:tb-cool:I am returning to Ferro-Equinology after a 10 year absence. I have decided to start building my layout before the room (20' x 11' approx.) is available and am using 4' x 4' modules to allow for this. I will be using DCC for everything (I already have the new Heljan Intermodal Crane, that's module 2) and have been surfing and reading reviews and articles for the last few months. The ECoS system looks pretty cool (Linux base and built in web server, as well as sniffer type port), and since I want to use a PC for some layout control functions, it seems a good fit. I will also utilize wireless for engineer control, eventually. Any advice or guidance from those more experienced than me would be appreciated
Are you referring to the operating system, or an app? In either case, I've not heard of it in MRR use. You may want to look into the JMRI apps (open source, multiple OSs, etc.) at http://jmri.sourceforge.net/
Ecos seems to be mainly popular in Europe (FYI: the Marklin Central Station is built on the same hardware plaform as the Ecos by ESU). One of its main claim to fame is that it can handle both the Marklin protocol and DCC simulataneously. This feature is not likely to be of much relevance to most American modellers. The biggest drawback that I can see with the Ecos is that it has motorized knobs. I saw a demo of this in which when you select a locomotive, the knob spins to the correct location. I am not very impressed by this feature. Just one more thing to go wrong in the long run. Overall, since you live in the US, I would suggest sticking with an American manufacturer. If you do wish to use your computer control, you will find that both Digitrax and NCE are very well supported by most software vendors and by JMRI.
Welcome to TrainBoard! As has already been said, Digitrax and NCE are the most popular ways to go here in the U.S. Digitrax is a bit more flexible due to its LocoNet protocol, but its command stations aren't quite as user-friendly as NCE. However, if you're looking at using JMRI and controlling things from a PC then that won't likely matter to you. JMRI is Java Model Railroad Interface. It's a suite of applications that run on your computer and allow you to control your railroad, via an interface to your DCC command station. JMRI is open source, so it's free. The only cost involved is the interface unit that connects your PC to your command station. These vary by brand, but usually are around $40. Here's the JMRI download page. And here's the results of my DCC brand poll. Best!
yeah but remember that you can quill any whistle with the ESU Ecos, a feature only found in the U.S. with Lionel and in HO with MTH DCS commander and even that only works with MTH engines. The ecos is actually just as flexible as digitrax maybe even more since they make the wireless radio controlled handheld to go with it. Better than having a hand held with an antenna sticking out on the remote. The only thing I don't like about the ecos is the fact that only eight function buttons are on it, the rest of the 28 are on the touchscreen.
I use the ESU ECoS2 and I'm in the US. I got it when I was modeling Marklin HO - now I have switched to N scale - primarily Kato. Overall, it is a good unit and I am pleased with it. However, were I to start from scratch, I would more likely go with Digitrax or NCE or .... This is partly because ESU's technical support regarding questions is to me slow, begrudging, or at times non-existent. I contrast this with Digitrax who have always responded very quickly to my email questions. The ECoS2 has a lot of functionality - you can have multiple track schematics from which you can control turnouts simply by touching the straight or divergent leg of a turnout. The station has two "cabs" on it. Each can run 5 locos so you have very quick access to 10 locos if you wish. You can easily set up routes, etc. I primarily run it wirelessly - their ECoS Control Radio is not worth the money. It is clunky & cumbersome and often develops a joystick problem that causes it to scroll between locos, speeds, etc - basically it becomes useless. However, the Touchcab app on a iPODTouch or iphone or ipad is excellent --- see http://www.touchcab.com/ Dan
First of all, not any whistle, because not all sound decoders support quilling the whistle. Second, both Digitrax and NCE support quilling the whistle on decoders that support it.
