Speed and direction
Control speed steps, direction and emergency stop with a clear locomotive-focused interface.
DCC model train control app
A DCC model train control app
that goes beyond the throttle.
Connect LocoLink to a compatible digital command station and use one DCC app for locomotive control, decoder functions, accessories, routes and automation on the devices you already own.
F0–F28 functionsCV programmingEmergency stop
Local DCC controlCommands travel to the compatible command station on the local connection.
Windows + ApplePlatforms
30 daysPro trial
NonePayment today
Z21 · ECoS · DCC-EXCore systems
“Making the hobby feel like it can keep up with modern technology is a joy. Whether it is asking Siri to 'stop Mallard' or using a PlayStation 5 controller — I constantly had a smile on my face.”★★★★★ App Store Review · United Kingdom Review evidence and repeatable test guide
One app, several jobs
Throttle, programmer and layout panel
A good DCC app keeps emergency actions immediate while making advanced tasks easier to understand.
Decoder functions
Use F0–F28 for lights, sound, smoke, couplers and other mapped functions.
CV programming
Read and write configuration variables with guided and expert tools.
Accessory control
Operate turnouts, points, signals and routes without leaving the project.
Visual track plan
Place control in context by operating from a diagram of the real layout.
Automation when needed
Add sensors, blocks, shuttles and schedules after manual control is proven.
Connection chain
How a DCC model train control app reaches the rails
The app is one part of the system; it does not replace the command station or booster.
LocoLink sends a command
The app sends the requested speed, function, accessory or programming action over the supported interface.
The command station translates it
The station creates the correctly addressed digital command and the booster supplies track power.
The decoder responds
The locomotive or accessory decoder reads its address and performs the action.
Feature scope
DCC tasks available in one workflow
Exact availability can vary by platform, plan, command station and firmware.
| Task | LocoLink workflow | Important check |
|---|---|---|
| Drive a locomotive | Throttle, direction, presets and emergency stop | Confirm address and speed-step mode |
| Use functions | F0–F28 with labels and presets | Function mapping lives in the decoder |
| Program a decoder | Guided CV tools, direct CV and speed table | Use a suitable programming track or supported POM workflow |
| Switch accessories | Turnouts, signals and grouped routes | Verify accessory address format |
| Automate movement | Feedback, blocks, shuttle and timetables | Validate sensors and stopping distances first |
Compatibility reviewed . Review the exact fully supported connection route; DCC compatibility alone does not guarantee that every computer interface exposes every feature.
DCC explained
The app, command station and decoder each have a role
DCC stands for Digital Command Control. A decoder inside each locomotive listens for commands addressed to it. The command station produces those commands and the booster puts the signal and power on the track. LocoLink provides the human interface and layout logic.
This distinction matters when choosing an app. Two command stations can both run DCC locomotives yet expose very different network, USB, feedback or programming interfaces. A general statement such as “supports DCC” is therefore not enough. Every command station listed by LocoLink is fully supported; its page explains the direct, interface or gateway route required for that system.
Phone throttle or full control software?
If you only need speed and sound, a focused throttle may be sufficient. LocoLink is aimed at operators who also want a roster, track plan, routes, decoder tools and an upgrade path to feedback-based automation.
Always test the emergency stop and direction with one locomotive at low speed before importing a complete roster. For programming, isolate the correct track section and follow the command-station instructions.
Using DCC-EX? Follow the dedicated DCC-EX throttle app guide for native TCP, desktop USB and advanced diagnostic details. Already using JMRI as the hardware bridge? Follow the JMRI WiThrottle app guide. Using an Apple device beside the layout? Follow the practical guide to model train control on iPhone and iPad or the UK-specific model railway control phone app guide. Watch the real model railroad track plan video tutorial to see Edit and Control mode in the desktop app. Using Roco or Fleischmann hardware? Read the dedicated Z21 app for Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad guide. First choose between control, planning, inventory and simulation in the broad model train software guide. Continue with the US model train control software guide, the British model railway control software guide, the focused computer-controlled model railway UK guide or the German guide to Modellbahnsoftware zur Steuerung.
Need the broader app category rather than the DCC protocol path? Use the model train control app comparison.
For native Apple mobile control, use the locomotive control app for iPhone and iPad guide.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Can a DCC app control trains without a command station?
Normally no. The app sends commands to a compatible command station, which creates the DCC signal and powers the track through a booster.
Can LocoLink program DCC decoder CVs?
Yes, when the connected command station and interface support the required programming workflow. LocoLink includes guided and expert CV tools.
Does LocoLink support Motorola or mfx?
Some supported command-station workflows can address formats beyond DCC. Exact availability depends on the station, firmware and integration; consult the compatibility adviser.
Can I control more than one locomotive?
Yes. LocoLink provides multi-throttle and roster workflows, subject to the selected plan and platform.
Is LocoLink free?
LocoLink is free to download and new users receive a 30-day Pro trial with no payment today. Paid plans are available after the trial.
Verification
Sources and review
Product and compatibility claims are checked against first-party documentation. Every listed command station is fully supported; direct, interface and gateway only describe the required connection route.
- S-9.2.2 Configuration Variables National Model Railroad Association
- DCC-EX documentation DCC-EX
- JMRI supported hardware JMRI