I started to computerize the JJJ&E over the weekend . I used an old Dell Pentium lll that I had used as a spare computer. The JJJ&E is run with DCC using a Lenz 100 system. I purchased a Lenz LI-USB Interface to connect the computer to the Lenz LZV100 command station. I am using Decoder Pro to program the decoders in my loco's. Decoder Pro is an outstanding program and I must thank Paul Bender for this contribution to model railroading. Here are some photo's of the setup: The Lenz LI-USB interface is above the LH100 handheld device on the upper right. Here is a closeup of the Lenz LI-USB device that connects the computer to the Lenz LZV100 command station. The green light shows the USB port is connected properly with the downloaded drivers. The red light shows that data transmission from the computer to the Lenz command station is working via XpressNet. A closeup of the LH 100 handheld device showing loco #901 has been called up in a multi-unit consist. Small "m" shows that #901 is part of a consist. The Lenz software for the LI-USB Interface also allows you to run your system on the computer. Here is a photo that shows Loco #901 and Loco # 907, the two loco's in the consist ready for operation. The "UP" and "Down" arrows control the loco's speed on each handheld device. The Function keys control individual functions of each loco. The two loco's are multi-consisted with a DSX sound only decoder and that can also be controlled on the computer or on the handheld device. The number for the DSX sound only decoder for these loco's is #0012. The loco's can be controlled by using the mouse, or by using the LH 100 handheld device. I can run up to four trains at one time the way this is setup. ( one handheld LH100 and the computer) With three handhelds and the computer, you can conceivably run eight trains with four operators on large layouts. Practically, two or three is the limit for one operator. The JJJ&E has three Handheld devices, plus the computer. A closeup of the LH handheld on the computer screen: The last photo shows the USB-LI Interface is running and operational. Data can be transmitted from the computer to the layout and visa versa. This is easy to do if you have your layout running with DCC Stay cool and run steam...... [ April 04, 2005, 03:50 PM: Message edited by: Powersteamguy1790 ]
Sounds cool Bob. If all I have is the lenz 100, and I get the lenz LI-USB, will I need a LA152 (Universal XPress Net Adapter) to plug in the throttle and the LI-USB? Thanks, Loco1999
Bob , That sure is cool looking. Nice job. I will only be able to run mine with lenz system when i get it. I have decided to go with a set 100 because i could see no reason why not to get this instead of a set90. Have fun with it.
Loco1999: You can wire the LI-USB connection directly to the LMAB port of the LZV100 command station by cutting the end of the cable, stripping the wires and connecting to the LMAB port. BTW, Decoder Pro makes speed tables easy as well as programming the decoder. Stay cool and run steam.....
Alan: You've made a great decision to go with the Lenz 100 system.. You can e-mail Loco1999 about the Lenz 100 system. He has one also. BTW, you can add the LI-USB interace to your Lenz system Alan. It takes all of an hour to get everything setup. Stay cool and run steam.....
Thanks Bob. Is the LA152 (Universal XPress Net Adapter) for plugging in throttles around your layout? Thanks, Loco1999
Loco1999: That's what it's for. I bought the Atlas version which is connected to the XPA. It's much cheaper and you can connect two extra throttles to the Atlas version. I have three LH 100's, two get connected to the Atlas version of The Lenz LA152 and one to the command station. I have a fourth throttle, a wireless phone hooked up to the XPA module which is also wired to the LMAB port. Have fun adding the LI-USB Interface, 1999 Stay cool and run steam....
Thanks. It is not a single handed accomplishment, I just do the Lenz development. BTW, the next version of JMRI actually will support the LI-USB. In the mean time, If you want a copy of the program with this support built in, let me know by e-mail and I'll send you the one file you need to get everything up and running with this update (I'll send you instructions as well). Incidentally, the JMRI programs (DecoderPro etc) also have throttles available through the tools menu, and a number of tools for automating a layout (which is available through the separate PanelPro application, and through the Panels menu). Paul [ April 06, 2005, 10:42 AM: Message edited by: Paul Bender ]
This seems to be easier with Lenz than Digitrax. Has anyone experienced the same proceedure with the JMRI programs and the Digitrax system? Is there a USB interface fir Digitrax? I would be interested in your comments.
I had initial problems with the Decoder Pro software and the new Lenz LI-USB interface. My thanks to Paul Bender for spending the time to correct this problem for me. The Decoder Pro program is fully operational on the JJJ&E. Programming decoders with speed curves is an easy task and takes just a few seconds to accomplish. Decoder pro is a great program and the folks who developed the software go out of their way to help you out. I highly recommend using Decoder Pro as an adjunct to your DCC experience. Stay cool and run steam.....
ok, I'm thinking along the lines of a Lenz Set 100 once I move into the new house (any day now). What I'm looking for is computer operation and 2 throttles, preferably 1 wireless. Questions : 1) I assume the Lenz 100 comes with a tethered throttle. Whats the cost of a wireless throttle? 2) Decoder Pro looks to be a nice app... Where can I get it? Whats it cost? 3) What are the minimum and recommended system requirements for the PC to run 2 operator, 4 trains Bob?
Disisme: You can use a cordless phone as a wireless throttle with the XPA adapter. Cost of the phone 920mgz is $10. Decoder Pro is free and you can download it online You can use Lenz software that comes with the LI-USB interface. You can run two throttles with the computer, plus the handheld throttle that comes with the Lenz system as well as the cordless phone. Have fun.. Stay cool and run steam.... [ June 04, 2005, 06:34 PM: Message edited by: Powersteamguy1790 ]
Bob, How many virtual throttles does the Lenz program allows you run at the same time on the computer? Thanks Seb
Seb: I used two. You can add a third throttle to the screen. These plus your handheld can control 5 trains at one time. Stay cool and run steam....
Seb: With Decoder Pro and Panel Pro, you can computerize the entire layout. I haven't really gotten into Panel Pro as yet. Decoder Pro makes speed matching loco's really easy. You can set up individual speed curves very quickly. All the data is stored and any loco can be speed matched to any loco in your fleet. Stay cool and run steam....
last but not least.... where can i get decoder pro/panel pro? I'm really thinking of usnig the Lenz USB and decoder/panelPro system... seems so great
