I am looking for information on the Z21 system?

[Tallpaul70]

Hi All,
I am just starting to look at computer control systems for my yet to be built layout.

I have seen mention of a model railway computer control system called Z1.

I can't find any mention of this on this forum?

Advise please as to what this is and what are its features and capabilities?
What DCC control systems will it work with?

I am working in 00 gauge with an NCE controller.

Many thanks
Paul

[Rog (RJ)]

Are you thinking of the Roco Z21 system? That's the only one that springs to mind.

PS There was the Hornby Zero One controller from many moons ago but that is totally out of date and not DCC as we know it today.

[Mr Bones]

I use the Z21 and really like it. It's not everyone's cup of tea though. I did a review about it on the old Forum, but haven't repeated it on here as yet. There's plenty of information about it online and on YouTube. You can control it via Android or iOS phone or tablet.

However, it's not a computer control system as such and would actually replace your NCE.

If it's computer control you are after then you would need to look at system such as JMRI, RocRail, Train Controller etc. Some are free to use such as JMRI and RocRail. Others you pay for, but can be used free with limitations.

[Tallpaul70]

Hi Guys,

Senelity is creeping up fast!
I meant Z21 which I believe is a Roco system?

So any further thoughts or experiences of Z21 will be welcome!!

Thanks
Paul
Mod Note ... I'll amend the title to read Z21

[Mr Bones]

As I said above Paul I use the Z21 and it is a good system. I can post my review if you wish. It's not a computer control system though, it's a DCC system which would replace your NCE Controller.

[dtb]

I use the (small z) z21 as an alternative to PA2 and both are connected, easier to use when moving around the layout. I have 2 wi-fi enabled Multimaus hand controllers and use the DigiTrainsPro and Z21 apps on my android phone and tablet.

The (large Z) Z21 is the bigger brother to the z21 and has more features.

Most importantly I am happy with the setup and features of both units.

[Tallpaul70]

As I said above Paul I use the Z21 and it is a good system. I can post my review if you wish. It's not a computer control system though, it's a DCC system which would replace your NCE Controller.

Thanks,
Yes, it would be useful if you could post your review of the Z21

Also I am confused by the posting that refers to the "Big" and "Little" Z21?

Any enlightenment would be very helpful?

Cheers
Paul

[Brian]

While I don't use Roco products, there are apparently three models in the Z21 range. https://www.z21.eu/en/z21-system/the-three-models
I guess "small" and "large" are referring to the two main units sold - White or Black and their operation capability?

[Walkingthedog]

The big and little refers to the size of the Z or z. The Z version is different to the z version.

[Brian]

The big and little refers to the size of the Z or z. The Z version is different to the z version.

Indeed, the capital Z is the Black Z21 while the lower case z is the White z21
Both are shown in my link above