The Model Rectifier Corp. Prodigy WiFi module is a plug-and-play component that makes it easy to add smartphone-app control to your MRC Prodigy DCC system. Check out this quick demo with Model Railroader senior editor Dana Kawala where he demonstrates how the MRC WiFi system works with the Engine Driver and WiThrottle smartphone apps.
Video: MRC Prodigy Advance WiFi
By Angela Cotey | January 23, 2018
| Last updated on November 17, 2020
The Model Rectifier Corp. Prodigy Advance WiFi module makes it easy to control a model railroad with a smartphone
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I have a concern about this device. I have wireless and security in my background and it looks to me as though this sets up a WiFi network with no security or encryption (someone please correct me if I’m wrong). On the surface this sounds like no big deal since hacking a train setup will gain someone nothing other than the ability to mess with you and your trains. However, just like many open public WiFi hotspots this is a handy way to hack your smart device and drop malicious software on it. Is it likely? Probably not. But it is a very real possibility and hackers still drive around looking for open networks to eavesdrop on. I would not use this myself. If you want wireless, set up JMRI with encryption and know you are much safer.
Be aware of the limitations of this unit. It allows a max of 8 devices to attach which sounds fine BUT, if an additional device attempts to connect, it will randomly kick off an existing device (causing loss of control of the train). While I really like running this way I suggest carrying a quarter in your pocket so when you lose control you can drop that on the track and short it out.
Also, one of the reasons you’d use an iPad is because you can have up to 4 throttles on it, all controlling a different DCC address simultaneously.
I dunno, Dana, think using the tablet is a bit bulky compared to an NCE throttle. Especially the smaller units. It is neat, but not for me.
I was thinking about switching from MRC to Digitrax because of their new wifi module but with this I might decided to stick around with MRC after all.
Wow, that is cool. Dana, thanks for the review and demo.
i used it with my android phone and tablet and it was great. My tablet is smaller then the one in the video but it was easy to set up and use and will continue to use. Also cheaper then buying throttles for every one when everyone has a phone or tablet these days
I love this product and agree set up was easy. Using the IPhone in certain situations is quite handy.