Great diy solution
So happy with this solution. It cost an arm and a leg for a dcc setup but this is so awesome. Cant thank the creator enough.
Response from developer
Thank you for the great feedback
Free
About
Transform your smartphone into a wireless throttle for model trains. This app enables smooth, responsive control of locomotives using inexpensive electronics and your phone, ideal for DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists looking for an affordable wireless solution.
✓Wireless smartphone throttle
✓PWM motor control for smooth operation
✓Control speed, direction, and stop
✓DIY hardware integration
✓Affordable components
✓Ideal for DC and dead-rail layouts
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What's New in Poor Man's Throttle
3.3.0
September 18, 2026
### Version 3.3.0 * **Support for Automation scripts** No the app has the ability to record and manage the automation of throttles/modules and all functions of your layout to create realistic prototypical scenarios for your layout. * **Bug Fixes** Fixed save failures with the master volume slider on configuration page. The code monkey has been busy (me). ### Version 3.2.0 * **Wireless Firmware Updates** The app supports PMT firmware wireless updates. * **Added About screen** in the global configuration screen * **Misc refinements and bug squashing** The code monkey has been busy (me). ### Version 3.1.0 * **Prime Mover and Volume on Control Slideout** Now the prime mover and volume controls are added to the control slideout when Audio is on. * **Changed the Icon for Control** The throttle page now has a new Control icon to represent all types of controls. * **Individual Volume** You can now modify the relative volume level of a sound vs other sounds +/- in the app. * **Automatic Adding of Audio Controls** When the user turns on Audio, they will be asked if they wish to add common controls to the Controls screen for Audio. * **UI Tweaks** Graph manipulation more user friendly for chuff rate and MU Consist speed matching. Added a lock control to lock the settings for the chuff mapping. * **Misc refinements and bug squashing** The code monkey has been busy (me). ### Version 3.0.0 * **PMT Audio Support** The App now supports sound for diesel and steam locomotion and custom sounds. * **Terminal Fixes** ** The terminal now allows exit of the screen when connectivity is dropped. ** The terminal now enters script mode if the send button is pressed with no command. ** The terminal now allows scripts to run when in WebSocket connected state and no BLE. * **Backup and Restore Refined** The app now has a more refined backup and restore system for hardware configuration. * **Startup Restore Sensing** The app now senses when a firmware update occurred and prompts the user if they wish to apply the latest backup (if stored) to the firmware. * **FX LED mode information expanded for firmware 3.0.0** to cover the fourteen newly added FX function-output patterns: `DITCH+`, `DITCH-`, `STROBE+`, `STROBE-`, `ROTARY+`, `ROTARY-`, `MARS+`, `MARS-`, `GYRALITE+`, `GYRALITE-`, `FIREBOX_FLICKER`, `LANTERN_FLICKER`, `DYNAMO`, and `INCANDESCENT`. The paired `+` / `-` warning-light modes are half-cycle phase shifted, while the simulated lamp/beacon modes include PWM-based brightness effects such as smooth sweeps, flicker, dynamo variation, and incandescent warm-up. * **Updates to Multilingual localization engine and artifacts** * **Misc refinements and bug squashing** The code monkey has been busy (me). ### Version 2.5.7 * **Android camera bug fixed** The app would not show the preview on some Android devices.. * **Updated to latest SDK's** Allows for making PMT More Better. ### Version 2.5.6 * **Record while you Run** Watch what you record while you control your locomotive with the camera overlay. * **Misc refinements and bug squashing** The code monkey has been busy (me).
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FAQ
What is Poor Man's Throttle?
Poor Man's Throttle is a mobile application that turns your smartphone into a wireless throttle for controlling model trains. It's designed for hobbyists who want to build their own affordable wireless control systems.
How does Poor Man's Throttle improve train control?
It uses PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) motor control, which allows for smoother starting, extremely slow speeds, and strong torque, unlike traditional DC transformers that can cause jerky movements and humming.
What hardware is needed for Poor Man's Throttle?
The system typically requires an ESP32 development board and an IBT-2 motor driver. The total hardware cost is estimated to be around $20 per locomotive, making it a very budget-friendly option.
Can Poor Man's Throttle be used with battery-powered trains?
Yes, the system works exceptionally well with dead-rail locomotives powered by onboard batteries. It offers flexibility in using common hobby battery types like lithium-ion or NiMH packs.
Is Poor Man's Throttle suitable for beginners?
Yes, the app and its associated DIY system are designed to be accessible to both beginner builders and advanced hobbyists. The focus is on simple hardware and open DIY building.
What devices does Poor Man's Throttle support?
Poor Man's Throttle is available for iPhone and iPad. It is designed to run on iOS devices.
How often is Poor Man's Throttle updated?
The latest version is 1.12.2, and the app was last updated on May 17, 2026. This indicates a consistent update schedule for improvements and new features.
Does Poor Man's Throttle have ads?
No, Poor Man's Throttle does not contain advertisements. It is a free application designed for hobbyists without intrusive ads.