DCC throttle
Drive with 14, 28 or 128 speed steps, direction, emergency stop and decoder functions F0–F28.
Model railroad control software for the United States
Your model railroad.
One modern control room.
Run locomotives, turnouts, signals, routes and automated blocks from a modern DCC app built for desktop and mobile. Start simple with a throttle, then add the track plan and automation when your layout is ready.
Free downloadNo card for the trialLocal layout control
Desktop and mobileWindows, Mac, iPhone and iPad share the same layout-first approach.
Windows + ApplePlatforms
30 daysPro trial
NonePayment today
Z21 · ECoS · DCC-EXCore systems
Built around the layout
More than a phone throttle
A useful model railroad app should still work when the layout grows. LocoLink brings everyday driving and deeper control into one understandable workflow.
Turnouts and signals
Operate accessories directly or combine them into routes, with clear feedback in the track plan.
Track plan editor
Draw the layout once and use it as the visual control surface for trains, blocks and accessories.
Decoder programming
Read and write CVs through guided or expert workflows instead of memorizing every configuration variable.
Block automation
Add feedback, routes, shuttle services, timetables and automatic driving without giving up manual operation.
Game controller support
Use a supported controller for tactile driving while the screen remains available for the layout overview.
A practical path
Start in three clear steps
LocoLink does not require a finished, fully detected layout before the first drive.
Connect your command station
Put the computer or device on the same local network, or use the supported local interface for your system.
Add or import locomotives
Create the roster, check addresses and functions, then test direction and emergency stop at low speed.
Grow into automation
Draw the track plan, add sensors and blocks, and test routes before enabling automatic runs.
Compatibility
Popular command stations in North America
The word “supported” should mean something precise. Status depends on the station, interface, firmware and LocoLink platform.
| Command station | Current status | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Roco/Fleischmann Z21 | ● Works now | LAN/Wi-Fi; z21 start may require the official LAN unlock |
| ESU ECoS | ● Works now | Network connection; verify firmware-specific programming behaviour |
| DCC-EX EX-CommandStation | ● Works now | USB, Wi-Fi or Ethernet depending on the setup |
| Märklin CS3 / CS3 plus | ● Beta | Test the exact firmware and CAN workflow first |
| NCE Power Cab / Power Pro | ● Beta | Interface and platform determine the supported workflow |
Compatibility reviewed 18 July 2026. Use the command-station advisor before buying hardware. “Beta” is intentionally not presented as finished support.
Choosing software
What to look for in model railroad control software
Start with the job you need to do today. If that is simply replacing a handheld throttle, prioritize a dependable local connection, an obvious emergency stop and fast locomotive switching. If the goal is computer control, also examine the track-plan editor, feedback handling, route safety and project backups.
North American layouts often use the words model railroad, DCC throttle, turnout and command station. LocoLink uses that vocabulary here, while the underlying product also serves model railway users in Europe. The software remains local to the layout for driving; internet access is not the control path between your throttle and the rails.
Where LocoLink fits
LocoLink is intended for operators who want a modern interface on more than one type of device and prefer a guided path from manual driving to automation. JMRI, Rocrail, iTrain and TrainController have different strengths and long histories. The right choice depends on your existing hardware, required automation depth and willingness to configure the system. Try the real workflow before moving a production layout.
For a first installation, use the 30-day Pro trial, keep speeds low and test one locomotive, one turnout and one feedback section before importing or drawing the complete railroad.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is model railroad control software?
It connects a computer or mobile device to a digital command station so you can drive locomotives, operate turnouts and signals, program DCC decoders and, when feedback is available, automate parts of the layout.
Does LocoLink replace a DCC command station?
No. LocoLink is the control software. The command station and booster still create the DCC track signal and provide the physical connection to the layout.
Does LocoLink work with NCE?
NCE support is currently beta and depends on the interface and platform. Confirm the exact Power Cab or Power Pro workflow in the command-station advisor before relying on it.
Can I use LocoLink without automation?
Yes. You can begin with manual locomotive, turnout and signal control. Blocks, schedules and automatic driving are optional layers.
Is the Android app available?
Not yet. LocoLink is available for Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad; Android is planned.