Daniel - I know this isn't directly answering your question, but there is a much less expensive alternative.

You could add a small computer and a usb interface to the command station. Running the JMRI software your members could use their phones for throttles. WiThrottle on the iPhone and Engine Driver on Android both have free versions.

Even if the club bought everything new they probably wouldn't spend more than $200-300.

Anyone that doesn't have a smartphone could pick one up at Target or Walmart for $30 or less. You don't need a cell phone plan, just the phone itself.

Proprietary throttles are expensive.

For those that like their Digitrax radio throttles, there's no reason they can't be used at the same time as JMRI.

That might lower the cost barrier of recruiting new members.

gs

Or buy used Smart phones that aren't being used now, there's only about a billion of them out there.  I use my first smart phone to download and play internet music from the likes of Songza, which is no more.

I'll second (third?) the comments about using a computer with JMRI, a router, the USB interface, and phones/tablets!

If you feel you must have a Digitrax throttle, based on what you've said, get the DT402D or -R.  You have two knobs, thereby controlling two trains, plus you will be able to set up consists on the fly (as opposed to preprogramming advanced consists).  It costs more, but will be able to do everything you may ever need to do, including recall.

-Fuzzy

This is what our club set up and have not regretted it at all.  A member's hand me down computer and wireless router.  Downloaded JMRI, connected the computer to our CVP EasyDCC command station via a serial plug to USB and we were in business for less than $50.   

Art

Art makes a great point. The throttle application section of JMRI is a great asset.

Smart phone is an option if cost is important.  Personally I prefer real knobs but it all depends on what is your preference.  If cost isn't a big deal, just get the DT402D and be done with it.  It has two encoders if you want to control 2 trains, plus a full keypad.  Otherwise a radio Utility throttle may be a good compromise between the smart phone and full featured throttle.

Cheers, JIm

JMRI was my first thought, but my club does not have a computer even to manage membership, bank account and other clerical stuff. Having a computer would help not only the throttle issue, but would also be a huge asset in signaling the lines if we ever reach an understanding in what kind of signals would be used (local, European, American etc.) Once again the exception is the HOn3 line, that is strict TT&TO in dark territory (maybe we can have some semaphores to have the crew stop to sign for new orders or to pick orders from a "hoop").

Reading carefully what has been written in this forum, the digitrax website and talking to a fellow member who owns a DT402D and some discussion and decision making with my dad (forgot to mention before, our club has a family membership, so dad and I run trains together like a crew and what is my favorite part, my 8 year niece can join us whenever she is in town) we decided to buy the DT402D next time someone travels to USA.

Thanks for the help and all the useful information!

Daniel Kramer