Saturday October 29, 2005

New Carrera Wireless Control

It seems this time of year we begin to see all kinds of new items coming our way. And not only in new models but accessories as well such as this latest system from Carrera. Although the idea of wireless control will not appeal to every enthusiast I still felt this system was worth looking at a little closer.

The idea of wireless control is nothing new in our hobby and I have tested a few in the past that although worked as intended never caught on to the core enthusiasts. Perhaps the reason why was simply due to our hobby not being near as popular then as it is today? In any event, this system seems destined for the mass merchandisers that just might catch the eye of a newcomer. However the real question is: Does the system work?

Before we look closer the answer is yes. Upon the system arriving from Carrera-USA we simply removed the items from the boxes, followed the instructions to the letter and in less than 10 minutes we were racing. So is it really that simple? Of course it is. The system is all plug and play and the instruction booklet is easy enough for almost anyone to follow.

The main system is designed for 2 lane use and includes 2 controllers, Control Tower (The Mobil One "Quart of Oil") 1 new power base and 2 neck straps for the controllers. But how does it work? This system uses infrared technology similar to what you might see on your TV remote. The controllers have sensors inside as does the Mobil One "Quart Bottle" Control tower. As long as you have a clear sight between the controller and the tower all will work just as intended.

There is more to it of course as the photos might show. This new power base is designed so that you can use either the wireless controller or your standard Carrera set control. There is a switch on each lane input that allows you to choose which controller you are using. This is a nice option for those that are running 4 lanes and perhaps do not have the budget to get 2 additional controllers. So, until you can get the next 2 you can still race 4 lanes.

The power base has 2 ports located on the left side to accept up to 2 control towers. This is for those who have larger layouts and allows the racer to be placed further away from the power base. The range on the control tower to controller is right at 9 feet. If you go any further away than this, control becomes erratic to say the least. The tower is equipped with a long enough cord (little over 5 feet) so that you can create a larger distance with 2 towers installed.

The 9 foot distance is a complete radius that surrounds the tower so it does not matter how you set your tower. There are 4 sensors inside the tower that allow this to happen. The 2 lane system only comes with 1 tower and for most home layouts this is all you will need. Our new Carrera oval is 5 foot by 16 feet and the 1 tower was more than enough for the system to function.

The power base also has a "boost" switch installed that when it is turned on allows you to press the red button on the front of controller for full speed. This technically is not a "boost" as it simply puts the controller at full speed just as it would be if you applied full throttle yourself. However, on our oval I found it interesting as I could just use this button coming out of the corner and releasing it before the next one.

Another item on this power base is the port so that you can plug in the 4 lane extension straight. Again the directions are pretty straight forward as you simply plug in the additional straight and you are ready to go 4 lanes. However, one of the nicest things about this power base in my opinion is that you can use it as a complete standard power base. If you disconnect the control tower, the power light will pulse indicating it is disconnected, but it does not effect the base from working. I like this option as those on tighter budgets can simply purchase the components as funds become available and still allows the user to continue racing with the standard equipment.

Although the 4 lane option works, there is a slight issue. If you mount the additional straight for 4 lanes with the paint identical to the power base straight as most people would, these 2 lanes run in the opposite direction. With Carrera and other cars with a polarity switch this is not much of a problem, but can be for those without. You cannot turn the power cord from the transformer backwards as the power light will go off and the system will not work. You must mount the straight as shown in the photo to have all lanes running the correct direction. This poses another issue as now the lane assignments of 3 and 4 have changed. It is easy enough to re-assign them but I think Carrera should look at this closely as it will confuse many newcomers.

The controllers themselves need 3 AA batteries (not included) that are installed underneath. You must remove one small crosstip screw to gain access to the battery compartment. One you install the batteries it is time to quickly check your controller "assignment". Since the system is designed for up to 4 lanes, each controller must be assigned to a certain lane. You accomplish this by following the simple chart located under each controller and then setting the dip switch at the top to coincide with that assignment. It really is quite easy to do so most parents and even children can program them quickly. I say this as I handed a controller to a local 10 year old racer who frequents our track and he had the controller set in seconds.

This system is also said to work with the Pro-X digital system. Since I do not have my digital layout set up yet in our new shop I could not test it, so this review is based entirely on standard racing. The button on the front of the controller for the "boost" function in standard racing is likely the lane changing switch in digital. Again, later testing of this is coming soon.

Important to note is that you must have the hand controller in the off position before you make a lane assignment. Once you have assigned a lane, then you may turn on the controller and it will function properly.

Operation

As I stated earlier, this system works as intended. We have been racing with this system for over 2 weeks with no problems or glitches. If you see that the controller seems not to respond the way it should, just change to fresh batteries and it should cure the problem. I tested this by installing near depleted ni-cad batteries and control was almost completely gone and the distance I could be from the tower was very reduced.

I also noticed that these controllers had slightly better overall response than a standard controller. It still is not where many enthusiasts would like, but is increased and the braking function is excellent. I tested nearly every brand of car on this system and all of them worked fine. Of course it will not replace other after-market controllers that are more advanced, still for those who like the idea of wireless and like the thumb-type control, they should be pleased.

It took us awhile to get used to using them as sometimes I am famous for letting my controller hang down by my side. When I did this, of course the IR line of sight was corrupted and hence the control failed. But after awhile I trained myself to keep the controller in sight and all was well. Actually being able to move around the table without a cord restricting our movement did come in handy at times when someone would de-slot and we reached for the car.

In The End...

I can only report that the 2 lane system worked as it claimed to and functions better than I expected. The 4 lane addition does seem to need attention though. The straight comes painted and most users will mount it identically which will cause the polarity problem. I feel Carrera needs to address this wiring to make it what it should be.

So will it replace my after-market controllers I have invested in already? Of course not. However, I have plans for an outdoor track plus another portable layout that might find these wireless controllers very useful. I can also see those who are racing on the floor to possibly appreciate the freedom of movement. Advanced enthusiasts who insist on having the best matched controllers will of course pass on this system, but for many who are just having simple fun might think about taking a closer look.

- Harry

As always, feel free to contact me about this review or just the hobby in general. I enjoy hearing from all the enthusiasts and welcome any comments. I also encourage you to stop into our LIVE FORUMS and join others in discussing and learning even more about this great hobby.

Thanks Go To Carrera-USA For Providing Us With This System.