want!

This way you do not have to wait!

The cables are to connect it to the Legacy or Cab1L Base as well as othe LCS devices.

 

This one connects to the base and the first LCS device in line and supplies power to the LCS Bus.

6-81499 LCS DB-9 Cable with Power Supply

 

 

This one (available in several lengths) connect LCS components together.

6-81500 -LCS 1’ to 1’ PDI cable
6-81501 - LCS 3’ to 3’ PDI cable
6-81502 - LCS 10’ to 10’ PDI cable
6-81503 - LCS 20’ to 20’ PDI cable

 

Originally Posted by Ken M:

what are the cables for

Ken M

 

Those are the proprietary cables that Lionel uses. There are no other sources as far as I know and they are very expensive.

Nassau hobby has it's 15% sale till this Friday.

The connector cable is shorter, narrower and thinner than a usb.  The picture posted of the cable on this thread is not to scale and looks bigger than it is.

Once I get one in hand, I'm going to check and see how much trouble to use it with Atlas track.  I suspect I can transplant the guts and have it working without having a chunk of Fastrack in the middle of the line.

It would be interesting to see if there was patent issues as you are actually buying their unit and using it.  Kinda' like giving it a "super" paint job.

A usb connector is 15.7mm or .618" plus the molded part. So, a 1/2" hole would be easy clearance if it is slightly smaller. That's still a big hole and you need two or maybe 1- 3/4" hole to daisy chain.

Moonman, the LCS PDI cable connector end is about 12mm x 6 mm.

Attached is a photo showing an LCS PDI connector and USB connector side-by-side.

They are smaller than they appear in the other photo, glad you posted that.

Thanks for info, Rudy. Ok, only 1 - 1/2" hole for two cables, 1 first, then the second.

Ok, surprised nobody started this.  Conversion to Ross track.

                         - Gargraves  ------------------------------ Ross -

I chose Ross track because of the way it is constructed  vs Gargraves.  My layout is Gartraves track with Ross switches. 

 Bottom view of LCS sensor track.

 Top view of sensor board.  Clean except for the sensors.

This is where it would have to be placed under the track so the sensors are between the rails.  It is slightly further back from the track than the Fastrack. I will also have to slightly enlarge the space between the ties for the sensors.  May have to shave the bottom of the ties to get the sensor closer.

Also, when installed on the layout I will have to have a removable cover over the buttons and leds.

Will play more later.

Dan 

I'd be tempted to mount the sensors separately and remote the main board so I didn't have to have it directly below the track.

Personally I think you'd have to remove the ties all together to fit the circuit board.  Otherwise how does the track sit on the platform?

That's why I'd mount the sensor separately, I think it'll looks much better that way.

I'm talking about the circuit board the sensors are on.  If you mount that to the bottom of the ties, unless you are using cork roadbed and cutting it out, will be in the way of the ties contacting the platform.

And of course there are the PID cables that need to be connected.

John, the best way may be to remote/extend the sensors especially if you track is already in and ballasted. Just drill two holes with the proper spacing and mount below.  Lionel should sell the board with the sensors on wired extensions.  This method could be used with any track system.  Lionel would not be in the business of selling other track systems.

I also removed the spikes in the Ross track where I am mounting the sensor.  The ties are glued to the track. 

Dan

Marty,  My track is mounted on homasote.  I will be carving a spot below the track for the board and cables.

Dan

I don't think I will be extending the IR transceiver.

Lionel should offer the IR transceivers on extender cables.  This would make installation much easier.

Dan

This is one of the main reasons that I LOVE this forum. You guys have things modified or hopped up while an items is hitting the streets.

I wondered how all of this is going to work, and now I am starting to see it develop. I have my sensor and I am just going to wait out the weekend before I start on mine. By Sunday evening, you guys will have this thing fitting every track system known to man.

Did I say I love this forum.

I'd like to know what sensor they're using, that way a little board could be built to extend them.

Havin' some fun!  I can see me buying these for crossings and some yard entries and exits.

I don't have a sensor track section "yet" but I use Fastrack so a conversion won't be an issue for me.  One other thought for those who don't want or are not comfortable making a mod for the sensor track is the transition pieces and sensor track could possibly be hidden by a small building,tunnel or scenery material so it wouldn't look out of place with a big chunk of Fastrack in the middle. 

Good minds think alike, Chris.  I saw these at a LHS yesterday and thought... Hhmmm, this could work just fine.  I'll be using Atlas-O track for the O-Gauge portion of my new layout with painted Ross-bed, so the difference may not be that noticeable at all.  Clean and simple... Or so I'm hoping!!! 

David

What's the issue with using the sensor track and the dz2500 switch machines?  I read earlier in this thread that they are not compatible?  My layout is all Ross track and switches.  2500 switch machines using the dz2001 data wire driver.  Since I use Ross roadbed, my hope was to transplant the electronics into the Ross roadbed.

The only issue right now is without the SER2, there is no way to access the serial buss while using the sensor track.

SER2 Info Page

Joe,

I looked at my setup and I agree with you as far as using the DZ Data Driver with the Sensor Track. Attach the DZ2001 to the command base, and then attach the LCS cabling to the DZ2001.  My issue is not being able to use all my other non-Legacy components:  TPCs, ASCs, BPCs, etc.

ADDED:  I'm looking at using a Rs232 male to two female DB9 splitter.  I'd attach the Rs232 to the Command Base, the LCS cables to one end and the DZ2001 to the other end with the rest of my components attached to the DZ2001.  Not sure if splitting the signal will be a problem, but I do have MANCO Signal Booster which should help.

ADDED2: RATS, just read Railsounds comment.

Ron

No, they can't. The connectors are the same, but the data stream is not. An LCS SER2 will be required.

The SER2 will let you use your existing, non-legacy serial components in conjunction with a new Layout Control System installation (for example, one SensorTrack).

Concur with how the SER2 works.  As far as I'm concerned, until the SER2 is released I have no need to buy any LCS components.

Ron

The SER2 and WiFi modules are due into our facility this week to early next week.  The wait is almost over!

FANTASTIC!

Hopefully, the Legacy #990's will arrive with them!

Given the history surrounding the 990, let's hope the LCS stuff isn't on the same boat!!!   We wouldn't want the pirates to grab the LCS too.

On the topic of the purpose of the SER2 - am I correct in assuming the SER2 will also be necessary if I want to interconnect the Legacy command base with a DCS TIU using the TIU/TMCC-Legacy connector cable?

Got my sensor track installed, works great. I used transition tracks on each end for tuber o gauge. Rudy is there a way to activate the program button from the cab2? I want to install other sensor tracks, but they will be out of reach as  I can't walk around my layout?

Sorry Jim, there's no CAB button equivalent for pressing the Program button on SensorTrack. We decided against it, because of the risk of unintended *CAB* button presses changing SensorTrack settings while the operator was doing something unrelated on their layout.

Perhaps a little jack on the track in the future so you could remote the program button.

Oh, that's a good idea! I wouldn't be surprised if an enterprising person such as yourself attempted just such a modification.  

I'm probably up to something like that.

You don't have to run them far, just where you can reach them from the side of the layout.  Hopefully, you won't be programming the track all the time.

Do you need the DB9 cable to make the sensor cable work & how long is the cable?

Ken M

Yes, Ken. Each LCS installation requires one 6-81499 LCS DB-9 Cable with Power Supply. This includes a 10 foot cable. One end goes to your command base, the other end to the first LCS component in your system. The photo below shows one of the blue LCS modules connected (such as LCS WiFi) but it could be a single SensorTrack instead. 

When you add a second and subsequent LCS device to your installation, you’ll need additional LCS PDI cables. Each piece of LCS hardware is cabled to the next in a daisy-chain fashion, using these cables, which are available in 1’, 3’, 10’ and 20’ lengths. 

For more info: http://www.lionel.com/lcs/LCSp...CScabling/index.html

I sure like the idea of a jack on the sensor track to add a program button in a remote location. I will get another sensor track and see if I can add some wires and a button.

Rudy, you will sell more tracks if the program button could be controlled from the cab2 or add the jack as suggested above.

So how about a simple cable coupler to allow joining two LCS PDI cables? That way I wouldn't have nine feet of a twenty foot cable lying around my layout, when I only need eleven feet from one module to the next.

Sounds like a business opportunity, modify sensor tracks for remote operation.

It looks as though it would be pretty simple to disconnect the small board that holds the buttons and LEDs, and make an extension cable so that this board could be connected some distance from the sensor track. 

I'd probably just mount a tiny 1.5mm 2-pin jack on the side of the module and run a cord to a push-button. 

Sensor installation in atlas track. just need to do a little more clean up.

Played with my sensor track a bit today.

Its nice how it loads the engine information in on its own, but I'm a little surprised that when you program the ACC # of the track sensor it doesn't update the Legacy remote to say Sensor track!  Seems like it would of made sense to do so.  LCS components should identify themselves!

UP Genset didn't come up with a name of the engine but did set it as a Legacy Diesel.  SP Shark, and SP Berk worked as expected.

Jim

Jim,

The ACC number is used only by the iPad to ID multiple sensor tracks.  The Cab-2 does not need this info, and it is possible to reuse the ACC ID that Sensor Track uses if you don't want to reprogram the Sensor Track presets.

Jim

Another bit of info, some of the earlier locos did not transmit the name unless stopped.  I think if you stop the Genset over the sensor track it will update the name.  LMK if that happens, I don't have a Genset to try it here.

You'd have to be pretty exact to stop it right at the sensor I would expect.  When I get a sensor track, I'll try my NS Genset over it.

Unless Lionel both plans to add sensor kits for both existing non-Lionel equipped engines  and Lionel non-equipped engines(for minimal control, of course) and additional sensor track kits for non-Lionel track this will go the way of the original wireless Lionel engines in the 50s. Great idea but no compatibility with existing engines and track . . . so very short life.

Thus, if Lionel is betting that we will all shelve our non-equipped engines and re-track our  non-sensor trackage they are in a few words "fooling themselves". Because most of us will simply ignore them!

I think at some point in the future you might see a sensor equipped boxcar or the like, but I don't see retrofits for locomotives any time soon.  That would be a massive undertaking to cover even a majority of all the different models that exist.

Having some sort of simple programming option for the boxcar would be cool, then it really could be re-tasked for many different consists.

Why? 

I'm with Nicole, why?

The sensor boxcar would know it was "associated" with the engine in question.  When it was sensed, it would talk through the sensor track to the command base, the command base sends out the command for the engine to do the functions, just as it always does.

Well 2 way in such it reads the info and then transmits an action to the Legacy base via the PID cable, which then transmits it as a signal to an engine.

Marty,

I should have been more clear.  2 way communication from the sensor track device when looking at the module design.

Jim

Gotcha. Nothing that I know of but of course Jon would have the definitive answer.  

I "believe" that the IR transmitter on the locomotive is only one-way, it sends the data out.  It receives any data to act on the information through the normal Legacy track signal.

Like Marty says, Jon Z. is the guy to answer this question with 100% accuracy.

For Jon &/or Rudy, is there a chance that in a new version of Legacy that changes could be made to software so activation of the program and record buttons on the sensor track could be activated from the cab2.

Using action codes and starting recordings means you must actually push  the program and record buttons on the sensor track. Another option is to extend those buttons through a modification of the sensor track. If a software change or upgrade to the software is possible, I would think that would be the way to go.

reading this over and re-reading the catalog I was giving Lionel too much credit. The track sensor is merely a remote-track CAB 2 controller so it  is wired to and not wireless to the command unit that then re-sends a signal to the engine, as if I was pressing the CAB 2 buttons. So each sensor track needs to be wired to the command unit. 

Oh good more wires to run! I think I'll pass until the wireless track sensor comes out.

Well folks I've been playing with this for over a week.  I've had a playback of a recording I did running for the last few evenings.  I have to say I am impressed with the accuracy.  While I don't have grades and my track is a simple oval of 8x18, I have been triggering events, stops, and accessories via the playback with a great deal of accuracy based on the position of the train on the layout.  I even have an TMCC engine on a siding blow it's horn while the Legacy engine passes.

Love the fuel gauges too!  I can usually get the water to drop with about 4 laps and heavy train brake.  Coal usually after 8.  It is interesting seeing how different setting with load and speed effect the fuel and water consumption.  This will be cool on the Big Boy!

Hmmm, how about extending the LEDs also, since if the SensorTrack was in a tunnel or not in a position to be seen clearly?

Hmmm, nope I missed it!

Good Catch Marty!

Not sure if you saw my other post regarding this thread about members sharing what types of programming functions they are incorporating along with a script so that other laymen might be able to do it right!

Thanks,

Dennis

Marty,

Not all of us know the proper whistle signals for crossings, bell and or whistle when departing from a stop or arriving at a station, the speeds that are correct when departing the station as an example for some of the items.

I will try an do an example:

Train is approaching a crossing, the two long, one short and one long whistle blasts, how much before the crossing will depend on what speed the train is going but you get the idea.

Basically, the steps when you are doing the recordings as a written script, so that anyone just getting started would be able to do it correctly.

I know that we all should know this, and could probably do research on these but figured if we could get samples of the different scripts (sequences) that the members use when programming the CAB2 or the Sensor Track, etc, it might make things easier.

I know some things, but have been winging it on others which would allow others to either think I was doing it correctly and giving them an incorrect experience or opening myself up to someone not being nice and saying he doesn't know what he is doing to others.

Thanks,

Dennis

Gotcha...So when you are creating a recording, you would like to do prototypical signals etc for playback.  Because there are really no scripts that we can build other than input from a remote for the recording function of the sensor track.

I'll get one with my BigBoy, but I think I'll have to round one up before that and do some testing.

John,

You could borrow mine, as you will have more time to play with it than I will for the next few weeks. I could bring it Saturday?

Marty,

By scripts, I just mean what steps or key presses would be used for the prototypical signals. A written list, press this key, that key, etc. for that signal.

I presume you have the power supply as well?  That would be cool, I'm getting curious now about the capability.  Does the track come with any serial connection cables?

Yep, power supply, 2 sensor tracks and one 10ft cable!

No just the PCI, the Serial and WiFi Modules are due in soon....

10-4, see you Saturday.

I guess a lot of you have very deep pockets to afford all this stuff. My guess is to do it right will cost you in the thousands by the time you are done.

Also there are no provisions for many of you that run other manufacturers engines, except the record feature of the CAB2 or the ARC, let alone the Legacy engines that do not have the IR sensor.

Too rich for my blood. I'd rather add to my Roth instead.

I'm spending my kid's inheritance, and I'm falling behind.  I figured this is a good way to catch up.

Of course, having planned for retirement since my 30's probably helps with my current state of affairs.

This is exciting, I saw on the shipping schedule that SER2 has been bumped to Oct.  Doesn't affect me (luckily) I'm waiting on wifi!!!!

The Serial 2 may not have been bumped as Jon's statement was made on July 25th but the shipping schedule is still from July 23rd!

So, those (me) who need the Serial 2, may still be in luck....

The WiFi and SER2 modules have been showing their current ship dates since 5/15/14, so Jon's info is much more up-to-date. I'm certainly hoping for good news, since I have both on pre-order!

Hey Trainman9,  I see you qoute Fred Thompson, maybe you could use the reverse mortgage that he promotes now. You can keep your ROTH and still purchase all this LCS stuff 

Doug

No, I don't have to do anything of the sort.

I think it's great that many of you have the discretionary funds to purchase these products. I am not debating that.

The fact is that those who subscribe to the OGR magazine and post on the forum are a small segment of the overall hobby.

Frankly the market for these items in my opinion is rather small. However, time will tell if Lionel has made the correct move in investing in these products.

One mistake I think they have made is the choice of the connector cables and the related connection on the products themselves. They are proprietary and only available from Lionel and in limited lengths.

As I said time will tell.

When I have one to look at, I think I can build my own cables.

According to MR. The PDI cable and connector that Lionel designed will require a very expensive piece of equipment to make one.

Then again you seem to be very inventive so maybe you can do it.

It seems very similar to this:

Molex Pico-SPOX

Note the Durability spec...

I agree that a propriatary cable can be frustrating, but they tend to be easier for the average user.  Plug in here problem solved. As they learn more in model railroading they may realize how simple wiring can be, but still easy for beginners and younger crowds. 

Also, the not correct lengths should be a non-issue.  Most of us in this hobby (after a year or less) are used to doing simple wiring.  I'm quite certain I read ont he forum  you could cut the cable and easily add your own wire to get the proper length.  I can't remember where that post is at the moment, but I thought i came from Jon/MR/or someone from Lionel.

How many train geeks are really out there that will embrace all these newfangled  products?

I think one thing that is being overlooked is the experience of their dealer network. Most are just hobby shop owners taking orders and selling the products that are ordered.

For the most part they have no idea how these things work. Who is going to educate them? Does Lionel have an army of experts ready to take to the road? Furthermore, how many of the dealers are even interested in all this new stuff?

Doesn't anyone remember when Lionel introduced the TMCC system most dealers did not have a clue as to how to work a very simple system.

Now Lionel is expecting their dealer network to not only be able to sell the new control systems but also be able to operate it and trouble shoot it. Take care of problems etc.

I remember something that Ralph from Trains and Things in Vineland NJ once said to me. "Many of the people I sell starter sets to have a problem running the trains around the Christmas tree".

From all your postings in this thread and others on the LCS system, it's clear that you are not interested in the capabilities or in purchasing the system.  That being said, why are you railing against it so hard?  What's your motivation to try to convince us that it's never going to be a success?  Who took a wizz in your cornflakes?  Is there some point you're trying to make?

Actually, you might be very surprised at the number of folks who will be drawn to this new dimension of toy train control enhancements.  If it's not your cup of tea, that's OK.  But candidly speaking, you're really not doing yourself any favors by being the voice of doom-and-gloom here.  Just let it go for now...

David

The cables can be made, standard 1.5mm parts available from Digikey.  The crimper is not inexpensive, but worth the investment for some folks I guess.  We use the same connector system in our locos.

The easiest is to extend or shorten the cable, but be advised the cable is not one-to-one, one wire pair is reversed at the connector.  If you cut 2 cables and join the wrong ends it won't work.   

John,

I was thinking the same thing about Trainman9's posts.

Personally,  I'm looking at the LCS for layout control (all my track and switch power is going through TMCC devises), and the sensor track will be part of that.  I use the CAB-2 for primary locomotive control.  Staying with the CAB-2 is probably because I like the mechanical controls on the CAB and only own one iPad and no iPhones.  This may change over time.

If you talk to my team members at work (all younger) they will tell you I'm no geek at anything.  However, I am all command control for my trains, probably because I had no trains as a kid so I'm not nostalgic for conventional control.  I'm looking forward to all the LCS products showing up on my doorstep.

Ron

I'm just playing the devils advocate here. Bringing up issues that might have been overlooked.

As a matter of fact I've been operating in the command environment at least as long if not longer than most of you on these forums. Since 1995 my layout has been operating using the TMCC system.

John, you are right I have no interest in any of these new products but I do have a right to express an opinion.

Good information Jon.  I looked at the cable, and the connector did look very familiar.   However, I have to agree, the crimper is pretty steep!

Well, we'll find out if they're protected soon.   I'll probably consider adding a TVS to the sensor tracks if they don't already have that protection.  Since the first couple will probably be ripped apart to install for Atlas track, I'll get a close look at how they're built.

I may be 68 years old but I support Lionel's effort on bringing this new technology To us train guys.  I love technology and the more the better IMO.

I plan on adding it to my point to point layout. I just need somebody to design the LCS track piece to fit my Ross track. 

Bottom line... I think the interest level in the new LCS components will be extremely high across all ages of toy train enthusiasts.  Anything that adds to the "fun factor" in our hobby is extremely welcome, and folks will jump on board as long as the price/performance/fun-factor falls into place, which is always a personal decision.  I plan to use LCS components for the O-Gauge portion of my new layout. 

True, everyone is entitled to express their opinions here... but I think the push-back that the naysayers are receiving here has more to do with the way they're expressing their opinion rather than the fact that they've chosen to express their opinion.  Enough said. 

David

Marty, I'll obviously evaluate what connects to what before I start modifying.

People who already have the sensor track, what has been your favotire feature so far?  The recordings?

The fuel info?

The loading of engine info?

And follow up, what sort of custom recordings have you made for yourself? 

I currently only have 1 engine that could take advantage or sensor track, but it really does interest me a lot

I don't have one yet, but I think the recording and triggering events will be top on my list. 

Well I've been going through the features and the recording is really cool IMO.  Because it is fairly accurate I can have an engine triggering actions all over.  The fuel gauge is cool too.  The preset "actions" will be a lot cooler when I can add them to a crossing area to trigger those types of events.  The loading of the engine is nice but I think the recording function is the best so far.

Once the Ipad app becomes active via the WiFi seeing where the loco is will be useful on a bigger layout.

Well, my 2 sensor tracks, power supply and assorted cables are currently resting at Idlewild before they begin their flight across the Atlantic. 

After reading some of the posts above, I really wonder what all the negative comments are founded upon. The sensor tracks are new devices, intended to increase the features and functionality for those of us with recent Legacy locomotives. They are not mandatory or even important unless you wish to take advantage of these features.

As for the other LCS components, the new serial devices and the WiFi module all open up new flexibility for anyone with a Legacy system. The new LCS bus improves the range and efficiency of the serial bus, and remove the limitations of the old TMCC serial bus. Making the cables ready made, with easy to use connectors will help to prevent a lot of problems and frustrations that some who are not electrical wizards often encounter.

With regard to the cost that some are complaining about, I happen to think that they are very good value for money.  I do not have deep pockets at all, but I don't think that under $20 for a ready-made cable is expensive. I can't understand how some who will happily spend $2000 on a locomotive can quibble about $20 for a quality cable.  Would you spend a fortune on a home entertainment system and then try and save a few dollars by using the cheapest HDMI cables you can find?

As I said earlier, none of the LCS items are mandatory to enjoy your trains. If you don't like or want them, then don't buy them. Why waste words in moaning about something that you don't want anyway?  I don't use MTH trains or the DCS system, but I find no cause or reason to try and bash those products.

Be happy, life is much more enjoyable that way.  

Thanks Jon for clearing up my PDI (not PID) error.  Fast typing and short memory.

Thanks for the additional info too!

Jon, what is the usable range of the track sensors below the track tops?  I'm interested in how close I have to mount it if we hack a couple to put into Atlas track.  Obviously, I'd like it to trigger reliably, but ideally, I wouldn't have to do major surgery on the Atlas track sections to fit it in.  I'm thinking of embedding the board in the cork roadbed we use.

I'd be REALLY surprised if Jon is not vastly more informed than any of us about the exact status of any of the Legacy components.   Do you actually think that Jon and MR don't speak?