We are convinced that CT&C is the next generation of model railway control. That’s why we dare to refer to DCC, Motorola format (MM) or Märklin mfx… as “old” or “classic” digital.

Since we can’t develop CTC modules for all imaginable use cases at once, and because we want to enable our customers a smooth transition to CTC, this chapter deals with the various bridges between CTC and old digital systems.

Here are the current ways to connect CTC with the old digital world:

  • Parallel operation: CTC locomotives also run with digital power, so they can operate on the same tracks as old digital locomotives at the same time. The controls of both worlds are completely separate in this case.
  • Decoder connection: DCC locomotive decoders can be connected to the motor output of a CTC locomotive module and thus be controlled via CTC. This allows beloved sound decoders to continue to be used with CTC, if there is enough space for the additional CTC module in the locomotive. Support for DCC accessory decoders (turnouts, …) and the Motorola-II protocol is in the planning stages.
  • Integrating the Z21 center: As of version 4.05, CTC can communicate with digital centers like the Z21 from Roco via the Z21-LAN-protocol. This allows classic digital locomotives, turnouts, etc. to be controlled via a digital center with a Z21-LAN-protocol using the CTC-App.
  • Integrating the Z21 handheld controller: also starting with version 4.05, CTC can behave like a digital center with Z21-LAN-protocol. This makes handheld controllers such as the Z21 Wi-Fi Mouse from Roco can be used to control CTC locomotives and switch CTC turnouts.

Of course, for all bridges to the old digital world, it is clear that CTC can only play to its strengths to a limited extent. You will only get rid of the technical limitations of the old digital world when you fully switch to CTC.

Parallel Operation

There is not much to say about parallel operation. CTC modules can be operated with up to 24V DC, digital current and also AC. More about this in the separate document “Power Supply and Router”

In this case, the old digital locomotives and turnouts are controlled as before, and the CTC modules are controlled via the CTC apps. A connection between both worlds is not anticipated in this scenario.