Difference between revisions of "B-106"

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(page creation - copy of CS-105. Needs edits)
 
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| image=B-106 Final Production Image (1)(smaller).png}}
 
| image=B-106 Final Production Image (1)(smaller).png}}
  
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The CS-105 is an intelligently-designed DCC command station with LCC integration as well as a built-in RailCom® detector. Thoughtfully designed to outperform in every area, the CS-105 is the perfect DCC command station for newcomers, or layout builders or renovators looking for a highly-capable command station with the latest and greatest technology available.
+
The B-106 is an intelligently-designed DCC Auxiliary Booster with LCC integration as well as a built-in RailCom® detector. Thoughtfully designed to outperform in every area, the B-106 is the perfect for layout builders or renovators looking for a highly-capable DCC Booster with the latest and greatest technology available.
  
−
The CS-105 Command Station from TCS is the new DCC standard for model railroads. This system brings a new level of operational convenience to DCC, especially when paired with a UWT-100. The CS-105 also features a wide range of new features compared to the competition. "Soft Start" as well as configurable short circuit detection for the mainline track output decreases the likelihood of burning up fouled decoders as well. Instead of spending time with your head in a manual trying to understand your system, you can consult the intuitive configuration interface of the CS-105 through a TCS throttle such as the UWT-100, allowing you to focus on the important things - operating and enjoying your trains! We are confident that the CS-105 will quickly become your favorite command station to use.
+
The B-106 features "Soft Start" for starting up large blocks with lots of locomotives, as well as configurable short circuit detection for the mainline track output which decreases the likelihood of burning up fouled decoders.
  
−
Also included in the package with the CS-105, power supply, and AC cord are two LCC terminators, detachable track power connector, and detachable programming track connector.
+
Also included in the package with the B-106 is the Power Supply and AC cord, as well as a detachable track power connector.
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
| colspan="3" |This product has two Power Supply options: 12 Volts or 15 Volts
 
| colspan="3" |This product has two Power Supply options: 12 Volts or 15 Volts
 
'''Click on one of the options below to shop:'''
 
'''Click on one of the options below to shop:'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|[https://tcsdcc.com/Zen/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=1362 12V Power Supply]
+
|[https://tcsdcc.com/Zen/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=1365 12V Power Supply]
−
|[https://tcsdcc.com/Zen/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=1363 15V Power Supply]
+
|[https://tcsdcc.com/Zen/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=86&products_id=1366 15V Power Supply]
 
|}
 
|}
−
'''Power Supply Selection:''' When selecting a power supply voltage, you choice should depend on two factors: 1) Modeling Scale 2) Maximum loco speed. For smaller scales such as Z, N, TT, etc., the 12V supply is recommended. The 12V supply is also acceptable for larger scales such as HO; however, if you like to run your trains at higher speeds the 15V supply increases the maximum voltage available to the motor, allowing your models to reach higher top speeds. This is particularly beneficial to modelers of bullet trains and other high-speed passenger services. Both power supply options are rated to supply the CS-105 with up to 5 Amperes of continuous current all day long!
+
'''Power Supply Selection:''' When selecting a power supply voltage, you choice should depend on two factors: 1) Modeling Scale 2) Maximum loco speed. For smaller scales such as Z, N, TT, etc., the 12V supply is recommended. The 12V supply is also acceptable for larger scales such as HO; however, if you like to run your trains at higher speeds the 15V supply increases the maximum voltage available to the motor, allowing your models to reach higher top speeds. This is particularly beneficial to modelers of bullet trains and other high-speed passenger services. Both power supply options are rated to supply the B-106 with up to 6 Amperes of continuous current all day long!
  
 
'''Small Package; Big Power'''
 
'''Small Package; Big Power'''
  
−
The CS-105 is not only feature-packed, but also highly capable with plenty of horsepower for your railroad. The CS-105 has a user-configurable short circuit protection algorithm and current limit up to 5 Amperes. Unlike many systems on the market, when we say "5A continuous" we mean it! The CS-105 can supply up to 5 Amperes of current to your railroad all day and all night long. The CS-105 can also simultaneously operate up to 260 individual locomotives (consisted or solo) thanks to a highly-intelligent packet handler and "stack" management algorithm.
+
The B-106 is not only feature-packed, but also highly capable with plenty of horsepower for your railroad. The B-106 has a user-configurable short circuit protection algorithm and current limit up to 6 Amperes. Unlike many systems on the market, when we say "6 Amps continuous" we mean it! The B-106 can supply up to 6 Amperes of current to your railroad all day and all night long.
  
−
'''Auxiliary Boosters'''
+
'''Global RailCom® Transmission'''
  
−
5 Amps not enough? We understand. That's why we offer auxiliary boosters such as the B-106! Expand out your current capacity while maintaining your RailCom® network using the LCC-enabled B-106 auxiliary booster. Already have a large layout with boosters you don't want to upgrade yet? No problem! The CS-105 can be integrated into existing ecosystems such as Lenz, NCE, Digitrax, and more using our Booster Adapter (sold separately).
+
The B-106 has the ability to add a RailCom cutout onto the rails for use with RailCom command stations such as the B-106. The B-106 also features a "global" RailCom transmitter which operates over LCC to send back RailCom data from within its own district to the command station.
  
 
'''Multiple Connection Modes'''
 
'''Multiple Connection Modes'''
  
−
The CS-105 can be used as a standalone access point for WiFi throttles such as the UWT-50, but can also connect to an auxiliary AP (router) to expand the network and maximum number of throttle connections. In addition to WiFi throttles, wired throttles such as the LT-50 and T-50 wired LCC throttles can be connected through the LCC Can Bus. But that's not all! The "Aux Cabs" jack on the CS-105 allows you to connect and use some other manufacturers' throttles (such as NCE, Ramtraxx, SystemOne, and more) with the CS-105. Add-on devices such as the "LCC-LocoNet Gateway" from RR-CirKits can also be used to interface Digitrax throttles and a PC.
+
The B-106 can be used in conjunction with a [[CS-105]] command station, or adapted for use with any other DCC command station with the "Booster Adapter."
−
 
 
−
'''LCC Integration'''
 
−
 
 
−
LCC Bus connections on the command station allow for direct interfacing with LCC layout devices and modules. You can communicate with any LCC system to control switches, adjust layout lighting, and anything else that the LCC bus is connected to.
 
−
 
 
−
'''RailCom® Integration'''
 
−
 
 
−
RailCom enables bi-directional communication between the command station and decoders. This allows for read-back of CVs while programming on the mainline. The inclusion of RailCom opens up significant opportunities for future features and expansion.
 
−
 
 
−
''RailCom® is a registered trademark of Lenz Elektronik, GmbH''
 
−
 
 
−
'''Consisting'''
 
−
 
 
−
Consisting doesn’t have to be difficult, intimidating, or complicated! The CS-105 features a simple consisting interface where users can make, modify, and break up consists in mere seconds. The CS-105's consisting system also features new and unique configuration options for consisted engines which will make your consisting experience more realistic than ever without having to spend hours setting it up!
 
  
 
'''Full-Text Menus'''
 
'''Full-Text Menus'''
  
−
The settings of the CS-105 can be accessed through a TCS throttle or JMRI. Configuration menus and options are listed in full words and phrases. No guess work or manuals needed! Use the [?] button on the TCS throttle keypad in any menu to access help text for that menu item. The throttle will display a simple description of the highlighted option. Help is always one button press away!
+
The settings of the B-106  can be accessed through a CV programming or JMRI. Configuration menus and options are listed in full words and phrases. No guess work or manuals needed!
−
 
 
−
'''Programming Options'''
 
−
 
 
−
Take advantage of several different programming options with the TCS Command Station. RailCom® programming on the mainline allows for live CV read-back without the need for a dedicated programming track! Or, you may use an isolated programming track to use Direct or Paged mode programming. The TCS CS-105 Command Station does not require an add-on "programming booster" for programming operations, unlike some command stations offered today, and older-generation systems available in the past.
 
−
 
 
−
When programming a decoder, the TCS throttle can display information about the CV down to the individual bit, giving users the ability to further understand and visualize CV's, and manipulate them at the bit level, which is especially useful for CV's used to configure multiple options, such as CV29 or CV61. In addition, when using a TCS throttle, you may press the Help button after entering a a NMRA standard CV number to display a "plain text" explanation of the CV and what it does.* TCS is striving to offer the most user-friendly programming interface possible, while not compromising the operational capabilities in favor of "simplicity."
 
−
 
 
−
'''Easily Updatable'''
 
−
 
 
−
Field-update your software to add new features to your command station from the comfort of your own home. And don't worry, you won't lose your settings or your roster!
 
  
 
==Specifications==
 
==Specifications==
  
−
===DCC System===
+
=== DCC System ===
−
 
 
−
*5 Ampere continuous current rating with soft start, configurable current limit, and load reporting
 
−
*Up to 260 locomotives running simultaneously
 
−
*Up to 300 10-step Macros using both DCC and LCC accessories
 
−
*Integrated RailCom® detector on Mainline and Programming Track
 
−
*Global detector for compatible Boosters, supporting “Ops” CV reads
 
−
*Dedicated Programming Track output with automatic switchover, supporting Direct, Paged, and Register modes
 
−
 
 
−
===Throttle Support===
 
−
 
 
−
*Up to 4 LCC WiFi throttles via on-board WiFi Access Point (AP)
 
−
*Up to 10 LCC WiFi throttles via external WiFi Access Point (Router)
 
−
*Up to 250 LCC throttles, wired or via auxiliary LCC WiFi base stations
 
−
*Up to 62 Cab Bus (NCE wired and wireless, Ramtraxx, and SystemOne) throttles and accessories via AUX RJ-11 jack, including ISE ProtoThrottle™ and WifiTrax WFD-30/31 WiThrottle Protocol Bridge
 
−
*Up to 31 XpressNet™ (Lenz, Roco, ZTC, etc.) throttles and accessories via AUX RJ-11 jack (starting from software version 2.0)
 
−
 
 
−
For more information about throttle capacity, please see [[CS-105 Throttle and Device Capacity]].
 
  
−
For more information on the behaviour of your NCE throttle(s) when using the Aux Cab bus, please see [[Cab Bus]].
+
* 6 Ampere continuous current rating with soft start, configurable current limit and load reporting
 +
* Generates RailCom® cutout
 +
* Integrated RailCom® detector on Mainline, with global transmission for compatible Command Stations
 +
* Can be used with non-TCS Command Stations
  
−
===NMRA Layout Command Control (LCC) Features===
+
=== NMRA Layout Command Control (LCC) Features ===
  
−
*Dual RJ-45 jack for LCC communication through CAN-bus
+
* Dual RJ-45 jack for LCC communication through CAN-bus
−
*400mA output current per LCC port
+
* Diagnostic information and Status feedback over LCC
−
*Built-in WiFi LCC computer interface
+
* Plain English configuration via CV Programming or a PC
−
*Plain English configuration via TCS throttles or a PC
+
* Global RailCom® transmissions over LCC for supporting Command Stations
−
*Supports various DCC boosters connected via LCC cable
+
* Firmware Update via LCC interface
−
*Global RailCom® transmissions over LCC for supporting Boosters
 
−
*Firmware updates via WiFi or LCC interface
 
  
 
==Physical Overview==
 
==Physical Overview==
−
The CS-105 features a case design which is symmetrical in nature, meaning that it can be mounted or oriented in just about any way you could possibly need to, even vertically! TCS does advise against having any obstruction on the vented sides of the case in order to allow for passive air flow, however. We will be referring to these vented sides as Side A and Side B, since what the “back” and “front” are are up to you.
+
The B-106 features a case design which is symmetrical in nature, meaning that it can be mounted or oriented in just about any way you could possibly need to, even vertically! TCS does advise against having any obstruction on the vented sides of the case in order to allow for passive air flow, however. We will be referring to these vented sides as Side A and Side B, since what the “back” and “front” are are up to you.
  
−
Side A features: 1) Single RJ-11 jack 2) Tactile push button 3) Single red LED.
+
Side A features: 1) Green 3-pin connector with detachable screw terminal 2) DC Power input jack 3) Dual RJ-45 LCC connector with four LEDs
−
[[File:CS-105 Side A R1.png|center|thumb|600x600px|Side "A" of the CS-105]]
+
[[File:B-106 Side A R2.png|alt=|center|thumb|600x600px|Side "A" of the B-106]]
  
  
−
Side B features: 1) Green 3-pin connector with detachable screw terminal 2) Black 2-pin connector with detachable screw terminal 3) DC Power input jack 4) Dual RJ-45 LCC connector with four LEDs
+
Side B features: 4) Tactile push button 5) Single red LED.
−
[[File:CS-105 Side B.png|center|thumb|600x600px|Side "B" of the CS-105]]
+
[[File:Booster Side B R2.png|alt=|center|thumb|600x600px|Side "B" of the B-106]]
  
  
−
The purpose of the LEDs is described in detail in the section below.
+
The purpose of the LEDs is described in detail in the section below.<br />
−
<br />
 
  
 
==Status LED's==
 
==Status LED's==
−
The CS-105 includes a total of five LEDs for providing information about the device’s status. The LEDs are also used during configuration as described in the Push Button Configuration section. Additionally, both the user and TCS support can use these LEDs in order to Troubleshoot issues.
+
The B-106 includes a total of five LEDs for providing information about the device’s status. The LEDs are also used during configuration as described in the Push Button Configuration section. Additionally, both the user and TCS support can use these LEDs in order to Troubleshoot issues.
  
−
On Side A of the CS-105 there is a single red Power LED. This LED is constantly on whenever the CS-105 has incoming power. On Side B, the dual RJ-45 LCC connector has the remaining four LEDs in a Yellow, Green, Yellow, Green pattern as shown below:
+
On one side of the B-106 there is a single red Power LED. This LED is constantly on whenever the B-106 has incoming power. On the opposite side, the dual RJ-45 LCC connector has the remaining four LEDs in a Yellow, Green, Yellow, Green pattern as shown below:
−
[[File:Status LEDs R0.png|center|thumb|489x489px|CS-105 Status LED's]]
+
[[File:Booster Status LEDs R0.png|alt=|center|thumb|489x489px|B-106 Status LED's]]
  
 
===Normal Operation===
 
===Normal Operation===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''(From L to R)'''
 
|'''(From L to R)'''
−
|'''CS'''
 
 
|'''Booster'''
 
|'''Booster'''
 
|-
 
|-
Line 129: Line 87:
  
 
closest to the barrel jack
 
closest to the barrel jack
−
| colspan="2" |Track Power
+
|Track Power
  
 
- solid on: track power on
 
- solid on: track power on
Line 140: Line 98:
 
|-
 
|-
 
|'''LED 2 - Green'''
 
|'''LED 2 - Green'''
−
| colspan="2" |CAN Active and LCC Activity
+
|CAN Active and LCC Activity
  
 
- solid on: CAN bus connected
 
- solid on: CAN bus connected
Line 149: Line 107:
 
|-
 
|-
 
|'''LED 3 - Yellow'''
 
|'''LED 3 - Yellow'''
−
|WiFi Status
 
−
 
−
- blink: searching / connecting
 
−
 
−
- constant off, AP mode
 
−
 
−
- constant on, client mode
 
 
|Incoming DCC signal
 
|Incoming DCC signal
  
Line 163: Line 114:
 
|-
 
|-
 
|'''LED 4 - Green'''
 
|'''LED 4 - Green'''
−
|WiFi/LCC Full - '''Either:'''
+
|"Identify" LED
  
−
- 4 WiFi clients (on)
+
''Press button [in JMRI] - LED comes on for 30 seconds''
  
−
- 10 LCC sockets (on)
+
''to help identify this booster within an array of boosters.''
−
|Identify LED
 
−
 
 
−
Press button in CDI - LED comes on for 30 seconds
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|'''LED 4 - Green'''
 
|'''LED 4 - Green'''
  
 
'''(upon crash)'''
 
'''(upon crash)'''
−
| colspan="2" |Blink Codes
+
|Blink Codes
 
|}
 
|}
  
Line 182: Line 130:
  
 
=Track Output=
 
=Track Output=
−
The CS-105 track output can be driven from a wide range of voltages. The output voltage of the system to the track will be the same as the input voltage. The output voltage of the system can be displayed at any time from a TCS throttle as described in the Configuration section of this manual.
+
The DCC track output of the B-106 is designed for a continuous capacity of 6 Amps. This output is also compatible with the Märklin/Motorola protocol, and both protocols can be in use at the same time. The B-106 may be used to power any scale, but it is important to ensure that you are capable of powering your layout with the system. Modern N and HO scale locomotive motors are typically very efficient, even under load. Below, we have included a table for some examples of typical load values which can help you determine how many locomotives the B-106 is capable of supplying by itself:
−
 
 
−
The built-in DCC track output booster of the CS-105 is designed for a continuous capacity of 5 Amps. This output is also compatible with the Märklin/Motorola protocol, and both protocols can be in use at the same time. The CS-105 may be used to power any scale, but it is important to ensure that you are capable of powering your layout with the system. In some cases, one or more add-on devices such as the TCS B-106 Booster may be necessary in order to supply some extra current capacity. Modern N and HO scale locomotive motors are typically very efficient, even under load. Below, we have included a table for some examples of typical load values which can help you determine if the CS-105 is capable of supplying your typical operation by itself:
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|'''Locomotive Type'''
 
|'''Locomotive Type'''
Line 190: Line 136:
 
|'''Locomotive Max Count (Typical)'''
 
|'''Locomotive Max Count (Typical)'''
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Idle/Stationary
+
|(All Scales) Idle/Stationary
 
|0.05A - 0.10A
 
|0.05A - 0.10A
−
|50 - 100
+
|60 - 120
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Idle/Stationary with sound
 
|Idle/Stationary with sound
 
|0.15A - 0.25A
 
|0.15A - 0.25A
−
|20 - 33
+
|24 - 40
 
|-
 
|-
 
|N scale under load
 
|N scale under load
 
|0.15A - 0.35A
 
|0.15A - 0.35A
−
|14 - 33
+
|17 - 40
 
|-
 
|-
 
|N scale under load with sound
 
|N scale under load with sound
 
|0.30A - 0.50A
 
|0.30A - 0.50A
−
|10 - 16
+
|12 - 20
 
|-
 
|-
 
|HO scale under load
 
|HO scale under load
 
|0.25A - 0.50A
 
|0.25A - 0.50A
−
|10 - 20
+
|12 - 24
 
|-
 
|-
 
|HO scale under load with sound
 
|HO scale under load with sound
 
|0.35A - 0.65A
 
|0.35A - 0.65A
−
|7 - 14
+
|9 - 20
 
|}
 
|}
 
Note that the values in the table above are very generalized. Your results will vary for your own locomotives. Some older HO and N scale locomotives used much less efficient motors and can subsequently draw more current. The built in booster has the ability to measure track current, and this feature can be used to characterize a given locomotive for its typical current draw.
 
Note that the values in the table above are very generalized. Your results will vary for your own locomotives. Some older HO and N scale locomotives used much less efficient motors and can subsequently draw more current. The built in booster has the ability to measure track current, and this feature can be used to characterize a given locomotive for its typical current draw.
  
−
The built in booster is equipped with a soft-start mechanism to automatically limit the inrush current symptomatic of older first generation sound decoders. Additional external boosters may be added to the system for supplemental power, always be sure to include the booster common shown in the diagram below (green wire):
+
The track output is equipped with a soft-start mechanism to automatically limit the inrush current symptomatic of older first generation sound decoders. Additional external boosters may be added to the system for supplemental power, always be sure to include the booster common shown in the diagram below (green wire):
−
[[File:CS-105 With B-106 Booster.png|center|thumb|800x800px|Shown above is a simplified diagram of how to wire the CS-105 into a LCC network with an additional B-106]]
+
[[File:CS-105 With B-106 Booster.png|center|thumb|800x800px|Shown above is a simplified diagram of how to wire the B-106 into a LCC network with a [[CS-105]]]]
  
 
==RailCom<sup>®</sup>==
 
==RailCom<sup>®</sup>==
 
RailCom is a bi-directional data communications technology found in The NMRA Recommended Practices RP S-9.3.1 and S-9.3.2. RailCom enables bi-directional communication between the command station and decoders, unlike in traditional DCC where the communication is done exclusively in one direction (from the Command Station to the Decoder). The inclusion of RailCom opens up significant opportunities for future features and expansion. For example, the use of RailCom allows for real-time read-back of CVs while programming on the mainline. In traditional DCC, you would only be able to write to a CV, whereas with RailCom, writing and reading on the mainline are both possible.  
 
RailCom is a bi-directional data communications technology found in The NMRA Recommended Practices RP S-9.3.1 and S-9.3.2. RailCom enables bi-directional communication between the command station and decoders, unlike in traditional DCC where the communication is done exclusively in one direction (from the Command Station to the Decoder). The inclusion of RailCom opens up significant opportunities for future features and expansion. For example, the use of RailCom allows for real-time read-back of CVs while programming on the mainline. In traditional DCC, you would only be able to write to a CV, whereas with RailCom, writing and reading on the mainline are both possible.  
  
−
Some other possibilities such as live feedback on a throttle for fuel/water level, temperature, and many other statistics are also unlocked with RailCom technology. Block detection becomes more integrated with RailCom as well, including the possibility of knowing ''who'' is occupying a block, rather than just knowing a block is occupied. This data could be used further to aide in automation setups and macros. A fleet of rolling stock could also be equipped with basic RailCom decoders to keep track of cars in yards or trains. The potential applications for RailCom are still being explored, and is an untapped wealth of possibilities! What will you do with RailCom and the CS-105?
+
Some other possibilities such as live feedback on a throttle for fuel/water level, temperature, and many other statistics are also unlocked with RailCom technology. Block detection becomes more integrated with RailCom as well, including the possibility of knowing ''who'' is occupying a block, rather than just knowing a block is occupied. This data could be used further to aide in automation setups and macros. A fleet of rolling stock could also be equipped with basic RailCom decoders to keep track of cars in yards or trains. The potential applications for RailCom are still being explored, and is an untapped wealth of possibilities! What will you do with RailCom and the B-106?
  
 
RailCom is a highly-responsive system as well, allowing up to ~126 individual operations per second (depending on the available DCC bandwidth) at a bitrate of 250Kbps by introducing a very brief interruption to the DCC track power. During this interruption, the RailCom detector on the Command Station will send or receive information to and from the decoder.  
 
RailCom is a highly-responsive system as well, allowing up to ~126 individual operations per second (depending on the available DCC bandwidth) at a bitrate of 250Kbps by introducing a very brief interruption to the DCC track power. During this interruption, the RailCom detector on the Command Station will send or receive information to and from the decoder.  
 
Please refer to our online documentation on the TCS Wiki for more information on RailCom, including prerequisites, configuration options, and hardware support within TCS’ product lines. [[Support - RailCom®]]
 
Please refer to our online documentation on the TCS Wiki for more information on RailCom, including prerequisites, configuration options, and hardware support within TCS’ product lines. [[Support - RailCom®]]

Latest revision as of 23:09, 2 August 2022


B-106
B-106 Final Production Image (1)(smaller).png
Device Information
ManufacturerTrain Control Systems
TypeDCC Booster
SKUB-106
Release Date08-09-2022
Retail Price$369.95
PSUDC 12V/90W
or 15V/90W

The B-106 is an intelligently-designed DCC Auxiliary Booster with LCC integration as well as a built-in RailCom® detector. Thoughtfully designed to outperform in every area, the B-106 is the perfect for layout builders or renovators looking for a highly-capable DCC Booster with the latest and greatest technology available.

The B-106 features "Soft Start" for starting up large blocks with lots of locomotives, as well as configurable short circuit detection for the mainline track output which decreases the likelihood of burning up fouled decoders.

Also included in the package with the B-106 is the Power Supply and AC cord, as well as a detachable track power connector.

This product has two Power Supply options: 12 Volts or 15 Volts

Click on one of the options below to shop:

12V Power Supply 15V Power Supply

Power Supply Selection: When selecting a power supply voltage, you choice should depend on two factors: 1) Modeling Scale 2) Maximum loco speed. For smaller scales such as Z, N, TT, etc., the 12V supply is recommended. The 12V supply is also acceptable for larger scales such as HO; however, if you like to run your trains at higher speeds the 15V supply increases the maximum voltage available to the motor, allowing your models to reach higher top speeds. This is particularly beneficial to modelers of bullet trains and other high-speed passenger services. Both power supply options are rated to supply the B-106 with up to 6 Amperes of continuous current all day long!

Small Package; Big Power

The B-106 is not only feature-packed, but also highly capable with plenty of horsepower for your railroad. The B-106 has a user-configurable short circuit protection algorithm and current limit up to 6 Amperes. Unlike many systems on the market, when we say "6 Amps continuous" we mean it! The B-106 can supply up to 6 Amperes of current to your railroad all day and all night long.

Global RailCom® Transmission

The B-106 has the ability to add a RailCom cutout onto the rails for use with RailCom command stations such as the B-106. The B-106 also features a "global" RailCom transmitter which operates over LCC to send back RailCom data from within its own district to the command station.

Multiple Connection Modes

The B-106 can be used in conjunction with a CS-105 command station, or adapted for use with any other DCC command station with the "Booster Adapter."

Full-Text Menus

The settings of the B-106  can be accessed through a CV programming or JMRI. Configuration menus and options are listed in full words and phrases. No guess work or manuals needed!

Specifications

DCC System

  • 6 Ampere continuous current rating with soft start, configurable current limit and load reporting
  • Generates RailCom® cutout
  • Integrated RailCom® detector on Mainline, with global transmission for compatible Command Stations
  • Can be used with non-TCS Command Stations

NMRA Layout Command Control (LCC) Features

  • Dual RJ-45 jack for LCC communication through CAN-bus
  • Diagnostic information and Status feedback over LCC
  • Plain English configuration via CV Programming or a PC
  • Global RailCom® transmissions over LCC for supporting Command Stations
  • Firmware Update via LCC interface

Physical Overview

The B-106 features a case design which is symmetrical in nature, meaning that it can be mounted or oriented in just about any way you could possibly need to, even vertically! TCS does advise against having any obstruction on the vented sides of the case in order to allow for passive air flow, however. We will be referring to these vented sides as Side A and Side B, since what the “back” and “front” are are up to you.

Side A features: 1) Green 3-pin connector with detachable screw terminal 2) DC Power input jack 3) Dual RJ-45 LCC connector with four LEDs

Side "A" of the B-106


Side B features: 4) Tactile push button 5) Single red LED.

Side "B" of the B-106


The purpose of the LEDs is described in detail in the section below.

Status LED's

The B-106 includes a total of five LEDs for providing information about the device’s status. The LEDs are also used during configuration as described in the Push Button Configuration section. Additionally, both the user and TCS support can use these LEDs in order to Troubleshoot issues.

On one side of the B-106 there is a single red Power LED. This LED is constantly on whenever the B-106 has incoming power. On the opposite side, the dual RJ-45 LCC connector has the remaining four LEDs in a Yellow, Green, Yellow, Green pattern as shown below:

B-106 Status LED's

Normal Operation

(From L to R) Booster
LED 1 - Yellow

closest to the barrel jack

Track Power

- solid on: track power on

- solid off: track power off

- fast blink, short circuit

- slow blink: thermal overload

LED 2 - Green CAN Active and LCC Activity

- solid on: CAN bus connected

- solid off: CAN bus disconnected

- blink: LCC activity (TX)

LED 3 - Yellow Incoming DCC signal

- on DCC signal present

- off DCC signal absent

LED 4 - Green "Identify" LED

Press button [in JMRI] - LED comes on for 30 seconds

to help identify this booster within an array of boosters.

LED 4 - Green

(upon crash)

Blink Codes

Bootloader

When the device is in Firmware Upgrade mode, LED 1 and LED 4 are alternately blinking like a grade crossing. LED 2 (LCC) and LED 3 (WiFi) are operating as normal.

Track Output

The DCC track output of the B-106 is designed for a continuous capacity of 6 Amps. This output is also compatible with the Märklin/Motorola protocol, and both protocols can be in use at the same time. The B-106 may be used to power any scale, but it is important to ensure that you are capable of powering your layout with the system. Modern N and HO scale locomotive motors are typically very efficient, even under load. Below, we have included a table for some examples of typical load values which can help you determine how many locomotives the B-106 is capable of supplying by itself:

Locomotive Type Typical Current Draw Locomotive Max Count (Typical)
(All Scales) Idle/Stationary 0.05A - 0.10A 60 - 120
Idle/Stationary with sound 0.15A - 0.25A 24 - 40
N scale under load 0.15A - 0.35A 17 - 40
N scale under load with sound 0.30A - 0.50A 12 - 20
HO scale under load 0.25A - 0.50A 12 - 24
HO scale under load with sound 0.35A - 0.65A 9 - 20

Note that the values in the table above are very generalized. Your results will vary for your own locomotives. Some older HO and N scale locomotives used much less efficient motors and can subsequently draw more current. The built in booster has the ability to measure track current, and this feature can be used to characterize a given locomotive for its typical current draw.

The track output is equipped with a soft-start mechanism to automatically limit the inrush current symptomatic of older first generation sound decoders. Additional external boosters may be added to the system for supplemental power, always be sure to include the booster common shown in the diagram below (green wire):

Shown above is a simplified diagram of how to wire the B-106 into a LCC network with a CS-105

RailCom®

RailCom is a bi-directional data communications technology found in The NMRA Recommended Practices RP S-9.3.1 and S-9.3.2. RailCom enables bi-directional communication between the command station and decoders, unlike in traditional DCC where the communication is done exclusively in one direction (from the Command Station to the Decoder). The inclusion of RailCom opens up significant opportunities for future features and expansion. For example, the use of RailCom allows for real-time read-back of CVs while programming on the mainline. In traditional DCC, you would only be able to write to a CV, whereas with RailCom, writing and reading on the mainline are both possible.

Some other possibilities such as live feedback on a throttle for fuel/water level, temperature, and many other statistics are also unlocked with RailCom technology. Block detection becomes more integrated with RailCom as well, including the possibility of knowing who is occupying a block, rather than just knowing a block is occupied. This data could be used further to aide in automation setups and macros. A fleet of rolling stock could also be equipped with basic RailCom decoders to keep track of cars in yards or trains. The potential applications for RailCom are still being explored, and is an untapped wealth of possibilities! What will you do with RailCom and the B-106?

RailCom is a highly-responsive system as well, allowing up to ~126 individual operations per second (depending on the available DCC bandwidth) at a bitrate of 250Kbps by introducing a very brief interruption to the DCC track power. During this interruption, the RailCom detector on the Command Station will send or receive information to and from the decoder. Please refer to our online documentation on the TCS Wiki for more information on RailCom, including prerequisites, configuration options, and hardware support within TCS’ product lines. Support - RailCom®

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