Z21 Confusion

[shed16]

I'm sure I'm not the first to run into this issue, but I'm looking at the Z21 but want to use my own wifi and don't want to use their handheld controller either, but there doesn't appear to be a package with just the Z21 unit and the power supply, which I then plan to use with my own Android tablets.
All that I can find is
1 - Z21 with the wifi router and wired handheld controller - £445.50 @ Rails of Sheffield
2 - z21 start with the wired handheld controller - £238 @ DCC Train Automation, then buy a Wifi unlock code for £42.70 totalling ~£280

It's my first layout but I really want to avoid the cheap "trainset" DCC controllers. I may do some automation in the future but this will be a modest DCC layout with some DCC point motors, so I like the idea of having the layout in the app and not having to tap in the address for the point motor to flip it etc.

Some insights would be useful here, the Z21 system does look very modern compared to most of what's out there and I'm big into tech.

We were previously set on Digitrax but the DT602 screen timeout just seems infuriating.

Many thanks!

[Tricky Dicky]

I am not familiar with the Z21 or for that matter Android tablets, but on my iPad I can have it connect to a number of networks so I can use it at home or at both my daughters homes. It remembers the networks it has been linked to and automatically connects without any need for any intervention.

As for connecting where there are two routers you do have the option in settings to which WiFi network you want. I should imagine Android tablets should have a similar facility where you can choose which WiFi network to link to. I know when I go into WiFi settings I can see quite a few of my neighbours networks and if I had the appropriate passwords could easily link to them.

Richard

[Tricky Dicky]

I had a look at the manufacturers site, Roco. I think if I was starting and considering possible automation, I would leave the white z21 range out as they are very much cut down versions lacking the choice of interfaces of the black Z21. The Z21 does come with a plug and play WiFi router so easy setup to get started with app control and I can see the advantage of it on an exhibition layout. The manual does go onto say you can connect the provided router to your own network gaining internet access, that connection has to be through a network cable.

It goes on further to say you can use the LAN port to connect directly to your own router so a network cable required. However, the manual goes on to warn about having knowledge of networks to make it work? I am not sure what they mean by that and cannot see how it will be a problem to get a tablet to work.

Richard

[cnikonpete]

I have used the z21 start for a number of years and have been very pleased with how.easy it is to use, the manual is not the clearest however.
I can use my iPad and iPhone,I also can use an android to connect with it. I didn’t have to pay for the unlock code, came free in those days.
The black version does have some advantages, it depends whether you think it is worth the extra cost. I only have two doc concepts point motors but the z21 is easy to program/use them. I have the Multimaus plugged in as often I prefer the hands on approach,you will be very pleased with how intuitive the system is, whatever one you choose.
If you look on youtube for Simons Shed, he has done in depth reviews on the z21 or Z21, can’t remember which.