User's Manual

31
The language of command control
Glossary
Accessory
Any operating accessory produced by Lionel, American Flyer, or Marx.
Addressing
To “call” a device using a numeric name, known as an “ID#”
Address buttons
The top row of buttons on CAB-1L that selects various locomotive and layout elements. Addresses include switch
(SW), accessory (ACC), route (RTE), track and train (TR), and engine (ENG).
Block
An electrically isolated section of Lionel track, separated from the normal flow of transformer-supplied voltage by
the presence of plastic insulating pins located in the center rail at either end of the block.
Block control
A form of model railroad locomotive control that uses electrically isolated blocks and manually or automatically
controls the distribution of power.
Coil couplers
Operating locomotive couplers that feature an electromagnetic coil. When energized, the coil opens the coupler
without the aid of a remote uncoupling session.
Command Base-1L
The component that generates digital communications in response to CAB-1L commands and narrow-casts it’s
communication on the common (outside) rails of any Lionel railroad.
Command buttons
The large buttons on CAB-1L that controls locomotive functions. Command buttons include whistle/horn, bell,
direction, boost, brake, coupler front and rear, and AUX1/AUX2.
Command control
A method for controlling model locomotives that involves the simultaneous operation of multiple locomotives;
also includes total layout control (switches, accessories, and more). In TrainMaster Command, command
control involves the use of digital signaling on the track which is picked up by specially equipped locomotives,
enabling the locomotives to perform individually on the same track without complicated wiring schemes.
Command-equipped
A description that means a locomotive is capable of responding to TMCC1 and possibly TMCC2 commands.
Command-equipped locomotives run in both command and conventional operating environments.
Constant (continuous) voltage
A steady application of electricity applied to the track. In command control, constant voltage is usually in the
18-volt range. Only command-equipped locomotives will operate properly in a constant voltage environment.
Conventional operations
The transitional way of running Lionel trains: track power up the locomotive moves; track power down, the
locomotive stops. Generally involves the operation of only one locomotive at a time.
Division
A large, electrically isolated section of model railroad. Usually encompasses a number of electrically isolated
track power control accessories with the same ID#. This ID# is known as the “division number.”