Operating And Programming With The Blunami App (273)
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- Опубліковано 5 вер 2024
- The new SoundTraxx Blunami decoders have really generated a lot of interest among model railroaders of all types. After all, the freedom to operate model locomotives using DCC, DC, or battery power is enticing. Imagine not having to run wires or even clean your rails! In my last video I showed how to install a Blunami decoder in an HO locomotive. In this video I'll show how to use the new Blunami Bluetooth app with both an iPhone and iPad to operate and program the decoder.
As Impromised below are some UA-cam channels with useful info. Below these are websites where you can find more info and package deals for Blunami battery power installs.
UA-cam Channels
BlueRailTrains
SoundTraxx
Websites
www.bluerailtrains.com
www.deadrailinstalls.com
www.deadrailsociety.com
Dead rail and Bluetooth is the future.
Thanks! This confirms what I suspected after Friday's video... Blunami has just potentially disrupted DCC... which had disrupted DC. It will be interesting to see where this leads the mainstream in 5-10 years (separation of train control from layout control/LCC?).
Bluerail has had a similar product for a couple years. It can wirelessly control any DCC decoder.
@@JMLoll this is Bluerail, so is Bachmann EZ.
@@DrawsOnCad But Bluerail was around before Blunami.
It was also suggested that one could install a micro-switch between the track power feed and a battery feed so that you could choose which method of power you want to run with. I remember one show where a club displaying their DCC layout had major problems with their DCC system and could not run trains the first day of the show. Being able to switch to battery power (DeadRail) would allow one to run trains in that situation.
This is a great step forward in model railroading. I wonder if they will ever bring out an N-scale version.
If you mean the battery option I think you would need to put that in a trailer car or dummy loco.For the most part I see this mainly for HO and larger scales until the miniaturization catches up.
Thanks for putting in the effort to share the video! Looking forward to seeing the app for Android as well. Happy Labor Day., hopefully everyone gets a chance to work their railroads!
Wow.........That is all I can say. Really a game changer. No wiring!!
Many Many Thanks! Appreciate you keeping up on the latest-and-greatest and keeping us well informed. This Blunami series you've done may very well be THE reason I switch over, which is very likely.
THANK YOU FOR DETAILED VIDEO
Thanks Larry.
I am really impressed with this product and the work Soundtrraxx and BlueRail have put into the development. It really shows how the technologies that have been available for some time (tried & true) can be applied to model railroads.
I believe this may simplify the ability of new modelers to enter the hobby without the complexity (and cost) that DCC systems bring to the table. Although Locos may be more expensive.
It would be interesting to visualize how this will evolve into the future. Maybe another topic for a video.........
There will be a great need to "standardize" this growth.
I would like to see that all decoders are Bluetooth and all apps (including the SoundTraxx/BlueRail app) can connect to any manufacturers Bluetooth decoder. We don't want to see this great advancement crush under conflicting and complicated strategies that will stifle our hobby.
My son has developed an impressive interest in the hobby and is building his second layout (had to move). But it is my support he requires to get him through the complexities of DCC systems, programming, wiring, etc. He is from a different generation of modelers that expect to use current technoligies that they are familiar with (i.e. smart phones).
Really enjoy your videos. I learn something new every week.
Thanks
Norm Petherbridge
Good to see a father and son able to share a common interest. I bet he would love the Blunami app and decoders.
Such a shame it's not yet on Android. In the UK and a lot of Europe android devices are rather more numerous than Apple ones - but I guess they had to start from the US market where the opposite is true. Generally, this kind of tech approach has to be the future of the model rail hobby - the days of endless bundles of wires under the layout do seem to be numbered - although that older approach is probably easier to troubleshoot.
I’m sure they will get the Android version out as soon as possible, after all that would be a big market to ignore.
I would love to see this for N-Scale and Android phones & tablets 🙂
these are super double kewl...
Looks awesome if expensive to convert all of my locos. Will have to wait for the British loco types.
I would like to see some too. Unfortunately the sound recordings they have for the UK Econami locos do not include enough sounds for the Tsunami/Blunami decoders. I know they would like to record more but Covid has restricted their ability to get it done.
Okay... This video may have sold me on these decoders. That interface is EXACTLY what I have been looking for. Especially the fact that you can download the app to multiple iPads/iPhones. Can you run them simultaneously? Multiple apps on the same layout, as in a multi-engineer operations session?
I am assuming the answer to that is yes, however because I currently only have one it is impossible to test that out. Maybe George will see this and provide an answer and I will send him an email.
And here is his answer:
Once you connect to a train, it is ‘locked’ and on one else can run it. There can be any number of users all using their own app to control their train/locos. The only way you’d see a delay is if multiple users are all controlling more than 37 locos and all send a command at the same time.. The 38+ commands may see a ¼-1/2 second delay.
This continues to be quite an impressive new product development in DCC control and programming. I've already commented about physical controls, but seriously, a big green clown nose for the throttle? Hopefully there is a setting to select something more train control like.
Hey, it could have been red!
Great video as always. Is there a way to get the throttle notch number to show somewhere for 1 - 126. It would be nice if there was a plus minus button for throttle notch control like on NCE controllers, one set for + - 10 and one set for + - 1 throttle control.
There actually is a very tiny readout below the throttle knob but it is so small it is difficult to even see it. A larger display is one of my suggestions to them.
@@TheDCCGuy A nice big number in the middle of the green button would be great. A fine control method would be a big plus too.
@@TheDCCGuy Where can you send suggestions to them? A link on your articles would be helpful.
You just did. George at SoundTraxx is reading all these comments for feedback.
You can also get this pre installed in a Bachmann EZ locomotive. Bluerail developed that decoder as well, just another option.
The Bachmann EZ App has no in-loco sound - just motor and lights. The Blunami decoder has a huge library of sounds and lighting FX. But it is true you can run them both with the Blunami app side-by-side. It would be cool to use a Bachmann E-Z App as a b-loco in a consist with a Blunami.
Thanks Larry, any idea about building rerailer and the nexr part of the helix
As the kungfu master used to say, be patient grasshopper!
Given my age it's unlikely that I will ever use this impressive Bluetooth approach to loco control. (And I only started using DCC just a couple of years ago.) However, I'm also a microcontroller electronics hobbyist, so it is not surprising to me that this has come to pass as Bluetooth transceivers are available in small single chip packages. I'm sure the programming effort to make this happen must have been considerable, and the company is clearly on the cutting edge. Having said all that, I have to admit I dislike touch screens in general and particularly dislike using sliders to control loco speed (espeically when switching). Even if I eventually try this, I'll wait for a throttle with a proper knob. :-)
But it has such a nice big green knob for the throttle!
@@TheDCCGuy Heh.
Given MY age, 74, I don't think I will see the next generation of battery driven engines in HO scale. But they do exist in G scale. The DCC makers must be pissed! haha I started using DCC in the mid nighties, now I am thinking of trains running on a wafer battery or two....or even three!
Andrew, The Blunami installs exactly the same way the Tsunami installs. You can run it with your DCC Throttle. You do not have to run it with the Bluetooth, but it is there if you need it. What is nice is the ease of programming it through an iPad or iPhone. I found it very easy.
Larry, did I hear you correctly that the app will work with our current Tsunami decoders? Great video!
Listen again. I was quite specific at time step 12:20-12:30 in saying the app will only work with Blunami decoders. They are basically a Tsunami2 with Bluetooth built in.
What is “reverb”? Great vid!
It adds depth to the sound like the reverb on an amplifier.
@@TheDCCGuy, that makes sense. Thanks so much! I’ll play with that value.
This looks like it’s ideal for someone getting back in the hobby, ME. I’ll be converting my DC to DCC and having both iPad which I planned to use for all the tech stuff. I’m going to watch the previous video again then this one right after. I have difficulty reading what’s on your iPad as you go through all this. The white background is especially hard so if you get a chance to just bring the iPad closer to your camera would be helpful. Thanks
That’s supposed to be iPhone
I’ve been looking for an app that would allow me to capture video on the iPad screen but so far I can only capture still images. If you find one let me know. I also preview my videos on a 42” screen so everything is visible.
@@TheDCCGuy we have been using screen capture video, built in the iPad and iPhone.
I will have to look for that on my iPad. I did find an app that will do it though.
And there now is a direct way to add it to the on screen Control Center added with ios 14.
As you mentioned; this IS amazing [ I-Phone ] technology ! However; I have to enquire ... The Loco seems to have no realistic momentum or inertia features which are as per CV settings. Am I correct to assume that you purposely removed these prerequisite features just for this demmo ? Thanks + Cheers For Now / Johnny
I only had the decoder installed a couple of days before I did these videos and just have not had time to do more programming than adjust the sounds and get the Mars light working. Adjusting the speed curve is next on the list but I needed time to find all the options and shoot these videos. It takes the better part of a day to shoot and then edit the footage for each video.
I have a beginner question. I have flown rc airplanes for years so I am familiar with the concept of dead rail. With the Blunami decoder, do you need a separate receiver for the locomotive or is it included in the decoder for sound and other functions. Also, are all the sounds from soundtrax included on the Blunami decoder. Steam and diesel.
Each decoder has a bluetooth transceiver built into it, so each are independent. You can use them on a DCC powered trac, a DC powered track, or connect them to a DC battery and run them with no power on the track.
I would buy it if they offered in N scale!
Patience.
Love your videos. I learn so much from them. If you were to buy a dcc system today for a decent size layout what would it be? Any suggestions will be appreciated
I’d still stick with Digitrax. They have the most complete and time tested lone of equipment available and a wide range of compatible accessories.
@@TheDCCGuy thank you for the reply. I’ve been looking at digitrax evox that appears to be the newest one they offer but I didn’t know if it was worth the extra $$ over the older digitrax system
You asked what I would buy but for someone else I would need to know your needs, technical requirements, and likely future expansion. For some guys I would suggest a PowerCab or Zephyr. But for a full system the Evolution is a great option.
I got to say, this is totally amazing. Do you think there will be stationary blunami decoders down the road?
I don’t know. So far SoundTraxx has stayed firmly in the decoder business, but making a Bluetooth accessory decoder would not be a big stretch. Plus it would require developing an app for those or incorporating it into the Blunami app. Let’s give them time to get the full line of decoders developed and an Android version of the app, etc., etc.
I'm anxious to see what's next.
@@markwakeley3835 me too!! Well take this into the product development department and see what we can do…. Thank you!!
Is there a way to limit the speed of the loco? MTH DCS offers this such that kids who visit the layout can us their iphones to operate the layout, hence maybe kindle an interest in model railroading. Thanks in advance for any input to this.
I covered this in video 325.
@@TheDCCGuy thank you so much!!!
What happens if someone calls while you're using the app?
Even worse if you lose your broadband no trains running!
That was asked and answered in the first video comments. But basically, you can go on operating and ignore the call or tap the stop button and take the call. You can also put the phone on ignore calls. Because this uses Bluetooth the broadband connection should not be an issue. Take a look back at the first video comments for more responses from George at SoundTraxx and also the Bluerail folks.
Take the call.. while I was testing before releasing, I had a call come in and I took it. Then realized I was still controlling the decoder.
@@TheDCCGuy That's great Larry,I really like the idea, especially now you can adjust the CV so easily as you kindly demonstrated.All I need to wait for now is the technology to work from a Chromebook and happy days!
Lost connection handling: In the event you lose connection with your locomotive, adjusting the time-out period will assure your train doesn’t continue to run after connection loss.
Time-out Period (in seconds) = value x 0.25
For example:
A value of 0 disables the time-out period entirely (the locomotive will continue to run on its last command until you reestablish connection and send a new command).
A value of 8 sets the time-out period to 2 seconds (8 x 0.25 = 2 seconds) so if you lose connection, the locomotive will stop running after 2 seconds.
A value of 255 is 63.75 seconds, or just over a minute.
Thanks Larry. How is the range when using the app?
In the BlueRailTrains video they show it working at about 100’, however one of the SoundTraxx guys said they have tested it at 150’. Now those are lone of sight with no walls or other interferences in between but in a train room it sounds like there should be no problems.
I am just starting a layout. I had planned a DCC set up. This Blunami seems far superior to the typical DCC set up.
I want to use DCC power and wire my layout as necessary. My question is.... Is there a power source that simply sends out a DCC power wave form to give power. No command module is necessary. I want to use DCC power and wiring since to me it is simpler and more efficent than DC power and wiring. I have thought about buying an inexpensive DCC system for the power and not using the command and control function leaving that to the Blunami decoder and Bluetooth connectivity to my iPad. Workable???
Assuming you go with the Blunami you do not need a DCC power bus-you can operate the locos using good old DC or even a battery. The app in the iPhone or iPad creates the DCC signal for the decoder.
@@TheDCCGuy I understand what you are saying, but I have purchased quite a bit of materials for DCC. It seems more efficient and reliable that having to switch a lot of toggle switches as the train goes from block to block. But I will do some research on wiring for dc. Any youtube videos that you recommend for wiring dc track, turnouts, loops etc.?
If you have already bought the DCC equipment then by all means use it.
Gezz looks great but to only released for iphone? nope not fir me..
They will have the Android version ASAP so hang in there.
So Larry what if you have two or more engines with the Bluenami decoder how to use switch the engines in the app or did I miss that in your video
There is an option for multiple train control that provides a display with several throttles. Now that George has 2 Blunami equipped locos maybe he will demo that too-you reading this George?
There’s a arrow in the top of your screen for swapping between throttles, or you can choose multi-train mode and control all in a single screen. I’ll do a video on this on the SoundTraxx video channel. Thanks!
Can you program the speed curve via the iPad?
Yes, as I showed in the video there is a whole section for programming basic speed controls, 3 step curves, and 28 step curves. I just could not include every aspect of the programming features. As I said it would take a month of Sundays to do it all. The folks at SoundTraxx are rolling put a series of short videos on how to program specific features and I bet speed curves will be among them. And if they don’t I will!
Did they buy Blue Rail. Because that app is exactly the same as the Blue Rail app.
I believe it is a licensing arrangement between BlueRail and SoundTraxx with BlueRail providing the Bluetooth and app technology for them and SoundTraxx providing the decoders. I am sure the SoundTraxx folks who are looking over my shoulder (right George) will jump in if I have misspoken.
@@TheDCCGuy We did not buy Bluerail, but yes we are working with them. They developed the app and we did the decoders yes.