UWT-100 Guide - Connecting to DCC Systems

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General Information
Use the guidelines below to connect your UWT-100 unit to your preferred DCC system.

Contents:
Connecting to NCE systems
Connecting to Digitrax systems
Connecting to MRC systems
Connecting to other DCC systems

Connecting to NCE systems

NCE USB Interface

The NCE USB Interface provides a connection to a computer from your NCE DCC system. This allows users to program and operate from a computer using software.

NCE USB Device Product Page

Drivers

Non-Windows users may need to install additional drivers for their system to recognize the NCE USB Interface. You can find download and installation instructions on the NCE webpage. USB drivers for the NCE Power Cab USB board can be downloaded from Silicon Labs.

PowerHouse Pro

The NCE PowerHouse Pro has a RS-232 port. Connect that port to your computer by using any off-the-shelf USB to RS-232 cable. Once the PowerHouse Pro connected via USB, start a JMRI WiThrottle server and connect with your UWT-100.

WifiTrax WFD-30

The WFD-30 device from WifiTrax provides true WiFi control of your layout using and existing NCE DCC system. The WFD-30 is NCE CAB Bus-compatible and will work with any NCE Command Station (Power Pro, Smart Booster, Power Cab, etc). The unit acts as a WiThrottle server using the WiThrottle protocol, just like JMRI, with optional loco roster and turnout list.

There is no need to install JMRI or another third-party WiThrottle protocol client - just connect the WFD-30 to your NCE system, power up your throttle, scan for WiFi, and connect to the WFD-30 device.

WifiTrax WFD-30 Product Page

WifiTrax WFD-30 Quick Start Guide

Connecting to Digitrax systems

LNWI Interface

The LocoNet Wireless Interface (or LNWI) allows users to connect compatible WiFi devices to LocoNet and run trains using the UWT-100 or other devices.

Features (From Digitrax):

• Wi-Fi interface to a Digitrax LocoNet for up to four connections per LNWI.
• Easy Setup and Configuration - A single LNWI works ‘out of the box’, with no additional configuration required.
• Provides up to 32 LocoNet Throttle functionality per LNWI, with compatible apps and Command Station.
• Up to 8 LNWI can be supported per LocoNet
• Multiple LNWI units automatically resolve SSID with no additional configuration
• Optional Wi-Fi WPA2 security for layout operations in public.
• Option switches to fully customize all device settings
• LocoNet Compatible

Link to LNWI Product Page

PR4 Interface

Using a Digitrax PR3/PR4 programming interface connects your LocoNet bus to your computer through USB. Ensure your computer and UWT-100 are connected to the same WiFi network, then fire up JMRI and connect to a WiThrottle protocol server to run trains on your Digitrax layout.

Link to PR4 Product Page

Link to PR3 Product Page

Connecting to MRC systems

Prodigy WiFi Interface

The Prodigy WiFi Interface from Model Rectifier Corporation (MRC) is marketed as "Smartphone and Tablet Control For Prodigy DCC Systems." This system can also be used to operate with a UWT-100 Universal WiFi Throttle on an MRC DCC system.

Features (From MRC):

• Works with most MRC Prodigy DCC systems.
• Plug-N-Play Setup and Operation.
• No JMRI® Software to Navigate or Computer Interface Needed.
• No Bluetooth® Connection, Complex Wiring, or Home Network Needed (Router/Modem)
• The MRC WiFi Module Will Run Up to 8 Smartphones or Tablets.
• Create & Store Rosters, Custom Label Functions
• Advanced Features Include Creating, Storing, and Operating:
  • Lighted Accessories/Accessories
  • Throw Track Switches
  • Universal Consists

Link to MRC Prodigy Product Page

Connecting to other DCC Systems

If you're using a popular DCC system, chances are there is an existing method (direct from that manufacturer or otherwise) for connecting it to JMRI for programming purposes. If your system can connect to JMRI, the UWT-100 can be used to control it by way of a JMRI WiThrottle protocol server.