Introduction
The XnTcp is a TCP/IP interface for the Lenz XpressNET™ Version 3.0 and 3.6 bus, designed, in particular, to be used with the Java Model Railroad Interface (JMRI).
Using the TCP/IP protocol, nowadays available on any platform, the XnTcp can connect to any computer with an Ethernet port, supporting JMRI version 2.1.5 or higher.
The interface plugs directly into the Ethernet port of the computer (or into any Ethernet socket of a LAN) without the need of any additional interface or hardware adapter, nor of any dedicated software driver.
Even if designed with JMRI use in mind, the XnTcp can also emulate a RS-232/XpressNET™ interface and be employed with software packages that support only serial communication. The RS-232 emulation requires, however, the installation on the computer of additional software.
Building the interface requires no knowledge of electronics, nor programming: the only skill needed is the ability to use a soldering-iron.
The hardware is based on the SBC65EC board, produced by Modtronix Engineering. This card, equipped with a PIC18F6627 microprocessor and a 10Mbps Ethernet port, provides most of the features needed and few additional components are thus required. The only tools necessary for the assembling are a soldering-iron, a drill and pliers.
The total cost of the components, including the SBC65EC board, is, as of the date of writing (March 2008), approximately 80 US$ or 55 Euro.
The firmware necessary to initialize the interface is freely available from this WEB site and its uploading is done through the Ethernet without using any programmer nor any other additional piece of hardware.
Users' feedback confirms that the XnTcp interface works with:Some tests showed, instead, that the connection with the Hornby Select fails.
Whether you decide to build this interface or not... have fun!
XpressNET™ is a trademark of Lenz Electronik, Gmbh