JMRI (Java Model Railroad Interface)

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JMRI is quite a powerful suite of software applications, and can be as simple or as complex as you wish to make it.

On this page, we will focus on utilising JMRI as a throttle only.

Connecting to your EX-CommandStation

The first thing you need to do is connect your EX‑CommandStation to JMRI.

Follow these instructions outlined in the JMRi help page to get connected.

Create a new throttle

Once you have your connection to JMRI configured, you can launch a new throttle using either the DecoderPro or PanelPro applications.

DecoderPro

In DecoderPro, select “New Throttle” from the “Actions” menu.

DecoderPro New Throttle

PanelPro

In PanelPro, from the “Tools” menu, select “Throttles” -> “New Throttle”.

PanelPro New Throttle

Select and control a loco

At this point, you should have your JMRI throttle window open ready for action:

JMRI Throttle

To select and control a loco from here, you need to:

  • Ensure track power is turned on using the Power button at the top of the window, or selecting “Power On” from the “Power” menu

  • Type the address of your loco in the “Address Panel” then press the Set button

  • You can now use the throttle slider, forward, reverse, Idle, and STOP! buttons to control your loco

  • Use the buttons in the “Function Panel” to control your various loco functions also

Here we show a loco at address 3 selected, with track power turned on, and running in a forward direction at 25% speed:

JMRI Throttle Loco 3

EX-CommandStation & JMRI DecoderPro Programming Station

If you would like to utilise the combined power of EX-CommandStation & JMRI DecoderPro Programming Station, please download and review the Comprehensive DCC-EX & JMRI DecoderPro Getting Started Guide PDF.

Further reading

If you’re keen to learn more about JMRI, then we highly recommend going to the JMRI website and reading further on the features and possibilities available.