Elite vs Select controller

[Shrek55]

Hi

I'm thinking about buying the Elite, can anyone tell me if I can program the controller to play the sounds from my locos without pressing the function button every time - like I have to on the Select controller.

[Chrissaf]

There is no DCC 'command macro' option on the Elite.

Function control on the Elite still requires the 'Function' button to be used, but the Elite LCD display being bigger than the Select actually gives more information about which functions are active at any time. Thus function operation on the Elite is actually enhanced compared to the Select.

The Elite also has a 'short press' vs 'long press' feature on the 'Function' button that modifies the way that Functions are invoked - see the manual below for details.

If you want to understand the full capabilities of the Elite prior to a purchase, then I suggest you download and read the Elite manual.

R8214 Hornby Elite Manual – Hornby Support

[96RAF]

Such functionality is normally resident within a decoder i.e. it can be set by way of CVs (decoder dependant) to say toot the horn or blow a whistle, then release brakes, blow steam, etc before starting off. Then play random sounds during normal running. Then apply the brakes just as the loco is brought to a stop. This functionality can be found in some hi-end sound decoders.

This effect can also be done in software such as Rocrail, Railmaster, JMRI by way of programmes invoked by the user to semi-automatically operate the loco.