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EX-CommandStation - Overview

EX-CommandStation Logo EX-CommandStation Logo

A DCC Command Station powers your track and sends digital signals to the locos and accessories through the track. All commercial command stations do that, but we think we do it a lot better for a lot less money.

Our outstanding free, open source, EX-CommandStation software is at the core of our ready-to-run and self-build systems.

Features

An EX‑CommandStation is powerful, DCC and DC Command Station software which you can purchase on a ready-to-run EX-CSB1 or install on self built hardware made from widely available parts.

It supports almost all of the NMRA Digital Command Control (DCC) standards, including:

  • Simultaneous control of multiple locomotives
  • Control of all cab/loco functions (F0-F28 and F29-F68)
  • Control of accessory / function decoders
  • Main Track: Write configuration variable (CV) bytes and set/clear specific CV bits (aka Programming on Main, or POM)
  • Programming Track: Same as the main track with the addition of reading CV bytes

It also includes advanced features, such as:

  • Works on a variety of different microcontroller and motor driver hardware
  • A wiThrottle Server implementation for compatibility with popular WiFi throttles (controllers)
  • A Native Serial Server implementation for use with advanced WiFi and hardware throttles (controllers)
  • General purpose inputs and outputs (I/O) for extensibility (Self Build only)
  • I2C bus for controlling accessories with I2C capability
  • JMRI integration
  • EXRAIL Automation and Animation scripting that can control everything on your layout, including the locos
  • Any output can be used as a DCC Auto Reverser
  • Can be used as a DCC booster (EX-CSB1 only)

It also supports:

Ready to Run or Self Build

Our primary solution is the EX-CommandStation/Booster 1 Express (CSB1) DCC Command Station which provides a ready-to-run system with integrated WiFi. You can start running trains from your Android or iOS phone in a couple of minutes if you plug your track in one end and a power supply in the other.

  • If you want to buy a ready built EX-CommandStation, see Official Suppliers page.
    To follow the basic setup process, see the Quick Setup Guide.

  • If you want to build your own EX-CommandStation and are prepared to learn about Arduinos, ESP32s (and other microcontrollers) see Building your own EX-CommandStation. But you are advised to read the basic guidance so you will have a better understanding of what you want to achieve, and what will be possible.