Layout Command Control (LCC)
Contents
General Information
Layout Command Control® or "LCC" is an emerging NMRA standard that provides for a supplementary system to control all non-locomotive layout functions. Signals, layout sounds, and passenger car lighting are several examples of functions that are controlled via LCC.
While Digital Command Control or "DCC" has grown in popularity, the capacity of the DCC command bus has remained the same. Users are finding that significant delays can occur between when a command is issued and when it reaches its decoder. This delay can cause problems and operational incidents that could be easily avoided with a larger capacity bus, which is where LCC comes in. Routing all the non-locomotive commands through the LCC bus allows the DCC bus to traffic locomotive commands quickly.
The LCC bus is "bi-directional" meaning that LCC devices (nodes) on the bus can both receive commands and reply to them, which opens up the possibility of many new features for LCC-equipped layouts.
Development
A group known as OpenLCB has been developing and overseeing the creation and adoption of Layout Command Control. You can find the details of their work, process, organization and even how to participate on their development process at their website located at: https://openlcb.org/.
LCC Frequently Asked Questions Handout
LCC Products from TCS
UWT-100
The UWT-100 Universal WiFi Throttle from TCS was designed to communicate with LCC networks via WiFi, in addition to communication via the WiThrottle protocol.
Command Station
TCS is currently developing a command station that provides hardwire LCC bus connections. This will be the first commercially-available LCC command station and works directly with the currently-available UWT-100 Universal WiFi Throttle.
Layout Command Control (LCC) and RailCom+ support enables consistent bi-directional communication between your locomotives and peripheral devices. The TCS command station also includes out-of-the-box wired support for NCE, including wireless systems. Built-in mounting holes and compact design means the TCS command station can be inconspicuously attached to any layout or dispatchers board. The TCS command station is intended for use with Z, TT, N, HO, and O scales (narrow gauge variants included).
Features:
- Separate outputs for mainline and programming tracks
- Short circuit detection
- 5 Ampere peak output
- One RJ-11 bus for wired throttles or peripherals
- One RailCom+ detector
- One dual RJ45 header for LCC communication
Add-on boosters will be available for larger layouts and clubs that require additional power; however, the TCS command station may also be used with other manufacturers’ boosters through an LCC adapter.
UWT-50 "Mini" Throttle
A more compact throttle is also available as part of the TCS command system. The UWT-50 does not compromise on the features offered in its larger counterpart, but comes with a streamlined package and a smaller price tag. This straightforward unit will be club-focused and perfect for operations.
Versions
The UWT-50 is available in two versions: one featuring an analogue potentiometer and another with a digital rotary encoder. Both models feature a top-mounted rotary knob for a more "traditional" feel.
