Rocrail is a freeware software package for controlling a model train layout from one or more computers. Users can run trains directly from a computer, or have some run automatically with manual control for any others.
Architecture
Rocrail uses a client-server architecture that communicates via TCP/IP, and the client and server do not need to be on the same computer. Rocrail can be used from a single computer connected directly to the layout, or via any other computer on a home network, or over the Internet. Rocrail also has an HTTP interface, which will let the layout run from a web browser. PDA and smartphone apps are available.
The server program runs on a computer connected to the layout by one of the standard computer interface setups, and supports many command stations.
The Rocrail client connects to the server over a network. The client can also be used by itself to plan layouts. There is no need for the server or the layout to be running to edit plans. Plans can be uploaded to the server after creation.
Rocrail runs under both the Windows and Linux operating systems, using the Wxwidgets toolkit.
A partial list of supported command stations and protocols
Dinamo track driver system
Digitrax LocoNet
Easydcc
ESU ECoS
Hornby Elite (XPressNet) Lenz Elektronik XPressNet Littfinski HSI88 Märklin 6050/6051 and Central Station 1 & 2 OpenDCC RocoNet Roco/Fleischmann Z21 Selectrix SRCP connections such as DDL and Roc-Pi Uhlenbrock's Intellibox Z21 Zimo
Features
Automatic and manual modes
Modular layout support
Built-in DCC/MM Digital Direct Control Station
Operates unlimited digital systems simultaneously
Only one feedback contact per block required
Runs on Linux, Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows systems beginning with Windows 9x
Multilanguage support
Symbol themes in SVG
Fiddle Yard support
PDA and Smartphone apps
Java client
Up to four Gamepads can be used as throttles
Built in DCC programmer (Rocpro) Raspberry Pi (Model B) supported
Users
Many users have already registered themselves at the Rocrail Forum. Some of them are actively translating the Wiki into their own language. Others are developing open-source hardware to contribute to the project.
Open source
Rocrail was released under GPL v3, but during September 2015, its license was changed to a proprietary model.
References
External links
Project Page at Launchpad
Rocrail Forum
OpenDCC
Dinamo(NL) list of supported command stations list of supported operating systems