G-Scale Graphics RailBoss 4 Basic Specification sheet

Page
Revision C: Updated 6/9/2015
Operation and Installation Manual
G-Scale Graphics
4118 Clayton Ct.
Fort Collins, CO 805 5
970-581-3567
[e-mail]
www.GScaleGraphics.net
Revision E: Updated 6/9/2015
The Next Generation of

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Contents
Page
Overview .. 3
he Radio System .. 4
he RailBoss Control Board ..... 4
Kid’s ransmitter ........ 5
Installation ... 6
Setup and esting .. 8
Manual Operation ... 9
hrottle Programming ....... 9
Low Battery Warning ..... 10
ransmitter Command Summary .... 11
rouble Shooting Manual Operation ....... 12
Automated Operation ..... 13
rouble Shooting Automated Operation ...... 14
Multi - rain Operation ........ 15
rouble Shooting Multi- rain ..... 16
User Programming ......... 17
User Programming Chart ......... 19
Specifications ...... 20
RailBoss Product Comparison . 21
Wiring Diagram ....... 22

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Overview
RailBoss 4 Basic
is an electronic speed control designed specifically
for controlling large scale trains using a small hand-
held 2.4GHZ transmitter. It provides all of the basic
speed control and sound functions you would expect.
• Precise speed control with selectable rates for
switching or prototypical acceleration
(momentum)
• Speed matching via min/max throttle limits
• Directional lighting outputs for lamps or LEDs
(with no external resistors)
• Four sound trigger outputs
• User programmable
• Kid’s transmitter (optional)
Many aspects of the throttle are programmable to
match your specific needs; i.e. double-heading locos,
realistic response, and speed limiting for children.
he 2.4GHz radio system has no frequencies or
channels to worry about. Your transmitter controls
your receiver (or receivers) and no one else’s. he
radio interference generated by the electric motors powering our locos is no longer a problem. Radio range is ex-
cellent and the transmitter easily fits in a shirt or pants pocket.
A powerful 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. ypical current draw for one loco motor is less than 1 amp.
he optional 10 amp motor driver will handle multiple loco consists running from one controller.
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.
In addition to controlling speed via Faster/Slower buttons, the 6-button transmitter can also control loco direction,
sound triggers, un-couplers, momentum on/off, track whistle on/off, station stops on/off, and more.
A 2-button Kids’ ransmitter is also available, which allows them to blow the whistle/horn, sound the bell, and start
the train from a station stop. hey have fun. Your train stays on the tracks!
RailBoss 4 Plus
has all of the Basic RailBoss functions plus these:
• Automated station stops with statistical control via track magnets
• Automatic spacing of multiple trains running on the same loop (RB4 20 and later software)
• Low battery warning and cutoff for Lithium-Ion and Li-Po battery packs
• Statistical control of the track activated whistle
• wo high current outputs for Phoenix remote un-couplers, smoke units, or other accessories
Automate your layout with automated station stops, back ‘n forth trolley operation, or multiple trains running on
the same loop with automatic train separation (Multi- rain for RB4 20 and later software). Gain control over
your track magnet triggered whistle. You decide when and how often it is activated.
A low battery warning function for use with today’s lithium battery technologies (Li-Ion & Li-Po) lets you get the
train back home before it stops dead somewhere out on the layout due to the protection circuit built into the bat-
tery pack.
Integrated receiver/electronic speed control
and hand-held transmitter

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Locomotive Hardware consists of a RailBoss 4 Rx (combined
control board and receiver, 3.2” X 2.0” ), and an optional reed
switch for automated station stops (the Bell reed from your sound
system can be used for both station stops and the bell).
he Handheld ransmitter can be used to control your entire
fleet of locos, any one at a time. Or multiple transmitters can be
used to run multiple trains at the same time.
o complete your battery power conversion, you will also need to
provide a power on/off switch, charging jack, battery pack, and
battery charger. o make this task easier, we recommend our
“Battery Conversion Module”, which contains a power on/off
switch, charging jack, and fast acting fuse. his simplifies the
wiring and eliminates most of the soldering. It also provides
power distribution to your sound board and other accessories.
We also have cables available for: battery connections, and loco
to tender or trailing car to loco (2 wire or 4 wire).
The Radio System
RailBoss 4 uses a new high-tech 2.4GHZ system designed for industrial use. he range is excellent, up to 250
ft., and in most cases still works when the loco is hidden from view.
he radio in each transmitter and each locomotive is actually a transceiver, so bidirectional communications be-
tween every radio is possible. When running in “Multi- rain” mode, all locos are in constant communication with
each other to report their track position. In fact, if you have multiple locomotives running, the system will act as a
mesh network, relaying signals via the most reliable radio path to your loco.
One transmitter can be used to control your entire fleet of locos, any one at a time. Just turn on the loco you want
to run, and the others off.
Each RailBoss 4 Rx “learns” a transmitter and will only respond to that transmitter and no others. Press the
Learn button on the RailBoss 4 Rx. he LED and front headlight will start blinking. Press the Stop key on the
transmitter until the LED stops blinking. hey are now linked together. If you routinely need to pass control of a
locomotive from one transmitter to another, this can be done without accessing the RailBoss 4 Rx by mounting a
remote push-button on your locomotive (see wiring diagram).
Multiple transmitters can be used to run more than one train at a time, without interference. here are no channels
or frequency selections to worry about.
Interference from locomotive motors or other radio/noise sources is not a problem. No filters or special antenna
placement is required.
he 6-button handheld transmitter uses a long lasting replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery. here is no on/off
switch. It is always ready to use, and only transmits while a button is pressed.
The RailBoss Rx Control Board
he RailBoss 4 Rx is a combination control board and radio transceiver. ransmitter commands control a power-
ful (and silent) PWM (pulse width modulation) motor driver designed to allow nice slow prototypical speed control
of your locomotive. Adding momentum to the throttle enhances the prototypical operation. Momentum is fully pro-
grammable, and can be turned on and off via the transmitter to assist with switching operations.
RailBoss 4 Rx operates over a wide range of battery input voltage (7-25V, i.e. 2-6 Lithium cells, or 7-16 NiMh/
NiCad cells). he battery input is protected from damage due to reverse polarity.
RailBoss 4 Rx has directional lighting outputs capable of driving incandescent lamps or LEDs without the need
for user supplied resistors. Lamps are powered from the battery voltage. LEDs are powered from a current source

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built into the RailBoss 4. he front and rear lights follow the direction of the locomotive. he front light is also used
as feedback to the operator during programming procedures and low battery warning.
Four user defined outputs controlled from the transmitter can be used for sound triggers, phoenix un-couplers, or
smoke units.
Switch inputs are provided for automating station stops, control of the track activated whistle, and remotely learn-
ing a transmitter.
A DIP switch, push-button and LED provide simple user programming for many different functions.
he integrated 2.4GHZ radio receiver and antenna provide excellent operating range.
Kid’s Transmitter
An optional Kid’s X is available to let your kids have some control without wreck-
ing the train! (RB4 40 and later software) he left button will sound the horn/
whistle and the right button rings the bell. Pressing either button while the train
has made an automated station stop will make it leave the station. You still have
full control using your full 6-button transmitter.
Of course the kids may just keep pressing the buttons as fast as they can, so
user programmable parameter 8 allows you to lockout the buttons for X seconds
before they will work again. ( eaches them patience.)
Learn the Kid’s X by pressing the x Learn button on the RB4 board and then
press either the Whistle or the Bell button on the Kid’s X.
Outputs for Sound Triggers, Lights,
Un-Couplers, or smoke units
Switch Inputs
User
Programming
& Diagnostic LED
Power In
Motor Out
.4GHZ
Radio &
Antenna
Tx Learn
RB4 Plus 10 amp
Rx/ESC
3. ” X .0”

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Installation
Track Power to Battery Power Conversion
All track powered locomotives are very simple, electrically. rack power is picked up from the rails via pickups and
usually connected directly to the motor. Sometimes there are switches in the circuit to reverse polarity or turn off
track power. hese connections need to be modified in order to properly connect the battery powered driver
board.
Converting to battery power consists of these basic steps.
1. Determine battery voltage requirements.
Before you disturb any wiring, run your locomotive at the fastest speed you like to run on your layout and
measure the track voltage. Add at least 2 volts to this measurement to account for low batteries and driver
losses. If using NiCad or NiMh batteries, round this value up to the nearest 1.2v increment, and you have the
number of cells you need. For lithium cells, round up to the nearest 3.7v increment.
For example: rack voltage measures 11.6V at speed. (11.6 + 2)/ 3.7 = 3.7. Rounding up to 4, you will need a
4 cell Lithium-Ion battery pack. 4 X 3.7V = 14.8V. (14.8V is a popular value for steam locomotives. Many crit-
ters can run on 12V. Diesels may require 18V or more).
. Disconnect the track power pickups.
By isolating your locomotive from track power, you can run more than one locomotive on the same track at
the same time, either battery powered or track powered. If you don’t do this, your battery will be directly con-
nected to your track power supply, resulting in damage. Note that in doing this, you have also removed power
from all lighting circuits, smoke units, and any other accessories that were running from track power. For bat-
tery power, smoke units are usually not used due to the high current requirements that will quickly drain the
battery pack. Understanding existing wiring and/or circuit boards without documentation can be difficult. You
may choose to just remove it all and wire directly to the things you can see and understand.
3. Find a direct connection to the motor.
he output of the controller needs to be connected directly to the motor. All other control boards and switches
should be removed from the circuit. Depending on the design of the locomotive, this may be an extremely
simple process, or it may be difficult. Some motor blocks make it very simple. You will find two pairs of wires.
One set goes to the track pickups, and the other goes to the motor. You can verify which pair goes to the
track pickups using a continuity checker or ohmmeter. rack pickups will have continuity from one pin to one
set of wheels. he motor will read a small resistance value across the two wires (e.g. 18 ohms). Simply dis-
connect the track pickup pair and connect the motor pair to the controller.
4. Install the discrete components and wire them together
(battery pack, power on/off switch, fuses, charging jack, controller, Receiver, and lights)
Installing the new components is a packaging exercise. Where will it all fit? Space for the battery pack and
control board and receiver is usually the biggest consideration. For smaller locos you may need to install
some of all of the system in a trailing car. he G-Scale Graphics “Battery Power Conversion Module” makes
installation easier in many cases by putting the on/off switch, fuse, and charging jack all one small circuit
board with screw terminals to eliminate soldering.
Wiring
Always use stranded wire and tin the ends with solder prior to making any connections. Wiring for the power input
and motor output circuitry on the terminals marked B+,B-,M+,M- needs to be heavier gauge wire (20 or 22 Ga.)
Any wiring connections or splices not directly connected to a component must be covered. Use heat shrink tubing
or wire nuts are more reliable than tape.
Skills
All connections to the RailBoss Control can be made via screw terminals. However, basic wiring and soldering
skills may be required to make proper connections to the power on/off switch and charging jack. Some drilling and
minor fabrication or modifications to the unit under conversion may also be required.
Tools & Materials
A low wattage soldering iron, side cutters, needle-nose pliers, wire strippers, a 1/16” or 5/64” slotted screwdriver,
resin core solder, 22 Ga. Wire, and heat shrink tubing are recommended to properly complete the wiring. A suit-
able drill and double-sided foam tape may be useful for mounting components.

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Installation of the RailBoss Control Board
he RailBoss board can be mounted most anywhere, but allow space for access to wiring, and no metal should
be in contact with the board. he power components (large metal tabs) will get hot, so keep them out of direct
contact with plastic. Holes in the corners of the board can be used for screws and/or PCB stand-offs. Make sure
the stand-offs don’t touch any circuit board components. Or double-sided foam tape on the bottom side of board
can be used to secure the board to a plastic surface. Handle the board by the edges, avoiding direct contact with
the circuitry. Static electricity can damage the components. ry to ground yourself by touching something metal
prior to handling the board. Refer to the wiring diagrams at the end of this manual.
Power Input (Battery)
he RailBoss Control will not function below 7v input at terminals B+, B-. Reverse polarity will not cause damage,
but the RailBoss will not operate. This product is not intended for track power applications where polarity
reverses.
he higher the battery voltage the more heat the RailBoss will produce. Voltage in excess of 25V may damage
circuit board components. Battery packs of 7 to 16 NiMh/NiCad cells or 2 to 6 Lithium-Ion/Polymer cells are suit-
able.
When making wiring connections to the battery pack, use extreme caution to avoid shorting the leads together. Do
not connect the battery to the circuit until all other wiring has been completed. he battery pack should have a
quick disconnect connector for safety and ease of replacement.
he power on/off switch can be located on the floor under the loco. If you have a critter, the charging jack can also
be floor mounted, since you will probably take it off the track for charging. For a full size locomotive and/or tender,
you may want to locate the charging jack on the end of the car to enable charging in place on the track. he
switch in the charging jack isolates the battery from all other electronics when a jack is plugged in, regardless of
the position of the power on/off switch. Note: A G-Scale Graphics “Battery Conversion module” will greatly simplify
the power input wiring and provide screw terminals for connections.
A 5-amp fuse in-line with the battery input is recommended. his is also included in the G-Scale Graphics “Battery
Conversion module”. (10 amp models should use a 10-amp fuse).
Motor Output
Connect directly to the motor. All other unknown circuitry should be disconnected from the motor. A maximum of 5
amps continuous current is available from the board. Warning! At max current the power transistors on the board
(metal tabs) will be extremely hot. Enough to burn you if touched, or melt any plastic they come in contact with.
At power-up the motor output will provide a voltage to the motor that is positive on terminal M+, negative on M-.
his is intended to be the forward direction of the locomotive.
Outputs for Lighting and other devices
Lamps: erminal 1 provides battery power for Incandescent lamps. So the voltage rating of
your lamps must match the battery voltage. When battery voltage exceeds the lamp rating,
use a resistor of appropriate
value in series with terminal 1.
Multiple lamps may be connected
in parallel, but total current draw
for terminals 3,4,5,6,7, or 8
should not exceed 250 ma each.
erminals 9 and 10 should not
exceed 750 ma each.
LEDs: erminal 2 provides an
11ma current source for LEDs.
No current limiting resistors are
required. Connect LEDs; terminal
2 to the anodes(+), and terminals 3 and 4 to the cath-
odes(-) of the forward and reverse LEDs respectively.
Multiple LEDs can be connected in series.
LED

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Sound Triggers
Outputs are provided for up to four sound triggers to a sound board. hese are open collector outputs that pull the
sound board input low to common (ground) to trigger the sound. he battery common (-), connected to both the
RailBoss and the sound board is the return path. he 1 output needs to be connected to the whistle and 2 to
the bell in order for the RailBoss automation to work properly. 3 and 4 can be anything you like, 250ma max.
Wiring diagrams for specific sound systems are a ailable on our website.
he Whistle trigger is playable; i.e. the whistle will sound as long as you hold the button down. he Bell trigger
and 3, 4 triggers can be either momentary or latched via user programming options.
High Current Outputs at terminals 9 and 10.
hese terminals are primarily for use with Phoenix Un-Couplers. he output is momentary, and designed specifi-
cally for use with Phoenix Sound Un-Couplers. However, they can be user programmed for latched operation,
making them suitable for lights, relays, smoke units, etc; anything with a maximum load of 5 amps.
(Again—Warning: Latched operation with Un-Couplers attached will destroy them.)
Reed Switches
he bell reed switch at terminal 12 is required for automated stations stops. he whistle
reed switch at terminal 11 is only required when using the RailBoss to modify the behavior
of your sound board when using track magnets. he same two reed switches can operate
both the RailBoss and your sound board. (See Operation section)
Reed switches must be installed within 1/4” of track magnets, in either a horizontal or vertical orientation. You can
usually mount them on the underside of a truck in the horizontal position parallel with the track. Silicone adhesive
works well. Or, they can be vertically mounted through a 1/4” diameter hole in the floor of the vehicle. Do not
mount the reed switch below the level of rail tops, as it will hit the rails in turnouts.
Setup and Testing
he on-board green LED can be used to check out your wiring and most of the board functions. his should be all
you need to get going, but if you are still having problems and you have a volt-ohm meter you can also take the
measurements indicated below.
Power-up (RailBoss LED ON)
When power is first applied to the board, the LED should be ON. his tells you the power input polarity is correct
and the RailBoss Control’s power supplies are working. Measure +3.2 +- 0.2 VDC at terminal 14+, 15-. If there is
a problem, check the voltage and polarity at terminals B+, B-. It should measure between +7.0 and +25.0 VDC.
ransmitter / Receiver Setup
here are no channels or frequencies to worry about. Your receiver will only respond to your transmitter, and no
others.
Each receiver must “Learn” the transmitter it is expected to respond to. his only needs to be done once, or when-
ever reassigning a receiver/loco to a new transmitter. Press the Learn button on the RailBoss 4 Rx (or use the
remote learn button). he LED and front headlight will start blinking. hen press the Stop key on the transmitter
until the LED stops blinking. hey are now linked together.
he transmitter is powered by a CR2032 coin cell battery, accessible by removing the 3 screws on the back.
Pressing any key on the transmitter should cause the RailBoss LED to blink off. If it doesn’t check the transmitter
battery. It should measure at least 2.5V. A new battery measures 3.0V.
Outputs
At RailBoss power-up, direction is set to “forward”. he Front Light should be ON (if connected) and the Reverse
Light should be OFF. When changing direction with the transmitter (by holding the Stop button), you may hear the
relay on the RailBoss click. In reverse, the Reverse Light should be ON, and the Front Light OFF. Direction can
only be changed while stopped. If the loco is operating backwards from this, reverse the motor wiring at M+,M-.
Sound trigger outputs momentarily switch low (battery -) upon activation. Wiring diagrams for specific sound sys-
tems are a ailable on our website.
Reed witch

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Reed Switches
Closing the reed switch with a magnet, or by moving the loco over a track magnet, will cause the LED to turn off
while the contacts are closed. If not, check the wiring.
Manual Operation
Power-Up
At power-up, the locomotive will be stopped, ready to proceed forward. Momentum is off (fast rate), station stops
are disabled and auto track whistle is enabled.
Setting Direction
Pressing the Stop/Dir button while stopped will change the direction of the loco. Observe the front light of the loco
to determine present direction. he loco will power up per User Programming parameter 5. Normal power-up is in
the forward direction. When consisting locos, you may need to set this for reverse on power-up for a loco facing
backwards.
Directional Lighting
Front Light is only ON in forward, Rear Light is only ON in reverse.
Setting Speed
he Faster and Slower buttons will change the speed setting. Momentary presses for small speed changes, or
hold the button down to ramp speed up or down. Min and Max Speed settings are set in hrottle Programming
mode. he default settings are Min Speed = 0% battery voltage, and Max Speed = 100% battery voltage.
Momentum/Fast Rate
“Momentum” is a delayed response to a change in speed setting. his simulates the slow response of a heavy
train. oggle the rate from fast to momentum, and vice versa, by pressing “2nd, Stop/Dir”. When toggled, immedi-
ate user feedback is provided via the Whistle (Fast Rate) or the Bell (Momentum). Use the fast rate for a quicker
response during switching moves.
Emergency Stops
Holding the Stop button while running will make a quick stop, but not instantaneous. his avoids gear damage
due to the real momentum of the train.
Manually Triggering Sounds from the Transmitter
he Bell and Whistle triggers are accessible directly using the “Whistle” and “Bell” buttons. Out 3 and Out 4 re-
quire use of the 2nd key and Whistle (Out 3) or Bell (Out 4). he Bell and Out 3,4 can be programmed for momen-
tary or latched operation. he Whistle/Horn will continue to trigger as long as the button is held down, allowing
you to “Play” the whistle on some sound systems (Software revision 40 and later). In order to use the manual
sound triggers, the sound trigger outputs must be connected to your sound board.
Automated Whistle/Horn Triggers from Track Magnets
he track activated whistle can be toggled on/off from the transmitter. his is useful when the automated whistle
gets annoying or you just want quiet operation. oggle the track whistle on or off using 2nd key and Faster but-
tons. When toggled, immediate user feedback is provided via the whistle. if enabled, the whistle will sound. If dis-
abled it will not. When enabled, track magnets will sound the whistle according to the User Programmed setting in
parameter 2.
Automated Station Stops
Automated station stops can also be toggled on/off from the transmitter using 2nd key and Slower buttons. When
toggled, immediate user feedback is provided via the bell. if enabled, the bell will sound. If disabled it will not.
When enabled, station stops will occur per User Programmed setting in parameter 3.
Throttle Programming
You can program the min and max throttle speeds (voltage). Most motors require more than 0 volts to get moving,
so if you set the min speed just slightly less than what it takes to make the loco move, you will eliminate the delay
in getting the loco moving. Max speed setting is useful for setting a safe maximum speed to avoid derailments
when children are operating the loco.
o enter throttle programming mode, hold the 2nd key, Slower, and Stop buttons down until the LED starts flash-
ing at a fast rate. You will now have full speed control from 0 to 100% battery voltage.

Page 10
o set min speed, use the Faster button to just barely get the loco moving. hen use the Slower button to just
Stop it. Press Bell to save the min speed (Speed must be less than 50% battery voltage).
o set max speed, use the Faster and Slower buttons to run the loco at the desired speed. Press Whistle to save
the max speed setting (Speed must be greater than 50% battery voltage).
o return to default throttle settings (min speed = 0% voltage, max speed = 100% voltage), press the 2nd key to
save the default settings.
Press the Stop button to save the setting and exit throttle programming mode. LED will stop flashing. Note: Only
one setting, either Min or Max can be set at one time. Exit to save, then re-enter for the second setting.
Speed Matching of Locos
Use hrottle programming min speed to ensure that both locos start at the same time. hen adjust User Parame-
ter 4 to get the same acceleration from each loco. Note: If the top end speeds of each loco differ greatly, this may
not work satisfactorily. ( he Max speed adjustment won’t help with speed matching).
Diesel Consists
Diesel consists often require one more of the locos to be facing backwards from the front loco. Use programming
parameter 5 to reverse the polarity of the reverse facing loco. It will then power-up in reverse. One transmitter can
then control both locos (or more) properly.
Assigning the Transmitter to a New Locomotive
his is easily accomplished using a remote Learn button (see wiring diagram). Simply press the remote learn but-
ton (or the PCB mounted learn button on the RailBoss 4 board), then press the Stop button on the transmitter you
want to control that loco with.
Low Battery Voltage Warning for Lithium Batteries
When NiMh or NiCad batteries start running down, they usually give a noticeable decrease in speed before giving
out completely. Plenty of time to get the train back home or to the desired charging location.
With lithium batteries, things are different. hey need protection from over discharge, so many lithium-ion battery
packs have a built-in protection circuit that shuts off the battery when it discharges to a predetermined voltage.
his happens with no warning, and your train stops instantly; in the tunnel or on the mountain, etc. Lithium-
polymer batteries don’t usually have the built-in protection, but must have some protection to avoid damage.
he purpose of the low voltage warning function is to give you full run-time on your battery pack, but warn you
when you have only a few minutes left to get the train back to the desired location under power.
Low Voltage Warning: he throttle setting is automatically reduced by 50%, the Front Light starts flashing, and
you won’t be able to increase speed using the Faster button. o restore full control, stop the loco using either the
Slower button or the Stop button. You may now return your train to a safe place. he LED will continue to flash
reminding you the battery is very low. his setting is programmable via DIP switch parameter 7. It may take some
experimentation to get the desired result; i.e. X minutes of run time before the battery circuit shuts you down.
Hard Cutoff: If the battery voltage falls below 3.0 volts per cell, the RailBoss will shut off power to everything it has
control of (motor and lights). However, the sound system and other accessories may still be drawing power. his
setting is intended for use with Lithium-Polymer batteries, or Lithium-Ion batteries without built-in protection.
his function can be disabled or customized using DIP switch parameters 6 and 7: i.e. number of cells and volt-
age level.
Warning: Neither the Low Voltage Warning nor the Hard Cutoff will function until programming parameter 6 is
properly setup. It is the user’s responsibility to determine the proper number of lithium cells in the battery pack
being used and select the proper option, thus enabling both functions.
hese functions serve as a warning only! It the user’s responsibility to intervene promptly after the warning and
safely disconnect the battery pack to avoid damage.

Page 11
RailBoss 4
Transmitter Commands
Single Key Function
2
nd
Key function
Examples:
Press “Bell” key once to sound the bell.
Press the “2
nd
Key”, followed by the
“Bell” key to oggle Station Stops.
Whistle - Press momentarily to sound the Whistle/Horn
(Sound trigger 1) or hold for sound systems with
“playable” whistles/horns.
Bell - Press momentarily to sound the Bell
(Sound trigger 2)
Faster - Press momentarily to bump speed up. Hold
down to ramp speed up.
Slower - Press momentarily to bump speed down. Hold down to ramp speed down.
Stop/Dir - Press momentarily or hold to perform a Quick Stop while running. Or while stopped, press momen-
tarily to change direction.
nd - Press momentarily, followed by another key to perform the secondary function.
nd, Whistle - Sound rigger 3 or Output 3
nd, Bell - Sound rigger 4 or Output 4
nd, Faster - oggle the rack activated whistle. Enabled, the whistle sound per User Parameter 2. Disabled it
is quiet. Note: Whistle can always be sound manually ia a single key press of the Whistle button. Whistle will
sound when toggled to “enabled”.
nd, Slower - oggle automated Station Stops. Enabled, station stops will occur per User Parameter 3. Dis-
able for continuous running. Bell will sound when toggled to “enabled”.
nd, Stop - oggle the momentum rate; either fast for switching or slow per User Parameter 4 for prototypical
speed changes. Bell will sound when toggled to “enabled”.
Throttle Programming -
Enter hrottle Programming mode by holding down the nd, Slower, and Stop buttons until the LED and
Forward head light start flashing.
Use Faster/Slower Buttons to control speed (0 to 100%)
Press Whistle to set the Max Speed (must be greater than 50%)
Press Bell to set the Min Speed (must be less than 50%)
Press 2nd to reset throttle to full range (0 to 100%)
Press Stop button to exit and save changes at any time. LED will stop flashing.
Learn TX - Press the Learn button on the RailBoss 4 Rx. LED will start flashing. hen press Stop on the trans-
mitter. LED will stop flashing.

Page 12
Trouble Shooting
Manual Operation
• he PCB LED and lights turn off as soon as
I turn on the RailBoss ...
he RailBoss is shutting down due to
low battery voltage (less than 3.0 volts
per cell).
Recharge or replace the traction battery.
Disable or reprogram the Low Voltage
Warning parameter (6) for the proper
battery size. In order to do this, you will
need to enter the User Programming
mode right after power-up, before the
LED goes out. Set parameter 6 for Op-
tion 1 (disabled), or the proper voltage
for your battery pack.
• Nothing seems to be working 
Pressing any button on the transmitter
should cause the RailBoss LED to blink
off. If not, check the transmitter battery.
It should be 2.5V or greater (3.0V for a
new battery).
Check the power. he RailBoss LED
should be ON. You should measure be-
tween 7 and 25 volts DC applied to ter-
minals B+, B- .
You should measure 3.2 volts DC on
terminals 14(+), 15(-)
Verify all wiring connections.
• he transmitter doesn't work at all.
Did the receiver successfully “Learn” the transmitter?
Open the transmitter case and make sure the battery and radio module are full seated.
he battery should measure at least 2.8 volts (3.0 volts nominal).
Replace the battery with a CR2032 coin cell battery.
• Erratic throttle behavior? Reset throttle to default full range values using throttle programming procedure (See
hrottle Programming).
• he loco doesn’t start moving until I hold the Faster button for a long time.
he voltage is ramping from 0 volts to that required to move the loco. You can eliminate this dead time by
programming the Min Speed setting to a higher value. (See hrottle Programming).
• he loco starts moving as soon as I turn it on.
Program the Min Speed setting to a lower value.
• he locos runs in reverse at power up, even though the front light is ON.
Reverse the wires at the motor output, terminals M+ & M- .
Check setting for Direction Control parameter 5.
• he loco won’t run as fast as I like even though I keep trying to increase the speed setting 
Maximum speed is determined by your battery voltage or the Max Speed setting. You need more cells/
voltage or you may need to restore the default throttle programming settings.
Whistle
Track
Whistle
Faster
Out 3
Slower
Out 4
Stop/Dir
Toggle
Rate
Bell
tation
tops
nd
-------
RailBoss 4 Transmitter
With Out 3/4 on the Right
(Older models)
Out 3/4 on the Right is the original label configuration.
You may now choose which side you want the Out 3/4
functions to operate on via User Programming Parameter
9. (but the label may read wrong).

Page 13
Automated Operation
An automated station stop slows down the train, waits at the station for a predetermined time, then accelerates
back to its original running speed. Station stops add interest to your open house or public displays.
Automated operation is easily achieved with the RailBoss R/C Control. You just need to add a reed switch to your
locomotive and place some track magnets on your layout.
Automated station stops are initiated by a track magnet placed ahead of the station. he magnet initiates decel-
eration to a stop. You can make as many stops as you like, one magnet per station. When running in both direc-
tions, two magnets per station are required, one for each direction. Place the magnets such that the loco stops at
the same location when running from either direction. he magnet in front of the locomotive when leaving the sta-
tion will be ignored.
he distance the magnet is located from the station will depend on your running speed. Some trial and error will
be required to find the proper location and/or speed.
Automated reversing is accomplished using a second magnet placed about 6” after the decel magnet. his sec-
ond trigger will cause the loco to depart the station in the opposite direction. Magnet spacing requirements vary
with speed of the loco. 12” or greater is a good starting point. As long as the second magnet is crossed prior to
coming to a full stop, it should work. Caution: Pro ide end of track bumpers or wheels chocks, just in case.
Radio Shack 1/2” round ceramic magnets make good track magnets. hey can be glued to the top of a rail tie or
placed between the ties. Any magnet of suitable size and strength can be used. But they must be located no more
than 1/4” from the reed switch passing overhead. rack magnets mounted higher than the rail tops will be suscep-
tible to damage by track cleaners and snow plows. We recommend using movable magnets (next page).
Station stops are enabled or disabled from the transmitter while the train is running (see Button Command Sum-
mary). During a station stop, transmitter commands are disabled. However, you can give a Faster speed com-
mand to leave the station early. Station stops are enabled at power-on.
Sound Systems
“But I already use magnets to trigger my sound system!” You may have existing track magnets used to trigger the
bell and whistle of your sound system. For example; whistle magnet on the right, bell on the left. RailBoss can
share these same magnets fairly easily. Install your RailBoss reed switch on the same side you use to trigger the
bell. he bell will ring as you approach the station, and the whistle will still blow in your favorite locations.
here are several ways to connect your reed switches. A reed switch at terminals 12,13 is required for automated
station stops. he reed switch will also trigger the bell (if so desired) via the bell sound trigger output to the sound

Page 14
board. he whistle reed switch can remain connected to your sound board, in parallel with the RailBoss sound
trigger, and it will operate as normal.
he whistle reed switch at terminals 11,13 triggers the sound board via the whistle sound trigger. he advantage
here is, the RailBoss has some optional randomization functions, which will only sound the whistle a certain per-
centage of the time the reed switch passes over the track magnet. he result? No more repetitive whistle blowing,
lap after lap. It reduces the overall noise, and makes things less predictable.
Movable Magnets
Being able to easily move your
magnets to new track locations
makes it much easier to set up
your station stops, or change
things as the need arises. If you
just place a loose magnet in be-
tween ties, the metal of the loco
may pick it up as it passes. Glue
your magnets to a strip of sty-
rene as shown. When placed
under the rails, the magnet will
stay in place. Magnet can be on
the left or right by simply rotating
the strip.
LGB/Piko track magnets also
work very well.
Trouble Shooting Automated Operation
• Make sure you have enabled station stops from the transmitter.
• Loco fails to stop after crossing a single decel magnet. Verify proper installation of reed switch and magnet.
• If the loco fails to reverse after crossing two magnets, the magnets are too close together and/or the loco
speed is too fast. (Hence the need to protect the end of point-to-point track with a bumper or derail).
• he loco will also fail to reverse if the magnets are too far apart and/or the loco is running too slow. It will
cross the first magnet, but stop prior to the second, and treat it as a station stop.
• If you can’t get the loco to make a proper intermediate station stop in both directions after making the above
adjustments, it may be due to excessive grade of the track. Intermediate station stops work best with a flat
approach from both directions but should tolerate 3% grades.
• he location of the station stop changes over time. Magnet locations are only precise for one given speed
setting. As the battery discharges, the loco will slow somewhat, even though the speed setting has not been
changed. his effects the stopping distance after a magnet trigger.

Page 15
Multi-Train (Automatic Train Separation)
Run two or more trains on the same loop, making random station stops, unattended. Each train will make station
stops as programmed in User Parameter 3. When a train stops at the station, it will remain there until another train
releases it by passing over a whistle magnet. his timed release of trains prevents faster trains from overtaking
slower trains. Of course the trains speeds should be matched fairly close for the best operation.
How can this be done without wires? Each locomotive is constantly reporting its track position to the others via
radio. he track magnets tell the loco where it is.
Since the trains will be making random station stops, they may or may not stop on each lap. When they skip the
stop, they will catch the train ahead much sooner. When the lead train senses the train behind is too close, it is
forced to skip the station stop, and the train behind is forced to make a station stop, getting everything back in
sync.
How often your trains stop at the station, and how often they get close to each other depends on the setting in
Parameter 3, position of the track magnets, and the length of track available in the “Run” section, and how many
trains you are trying to run.
More than one Whistle magnet may be used, but the station release will be determined by the first one encoun-
tered. Only one station stop per loop. When operating trains on more than one loop, with station stops on each
loop, only one of the loops can be operating in Multi- rain mode.
A stop command from the transmitter will only stop the one train it is bound to. If you encounter a problem, stop
each train using its own transmitter.

Page 16
A single train running in Multi- rain mode will make timed stations stops until a second Multi- rain loco is powered
up. hen the train will wait at the station for a release command at the whistle magnet by the second train.
Once properly setup, you can enjoy running multiple trains for hours with no intervention. his of course assumes
no derailments, no low battery warnings, no interference from little hands, etc. You still need to pay attention to
your trains.
You can tell when a train is forced to skip a station stop, as the bell will sound, but the train will keep going. If the
train is in the middle of slowing down for a stop when told to skip, it will automatically return to running speed.
Trouble Shooting Multi-Train Operation
• Station Stops must be enabled. Press 2nd, Bell until you hear the bell. Station stops are enabled at power
-up.
• User Parameter 3 must be set for a Multi- rain option; 6 thru 9.
• If you stop a train with the ransmitter, it will NO start again automatically. You should stop all trains until
the problem causing the stop has been cleared.
• You need enough track length in the run section to handle the number of trains you are running without
them catching each other, no matter what the station stop % is set to. Increasing the station stop % to
100% will allow more trains to run with reduced risk.
• he first whistle magnet (release magnet) must be far enough away from the station stop, such that a
train not making a station stop will not run into a train leaving the station, plus some extra running space.
• Each train should have the same accel/decel settings for station stops; User Parameter 1.
• Make any necessary speed adjustments only while in the “run” section. If you make a speed change dur-
ing a station stop accel or decel, speed control reverts to manual mode, and you will need to get the train
back to running speed from the transmitter.
• If you operate Sound rigger 3 or 4 while in this mode, you may accidently put that train into manual
mode. his happens if the RB4 misses the 2nd key, and thinks you gave a Faster command, instead of
the 2nd, Faster commands.

Page 17
User Programming via the DIP Switch & Push Button
Some of the operating parameters of the RailBoss Plus can be modified to meet your individual needs. No pro-
gramming is necessary to get your system up and running, only to modify it, if so desired.
User configurable parameters can be programmed using the 4-position DIP switch, the on-board push-button next
to the DIP switch, and on-board LED. he DIP switch selects the parameter to be programmed, and the LED
flashes the currently selected option. See the programming chart following this discussion for specific instructions.
Parameter 0
Station Stop Dwell ime
he elapsed time spent from a full stop at the station to departure.
Parameter 1
Station Stop Accel/Decel ime
he time it takes to decelerate to a full stop after crossing the station stop magnet. Use this adjustment not only to
make the stop look prototypical, but also to match the characteristics of other locomotives making station stops
using the same magnets. hus, you don’t have to move the magnets for each locomotive.
Parameter
Whistle Operation via Reed Switch
he reed switch at terminals 11&13, triggers the output at terminal 5. By connecting your whistle/horn reed switch
to the RailBoss, instead of directly to the sound board, the RailBoss can now control its operation. he whistle/
horn, especially the grade crossing whistle, gets pretty annoying in a hurry if it sounds every X seconds, lap after
lap, all day long at your open house. his parameter allows you to control the percentage of time, that it actually
sounds;. e.g. at the 50% setting, after crossing the whistle magnet 10 times, the whistle will have only sounded
about 5 times. he triggers are random events, and thus very unpredictable, adding character, and a bit of mys-
tery to your layout.
Parameter 3
Station Stops & Bell Operation via Reed Switch
he reed switch at terminals 12&13, initiates a station stop, if enabled from the transmitter, and also triggers the
output at terminal 6, normally connected to the bell trigger of you sound board. Like the random whistle function
described in Parameter 2, you can randomize your station stops, adding interest for you and your visitors.
Note: When operating in point-to-point trolley mode, using the reversing magnets, you must have pa-
rameter 3 set for 100%. Otherwise, the loco will run off the end of the track, as the RailBoss will ignore the mag-
nets X% of the time. Multi- rain operations require options 6 thru 9.
Parameter 4
hrottle Momentum
his parameter sets the amount of momentum applied to the throttle when the momentum function is turned ON.
“Momentum” is the length of time it takes to accelerate or decelerate while holding down the Faster or Slower but-
tons.
Parameter 5
Direction Control
Loco normally runs in the forward direction at power-up. Set this for reverse at power up to run a loco backwards
in a consist with other locos.
Parameter 6
Number of Battery Cells
his enables low battery warning and determines the basic voltage of your battery pack; 3.7 volts per cell.
Parameter 7
Low Battery Warning Voltage
his setting finely tunes the warning voltage. rial and error will determine the best setting. Record the elapsed
time between the warning and actual shutdown due either the battery pack protection or the RailBoss hard cut-off.
Adjust this parameter for perhaps 10 minutes between warning and shutdown.

Page 18
Parameter 8
Kid’s ransmitter Delay
Buttons won’t work for X seconds after performing a function. Reduces the noise and annoyance factor when
small children that just keep pressing the buttons.
Parameter 9
Out 3/4 ransmitter Key Configuration
Outputs 3 and 4 can be configured to operate from either the left side of the X, under the Whistle and Bell keys,
or on the right side, under the Faster and Slower keys. We’ve found that using the left side for these functions
may avoid inadvertent speed changes. his option also allows for backwards compatibility with older transmitters,
labeled for the right side.
Parameter 10
Bell Configuration
his can be set for a momentary output to trigger a fixed length bell sequence, or a latched output which will tog-
gle the bell on or off with each key press.
Parameter 11/1
Out 3/4 erminal Configurations
Output 3 and 4 can be configured for 4 different functions: Momentary Sound triggers ( erminal 7,8), Latching
Lights on/off ( erminals 7,8 - 250 ma max), Latching Lights on/off ( erminals 9,10 - 750 ma max), or Phoenix Un-
Couplers ( erminals 9,10). Out 3 activates both terminal 7 and 9. Out 4 activates both terminal 8 and 10. In most
cases you will only make one wiring connection to for Out 3, and one for Out 4.
Parameter 11 configures terminals 7 and 8 for either momentary sound trigger operation, or latching lights opera-
tion. Parameter 12 configures terminals 9 and 10 for either momentary Phoenix Un-Coupler operation, or latching
lights.
Warning: If you have a Phoenix Un-Coupler connected to terminals 9 or 10, and you select Parameter 12 Latch-
ing, you will instantly destroy the Un-Coupler. Use Momentary only for Phoenix Un-Couplers (the default option).
User Programming / DIP Switch Programming Procedure
User configurable parameters can be programmed using the 4-position DIP switch, the on-board push-button next
to the DIP switch, and on-board LED.
Enter Programming Mode
Hold the button (next to the DIP switch) down on the RailBoss board until the LED goes out. Release the button.
he LED will begin flashing the option code of the selected parameter.
Select Parameter
Select the parameter you wish to view or program using the DIP switch. (the white square indicates position of the
switch; e.g. for parameter 0, all switches are in the down or off position.
View Current Option Code
he LED will repeatedly flash the option code for the currently selected parameter; e.g. two flashes followed by a
pause indicate option 2.
Change the Option Code
Momentarily press the push-button during the pause to advance the option to the next higher number, until you
get the desired number of flashes.
Save the Option Code
During the pause between code flashes, press and hold down the push-button for about 4 seconds until the LED
goes off. Upon release, the LED should stay on solid. his saves the option code and exits User Programming.
he new option will now be active.
Exit Programming Mode
o exit programming mode without saving any changes, turn off RailBoss power.

Page 19
Option
Parameter 0 -
Station Stop
Dwell Time
1 10 secs
20 secs
3 30 secs
4 40 secs
5 50 secs
6 60 secs
RailBoss 4
User Programming
Plus models Only
Basic and Plus models
Option
Parameter 1 -
Station Stop
Accel/Decel
1 Slowest
Slow
3 Medium
4 Fast
5 Fastest
Option
Parameter -
Whistle
Operation
from Reed Sw.
1 100% (Always triggers)
50%
3 40%
4 30%
5 20%
6 0% (Disabled)
Option
Parameter 3 -
Station Stops
& Bell
from Reed Sw.
1 100%(Always triggers, rolley Mode)
75%
3 50%
4 25%
5 0% (Disabled)
6 100% - Multi- rain
7 75% - Multi- rain
8 50% - Multi- rain
9 25% - Multi- rain
Option
Parameter 4 -
Throttle
Momentum
1 20 secs 0 to 100% Slowest
15 secs
3 10 secs
4 6 secs Fastest
Option
Parameter 5 -
Motor
Direction
1 Normal - Powers up in Forward
Reverse - Powers up in Reverse
Option
Parameter 6 -
No. of
Lithium Battery
Cells (3.7V ea.)
1 Disable Low Battery Warning
2 Cells, 7.4V
3 3 Cells, 11.1V
4 4 Cells, 14.8V
5 5 Cells, 18.5V
6 6 Cells, 22.2V
7 7 Cells, 25.9V
Option
Parameter 7 -
Low Battery
Warning
Voltage
1 Least run time after warning
3
4
5
6
7 Most run time after warning
Option
Parameter 8 -
Kid’s
Transmitter
Delay
1 0 Secs
5 Secs
3 10 Secs
4 15 Secs
5 20 Secs
Option
Parameter 9 -
Out 3/4
TX Key
Configuration
1 Out 3/4 Left side
Out 3/4 Right side
Factory settings
Option
Parameter 10 -
Bell Trigger
Configuration
1 Momentary
Latched
Option
Parameter 11 -
Out 3/4
Terminal 7/8
Configuration
1 Momentary 7 / Momentary 8
Momentary 7 / Latched 8
3 Latched 7 / Momentary 8
4 Latched 7 / Latched 8
he DIP switch sets the Parameter Number.
Each switch, when turned on, has a different
value. When added together, they give you the
parameter number. But don’t worry! All you
need to do is look at the pictures, and set
the switch accordingly.
Switch position 1 has a value of 1
Switch position 2 has a value of
Switch position 3 has a value of 4
Switch position 4 has a value of 8
he setting shown here is set for parameter 5:
Switch 1 = 1 + Switch 2 = 0 + Switch 3 = 4 +
Switch 4 = 0: otal = 5
he number of LED flashes indicates the Op-
tion Number for the selected Parameter.
Note: If your RailBoss 4 board has only 3
switch positions, just assume position 4 is set
to Off. he switch settings for Parameters 0-7
are valid for your board.
Option
Parameter 1 -
Out 3/4
Terminal 9/10
Configuration
1 Momentary 9 / Momentary 10
Momentary 9 / Latched 10
3 Latched 9 / Momentary 10
4 Latched 9 / Latched 10
Warning: Use only “Momentary” for
Phoenix Un-Couplers. “Latched” will
destroy them instantly!

Page 20
RailBoss 4 - Hardware Specifications
RailBoss 4 Board Revision “E”
Mechanical
RailBoss 4 ESC/Receiver Board
Physical Size: PCB – 3.45” X 2.05”, Max component height – 0.8”.
User Connections: Screw clamp terminal strips accept individual wires, 30 to 20 AWG.
Requires a 1/16” or 5/64” slotted screwdriver
Antenna: he rounded portion of the PCB that sticks out slightly
RailBoss 4 ransmitters
2.4GHZ radio with internal antenna: 3 1/4” X 2 1/2” contoured case.
Adult = 6 buttons, Kid’s = 2 buttons
Electrical
Power Input from battery pack ( erminals B+,B-)
7V min to 25V max
7-16 NiMh/NiCad cells (1.2V per cell), Nominal 8.4V to 19.2V
2-6 Lithium-Ion or Lithium-Polymer cells (3.7V per cell), Nominal 7.4V to 22.2V
Reverse polarity protection (prevents damage, but will not operate)
Power Consumption (PCB only, no motor load, no lights)
Forward motor direction: 33 ma
Reverse motor direction: 102 ma
Motor Output ( erminals M+, M-)
Up to 5 or 10 amps max, continuous, over the full input voltage range (7-25V)
PWM (Pulse Width Modulated), 20 KHZ
Polarity reversal via relay contacts
Max amplitude: Battery voltage minus driver loss
Max voltage loss across driver: < 0.4V @ 1.0A, < 1.5V @ 5A or 10A
Control Inputs - normally open, momentary close to common
Bell/Station stops, erminals 12,13
Whistle, erminals 11,13
Remote Learn, erminals 14,15
Control Outputs - erminals 3,4,5,6,7,8. Open collector, switch to common, Max load = 250 ma
Directional Lighting, erminals 3,4
LED / Lamp Drivers from battery voltage, erminal 1
LED current source from erminal 2 = 11 ma
riggers: 1- 4,
Whistle ( 1) is “playable”, i.e. stays on as long as the X button is held
Bell ( 2) is momentary or latching
3 & 4 are momentary
High Current erminals 9,10
Phoenix Un-Couplers (momentary pulse)
Latched outputs, Max load = 5 amps
Radio Rx and x
FCC,IC,CE certified and approved.
2.4GHZ, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum, motor noise and interference tolerant, built-in antenna.
Range: Up to 250 ft.
X battery: CR2032 coin cell
Battery Power Accessories (available from G-Scale Graphics)
Battery Conversion Module; (built-in Power on/off Switch, Charging Jack, 5A fuse, power distribution)
Power On/Off Switch: Sub-Miniature w/short handle, SPD (On-On), 3A, 28 VDC
Charging Jack: 2.5mm I.D., 5.5mm O.D., 5A, w/switch (mating power plug: Radio Shack #274-1573
Warranty - 12 months from date of purchase. Post warranty repairs can be made for a modest fee.