Questions about JMRI and NCE systems

[PiperguyUMD]

Hello All,

I'm just getting back into this whole home layout thing, so if I've missed these discussions elsewhere I apologize.  I guess I should start by saying I have an NCE powerhouse pro from about 2004.  I hear that there is a software/hardware update for this system?  Anyway, one of the local clubs is using JMRI with Dgitraxx, which is allowing their members to control trains with their ipods/phones/pads.  I would like to do this with my NCE system at home.  Is this possible?  Have any of you done this?  What do I need to make this happen?

Thanks!!

[Philip H]

First, get the hardware/software updates.  You'll be glad you did.

Second, NCS has USB and Computer adapter panels that will allow you to connect to your computer, from whence you can run JMRI.  Both the NCE and JMRI websites have technical information on how to do the connections.  Here's the JMRI link:

http://jmri.sourceforge.net/help/en/html/hardware/nce/NCE.shtml

[PiperguyUMD]

Where do I get these updates?  I looked on the NCE website but couldn't find much about it.  How much does it cost?

Thanks!

[Philip H]

CAll them.  You will probably have to send parts of your system to them for the firmware swap.

[w neal]

The NCE updates cost $25 per item. When I say item, it appears that is per each throttle and base system. Repeaters do not need the update. I would email/contact NCE directly for this information and not listen to "some guy online" however. I talked to NCE directly at Trainfest last year and they related the above. I hear the updates are very much worth it from other NCE users. I am using NCE with an older version of JMRI on an old computer and love it! I highly recommend it to all.