Note: The user manual Chapter 3 provides a general introduction to WLAN technology and how CTC uses it.
How can I (additionally) use a smartphone as an access point/hotspot?
CTC uses standard WLAN technology. While it is partially possible to use a smartphone as a WLAN repeater, it is generally not advisable. An unstable WLAN ruins the fun of CTC.
However, it is possible to use the smartphone instead of a WLAN router. This is unsuitable for a complete model railway, as smartphones typically have poor antennas and limit the number of WLAN clients to around 10.
If you just want to operate a CTC locomotive on a foreign layout, the smartphone hotspot is perfectly adequate. To do this, simply set the same SSID (WLAN name) and password on the smartphone hotspot as on the model railway WLAN. Refer to your smartphone’s documentation for hotspot configuration.
What is a 5 GHz network and how do I switch my router/smartphone to it?
WLAN currently uses three frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. All current CTC modules only support 2.4 GHz, while routers, access points, smartphones, tablets, and laptops typically support at least 5 GHz as well.
Refer to the router’s documentation for configuration instructions.
The CTC router is set up to use two different SSIDs (WLAN names) for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. You can then select which WLAN network to use on your smartphone.
What is 802.11 or WPA?
802.11 is the IEEE standard in which WLAN (WiFi) is specified.
WPA is a WLAN encryption method, similar to WEP. There are different versions of WPA with varying security levels. WEP is considered insecure. CTC modules support WPA 2.
What are the advantages of using a 5 GHz network instead of 2.4 GHz?
Since all CTC modules operate on 2.4 GHz, you can force data to route through the router by selecting the 5 GHz network on your smartphone, tablet, or PC. If the CTC app and CTC modules are on the 2.4 GHz network, data is transmitted directly. Using the router (which typically has better antenna placement) is more reliable.
At exhibitions with many competing WLANs, direct communication on 2.4 GHz often fails. In such cases, using the 5 GHz network for the CTC app is essential.
Can I also use CTC with a PC or tablet?
Yes, the CTC app is available for all common platforms: PCs with Linux, Mac OS/X, Windows, as well as smartphones and tablets running Android and iOS (iPhone, iPad).
How do I control my locomotive if there is no WLAN network, e.g., at events in a hall?
CTC always requires a WLAN. For such events, bring your own WLAN router or use your smartphone’s hotspot (see above).
Note that WLAN and the internet are not the same: CTC only needs WLAN, not internet For the WLAN router, you only need a power outlet, not an internet cable.
How can I prevent others from accessing my WLAN control?
The WLAN is password-protected, so only those who know the password can access it.
Currently, anyone on the same WLAN can participate in CTC control.
I don’t want to use a touchscreen (e.g., smartphone or laptop) for control; I prefer a rotary knob. Is this possible with CTC?
The CTC PC app can emulate a Z21 central unit and thus supports all WLAN controllers that use the Z21 LAN protocol. We have tested the Roco WLAN MultiMouse and the LoDi-Con from LokstoreDigital .
See the user manual Chapter 8.3 for more details.
Do I absolutely need a (mobile) network for WLAN?
No, WLAN and internet/mobile data are different things. CTC only requires a WLAN that allows its participants to communicate with each other.
Note: A guest WLAN typically blocks communication between its participants.
Can I integrate open-source projects like Rocrail?
Yes, the CTC PC app (Linux, Mac, Windows) can emulate a Z21 central unit, enabling access for model railway software that supports the Roco Z21 protocol. We are not aware of any software that does not support Z21.
However, this only allows access to the parts of CTC that can be mapped to the digital world. For example, all CTC locomotives and switches must be assigned a digital address.
Can I integrate the system into a smart home system or intranet?
Theoretically yes, but there is currently no interface for this. Since CTC is fully open-source, you can program your own interface.
Can I use any router? What happens if my router receives an update? Will all data be retained?
Yes, CTC uses only standard WLAN technology (WiFi). There is no reason not to use your own or an existing home router. However, you should be familiar with router configuration.
As long as the router does not lose or change its configuration during an update, it has no effect on CTC. The CTC configuration is stored entirely in the CTC modules.
I have a garden railway. What is the range of the system?
The range of CTC corresponds to the range of WLAN. A single WLAN router is sufficient for a small garden. For larger gardens, hilly or densely vegetated terrain, WLAN repeaters (mesh) may be required.
See the user manual Chapter 3 for more on WLAN mesh.
Can I use the system if the WLAN signal is weak?
As long as the WLAN is still capable of transmitting data, CTC will work. If you can still use the WLAN for internet browsing, you can also use it for CTC.
Does the control follow NMRA standards?
No, CTC is not yet an official standard, though initial efforts are underway. Whether Americans will adopt a European standard remains to be seen.
Is the WLAN signal reception in Märklin metal locomotives really reliable?
We have converted several locomotives with metal housings and were surprised by how reliably the radio connection works in these models. Here are some specific Märklin examples:
