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 DIY electronics, offering a cost-effective alternative to commercial systems. Ideal for hobbyists and makers looking to upgrade their DC or dead-rail layouts.
✓Wireless smartphone throttle
✓PWM motor control for smooth operation
✓Control speed, direction, and stop
✓Ideal for DC and dead-rail layouts
✓Low-cost DIY hardware integration
✓Walk-around layout control
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What's New in Poor Man's Throttle
4.2.12
October 28, 2026
### Version 4.2.12 * **Lockout Mode** PMT now supports lockout mode so only the device that has it locked may connect to it. * **Misc refinements and bug squashing** The code monkey has been busy (me). ### Version 4.2.11 * **New FX Commands** Added Firmware Run Script and Firmware Run Script Repeat. ### Version 4.2.10 * **New App diagnostic mode** Now the app can be in diagnostic mode as well to capture anything that happens in PMT. * **Fixed issues with older iPads**. Some older iPads had issues with rendering output controls. This is fixed. ### Version 4.2.9 * **Security Enhancements** Modified the code to stop from sessions being stolen. * **Physical Screen Organization Updates** The system allows for the buttons to be re-organized in the physical screen. ### Version 4.2.7 * **Grade Crossing Sounds** Added support for Grade crossing sounds. ### Version 4.2.6 * **Diagnosis Mode Available** Added diagnostic script inside the app to help with diagnosing problems. ### Version 4.2.5 * **Made Connecting to a throttle more efficient** Now CV's will only be loaded when the app senses they need to be loaded. Faster connect and throttle entry times. ### Version 4.2.4 * **Added RESTful Support** PMT can now integrate with RESTful API's or any HTTP(s) endpoint for even more integration possibilities. ### Version 4.2.3 * **Added support for Remote Commands** Now an FX command can be mapped to a remote Command Relay where the target device is instructed to tell another device to perform a command. * **Enhanced Bulk Transfer Resilience** The BTP (Bulk Transfer Protocol) is more resilient. * **FX Reorder enhancements** Reordering sometimes caused saving issues. now the reordering uses a quiescing strategy to eliminate this issue. * **Added DISCONNECT** App script token to disconnect the current session and return the user back to the scan screen. ### Version 4.2.0 * **Enhanced Output Control Reconciliation** Enhanced reconciliation of controls for to help older iOS devices show updated data. * **Wifi SSID Chooser** The app now will allow you to choose your Wifi SSID from a list. ### Version 4.1.10 * **Fixed WIFI password saving for some Android users** Some Android users were unable to save passwords. ### Version 4.1.3 * **Added support for Urdu language in Pakistan** Pakistan residents are using PMT!! * **Fixed some localization issues** Some vestigial words weren't being translated and now fixed. ### Version 4.1.2 * **Enhanced User Interface for Throttle and Feather Brake** Modified to support Realistic Mode for Feather Brake and enhanced telemetry for UI information. * **Added Switcher Mode as a selectable Physical Control** Users can now assign switcher mode to an HID key. * **Added battery saving view for physical throttle** The physical throttle view can now go into battery saving mode for the smart device. * **Added support for Min Reverse Throttle** The app now supports min throttle for reverse and has a wizard to guide the user into setting it properly. * **Fixed password Timeout issue** Some users were experiencing timeouts when saving Wifi password. ### Version 4.1.0 * **Added Device Command** Now the command slideout on throttle screens can contain buttons to control other devices like switch modules, Horns on other locos, etc. * **FX Output Control Name persistence** Now the full name of a command control is fully persisted on the app. ### Version 4.0.0 * **Physical Throttle Support** Now any physical HID compatible device can be used along with PMT to control Locomotives and your layout. * **Version History Added** The full version history is added to the global configuration page
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FAQ
What is Poor Man's Throttle?
Poor Man's Throttle is a free application that turns your smartphone into a wireless throttle for controlling model trains. It is designed for hobbyists and DIY builders who want a cost-effective way to manage their locomotives.
How does Poor Man's Throttle work?
The app utilizes your smartphone in conjunction with simple, inexpensive ESP32-based hardware to provide wireless control. It employs PWM motor control for smooth operation, especially at low speeds, and allows you to walk around your layout while controlling trains.
What kind of model train layouts does Poor Man's Throttle support?
Poor Man's Throttle is particularly effective for traditional DC layouts, allowing you to set your transformer to full power and use the app for motor control. It also works exceptionally well with dead-rail locomotives powered by onboard batteries.
What is the typical cost of the DIY hardware for Poor Man's Throttle?
The DIY hardware for Poor Man's Throttle, typically consisting of an ESP32 development board and an IBT-2 motor driver, often costs around $20 per locomotive. Many builders may already possess some of the required components.
Is Poor Man's Throttle suitable for beginners?
Yes, Poor Man's Throttle is designed to be accessible to both beginner builders and advanced hobbyists. The project focuses on simple hardware, open DIY building, and sharing knowledge within the model railroad community.
Does Poor Man's Throttle have ads?
No, Poor Man's Throttle does not contain advertisements. It is a free application designed to provide a seamless user experience for model train enthusiasts.
What devices is Poor Man's Throttle compatible with?
Poor Man's Throttle is available for iPhone and iPad devices. It requires iOS 13.0 or later and is compatible with iPod touch.
How often is Poor Man's Throttle updated?
The latest version of Poor Man's Throttle is 4.2.12, which was last updated on October 28, 2026. This indicates a commitment to ongoing development and improvements for the application.
