Universal Lionchief/Lionchieft Plus Remote first impressions

Captaincog posted:

"...The only time an engine will not add would be some of the start set style engines. So far my Polar Express and Silver Bells engines are not recognized by the remote...."

Yes, thank you for posting this information, Jeff. Surprised it doesn't work for all Lionchief products, (especially their all time best selling  rtr Polar Express set,) since it's advertised as a Lionchief universal remote. That being the case, I wonder why Lionel hasn't published a list of Lionchief sets and engines it's not compatible with so people buying it to use it it with those sets won't then buy it and thus be spared the hassle of returning it along with $$ lost from return shipping costs and possible restocking fees after discovering such incompatibility.

Thanks for the review, Jeff.

These long awaited remotes are here and mine should arrive next week for some post-Christmas running.  

Jeff, Glad to hear that you are pleased with your experience using the Universal Remote. Placed an order for one in December of 2015...received a confirmation call yesterday that mine is being shipped, so next week cannot come fast enough!

I currently have 4 LC+ locomotives and was wondering if each one is placed on the track...and added one at a time using only 3 of the 4? One of the 4 will obviously have to be used with its designated remote. As you already have the operating manual, was looking for your interpretation...

On a Amtrak and heading for Chicago as I write this...never get tired of hearing the horn as we approach every crossing.

Thanks and have a Merry Christmas.

ogaugeguy posted:

Surprising that it doesn't work for all Lionchief products, (especially their all time best selling  rtr set, the Polar Express) since it's advertised as a Lionchief universal remote. 

Well, Lionel did say that some older LC (not +) locomotives would not work.

gunrunnerjohn posted:

ogaugeguy posted:

Surprising that it doesn't work for all Lionchief products, (especially their all time best selling  rtr set, the Polar Express) since it's advertised as a Lionchief universal remote. 

Well, Lionel did say that some older LC (not +) locomotives would not work.

True, John, and not to be argumentative at this festive time of year but "older" is ambiguous considering Lionchief hasn't been around that long. I have no problem with it not working with all Lionchief locomotives, but considering the "newness" of the Lionchief system and even with likely design changes and tweaking during its existence, how many "older" incompatible sets and engines can there be that that it would make too cumbersome and long a list for Lionel to compile and publish? Considering the immense popularity of the Polar Express, at the very least specifically include that as an incompatible set in the disclaimer "some older LC locomotives may not work ".

My suspicion is that the LC electronics changed and the older design isn't compatible.  Short of replacing all those sets, I don't see how Lionel could have solved this issue.  I doubt they considered the need for the universal remote from the original product design.  Also, Lionel actually didn't design the LC electronics I've been told, but rather contracted it to some outside house.

Will not work with all should be noted in large lettering. I had a similar experience with the MTH commander, it does not work on ALL MTH engines either.

Well at least you should still have the original remote to run with. How many LC+ engines do you run all at once? Just curious, not a debate question.

Jim 1939 posted:

Will not work with all should be noted in large lettering. I had a similar experience with the MTH commander, it does not work on ALL MTH engines either.

Well at least you should still have the original remote to run with. How many LC+ engines do you run all at once? Just curious, not a debate question.

Jim, three LC+ (and a Flyerchief which is similar to its LC+ cousin) and nine LC starter sets with four of those LC's being Christmas themed (one made by Lionel for Hallmark) which I frequently run simultaneously during the holidays.

Running multiple engines is easy and almost easier than switching between 2 engines on my legacy Cab2 so having 3 engines on call is nice. Since I run trains at quite a few shows having engines that run with this remote allows me to leave the engine specific remotes at home and reduce the risk of damage.

To be fair Lionel does day that it will not control all Lionchief engines so I figured I would post up what I have found out. I have 2 other engines to dig out and try that are starter set engines. The technology changes so fast as far as what is available I am not surprised. The real question is how often do most users run their holiday themed sets? I suspect the newer designs will likely work fine.

I really feel this remote is a great value and does exactly what it should.

Captaincog posted:

Running multiple engines is easy and almost easier than switching between 2 engines on my legacy Cab2 so having 3 engines on call is nice. Since I run trains at quite a few shows having engines that run with this remote allows me to leave the engine specific remotes at home and reduce the risk of damage.

To be fair Lionel does day that it will not control all Lionchief engines so I figured I would post up what I have found out. I have 2 other engines to dig out and try that are starter set engines. The technology changes so fast as far as what is available I am not surprised. The real question is how often do most users run their holiday themed sets? I suspect the newer designs will likely work fine.

I really feel this remote is a great value and does exactly what it should.

Thanks, Jeff, for your review and effort letting us know which rtr sets won't work with the remote. I'm planning to buy the remote but before I do thanks to your heads up I'll now call Lionel's service department and hopefully they'll be able to tell me whether it will work with the LC rtr sets I want to use it with.  At least that will save me disappointment and aggravation of purchasing it only to discover it won't fit my needs after I've tried using it.

Question on universal remote. When you switch from on engine to another, does the first one continue to run until it is readdressed?

thanks Tstark

tstark posted:

Question on universal remote. When you switch from on engine to another, does the first one continue to run until it is readdressed?

thanks Tstark

Yes, whatever was the last command sent in running speed and direction that engine will continue until you come back to it. It works well in switching between engines which I can see is a primary advantage of this remote.

I cant wait for mine to come in so I can see what does and does not work.  I'm curious, Captaincog, if you know when, about, your polar express was made, and if the remote will work with later versions of the engine.  I have a 10th year edition which from what I understand, had added sound clips over the previous version, and I wonder if it also includes added compatibility for the remote.  I have a second LC polar express that was bought from Hennings a couple months ago, that seems to include all the same sounds as the 10th anniversary version, so I think it uses the same boards/code as well.  

JGL

JohnGaltLine posted:

I cant wait for mine to come in so I can see what does and does not work.  I'm curious, Captaincog, if you know when, about, your polar express was made, and if the remote will work with later versions of the engine.  I have a 10th year edition which from what I understand, had added sound clips over the previous version, and I wonder if it also includes added compatibility for the remote.  I have a second LC polar express that was bought from Hennings a couple months ago, that seems to include all the same sounds as the 10th anniversary version, so I think it uses the same boards/code as well. 

JGL

That one might work. I would like to know since mine is the first edition Lionchief.

Jeff, silly question, but on the engine that didn't add to the remote, it's original  remote was off, correct? The manual says the original remote for the engine must be off.

I think lionel did a good job of letting people know it doest work on early lionel lionchief was on a full page add on there web site

Doug-Sr posted:

I think lionel did a good job of letting people know it doest work on early lionel lionchief was on a full page add on there web site

Lionel needs publish a list of incompatible engines. Just saying it doesn't work on "older" engines is useless and confusing. How is that in any way a good job?

Thanks for posting this and for the discussion on the new remote. Mine is on the way.

Four LC+ locos and counting!

Having a list of the incompatible locomotives would certainly be useful.

This is the first I have heard of it not working with "older" Lion Chief locomotives. I ordered two of these (one for me and one for my son) and I now wonder if I should have ordered one at all. I don't spend my time hanging out on the Lionel website. I don't recall anything in the catalog stating there would be a problem. At this point I have the Area 51 Set, Frosty the Snowman and the Western Union Set. My son has the Patriot U36B, Chessie Mikado and the Southern Pacific Pacific. So have I pre-ordered these just to get stuck with them?

Scott Smith

I stopped my order with trainworld because I'm only running two lionchief steam engines from Lionchief sets. I didn't think it would work with these engines. If I buy Lionchief plus steam, then I'll probably buy one.

We probably could start our own list . May help some.  I have  three sets. The Silver Bell, the Frosty the Snowman and the Hallmark Santa.

I have the remote but not fooled with it yet. So at previously posted (cog)  

the 1st one on the list that's not capable is :

1. Sliver Bell Express.

2.  early Polar Express  added to list 12/30/16

3. Current Polar Express Production 6-30218.      added to list  1/1/17

I will see if we can publish a list of LC product that does not work with the Universal Remote.  Also, the cool thing about this product - it is over the air (OTA) upgradable.  At some point we will release an update that can be sent to the remote to add more loco support.  An iOS and Android app is planned for the process.  It simply connects to the remote and updates the code in about 5 minutes. 

Jon, just curious.  Is it going to be possible to support some of the older stuff that's not on the list, or only new stuff going forward?

Two flyerchief plus and two lionchief plus and love the universal remote, job well done lionel

gunrunnerjohn posted:

Jon, just curious.  Is it going to be possible to support some of the older stuff that's not on the list, or only new stuff going forward?

I believe at some point all older locos will be supported.  At least That is our goal until something shows up!

Great Jon, that would be very cool!

George S posted:

Jeff, silly question, but on the engine that didn't add to the remote, it's original  remote was off, correct? The manual says the original remote for the engine must be off.

Yes, the original remotes were all off on my trials. So far early Polar Express and Silver Bells engines do not respond.

SantaFeFan posted:

I will see if we can publish a list of LC product that does not work with the Universal Remote.  Also, the cool thing about this product - it is over the air (OTA) upgradable.  At some point we will release an update that can be sent to the remote to add more loco support.  An iOS and Android app is planned for the process.  It simply connects to the remote and updates the code in about 5 minutes. 

That explains the Bluetooth part. I like the idea and I really like how no one else can take control of an engine once the remote is loaded locked on and running until the remote is off.

I'm using mine...best thing to come along since "sliced bread"!

Had family here yesterday...handed out the dedicated remotes for each engine to whoever was operating that particlular train. No chance of accidents that way and they all had a great time running them on the layout.

When I am running trains on my own...the Universal Remote will be in my hand!!! And Jon, will definately be looking forward to the future updates...

I can add to the list what I believe is the current production version of the Polar Express.  Mine from the 6-30218 set does not seem to work, which is a little disappointing.  I look forward to future updates, but I'd have liked what I would think is the LionChief engine that has sold the most units to work with the universal remote.  Then again, it would make sense for the polar express to be running an earlier version of the firmware, written back before anyone thought about expanding LionChief's capabilities.  

The remote does work perfectly with a NYC RS3 LionChief engine I have.  It was very easy to pair with the engine and worked as one would expect.  At some point, after further testing and such, I may write my own full-on review, but for the moment I have only two critiques I can mention.   First, the speed control on the universal remote I've used only has the detents on either side of the "stop" position on the dial, and turns smoothly for the rest of the travel in either direction.  This isn't really something I'd say is wrong so much as just different from other LC/LC+ remotes I've used, and it just feels odd to me.  I'd have liked the dial to have the 20 clicks in each direction that I'm used to.    The second thing I find a little annoying is that the plastic used for the body of the remote is translucent, and the light from the LEDs in the remote can be seen through the walls of the body.  There's nothing inherently wrong with this, but it makes the product look cheap and poorly engineered, and it makes the plastic appear to be of less quality than other LC/+ remotes.  I don't know if it actually IS of lower quality, but the light glowing through makes it look that way to me.  

JGL

Folks, Here is the list of supported locos and un-supported locos for the Universal Remote.

Lionel 6-83071 Universal Remote LionChief Locomotive compatability list
January 2, 2017

This document lists Lionel LionChief locomotives which are or are not supported by the Lionel Universal Remote with original production firmware.

The following first-generation LionChief locomotives are NOT supported by the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

6-81287    Union Pacific Steam Remote Freight Set
6-81331    Iron Arry
6-81332    Iron Bert
6-81031    Lionel Junction Dinosaur Diesel Remote Set
6-81288    Lionel Junction Pet Shop Diesel Remote Set
6-30228    0-8-0 Chattanooga Set
6-30233    Pennsylvania Flyer Remote Set
6-81259    PRR 0-8-0 Remote Broadway Limited
6-81262    Union Pacific Flyer Remote (0-8-0)
6-30207    Santa Fe RS-3 Remote Scout Freight Set
6-81263    Jersey Remote RS3 Passenger Train
6-81480    John Deer Remote Set
6-30206    Alien Invasion Remote RS-3 Set
6-81101    Remote Polar with 10th Anniversary
6-30218    The Polar Express Remote Set
6-30183    Lionel 2-4-2 Remote Scout Steam Set
6-82151    Bass Pro Shop 2-4-2 LionChief Scout RTR Set
6-30205    2-4-2 Remote Xmas Set
6-30214    Peanuts Halloween 2-4-2 Remote Set

The following Second Generation LionChief locomotives ARE COMPATIBLE with the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

Lion Chief -------------------------------------------
6-81284    Frosty Snowman Remote Set
6-81395    Thomas Kinkade Xmas 0-8-0 Remote Set
6-81280    Victorian Xmas Remote Set
6-81279    Albert Hall European Remote Set
6-81266    Amtrak FT Remote Set
6-81475    Batman Remote M7 Set
6-81264    Western Union Telegraph LionChief General Freight Set
6-81270    Bethlehem Steel Remote Docksider Set
6-82545    Christmas Docksider Set
6-82427    The Patriot U36B Frieght Set
6-82324    Chessie System U36B Freight Set
6-82188    MTA Metro-North Remote 3-Car Commuter Set
6-82436    Pennsylvania Railroad Keystone Classic Diesel Set
6-82099    Zombie Apocolypse Remote Set
6-11699    Hallmark Set

Lion Chief Plus -------------------------------------------
6-81295    Santa Fe LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81296    GN LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81297    PRR LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81299    Chessie LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81301    NYC LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81302    C&O LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81303    UP LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81304    CN LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81307    B&O LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81308    CP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81309    SP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81311    Alaska LionChief Plus Pacific
6-38821    AT&SF LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38824    NP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38825    UP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38827    CBQ LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38819    Rio Grande LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38816    PRR LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38778    C&NW LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38779    NYC LionChief Plus RS-3
6-49632    American Flyer Polar Express Berkshire Set
6-82175    LionChief Plus Virginian Rectifier
6-82176    LionChief Plus N&W Rectifier
6-82177    LionChief Plus New Haven Rectifier
6-82178    LionChief Plus Conrail Rectifier
6-82179    LionChief Plus PRR Rectifier
6-82171    LionChief Plus BNSFGP20
6-82172    LionChief Plus NYC GP20
6-82173    LionChief Plus NS GP20
6-82174    LionChief Plus Susquehanna  GP20
6-58213    LCCA B&M LionChief Plus GP-7 #2335  
6-58214    LCCA B&M Non-Powered GP-7 #2361
6-82290    LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA   POWERED
        LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82293    LionChief Plus ACL FT AA  POWERED
        LionChief Plus ACL FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82296    LionChief Plus Erie FT AA OWERED
        LionChief Plus Erie FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82299    LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA POWERED
        LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82302    Santa Fe LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82303    ACL LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82304    Erie LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82305    Rio Grande LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82163    LionChief Plus B&O NW2
6-82164    LionChief Plus BN NW2
6-82165    LionChief Plus CB&Q NW2
6-82166    LionChief Plus Southern NW2
6-82414    Jersey Central 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82415    Lackawanna 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82416    Lehigh Valley 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82417    Philadelphia and Reading 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82418    Erie 4-6-0 Camelback
(later 2015-2016 production) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6-42562    A/F Nickel Plate FlyerChief Berkshire #765
6-42569    A/F C&O FlyerChief Berkshire #490
6-47921    A/F Pere Marquette FlyerChief Berkshire #1225
6-47922    A/F Erie FlyerChief Berkshire #3360
6-47923    A/F Southern FlyerChief Berkshire #2716
6-82960    New York Central LionChief Plus Mikado #1548
6-82961    Union Pacific LionChief Plus Mikado #2537
6-82962    Southern LionChief Plus Mikado #4501
6-82963    Rio Grande LionChief Plus Mikado #1208
6-82964    Milwaukee Road LionChief Plus Hudson #6400
6-82965    ATSF LionChief Plus Hudson #3450
6-82966    DL&W LionChief Plus Hudson #1151
6-82967    CB&Q LionChief Plus Hudson #3007
6-82968    Lionel Lines LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82969    Western Maryland LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82970    RBMN  LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82971    C&NW LionChief Plus Pacific
6-83214    North Pole Central LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82973    PRR LionChief Plus A5
6-82974    SP LionChief Plus A5
6-82975    B&O LionChief Plus A5
6-82976    Beth Steel LionChief Plus A5
6-82825    CP Rail LionChief+ GP38 #3128
6-82826    CSX LionChief+ GP38 #2145
6-82827    SP LionChief+ GP38 #4846
6-82828    Union Pacific LionChief+ GP38 #905

Jon,

Is it reasonable to assume that all future LionChief set locos will be compatible?

I don't notice Thomas the Tank being on either list, and that's a popular LionChief set that's been around for some years.

Thanks.

Jon, Thank you for that list!  Must have taken a bit to put it all together and I know many of us really appreciate it.  

As for the Thomas engines, I think it is a certainty that the early ones won't work.  Those used a 27mHz radio.  I have no idea on later ones what is in use, but it looks like all of the other very small, similar engines are on the NO list.  

JGL

Nice work, thanks.

So, essentially, ALL Lion Chief Plus locos work with the new remote. Works for me as I only run the PLUS versions in the LC line.

Great information Jon, thanks for the effort.

Thanks to those who pointed out missing Thomas, etc. Here's a revision of the list.

Lionel 6-83071 Universal Remote LionChief Locomotive compatability list
revision January 3, 2017

This document lists Lionel LionChief locomotives which are or are not supported by the Lionel Universal Remote with original production firmware.

The following first-generation LionChief locomotives are NOT supported by the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

6-30162 Thomas Xmas Set
6-30183 Lionel 2-4-2 Remote Scout Steam Set
6-30190 Thomas and Friends Remote Set
6-30205 2-4-2 Remote Xmas Set
6-30206 Alien Invasion Remote RS-3 Set
6-30207 Santa Fe RS-3 Remote Scout Freight Set
6-30214 Peanuts Halloween 2-4-2 Remote Set
6-30218 The Polar Express Remote Set 
6-30221 Diesel Set (Separated sales 6-18775)
6-30222 Percy Set
6-30223 James Set
6-30228 0-8-0 Chattanooga Set 
6-30233 Pennsylvania Flyer Remote Set 
6-81031 Lionel Junction Dinosaur Diesel Remote Set
6-81101 Remote Polar with 10th Ann Logo
6-81259 PRR 0-8-0 Remote Broadway Limited
6-81262 Union Pacific Flyer Remote (0-8-0)
6-81263 Jersey Remote RS3 Passenger Train
6-81286 Little Steam Remote Set
6-81287 Union Pacific Steam Remote Freight Set
6-81288 Lionel Junction Pet Shop Diesel Remote Set
6-81331 Iron Arry
6-81332 Iron Bert
6-81480 John Deer Remote Set
6-82151 Bass Pro Shop 2-4-2 LionChief Scout RTR Set
6-82972 Lionel Junction Pennsylvania Diesel Remote Set (Loco #9431)
6-83266 Lionel Junction Santa Fe Steam Remote Set
6-83504 Birthday Thomas the Tank Engine

The following Second Generation LionChief locomotives ARE COMPATIBLE with the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

Lion Chief -------------------------------------------
6-11699 Hallmark Set
6-81261 New York Central 0-8-0 Flyer (Dealer Exclusive)
6-81264 Western Union Telegraph LionChief General Freight Set
6-81266 Amtrak FT Remote Set
6-81269 PRR Allegheny Hauler Berkshire  Set
6-81270 Bethlehem Steel Remote Docksider Set
6-81279 Albert Hall European Remote Set
6-81280 Victorian Xmas Remote Set
6-81284 Frosty Snowman Remote Set
6-81395 Thomas Kinkade Xmas 0-8-0 Remote Set
6-81470 DC Comics Batman Phantom Set
6-81475 Batman Remote M7 Set
6-82099 Zombie Apocolypse Remote Set
6-82188 MTA Metro-North Remote 3-Car Commuter Set
6-82324 Chessie System U36B Freight Set
6-82427 The Patriot U36B Frieght Set
6-82436 Pennsylvania Railroad Keystone Classic Diesel Set
6-82545 Christmas Docksider Set (Santa's Helper)
6-82716 Disney Christmas General Set
6-82941 2015 Brass Pro Shop Set
6-82984 NYC RS3 Scout Remote Set
6-83080 Rio Grande 0-4-0 Switcher Set (Dealer Exclusive)
6-83286 John Deere Steam Set
6-83620 Hogwarts LionChief RTR Set
6-83624 Union Pacific Sherman Hill RS3 Scout Set (Dealer Exclusive)
6-83648 MLB Yankees LionChief RTR Subway Set
6-83659 PRR Keystone Special 0-8-0 Set (Exclusive)
6-84354 Hogwarts LionChief Set

Lion Chief Plus -------------------------------------------
6-81295 Santa Fe LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81296 GN LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81297 PRR LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81299 Chessie LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81301 NYC LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81302 C&O LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81303 UP LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81304 CN LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81307 B&O LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81308 CP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81309 SP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81311 Alaska LionChief Plus Pacific
6-38821 AT&SF LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38824 NP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38825 UP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38827 CBQ LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38819 Rio Grande LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38816 PRR LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38778 C&NW LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38779 NYC LionChief Plus RS-3
6-49632 American Flyer Polar Express Berkshire Set
6-82175 LionChief Plus Virginian Rectifier
6-82176 LionChief Plus N&W Rectifier
6-82177 LionChief Plus New Haven Rectifier
6-82178 LionChief Plus Conrail Rectifier
6-82179 LionChief Plus PRR Rectifier
6-82171 LionChief Plus BNSFGP20
6-82172 LionChief Plus NYC GP20
6-82173 LionChief Plus NS GP20
6-82174 LionChief Plus Susquehanna GP20
6-58213 LCCA B&M LionChief Plus GP-7 #2335
6-58214 LCCA B&M Non-Powered GP-7 #2361
6-82290 LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA POWERED
LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82293 LionChief Plus ACL FT AA POWERED
LionChief Plus ACL FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82296 LionChief Plus Erie FT AA OWERED
LionChief Plus Erie FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82299 LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA POWERED
LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82302 Santa Fe LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82303 ACL LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82304 Erie LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82305 Rio Grande LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82163 LionChief Plus B&O NW2
6-82164 LionChief Plus BN NW2
6-82165 LionChief Plus CB&Q NW2
6-82166 LionChief Plus Southern NW2
6-82414 Jersey Central 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82415 Lackawanna 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82416 Lehigh Valley 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82417 Philadelphia and Reading 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82418 Erie 4-6-0 Camelback
(later 2015-2016 production) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6-42562 A/F Nickel Plate FlyerChief Berkshire #765
6-42569 A/F C&O FlyerChief Berkshire #490
6-47921 A/F Pere Marquette FlyerChief Berkshire #1225
6-47922 A/F Erie FlyerChief Berkshire #3360
6-47923 A/F Southern FlyerChief Berkshire #2716
6-82960 New York Central LionChief Plus Mikado #1548
6-82961 Union Pacific LionChief Plus Mikado #2537
6-82962 Southern LionChief Plus Mikado #4501
6-82963 Rio Grande LionChief Plus Mikado #1208
6-82964 Milwaukee Road LionChief Plus Hudson #6400
6-82965 ATSF LionChief Plus Hudson #3450
6-82966 DL&W LionChief Plus Hudson #1151
6-82967 CB&Q LionChief Plus Hudson #3007
6-82968 Lionel Lines LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82969 Western Maryland LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82970 RBMN LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82971 C&NW LionChief Plus Pacific
6-83214 North Pole Central LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82973 PRR LionChief Plus A5
6-82974 SP LionChief Plus A5
6-82975 B&O LionChief Plus A5
6-82976 Beth Steel LionChief Plus A5
6-82825 CP Rail LionChief+ GP38 #3128
6-82826 CSX LionChief+ GP38 #2145
6-82827 SP LionChief+ GP38 #4846
6-82828 Union Pacific LionChief+ GP38 #905

Ouch.  I ordered 2 of the Universal remotes for the 6 Lionchief engines we have and only 1 is supported.  Ouch.  Here's hoping to updates in the future....

Jim

Can the original production firmware be updated to support the universal remote?

Chris

I think the plan is to upgrade the software to support the original LC models.

Finally had a chance to open up one of the new remotes, and I have to say it is a very impressive step forward in engineering, in my opinion.  The actual design is amazingly simple, while at the same time being oddly complex in some ways, perhaps due to a limited number of I/O pins on the processor to work with.  Aside from the components for the power supply, buttons, LEDs and pot there are only 3 things on the board.  The 2.4GHz radio module, an EEPROM chip (I think it's 256KB, but can't read the full part number), and a combo Bluetooth BLE/Micro-controler module.  

When Jon said this thing can be updated, it's no lie.  By the look of it the entire program on the thing could be rewritten quite easily over bluetooth, allowing for updates to accommodate any future product that uses bluetooth or simple 2.4GHz communication.    Without knowing what is different in the protocal between early versions and the current one I'm unsure exactly how complex the process to make the remote work with older engines will be.  I will take a guess that the issue is something to do with the current version of the firmware in engines broadcasting a unique engine ID that the remote can read and use to send the correct data out, where as older versions are likely not sending out this information, giving the remote no way to know where to direct the signal.  It's just a guess here, but if thats the case, it seems that it could become quite complex to have some procedure to manually enter an engine's ID, especially given the limitations of 6 buttons and a pot on the remote.  On the other hand, I think it is pretty feasible for a smartphone app to be developed where you could scroll down a list of engines, tap one, and then tap button in the app to assign that engine to one of the 3 positions of the remote.  

I'm sure the folks in R&D are way ahead of me on this, but I do think it's worth putting a little bit of work into in the near future, given the large number of lower end engines that are currently not compatible, including several of the most popular sets.  

JGL

Cool John!   Since Jon Z. stated the intent to add some engines in the future, one can only hope they have a solution to adding the earlier sets.

SantaFeFan posted:

Folks, Here is the list of supported locos and un-supported locos for the Universal Remote.

Lionel 6-83071 Universal Remote LionChief Locomotive compatability list
January 2, 2017

This document lists Lionel LionChief locomotives which are or are not supported by the Lionel Universal Remote with original production firmware.

The following first-generation LionChief locomotives are NOT supported by the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

6-81287    Union Pacific Steam Remote Freight Set
6-81331    Iron Arry
6-81332    Iron Bert
6-81031    Lionel Junction Dinosaur Diesel Remote Set
6-81288    Lionel Junction Pet Shop Diesel Remote Set
6-30228    0-8-0 Chattanooga Set
6-30233    Pennsylvania Flyer Remote Set
6-81259    PRR 0-8-0 Remote Broadway Limited
6-81262    Union Pacific Flyer Remote (0-8-0)
6-30207    Santa Fe RS-3 Remote Scout Freight Set
6-81263    Jersey Remote RS3 Passenger Train
6-81480    John Deer Remote Set
6-30206    Alien Invasion Remote RS-3 Set
6-81101    Remote Polar with 10th Anniversary
6-30218    The Polar Express Remote Set
6-30183    Lionel 2-4-2 Remote Scout Steam Set
6-82151    Bass Pro Shop 2-4-2 LionChief Scout RTR Set
6-30205    2-4-2 Remote Xmas Set
6-30214    Peanuts Halloween 2-4-2 Remote Set

The following Second Generation LionChief locomotives ARE COMPATIBLE with the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

Lion Chief -------------------------------------------
6-81284    Frosty Snowman Remote Set
6-81395    Thomas Kinkade Xmas 0-8-0 Remote Set
6-81280    Victorian Xmas Remote Set
6-81279    Albert Hall European Remote Set
6-81266    Amtrak FT Remote Set
6-81475    Batman Remote M7 Set
6-81264    Western Union Telegraph LionChief General Freight Set
6-81270    Bethlehem Steel Remote Docksider Set
6-82545    Christmas Docksider Set
6-82427    The Patriot U36B Frieght Set
6-82324    Chessie System U36B Freight Set
6-82188    MTA Metro-North Remote 3-Car Commuter Set
6-82436    Pennsylvania Railroad Keystone Classic Diesel Set
6-82099    Zombie Apocolypse Remote Set
6-11699    Hallmark Set

Lion Chief Plus -------------------------------------------
6-81295    Santa Fe LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81296    GN LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81297    PRR LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81299    Chessie LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81301    NYC LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81302    C&O LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81303    UP LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81304    CN LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81307    B&O LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81308    CP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81309    SP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81311    Alaska LionChief Plus Pacific
6-38821    AT&SF LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38824    NP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38825    UP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38827    CBQ LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38819    Rio Grande LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38816    PRR LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38778    C&NW LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38779    NYC LionChief Plus RS-3
6-49632    American Flyer Polar Express Berkshire Set
6-82175    LionChief Plus Virginian Rectifier
6-82176    LionChief Plus N&W Rectifier
6-82177    LionChief Plus New Haven Rectifier
6-82178    LionChief Plus Conrail Rectifier
6-82179    LionChief Plus PRR Rectifier
6-82171    LionChief Plus BNSFGP20
6-82172    LionChief Plus NYC GP20
6-82173    LionChief Plus NS GP20
6-82174    LionChief Plus Susquehanna  GP20
6-58213    LCCA B&M LionChief Plus GP-7 #2335  
6-58214    LCCA B&M Non-Powered GP-7 #2361
6-82290    LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA   POWERED
        LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82293    LionChief Plus ACL FT AA  POWERED
        LionChief Plus ACL FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82296    LionChief Plus Erie FT AA OWERED
        LionChief Plus Erie FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82299    LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA POWERED
        LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA  NON-POWERED
6-82302    Santa Fe LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82303    ACL LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82304    Erie LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82305    Rio Grande LionChief Plus FT  B-Unit
6-82163    LionChief Plus B&O NW2
6-82164    LionChief Plus BN NW2
6-82165    LionChief Plus CB&Q NW2
6-82166    LionChief Plus Southern NW2
6-82414    Jersey Central 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82415    Lackawanna 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82416    Lehigh Valley 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82417    Philadelphia and Reading 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82418    Erie 4-6-0 Camelback
(later 2015-2016 production) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6-42562    A/F Nickel Plate FlyerChief Berkshire #765
6-42569    A/F C&O FlyerChief Berkshire #490
6-47921    A/F Pere Marquette FlyerChief Berkshire #1225
6-47922    A/F Erie FlyerChief Berkshire #3360
6-47923    A/F Southern FlyerChief Berkshire #2716
6-82960    New York Central LionChief Plus Mikado #1548
6-82961    Union Pacific LionChief Plus Mikado #2537
6-82962    Southern LionChief Plus Mikado #4501
6-82963    Rio Grande LionChief Plus Mikado #1208
6-82964    Milwaukee Road LionChief Plus Hudson #6400
6-82965    ATSF LionChief Plus Hudson #3450
6-82966    DL&W LionChief Plus Hudson #1151
6-82967    CB&Q LionChief Plus Hudson #3007
6-82968    Lionel Lines LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82969    Western Maryland LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82970    RBMN  LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82971    C&NW LionChief Plus Pacific
6-83214    North Pole Central LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82973    PRR LionChief Plus A5
6-82974    SP LionChief Plus A5
6-82975    B&O LionChief Plus A5
6-82976    Beth Steel LionChief Plus A5
6-82825    CP Rail LionChief+ GP38 #3128
6-82826    CSX LionChief+ GP38 #2145
6-82827    SP LionChief+ GP38 #4846
6-82828    Union Pacific LionChief+ GP38 #905

I don't see Thomas the Tank Engine, James, Diesel, or Percy anywhere on this list. However, since Iron Arry & Iron Bert are on the "No-Go list", does that mean that Thomas, James, Diesel & Percy are also "No-Go"?

Bill in FtL

Lionel Universal Remote Controller. All is well.

                                                                    and

banjoflyer posted:

 

I don't see Thomas the Tank Engine, James, Diesel, or Percy anywhere on this list. However, since Iron Arry & Iron Bert are on the "No-Go list", does that mean that Thomas, James, Diesel & Percy are also "No-Go"?

Bill in FtL

You're looking at the old list. See the updated list dated 1/4/17 in this post....

"Thanks to those who pointed out missing Thomas, etc. Here's a revision of the list.

 Lionel 6-83071 Universal Remote LionChief Locomotive compatability list
revision January 3, 2017

This document lists Lionel LionChief locomotives which are or are NOT supported by the Lionel Universal Remote with original production firmware.

6-30162 Thomas Xmas Set

6-30190 Thomas and Friends Remote Set

6-30221 Diesel Set (Separated sales 6-18775)
6-30222 Percy Set
6-30223 James Set"

 

Mark

I think the bold print contradicts it's self. It doesn't seem to clarify between not included and included.

It was clear on 1/4, but not so much there. Maybe an edit from "take action?

I hadn't realised there was that much variation available period.

Gentlemen,

I do not see my LC Hallmark Santa Toy Maker Express listed on either list, does anyone know if the new remote supports it or not?  Would definitely like to know.  Is the 6-11699 Hallmark, listed in the compatible section, the Hallmark Santa Toy Maker Express or not.  I have no idea if Hallmark has more trains, than just the Santa Toy Maker Express.   I am 400 miles away for where my trains are located right now, and can not check the numbers on it.  I have been waiting to see if the new universal remote is compatible with the Hallmark Santa Express, if so I will definitely pick one up, and invest in a nice LC+ set sometime also.  Further is this Universal Remote capable of running the Engines it supports, as Double Headers?

PCRR/Dave

Pine Creek Railroad posted:

Further is this Universal Remote capable of running the Engines it supports, as Double Headers?

PCRR/Dave

You can run 2 of the same locos off one remote. For example, you can run 2 or more NYC RS3s off of one remote. You might be able to swap shells to make a mixed double header. The frame of the RS3 and GP20 might be the same so you could buy 2 RS3s and 2 GP20s, swap the shells and have two double headers.

Pine Creek Railroad posted:

Gentlemen,

I do not see my LC Hallmark Santa Toy Maker Express listed on either list, does anyone know if the new remote supports it or not?  Would definitely like to know.  Is the 6-11699 Hallmark, listed in the compatible section, the Hallmark Santa Toy Maker Express or not.  I have no idea if Hallmark has more trains, than just the Santa Toy Maker Express. 

PCRR/Dave

The Hallmark set 6-11699 is compatible. It is on the updated list on page 1 provided by Rudy Trubitt. The list copied above is incomplete. 

MartyE & Country Joe,

   Thank you gentlemen very much for answering my questions, I appreciate the knowledge very much and will now eventually invest in the universal remote and another compatible engine. Just to make absolutely sure we are on the same page, the 6-11699 is the Hallmark  Santa Toy Maker Express, correct?  Now if they would only engineer some kind bridge work for the Legacy!  Ya got to love this stuff!

PCRR/Dave

Pine Creek Railroad posted:

MartyE & Country Joe,

   Thank you gentlemen very much for answering my questions, I appreciate the knowledge very much and will now eventually invest in the universal remote and another compatible engine. Just to make absolutely sure we are on the same page, the 6-11699 is the Hallmark  Santa Toy Maker Express, correct?  Now if they would only engineer some kind bridge work for the Legacy!  Ya got to love this stuff!

PCRR/Dave

From Rudy at Lionel...

The following Second Generation LionChief locomotives ARE COMPATIBLE with the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

Lion Chief -------------------------------------------
6-11699 Hallmark Set

Railsounds posted:

Thanks to those who pointed out missing Thomas, etc. Here's a revision of the list.

 

Lionel 6-83071 Universal Remote LionChief Locomotive compatability list
revision January 3, 2017

This document lists Lionel LionChief locomotives which are or are not supported by the Lionel Universal Remote with original production firmware.

The following first-generation LionChief locomotives are NOT supported by the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

6-30162 Thomas Xmas Set
6-30183 Lionel 2-4-2 Remote Scout Steam Set
6-30190 Thomas and Friends Remote Set
6-30205 2-4-2 Remote Xmas Set
6-30206 Alien Invasion Remote RS-3 Set
6-30207 Santa Fe RS-3 Remote Scout Freight Set
6-30214 Peanuts Halloween 2-4-2 Remote Set
6-30218 The Polar Express Remote Set 
6-30221 Diesel Set (Separated sales 6-18775)
6-30222 Percy Set
6-30223 James Set
6-30228 0-8-0 Chattanooga Set 
6-30233 Pennsylvania Flyer Remote Set 
6-81031 Lionel Junction Dinosaur Diesel Remote Set
6-81101 Remote Polar with 10th Ann Logo
6-81259 PRR 0-8-0 Remote Broadway Limited
6-81262 Union Pacific Flyer Remote (0-8-0)
6-81263 Jersey Remote RS3 Passenger Train
6-81286 Little Steam Remote Set
6-81287 Union Pacific Steam Remote Freight Set
6-81288 Lionel Junction Pet Shop Diesel Remote Set
6-81331 Iron Arry
6-81332 Iron Bert
6-81480 John Deer Remote Set
6-82151 Bass Pro Shop 2-4-2 LionChief Scout RTR Set
6-82972 Lionel Junction Pennsylvania Diesel Remote Set (Loco #9431)
6-83266 Lionel Junction Santa Fe Steam Remote Set
6-83504 Birthday Thomas the Tank Engine

The following Second Generation LionChief locomotives ARE COMPATIBLE with the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

Lion Chief -------------------------------------------
6-11699 Hallmark Set
6-81261 New York Central 0-8-0 Flyer (Dealer Exclusive)
6-81264 Western Union Telegraph LionChief General Freight Set
6-81266 Amtrak FT Remote Set
6-81269 PRR Allegheny Hauler Berkshire  Set
6-81270 Bethlehem Steel Remote Docksider Set
6-81279 Albert Hall European Remote Set
6-81280 Victorian Xmas Remote Set
6-81284 Frosty Snowman Remote Set
6-81395 Thomas Kinkade Xmas 0-8-0 Remote Set
6-81470 DC Comics Batman Phantom Set
6-81475 Batman Remote M7 Set
6-82099 Zombie Apocolypse Remote Set
6-82188 MTA Metro-North Remote 3-Car Commuter Set
6-82324 Chessie System U36B Freight Set
6-82427 The Patriot U36B Frieght Set
6-82436 Pennsylvania Railroad Keystone Classic Diesel Set
6-82545 Christmas Docksider Set (Santa's Helper)
6-82716 Disney Christmas General Set
6-82941 2015 Brass Pro Shop Set
6-82984 NYC RS3 Scout Remote Set
6-83080 Rio Grande 0-4-0 Switcher Set (Dealer Exclusive)
6-83286 John Deere Steam Set
6-83620 Hogwarts LionChief RTR Set
6-83624 Union Pacific Sherman Hill RS3 Scout Set (Dealer Exclusive)
6-83648 MLB Yankees LionChief RTR Subway Set
6-83659 PRR Keystone Special 0-8-0 Set (Exclusive)
6-84354 Hogwarts LionChief Set

Lion Chief Plus -------------------------------------------
6-81295 Santa Fe LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81296 GN LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81297 PRR LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81299 Chessie LionChief Plus Mikado
6-81301 NYC LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81302 C&O LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81303 UP LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81304 CN LionChief Plus Hudson
6-81307 B&O LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81308 CP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81309 SP LionChief Plus Pacific
6-81311 Alaska LionChief Plus Pacific
6-38821 AT&SF LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38824 NP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38825 UP LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38827 CBQ LionChief Plus GP-7
6-38819 Rio Grande LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38816 PRR LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38778 C&NW LionChief Plus RS-3
6-38779 NYC LionChief Plus RS-3
6-49632 American Flyer Polar Express Berkshire Set
6-82175 LionChief Plus Virginian Rectifier
6-82176 LionChief Plus N&W Rectifier
6-82177 LionChief Plus New Haven Rectifier
6-82178 LionChief Plus Conrail Rectifier
6-82179 LionChief Plus PRR Rectifier
6-82171 LionChief Plus BNSFGP20
6-82172 LionChief Plus NYC GP20
6-82173 LionChief Plus NS GP20
6-82174 LionChief Plus Susquehanna GP20
6-58213 LCCA B&M LionChief Plus GP-7 #2335
6-58214 LCCA B&M Non-Powered GP-7 #2361
6-82290 LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA POWERED
LionChief Plus Santa Fe FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82293 LionChief Plus ACL FT AA POWERED
LionChief Plus ACL FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82296 LionChief Plus Erie FT AA OWERED
LionChief Plus Erie FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82299 LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA POWERED
LionChief Plus Rio Grande FT AA NON-POWERED
6-82302 Santa Fe LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82303 ACL LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82304 Erie LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82305 Rio Grande LionChief Plus FT B-Unit
6-82163 LionChief Plus B&O NW2
6-82164 LionChief Plus BN NW2
6-82165 LionChief Plus CB&Q NW2
6-82166 LionChief Plus Southern NW2
6-82414 Jersey Central 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82415 Lackawanna 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82416 Lehigh Valley 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82417 Philadelphia and Reading 4-6-0 Camelback
6-82418 Erie 4-6-0 Camelback
(later 2015-2016 production) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6-42562 A/F Nickel Plate FlyerChief Berkshire #765
6-42569 A/F C&O FlyerChief Berkshire #490
6-47921 A/F Pere Marquette FlyerChief Berkshire #1225
6-47922 A/F Erie FlyerChief Berkshire #3360
6-47923 A/F Southern FlyerChief Berkshire #2716
6-82960 New York Central LionChief Plus Mikado #1548
6-82961 Union Pacific LionChief Plus Mikado #2537
6-82962 Southern LionChief Plus Mikado #4501
6-82963 Rio Grande LionChief Plus Mikado #1208
6-82964 Milwaukee Road LionChief Plus Hudson #6400
6-82965 ATSF LionChief Plus Hudson #3450
6-82966 DL&W LionChief Plus Hudson #1151
6-82967 CB&Q LionChief Plus Hudson #3007
6-82968 Lionel Lines LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82969 Western Maryland LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82970 RBMN LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82971 C&NW LionChief Plus Pacific
6-83214 North Pole Central LionChief Plus Pacific
6-82973 PRR LionChief Plus A5
6-82974 SP LionChief Plus A5
6-82975 B&O LionChief Plus A5
6-82976 Beth Steel LionChief Plus A5
6-82825 CP Rail LionChief+ GP38 #3128
6-82826 CSX LionChief+ GP38 #2145
6-82827 SP LionChief+ GP38 #4846
6-82828 Union Pacific LionChief+ GP38 #905

So the Lionel UNIVERSAL Remote is not universal?

Sorry guys, I couldn't resist. 

Uses the same logic as "World Series"

Brendan

TrainGuyMcGee posted:

Railsounds posted:

Thanks to those who pointed out missing Thomas, etc. Here's a revision of the list.

Lionel 6-83071 Universal Remote LionChief Locomotive compatability list
revision January 3, 2017

This document lists Lionel LionChief locomotives which are or are not supported by the Lionel Universal Remote with original production firmware.

The following first-generation LionChief locomotives are NOT supported by the Universal Remote with original production firmware:

 

So the Lionel UNIVERSAL Remote is not universal?

Sorry guys, I couldn't resist. 

We gave away various Thomas and friends LionChief sets over the past few years with great hesitancy because they were not TMCC/Legacy compatible and required that special remote. Discovering they will not work with the "Universal Remote" has most likely ended giving any more LC stuff even if it is compatible as they wanted to get ride of the multiple handhelds. Which they refer to as this

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV7iR-iVp98

For what it's worth, the Thomas set listed in the 2017 catalog is compatible with both the universal remote and the bluetooth app.  I would also expect that Thomas, The Polar Express, and Hogwarts Express would be among the first engines supported if the folks at Lionel do come through with a software update for the remote.  

JGL

JohnGaltLine posted:

For what it's worth, the Thomas set listed in the 2017 catalog is compatible with both the universal remote and the bluetooth app.  I would also expect that Thomas, The Polar Express, and Hogwarts Express would be among the first engines supported if the folks at Lionel do come through with a software update for the remote.  

JGL

To be clear, you are making that assumption based on market demand and units sold, not based on level of difficulty, correct?

George S posted:

To be clear, you are making that assumption based on market demand and units sold, not based on level of difficulty, correct?

Yes.  I would actually expect that the whole list could be added at the same time, but it it isn't that the most popular engines would be first, as that would relieve most of the pressure to fix the problem.  I don't think there is any technical difference in what would be needed to make any of the unsupported engines work.  

Of course I'm still working under the assumption that the problem is that the engines that don't work with the universal remote right now don't work because their firmware doesn't send out information on what their address is.  In other words, the engines that do work sit there yelling "Hey! I'm engine #12345678" over and over again until you turn on a remote that says back "Yeah, I hear you 12345678."  The Universal remote can use this info to be programed for what engine to talk to, but if you have a Thomas or Polar Express it just sits there waiting to be talked to, and the universal remote doesn't know where to send commands.  

As discussed earlier I think the simplest fix would be to release a smart phone app that lets you choose an engine from a list, then tap a button to assign a button of the universal remote to that engine.  I can't see it being particularly hard to do this, but I don't know if there is anything else that makes the older engines incompatible.  

JGL

George S posted:

JohnGaltLine posted:

For what it's worth, the Thomas set listed in the 2017 catalog is compatible with both the universal remote and the bluetooth app.  I would also expect that Thomas, The Polar Express, and Hogwarts Express would be among the first engines supported if the folks at Lionel do come through with a software update for the remote.  

JGL

To be clear, you are making that assumption based on market demand and units sold, not based on level of difficulty, correct?

Also, there's the fact that Jon Z. stated that eventually  support could be added for most or all of the currently unsupported engines.  I do expect that is subject to design constraints of the early boards, but he didn't make an exception when he mentioned this.

That list is really larger when you thing about it.  LHS is ****ed.  He bought a case of those remotes.  After getting them he got the letter with sets it doesn't work with.  Many of which are sets he has in stock.  Especially the PE.  So how does this software update occur?  They do not have a system like MTH, so do you send your remote in, or do you send your train in?  Either way a logistical night mare.  G

GGG posted:

That list is really larger when you thing about it.  LHS is ****ed.  He bought a case of those remotes.  After getting them he got the letter with sets it doesn't work with.  Many of which are sets he has in stock.  Especially the PE.  So how does this software update occur?  They do not have a system like MTH, so do you send your remote in, or do you send your train in?  Either way a logistical night mare.  G

Nothing needs to be sent anywhere, assuming the original firmware was done correctly.  The Universal remote is equipped with bluetooth, In fact it's microprocessor is actually the BLE module.  Any update should be as simple as downloading a 'Universal remote' app on to a smart device then tapping an 'update' button on the app.  This will send new firmware to the BLE module and update it's functionality.  I expect this would be a built in feature of the app that would be needed to select an engine that is not natively supported.  I suppose they could program in some convoluted system of button combinations to select engines directly from the remote, but that seems like a messy and overly complex way to do it where an easy to use smart device app could be used.  

I must admit I'm disappointed that an app for this purpose wasn't released along with the remote in the first place, after all it was shipped half a year late owing to a redesign to allow this functionality, but from a business stand point it makes some sense to see what the real demand is before committing the resources.  I think Lionel did a very poor job here of communicating that the remote would not work with all LC engines, especially for folks that placed orders at the time of announcement.  I can only hope an App/Update will be along in a timely manner.  

JGL

P.S. GGG, If your LHS ends up stuck with those remotes,  send me an email, I might be interested in buying the lot.  It's been on the back burner for a little while, but I'm using the guts in my Legacy/TMCC to LionChief bridge project, and I know there's at least enough demand for it to build a dozen.  

PDDMI posted:

I'm using mine...best thing to come along since "sliced bread"!

Had family here yesterday...handed out the dedicated remotes for each engine to whoever was operating that particlular train. No chance of accidents that way and they all had a great time running them on the layout.

When I am running trains on my own...the Universal Remote will be in my hand!!! And Jon, will definately be looking forward to the future updates...

  

 

Hi Paul:   "Best thing to come along since "sliced Bread"

From reading your other "Thread"  /  Looks like "Sliced Bread" is now burned toast....

From your other post:

"Not sure if Lionel LLC is going to temporarily suspend sales of the defective Universal LC/LC+ Remote Controllers until a fix is found? Doing so, in my opinion, would give them some added incentive to making an update available sooner...rather than later!"

I am waiting for an answer to this issue, locomotives all stopping, when shifting between locos. I have reported this issue to Lionel / "Talk to us"  -  Hope to get an answer next week.

Gary 

trainroomgary posted:

PDDMI posted:

I'm using mine...best thing to come along since "sliced bread"!

Had family here yesterday...handed out the dedicated remotes for each engine to whoever was operating that particlular train. No chance of accidents that way and they all had a great time running them on the layout.

When I am running trains on my own...the Universal Remote will be in my hand!!! And Jon, will definately be looking forward to the future updates...

  

 

Hi Paul:   "Best thing to come along since "sliced Bread"

From reading your other "Thread"  /  Looks like "Sliced Bread" is now burned toast....

From your other post:

"Not sure if Lionel LLC is going to temporarily suspend sales of the defective Universal LC/LC+ Remote Controllers until a fix is found? Doing so, in my opinion, would give them some added incentive to making an update available sooner...rather than later!"

I am waiting for an answer to this issue, locomotives all stopping, when shifting between locos. I have reported this issue to Lionel / "Talk to us"  -  Hope to get an answer next week.

Gary 

Gary,

Yup...maybe burned milk would be more like it!!! Having ordered the Universal LC/LC+ Remote back in December of 2015 and finally receiving it a year later...December of 2016, it was like getting my first train set in 1949 at Christmas. Of course...we all know how the "Grinch Stole Christmas"...back then though...never even knew there was a Grinch!

Glad to hear that you have reported your experience to "Talk to Us".

You mentioned earlier that you had some testing planned...and would report the results...anything yet?

PDDMI posted: 

Gary,

Yup...maybe burned milk would be more like it!!! Having ordered the Universal LC/LC+ Remote back in December of 2015 and finally receiving it a year later...December of 2016, it was like getting my first train set in 1949 at Christmas. Of course...we all know how the "Grinch Stole Christmas"...back then though...never even knew there was a Grinch!

Glad to hear that you have reported your experience to "Talk to Us".

You mentioned earlier that you had some testing planned...and would report the results...anything yet?

Hi Paul:  The grandchildren are coming over today for a day trip and next Tuesday for a over night trip. I will be doing my testing on these days.  

Hope to combine this information with the response from Lionel "Talk to us"

But at the end of the day, I like the LionChief Plus System.  

Gary

Sorry to resurrect an ancient thread, but has the universal remote been upgraded to work with 6-81332 Iron Bert?  Thanks.

I think I found the answer!

"This updated version of the code includes the following changes made over Version 1.0:

·         Connect to ANY Lionel LionChief engine! No more worrying about compatibility with certain LionChief Locomotives! This remote will control any LionChief Locomotive we’ve ever produced."

http://www.lionel.com/articles...emote-Compatibility/

Correct, it should control all the LC or LC+ engines.