You have several options for how to control your LCOS layout. LCOS supports
- physical control panels,
- virtual controls,
- CTC control,
- for DCC users, turnout and route setting via throttle controls and/or JRMI,
- and custom interfaces.
The LCOS MASTER node supports a large, physical control panel that can control an entire layout. CLIENT nodes can support small, local panels that you might place at specific scenes.
Control Objects
The LCOS Control Object is used to bind physical and logical controls to layout actions. When bound to a physical input port, the Control Object triggers any layout action you choose in response to button presses, switch changes or a digital sensor. When a Control Object is bound to the virtual input port, other layout objects can activate it based on rules and conditions.
See Control Objects.
JRMI
JRMI can interact with LCOS through DCC turnout commands (with the DNDCC interface client installed). The DCC interface is rail connected and read-only, so feedback to JRMI is not possible.
A JRMI connector may be developed in the future to allow more robust, bi-directional communication.
To a large degree, LCOS provides functionality that traditionally has only been available via JRMI. For example, the LCOS signal system is self-contained and requires no external rules processing.
On the other hand, both signals and turnouts can be commanded externally and can lock out internal automation if desired. That allows for CTC style operations.
Ideally, an external control system should take advantage of built-in automation to gain leverage and simplify interactions with LCOS.