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EX-Installer

Not needed for EX-CSB1

This step is not normally needed if you purchased an EX-CSB1 as it will come with the EX‑CommandStation software already installed. You only need to consider this page if you want to change the default configuration.

With the exception of a EX-CommandStation/Booster 1 Express EX-CSB1, used solely as shipped with no accessories or options, you will need to download and install software to your EX-CommandStation or other DCC-EX products.

The options to install the software include:

The recommended approach is to let the process be managed by EX-Installer which is responsible for obtaining the relevant software and libraries, merging your custom configurations and mind-bending automations, locating the USB connection to your device, compiling and downloading the result and showing the serial log from your device if required.

Since every layout is essentially a prototype, and there are a huge variety of hardware build combinations, it is not possible to download a pre-built firmware package from the web.

We highly recommend using EX-Installer to configure and install EX-CommandStation, EX-IOExpander, and EX-Turntable in preference to using the Arduino IDE or VSCode for all but highly technical users. (See alternates below.)

EX-Installer is aimed to be easy to use, and also supports getting help and support by providing the mechanism to obtain log files and monitor your device which is necessary to provide sufficient information to get help.

Warning Antivirus Software

You may need to turn off your antivirus software before you try to install, or you may be prompted to trust this executable.

Sometimes our software gets blocked by antivirus applications. If you see any errors on the installation screen, this is usually the issue.

Download EX-Installer

Windows x64 macOS Linux x64

NOTE: There is no support for EX-Installer on Windows 7, nor 32-bit operating systems such as Windows x32 or RaspberryPi OS.

Alternatives to the EX-Installer

Experienced programmers or those wishing to develop new features or products will generally find VSCode/PlatformIO a more powerful and familiar option.

Methods involving downloading zip files have caused support issues in the past, are troublesome and not recommended.

Use of the Arduino IDE is discouraged and not covered in this documentation as it has far less functionality than VSCode and has limitations with respect to compiler and library options.