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Connecting to your layout

This page explains how to connect your self built EX-CommandStation to your layout and programming track.

This page is for self built EX-CommandStations only. If you have an EX-CSB1 please refer to the corresponding page.

How you connect your self built EX-CommandStation to your layout changes slightly depending on the Motor Driver that you used in your self build.

Connecting an EX-MotorShield8874

The EX-CommandStation needs the minimum following connections to be able to run trains:

EX-8874 Power

  • Power input on the 2.1mm black barrel connector – accepts 10-25V DC fully regulated, preferably a modern switch-mode power brick, double-insulated with good power overload protection. See the selecting power supply page for information on selecting a suitable power supply.

  • At least one track connection – on either the Track Output A (topmost) or Track Output B (beside the power) connector.

    Note that by default, A is configured for DCC MAIN operation, and B is configured for PROG or programming track. We recommend connecting your track to the A MAIN output initially to test running of trains.

Connecting a Standard Arduino Motor Shield

The EX-CommandStation needs the minimum following connections to be able to run trains:

Arduino Motor Shield Power

  • Power input for the motor shield – accepts 10-25V DC fully regulated, preferably a modern switch-mode power brick, double-insulated with good power overload protection. See the selecting power supply page for information on selecting a suitable power supply.

  • Power supply for the Arduino Mega. This can be either:

    • 7-9v DC power input on the 2.1 barrel connector - Recommended

    • USB power - Not recommended

      Powering with a USB power supply generally works, but can cause issues if you have installed an optional WiFi shield or any other connected devices.

  • At least one track connection – on either the Track Output A (beside the power) or Track Output B connector.

    Note that by default, A is configured for DCC MAIN operation, and B is configured for PROG or programming track. We recommend connecting your track to the A MAIN output initially to test running of trains.

Why does the standard motor driver need an extra power supply?

For Arduino Mega with Either the 'Arduino Motor Shield R38' or 'Deek-Robot Motor Shield', you need at least two different voltages. The Arduino needs ~5vDC and the Motor driver needs significantly more voltage to provide power to the track (see below).

Both your microcontroller (the Arduino) and the motor driver need power. While we recommend a 7-9 Volt, 1 Amp, DC power supply for an Arduino Uno or Mega, there are other ways to power it.

The voltage requirement to the motor driver does not change based on how you power your Arduino, you need the correct voltage and amperage for your scale/gauge and layout.

Connecting other types of Motor Driver

TODO LOW - physically connecting DIY EX-CS to a layout - Other Motor Shields