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Overview
The 2.4GHz RailBoss R/C is an electronic speed control designed
specifically for controlling large scale trains using low cost readily
available 4-Channel 2.4GHz hobby radios. The RailBoss R/C system
provides extreme flexibility in the way you control your trains. You
have full manual radio control of all the speed, direction, and sound
functions; along with semi-automatic control of station stop and
sound functions, all selectable from the transmitter. Or you can just
sit back and let your train run automatically, making station stops
now and then, and blowing the whistle on occasion.
Manual speed and sound functions include a proportional throttle,
momentum control, direction control (with constant directional light-
ing), multiple train control, and four manual sound triggers of your
choice.
Automate your layout with automated station stops, or back ‘n forth
trolley operation. Gain control over your track magnet triggered
sounds. You decide when and how often they are activated.
A low battery warning function for use with today’s lithium battery technologies lets you get the train back home
before it stops completely somewhere out on the layout.
Many aspects of the throttle are also programmable to match your specific needs; i.e. double-heading locos, real-
istic response, and speed limiting for children.
2.4GHz technology, DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) and FHSS (Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum) have completely changed the way radio controlled hobbies op-
erate. No longer do you have to worry about frequencies or channels.
Your
transmitter con-
trols
your
receiver (or receivers) and no one else’s. The radio interference generated by the
electric motors powering our locos is no longer a problem. Radio range no longer needs to
be discussed, because it is far greater than needed, under all conditions. And with anten-
nae lengths of only 1”, installations are simple. But best of all, this technology is
now available at low cost.
RailBoss R/C controls your locomotive using a standard 4 or 5 channel stick
transmitter. For a Mode 2 radio, the left stick controls the speed functions: propor-
tional throttle and momentum. The right stick controls direction, and manual sound
triggers. The right stick also has many other uses, as explained in detail later.
Turn off the transmitter when not in use to save the transmitter batteries. The Rail-
Boss R/C will maintain your present speed and continue to perform station stops,
if enabled.
A powerful little micro-controller handles all of the control logic and sends signals
to a 5 amp motor driver, which is enough to handle most locomotives pulling a full
train.
Directional lighting outputs are provided for incandescent lamps and/or LEDs without the need for added resistors.
User programmable options give you control over many of the operating parameters, without a computer.
The RailBoss R/C kit consists of a circuit board ( 2.9” X 1.9” ), four cables to connect your receiver to the Rail-
Boss, and PCB spacers for mounting the board. You need to supply the 2.4GHZ transmitter and receiver.
To complete your battery power conversion, you will also need to provide a power on/off switch, charging jack,
battery pack, and battery charger. To make this task easier, we recommend our “Battery Conversion Module”,
which contains a power on/off switch, charging jack, and fast acting fuse. This simplifies the wiring and eliminates
most of the soldering. It also provides power distribution to your sound board and other accessories.
What you get: RailBoss Plus board, 4
R/C cables, PCB mounting spacers. The
DSM2 compatible receiver (upper left) is
not supplied.
To complete the system, you
must supply a suitable
2.4GHZ transmitter and re-
ceiver. Shown here is the
Spektrum AR500 Rx (left)
and DX5E Tx (right), but
other systems may be used.
