JMRI: Z21 Connected Throttle

The Z21 server window controls the connection between Z21 throttles and JMRI. Currently supported are:

• the Roco Z21 App
• the Roco WlanMaus (a WiFi Handheld)

It can be set to start automatically with the "Start Up" section in the "JMRI Preferences".

Currently there are no settings for the Z21 server, the server always listens on UDP port 21105.

When using a Z21 throttle, if the computer enters sleep mode, control will be lost. System preferences may need to be adjusted to prevent the computer from putting itself to sleep when it is inactive.

You can use any of these devices via the same or a different (remote) network than the one that your JMRI computer is running on. More information can be found in the WiThrottle documentation. Just replace "WiThrottle" with "Z21 Client".

A description of the Z21 protocol can be downloaded from this page. For more on JMRI networking, see the networking technical page.

Stop button

The WlanMaus has a "STOP" button that can be used to either turn the power on/off or stop all locomotives, depending on the setting in the WlanMaus. The Z21 app also has such a button in the top right corner. The Z21 server supports both methods.

Support for Turnouts

Both the Z21 app and the WlanMaus have the functionality to operate turnouts, but the turnout can only be selected by a number. Since JMRI has no concept of turnout numbers, a mapping of the turnout number to a JMRI component is required.

The mapping has been implemented by providing mapping tables. This window can be opened by selecting "Z21 Turnout Number Map..." from the Z21 Server UI menu. A list of all turnouts will appear with system name, user name and a third column "Z21 Turnout Number". If you enter a number in this field, the turnout will be mapped to the specified turnout number. The mapping can even be used to operate other components such as routes, lights, signal masts, signal heads and sensors. The tables can be accessed via the corresponding tabs.

The result of pressing the "Turned" or "Closed" buttons on the handheld depends on the component type:

• Turnouts: buttons map directly
• Lights: Thrown = ON, Closed = OFF
• Routes: Thrown sets the route, Closed does nothing
• Signal Masts and Signal Heads: Closed = HELD, Thrown = not HELD, the aspect/appearance itself can not be modified
• Sensors: Thrown = ACTIVE, Closed = INACTIVE. Used to triggers all actions bound to the sensor

The mapping is written to the panel xml file as a property entry.

CV Programming

Both devices also are designed to be able to program CVs. This is currently not supported by the JMRI Z21 Server.

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