EX-CSB1 EX‑CommandStation/Booster One Express
Overview
The EX‑CommandStation/Booster One Express is the first fully integrated DCC Command Station with DC PWM and Booster mode capabilities. This versatile board can function as a complete Command Station with USB or WiFi connectivity or serve as a stand-alone booster, making it an ideal addition to any layout, including those using non-DCC-EX systems.
The EX-CSB1’s robust, single-PCB design includes integrated MOSFET motor drivers from Texas Instruments, providing up to 5A peak power per track output. This allows for simultaneous operation of multiple trains with reduced power consumption and heat generation compared to traditional systems.
With its dual role as a command station or booster, the EX-CSB1 can be strategically placed around a layout, seamlessly switching to booster mode upon detecting a RailSync input signal. This feature is particularly useful for modular layouts, ensuring smooth operation across different sections once joined together and slaved to a master DCC signal. Distributing power around the layout also reduces the cost of heavy copper lines to carry the DCC signal that would otherwise be needed with centralised power.
An additional DCC-EX EX-MotorShield 8874 can be inserted onto the command station board to provide two more DCC or PWM DC outputs with the same performance characteristics and output mode flexibility.
The system includes comprehensive protection features such as reverse polarity protection, hardware and software overcurrent protection, overvoltage protection, and thermal protection. It also provides clear status indications via LEDs for microcontroller power, track input supply, track output power per output channel, DCC/DC mode indication and direction for DC mode, and WiFi connection status.
The EX‑CommandStation/Booster One Express’s built-in EXRAIL layout Animation and Automation capabilities enable advanced control of layout operations, including crossing controls, signal management, automated train routing, layout lighting control, and much more whilst being much simpler to learn than Arduino C++ programming.
Features & Specifications
Key Features:
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All-in-one DCC Command Station/Booster: Compatible with DCC and capable of PWM DC output
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Built-in Fast WiFi: Supports up to 10 simultaneous throttle connections, expandable with JMRI
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Advanced Hardware: Utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller with dual DCC or PWM DC 5A outputs, including variable current limit control
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Expandable Outputs: Can accept a DCC-EX EX-MotorShield8874 for two additional DCC/DC PWM outputs, providing power to four total districts. Multiple EX-CSB1s can be added as boosters around the layout.
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Protection & Safety: Software programmable over-current protection, and hardware over-current, over-temperature and reverse voltage protection
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Versatile Power Supply: Operates with a single 12V to 25V power supply that powers the entire system
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USB-C Interface: For easy software updates, connection to EX-WebThrottle or JMRI, and logging/debugging
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Accessory Support: Qwiic/STEMMA QT 3.3V, compatible I2C connector and extra I2C pin headers for all your accessories
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Pre-Installed with DCC-EX Command Station Software from most suppliers
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Auto-Reverser capability assignable to each DCC output independently
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RailSync DCC input for automatic booster mode engagement under software control (EX-RAIL)
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OLED Display: Bundled graphical display for status and diagnostics, with support for additional displays
Benefits include:
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Ready-To-Run: Pre-assembled, with no need for additional assembly or configuration
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Enhanced Performance: Faster WiFi than an ESP8266 with support for double the number of connections, faster processor, and a great deal more memory than an Arduino Mega for complex EXRAIL automation/animation scripts
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Efficient Power Usage: Less voltage drop, ensuring more power reaches the track
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Flexible Output Management (TrackManager tm support): Dynamically assign outputs to different modes (DC/DCC/PROG/Auto-Reverse), with proper NMRA current limits
