G-Scale Graphics RailBoss Plus Specification sheet

Page
Operation and Installation Manual
G-Scale Graphics
4118 Clayton Ct.
Fort Collins, CO 805 5
970-581-3567
[e-mail]
www.GScaleGraphics.net
Revision C: Updated 9/20/2012

Page 2
Contents
Page
Overview .. 3
The Radio S stem .. 4
The RailBoss Control Board ..... 4
Installation ... 6
Setup and Testing .. 8
Throttle Calibration ... 9
Manual Operation ... 10
Command Summar (Mode 2 Transmitter) .... 13
Command Summar (Mode 1 Transmitter) .... 14
Trouble Shooting Manual Operation ....... 15
Automated Operation ..... 16
Trouble Shooting Automated Operation ...... 17
DIP Switch Programming ...... 19
Throttle Programming Functions ...... 21
Throttle Programming Procedure ..... 21
Throttle Programming Command Summar .... 22
Specifications ...... 23
Recommended Radio S stems ....... 24
RailBoss Product Comparison . 25
Wiring Diagram ....... 26

Page 3
Overview
The 2.4GHz RailBoss R/C is an electronic speed control designed
specificall for controlling large scale trains using low cost readil
available 4-Channel 2.4GHz hobb radios. The RailBoss R/C s stem
provides extreme flexibilit in the wa ou control our 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 ou can just
sit back and let our train run automaticall , 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 our
choice.
Automate our la out with automated station stops, or back ‘n forth
trolle operation. Gain control over our track magnet triggered
sounds. You decide when and how often the are activated.
A low batter warning function for use with toda ’s lithium batter technologies lets ou get the train back home
before it stops completel somewhere out on the la out.
Man aspects of the throttle are also programmable to match our specific needs; i.e. double-heading locos, real-
istic response, and speed limiting for children.
2.4GHz technolog , DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) and FHSS (Frequenc
Hopping Spread Spectrum) have completel changed the wa radio controlled hobbies op-
erate. No longer do ou have to worr about frequencies or channels. Your transmitter con-
trols your receiver (or receivers) and no one else’s. The radio interference generated b 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 onl 1”, installations are simple. But best of all, this technolog is
now available at low cost.
RailBoss R/C controls our 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 man 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 our 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 ou control over man 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 our receiver to the Rail-
Boss, and PCB spacers for mounting the board. You need to suppl the 2.4GHZ transmitter and receiver.
To complete our batter power conversion, ou will also need to provide a power on/off switch, charging jack,
batter pack, and batter charger. To make this task easier, we recommend our “Batter 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 our sound board and other accessories.
What you get: RailBoss Plus board, 4
R/C cables, PCB mounting spacers. The
D M2 compatible receiver (upper left) is
not supplied.
To complete the system, you
must supply a suitable
2.4GHZ transmitter and re-
ceiver. hown here is the
pektrum AR500 Rx (left)
and DX5E Tx (right), but
other systems may be used.

Page 4
The Radio System
The radio system is not included with the purchase of your RailBoss, but is readily available on-line or at
your local hobby shop.
The RailBoss is designed to operate using 2.4GHZ 4-Channel radios with a proportional throttle stick. 2.4GHZ
technolog has revolutionized radio control. Details of how DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) and FHSS
(Frequenc Hopping Spread Spectrum) work are be ond the scope of this manual, but here is the short version 
the radio is constantl changing frequencies and comparing signals at a high rate of speed, often using dual an-
tennae or dual receivers. The results are 
• Radio range far exceeding the needs of garden railroading un-
der most conditions.
• NO interference from locomotive motors or other radio/noise
sources. No filters or special antenna care required.
• Multiple operators can run at the same time without regard to
frequenc or channel assignments. Your receivers will onl re-
spond to our transmitter due to a “Binding” process.
• Multiple receivers bound to the same transmitter will respond to
the same commands. This allows for double-heading and multi-
ple-loco operations.
One transmitter can be used to run all of our trains using one or more
locomotives per train. You can run up to two trains at the same time
from one transmitter. More than two trains at the same time will require
additional transmitters. The receiver(s) aboard each train must be bound
to their respective transmitter.
Note: imultaneous operation of two trains requires a 5-Channel transmitter with a toggle switch.
During the “Binding” process, the receiver reads the transmitter’s unique identification code. From then on, it will
onl respond to commands identified b that code. Binding is fairl simple and onl needs to be done once. Refer
to our transmitter manual for details.
Note: Bind with throttle in the full DOWN position in order for RailBoss to work properly with the Tx off.
The RailBoss supplies the power to the receiver through the 3-wire cable, so no connections are required to the
BAT/BIND terminals. These terminals will onl be used if a binding plug is required during the binding process.
Antenna routing and orientation reall isn’t critical. If ou have a dual antenna receiver, ideall each antenna
should be in a perpendicular plane to the other. If our receiver is mounted inside a metal bod , ou will obtain the
best reception b routing the antenna outside of the metal bod .
See list of “Recommended Radio S stems” at the end of this manual.
The RailBoss Control Board
RailBoss is an ESC (Electronic Speed Control). It converts the signals intended to drive an analog servo into use-
ful commands for operating a powerful PWM (pulse width modulation) motor driver. It differs from the ESCs de-
signed for R/C cars because the RailBoss is designed to allow nice slow protot pical speed control of our loco-
motive using the proportional throttle stick and 256 speed steps; i.e. the position of the throttle stick corresponds
to the speed of the locomotive from minimum to maximum. Adding momentum to the throttle enhances the proto-
t pical operation. Momentum is full programmable, and can be turned off via the transmitter to assist with switch-
ing operations.
RailBoss provides power to our receiver and gets its R/C commands using the four receiver cables provided. It
operates over a wide range of batter input voltage (7-25V, i.e. 2-6 Lithium cells, or 7-16 NiMh/NiCad cells). The
batter input is protected from damage due to reverse polarit .
Connect R/C cables with the
orange (data) wire towards the
top of the Rx. The BATT slot re-
mains open, unless being used
for binding.

Page 5
RailBoss has directional lighting outputs capable of driving incandescent lamps or LEDs without the need for user
supplied resistors. Lamps are powered from the batter voltage. LEDs are powered from a current source. The
front and rear lights follow the direction of the locomotive. The front light is also used as feedback to the operator
during start-up, calibration, and programming procedures.
RailBoss can also be used to perform unlimited station stops and/or back ‘n forth point to point operations using
track magnets. This function can be enabled or disabled at will via the transmitter. Upon detecting a track magnet
via the supplied reed switch, the train will automaticall decelerate to a smooth stop, wait for a pre-determined
amount of time, then accelerate back to the same speed it was running before.
RailBoss gives ou more control over our sound s stem. Four sound triggers can be controlled manuall from
the transmitter. The bell and whistle sounds can also be triggered from track magnets.
RailBoss adds interest and intrigue to our la out b randomizing the automated events. Both station stops and
the automatic whistle can be programmed to operated statisticall ; i.e. the will onl occur a certain percentage of
the time, as determined b our needs. The can also be enabled or disabled via the transmitter during operation.
RailBoss allows the user to customize man operating parameters to meet the needs of their la out. An on-board
DIP switch, push-button, and LED control up to 16 different parameters, each with man options available.
RailBoss also allows the operating characteristics of the throttle to be customized for maximum speed control
resolution, and speed matching of locomotives.
RailBoss provides an on-board diagnostic LED to assist ou with the installation and troubleshooting of our s s-
tem. In most cases, it will eliminate the need for using a meter.
Sound Triggers &
Light Drivers
R/C & Reed Switches In
User
Programming
5-Amp
Motor Driver
Diagnostic
LED
Powerful
Micro-
Controller
Reverse Polarity Protection
Power In
Motor Out
Factory
Programming

Page 6
Installation
Track Power to Battery Power Conversion
All track powered locomotives are ver simple, electricall . Track power is picked up from the rails via pickups and
usuall connected directl to the motor. Sometimes there are switches in the circuit to reverse polarit or turn off
track power. These connections need to be modified in order to properl connect the batter powered driver
board.
Converting to batter power consists of these basic steps.
1. Determine battery voltage requirements.
Before ou disturb an wiring, run our locomotive at the fastest speed ou like to run on our la out 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 ou have the
number of cells ou need. For lithium cells, round up to the nearest 3.7v increment.
For example: Track voltage measures 11.6V at speed. (11.6 + 2)/ 1.2 = 11.3. You will need at least 12 NiMh
cells. 12 X 1.2V = 14.4V. (14.4V is a popular value for steam locomotives. Man critters can run on 12V. Die-
sels usuall require 18V or more).
. Disconnect the track power pickups.
B isolating our locomotive from track power, ou can run more than one locomotive on the same track at
the same time, either batter powered or track powered. If ou don’t do this, our batter will be directl con-
nected to our track power suppl , resulting in damage. Note that in doing this, ou have also removed power
from all lighting circuits, smoke units, and an other accessories that were running from track power. For bat-
ter power, smoke units are usuall not used due to the high current requirements that will quickl drain the
batter pack. Understanding existing wiring and/or circuit boards without documentation can be difficult. You
ma choose to just remove it all and wire directl to the things ou can see and understand.
3. Find a direct connection to the motor.
The output of the controller needs to be connected directl to the motor. All other control boards and switches
should be removed from the circuit. Depending on the design of the locomotive, this ma be an extremel
simple process, or it ma be difficult. Some motor blocks make it ver simple. You will find two pairs of wires.
One set goes to the track pickups, and the other goes to the motor. You can verif which pair goes to the
track pickups using a continuit checker or ohmmeter. Track pickups will have continuit from one pin to one
set of wheels. The motor will read a small resistance value across the two wires (e.g. 18 ohms). Simpl 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 batter pack and
control board and receiver is usuall the biggest consideration. For smaller locos ou ma need to install
some of all of the s stem in a trailing car. The G-Scale Graphics “Batter Power Conversion Module” makes
installation easier in man cases b putting the on/off switch, fuse, and charging jack all one small circuit
board with screw terminals to eliminate soldering.
Wiring
Alwa s use stranded wire and tin the ends with solder prior to making an connections. Wiring for the power input
and motor output circuitr on terminals 18 thru 21 needs to be heavier gauge wire (20 or 22 Ga.) An wiring con-
nections or splices not directl connected to a component must be covered. Use heat shrink tubing or wire nuts.
Skills
All connections to the RailBoss Control can be made via screw terminals. However, basic wiring and soldering
skills ma 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 ma 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 properl complete the wiring. A suit-
able drill and double-sided foam tape ma be useful for mounting components.

Page 7
Installation of the Receiver
The receiver should be mounted as far awa from the motor as possible, and as high up as possible. If ou have
a receiver with dual antennas, ideall the should be mounted in perpendicular planes, but this isn’t critical.
2.4GHZ antennas are onl about 1” long. If ou have one that appears to be about 12” long, it is reall a coaxial
cable 11” long, with the last 1” acting as the antenna. Do not cut the antenna wire to shorten it. The length just
allows ou to position the 2nd antenna awa from the first. Plug the supplied cables into the receiver. These are
standard R/C connectors that are “supposedl ” polarized to onl plug in one wa , but in man cases the will go in
either wa . Consult the receiver manual for our s stem to insure proper orientation, but normall the data wire
(single orange wire) goes towards the top or inside of the receiver. Connect per the wiring diagram at the end of
this manual. The 3-wire cable is built to standards used b Futaba, HiTec, and JR Radios; Red (+) in the middle,
with Brn (-), and Orn (data) on either side.
Installation of the RailBoss Control Board
The RailBoss board can be mounted most an where, but allow space for access to wiring, and no metal should
be in contact with the board. The power components (heat sink and 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 PCB stand-offs. Make sure the
stand-offs don’t touch an 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 b the edges, avoiding direct contact with the
circuitr . Static electricit can damage the components. Tr to ground ourself b touching something metal prior
to handling the board. Refer to the wiring diagrams at the end of this manual.
Power Input (Battery)
The RailBoss Control will not function below 7v input at terminals B+ (18), B- (19). Reverse polarit will not cause
damage, but the RailBoss will not operate. This product is not intended for track power applications where
polarity reverses.
The higher the batter voltage the more heat the RailBoss heat sink will produce. Voltage in excess of 25V will
damage circuit board components. Batter packs of 7 to 16 NiMh/NiCad cells or 2 to 6 Lithium-Ion/Pol mer cells
are suitable.
Warning! The heat sink on the voltage regulator may be extremely hot, especially when running in reverse.
Enough to burn you if touched, or melt any plastic it comes in contact with.
When making wiring connections to the batter pack, use extreme caution to avoid shorting the leads together. Do
not connect the batter to the circuit until all other wiring has been completed. The batter pack should have a
quick disconnect connector for safet and ease of replacement.
The power on/off switch can be located on the floor under the loco. If ou have a critter, the charging jack can also
be floor mounted, since ou will probabl take it off the track for charging. For a full size locomotive and/or tender,
ou ma want to locate the charging jack on the end of the car to enable charging in place on the track. The
switch in the charging jack isolates the batter 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 “Batter Conversion module” will greatl simplif
the power input wiring and provide screw terminals for connections.
A 5-amp fuse in-line with the batter input is recommended. This is also included in the G-Scale Graphics “Batter
Conversion module”
Motor Output
Connect directl to the motor. All other unknown circuitr should be disconnected from the motor. A maximum of 5
amps continuous current is available from the board. Warning! t 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+ (20), negative on
M- (21). This is intended to be the forward direction of the locomotive.
Directional Lighting Outputs
Lamps: Terminal 10 provides batter power for Incandescent lamps. So the voltage rating of our lamps must
match the batter voltage. When batter voltage exceeds the lamp rating, use a resistor of appropriate value in
series with terminal 10. Multiple lamps ma be connected in parallel, but total current draw for either the FWD or
REV output should not exceed 200 ma.

Page 8
LEDs: Terminal 11 provides an 11ma current source for LEDs. No current limiting resistors
are required. Connect LEDs; terminal 11 to the anodes(+), and terminals 12 and 13 to the
cathodes(-) of the forward and reverse LEDs respectivel . To provide constant current to
ONE LED, regardless of direction, jumper terminal 12 to 13, and connect the LED anode(+)
to terminal 11, and the cathode(-) to either terminal 12 or 13. Multiple LEDs can be con-
nected in series.
Sound Triggers
Outputs are provided for up to four sound triggers to a sound board. These are open collector
outputs that pull the sound board input low to common (ground) to trigger the sound. All trig-
gers are momentar . The batter common (-), connected to both the RailBoss and the sound
board is the return path. The T1 output needs to be connected to the whistle and T2 to the
bell in order for the RailBoss automation to work properl . T3 and T4 can be an thing ou
like. Wiring diagrams for specific sound systems are available on our website.
Reed Switches
The bell reed switch at terminal 4 is required for automated stations stops. The whistle
reed switch at terminal 6 is onl required when using the RailBoss to modif the behavior
of our sound board when using track magnets. The same two reed switches can operate
both the RailBoss and our sound board. (See Operation section)
Reed switches must be installed within 1/4” of track magnets, in either a horizontal or ver-
tical orientation. You can usuall mount them on the underside of a truck in the horizontal
position parallel with the track. Silicone adhesive works well. Or, the can be verticall 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
The on-board green LED can be used to check out our wiring and most of the board functions. This should be all
ou need to get going, but if ou are still having problems and ou have a volt-ohm meter ou can also take the
measurements indicated below.
Power-up (LED ON)
When power is first applied to the board, the LED should be flashing a “heartbeat”; i.e. ver short ON pulses. This
tells ou the power input polarit is correct and the RailBoss Control’s 5V power suppl is working. Measure +5.0
+- 0.5 VDC at terminal 1+, 5-. If there is a problem, check the voltage and polarit at terminals B+ (18), B- (19). It
should measure between +7.0 and +25.0 VDC.
Transmitter / Receiver Setup
Specific information for the various radio systems is available on our web site.
Review the transmitter diagrams on the following pages to determine which st le of transmitter our have; i.e.
Mode 1 with the throttle on the right, or Mode 2 with the throttle on the left, and get acquainted with the functions
of each stick.
The settings for the transmitter servo reversing switches will var depending on the radio s stem. The trim tabs
should ALWAYS be in the mid position. There is no need to ever change them.
Binding -
Each receiver must be “Bound” to its associated transmitter following the radio manufacture's procedure. This onl
needs to be done once, or whenever reassigning a receiver/loco to a new transmitter. The minimum connections
required for this process are power to the RailBoss, which applies power to the receiver via the 3-wire Throttle
cable. A binding plug ma also be required in the BAT/Bind position of the receiver. Refer to our transmitter’s
manual for binding instructions.
LED
Reed witch

Page 9
Calibration - ( Important )
Each receiver and RailBoss must be calibrated to work with its associated transmitter. If ou have a Front Light
connected to the RailBoss board, this procedure can be done without actuall accessing the RailBoss board. Oth-
erwise the LED on the RailBoss board will need to be visible during this procedure.
1. Power-up the RailBoss/Receiver. Observe the PCB LED and the Front Light flashing a “Heartbeat” (short ON
pulses).
2. While holding the Tx Direction stick in the full down position, turn on the Tx. Wait for the LED/Front Light to
turn ON solid, and then release the stick to center position.
3. The LED/Front Light will now be flashing at a fast pace, indicating ou are in the calibration mode.
4. Stroke the Throttle stick from end to end (full UP to full DOWN) several times pausing briefl (1 sec) at each
end. Leave the stick in the full DOWN position.
5. Give a momentar DOWN command on the direction stick to exit calibration.
6. The LED/Front Light will flash three times, indicating the loco is read to run. (If it just turns off, it is waiting for
the throttle to return to full down.)
This procedure calibrates the throttle output of the receiver to the RailBoss. It must be done prior to running for
the first time and whenever reassigning a receiver/loco to a new transmitter. The other 3 receiver channels are
calibrated automaticall each time the RailBoss is powered-up.
Throttle Stick
Moving the Throttle stick UP awa from the full DOWN position should cause the motor to start turning, with the
speed increasing as the stick is moved further up. At power-up, the direction should be forward. The PCB LED
should also be off during increases or decreases in speed (Off until momentum allows speed to match speed set-
ting).
Direction Stick
At RailBoss power-up, direction is set to “forward”. After the Tx is turned on and read to run, the Front Light
should be ON (if connected) and the Reverse Light should be OFF. When changing direction with the transmitter,
ou ma hear the rela on the RailBoss click. In reverse, the Reverse Light should be ON, and the Front Light
OFF. Direction can onl be changed while stopped. Holding the Direction stick full UP or DOWN should cause the
PCB LED to turn off.
Momentum Stick
Holding the Momentum Stick full LEFT should cause the PCB LED to turn OFF. Holding it to the RIGHT should
cause it to blink OFF momentaril .
Sound Stick
A momentar LEFT or RIGHT on the throttle stick should cause at least a ver short blink OFF of the LED. (You
ma not alwa s get the same response.) When held full LEFT the T1 Bell output will be low (0V); full RIGHT the
whistle output will be low; parital LEFT is the T3 output, and partial RIGHT is the T4 output.
Reed Switches
Close the reed switch with a magnet, or b moving the loco over a track magnet, will cause the LED to turn off
while the contacts are closed. If not, check the wiring at terminals 4,6, and 9.
Manual Operation (Refer to diagram next page)
Power-Up
When power is applied to both the transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx), the first thing the must do is establish a
communication link. This process can take an where from 2 to 90 secs, depending on which radio ou use.
Power can be applied in an order (RailBoss/Rx first, or Tx first). However, in order to enter the Throttle Stick Cali-
bration mode or the Throttle Programming mode, ou must power up the RailBoss/Rx first.
When the RailBoss receives power, it starts flashing a heartbeat signal to the PCB LED and the Front Light. The
heartbeat continues until the Tx and Rx link up. Three longer flashes of the LED/Front Light and sounding of the
bell (if connected) indicate the locomotive is read to run. If the heartbeat stops, and ou don’t get the three
flashes, the RailBoss is waiting for the throttle to be moved to the full down position.

Page 10
Start-up Procedure
RailBoss/Rx power ON Heartbeat flashing of LED and Front Light
Throttle Stick full DOWN
Tx power ON After Rx/Tx link, three flashes of LED and Front Light and a bell
At power-up, the locomotive will be stopped, read to proceed forward. Momentum is off, station stops are dis-
abled and auto track whistle is enabled.
Setting Direction
Direction of the locomotive is set using the direction stick. Direction can onl be changed when the locomotive is
at a complete stop. There are two options available under DIP programming, parameter 5.
Forward/Reverse - One momentar UP command to select forward
One momentar DOWN command to select reverse
The throttle is active at all times.
Forward/Neutral/Reverse - From Neutral, one UP command to get into forward. One DOWN command to get
back into neutral, and another DOWN command to get into reverse. One UP to get back to neutral. When in neu-
tral, the throttle stick is disabled and ou must return it to the full down position in order to change direction. This
feature is useful for a transmitter within reach of oung children.
Directional Lighting
Front Light is ON in forward, Rear Light is ON in reverse, and both Front and Rear Lights are OFF in neutral.
Setting Speed
The throttle stick sets the speed (motor voltage) of the locomotive to the Min Speed setting when full down, and to
the Max Speed setting when full up. Ever thing in between is proportional to the stick position, using 256 speed
steps. Min and Max Speed settings are set in Throttle Programming mode. The default settings are Min Speed =
0% batter voltage, and Max Speed = 100% batter voltage.
Turning off the transmitter while running causes the locomotive to continue running at the same speed. This is
ver convenient for saving transmitter batteries. However, if the throttle stick is moved to a different speed setting
while the Transmitter is off, the locomotive will accelerate or decelerate to the new speed setting when the Trans-
mitter is turned back on.
Momentum (Rx “Rudder” connected to RailBoss terminal 7)
“Momentum” is a dela ed response to a change in speed setting. This simulates the slow response of a heav
train. The throttle stick is used to switch momentum On and Off.
A momentar LEFT turns momentum OFF. Actuall , a small amount of momentum is alwa s applied to prevent
gear damage due to rapid throttle stick movement. You ma want to turn momentum OFF while doing switching
and coupling operations.
A momentar RIGHT turns momentum ON. This engages the momentum rate set via DIP programming parame-
ter 4 (Factory setting is NO momentum). This allows ou to set the throttle for the desired running speed and
watch the train slowl accelerate to that speed.
Momentar commands for momentum should be about 1 second long to insure proper operation.
Multiple Train Operation (Rx “Gear” connected to RailBoss terminial 7)
Note: imultaneous operation of two trains requires a 5-Channel transmitter with a toggle switch.
Two independent locomotives can be controlled from the same transmitter using the channel 5 switch on the
transmitter (Gear toggle switch on a Spektrum transmitter). The Ch 5 switch can be in either position (on or off)
when the first loco is powered up. That position will control the first loco.
To add another loco while the first is running (or just powered up), flip the switch to the other position and turn on
the second loco. The switch now determines which loco ou can control with the Tx. The other loco will continue
in the same state as when ou flipped the switch.
Since there is onl one proportional speed setting stick and two locos, likel running at different speeds, it is up to

Page 11
the operator to adjust the speed stick to the proper setting after switching locos. Upon flipping the Ch 5 switch
there is a short dela , in which ou can move the speed stick to an appropriate setting for the oncoming loco be-
fore the new speed setting actuall takes effect. This will minimize speed changes to the oncoming loco. For ex-
ample: If ou had just finished switching in the ard, and that loco is at a stop, the dela allows ou to switch over
to the loco running on the mainline, and move the throttle to running speed during the dela so the mainline loco
doesn’t immediatel tr to stop when the Ch 5 switch is flipped.
Running two trains on the same loop can be trick . But this feature is ver useful for moving a loco in the ard
while another one is running elsewhere.
When terminal 7 is connected for two train operation, momentum can no longer be enabled and disabled using
the rudder stick. It is alwa s enabled. So program the desired rate using the DIP switch parameter 4.
Emergency Stops
Holding the Momentum stick FULL LEFT for more than 2 seconds will make a quick stop, but not instantaneous.
This avoids gear damage due to the real momentum of the train. Return the throttle to full the down position to
restore operation. This command is useful when ou can’t remember if momentum was turned on or not and have
no time to think about it.
Automated Station Stops
A momentar UP command on the direction stick while the train is running will enable station stops.
A momentar DOWN command on the direction stick while the train is running will disable station stops.
If ou would like to make the train leave the station earl (tired of waiting or another train is coming), a momentar
Up command while the train is stopped will initiate a departure.
During the station stop sequence (slowing down, stopped, and accelerating back to speed) all stick commands
are temporaril disabled. If ou change the throttle setting, the train will assume the new speed after accelerating
to the old speed.
Transmitter Off
The transmitter transmits continuousl , whether ou are doing an thing or not, and this is just a continuous drain
on the transmitter batteries. You can turn off the transmitter at an time and the train will continue running at the
same speed and performing station stops (if the were enabled). Control will be restored when ou turn it back on,
following a dela to re-establish the communications link (the dela ma be quite long for some radios). If the
throttle stick is moved while the transmitter off, speed will be changed to the new speed setting when transmitter
is turned back on.
Manually triggering sounds from the Transmitter
A momentar full LEFT of the direction stick will sound the bell.
A momentar full RIGHT of the direction stick will sound the whistle/horn.
A momentar partial LEFT will trigger sound T3
A momentar partial RIGHT will trigger sound T4
Momentar commands should be about 1 second long to insure proper operation.
A “partial” command is just off center stick (less than half wa ).
Your sound board ma have options available, such as a manual bell or a programmed bell. The manual bell will
turn on with a LEFT command and continue ringing until turned off with another LEFT command. The pro-
grammed bell will turn on with a momentar LEFT command and then time out and turn off on its own.
If ou want to sound our own whistle signals from the transmitter, ou should set our sound board for the man-
ual whistle option. The horn or whistle will sound as long as the RIGHT command is maintained. If ou have opted
for the programmed grade crossing signal, a momentar RIGHT command will initiate it.
In order to use the manual sound triggers, the sound trigger outputs must be connected to our sound board.

Page 12
Low Battery Voltage Warning
When NiMh or NiCad batteries start running down, the usuall give a noticeable decrease in speed before giving
out completel . Plent of time to get the train back home or to the desired charging location.
With lithium batteries, things are different. The need protection from over discharge, so man lithium-ion batter
packs have a built-in protection circuit that shuts off the batter when it discharges to a predetermined voltage.
This happens with no warning, and our train stops instantl ; in the tunnel or on the mountain, etc. Lithium-
pol mer batteries don’t usuall have the built-in protection, but must have some protection to avoid damage.
The purpose of the low voltage warning function is to give ou full run-time on our batter pack, but warn ou
when ou have onl a few minutes left to get the train back to the desired location under power.
Low Voltage Warning: The throttle setting is automaticall reduced b 50% and the Front Light starts flashing.
This gets our attention. You can then restore full power b first reducing the throttle to zero, and then to the de-
sired setting. The front light will continue to flash reminding ou the batter is ver low. This setting is programma-
ble via DIP switch parameter 7. It ma take some experimentation to get the desired result; i.e. X minutes of run
time before the batter circuit shuts ou down.
Hard Cutoff: If the batter voltage falls below 3.0 volts per cell, the RailBoss will shut off power to ever thing it has
control of (motor and lights). The receiver and sound s stem will still be drawing power. This setting is intended
for use with Lithium-Pol mer batteries, or Lithium-Ion batteries without built-in protection.
This 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
properl setup. It is the user’s responsibilit to determine the proper number of lithium cells in the batter pack
being used and select the proper option, thus enabling both functions.
These functions serve as a warning onl ! It the user’s responsibilit to intervene promptl after the warning and
safel disconnect the batter pack to avoid damage.

Page 13
Command Summary (Mode Tx, most common in USA)
4- Channel Stick Transmitter
(Mode 2, Throttle on the Left)
Mode Tx
OFF ON
T3 /T1 Whistle Bell T / T4
Momentum ON Momentum OFF
0 to 100% Speed
Forward Reverse
Left Stick R/C Channel
Throttle/Speed
0 to 100% Speed Proportional to stick position
Full Down = 0%, Full Up = 100%
Throttle
Momentum
Momentar Left = Off, Momentar Right = On Rudder
Right Stick
While full stopped
Direction
Momentar Up = Forward, Momentar Down = Reverse Elevator
While running
Station Stops
Momentar Up = Enable, Momentar Down = Disable Elevator
Auto Whistle
Hold Up = Enable, Hold Down = Disable Elevator
During Tx Power On Hold Up to enter “Speed Programming” mode Elevator
Hold Down to enter “Throttle Stick Calibration” mode Elevator
Manual Sounds
Momentar Left = T2(Bell), Mom. Right = T1(Whistle/Horn)
Half Left = T4, Half Right = T3
Aileron
Power Off while running maintains speed and automation
Power On while running restores manual control
Tx Power On/Off

Page 14
Command Summary (Mode 1 Tx)
4- Channel Stick Transmitter
(Mode 1, Throttle on the Right)
Right Stick R/C Channel
Throttle/Speed
0 to 100% Speed Proportional to stick position
Full Down = 0%, Full Up = 100%
Throttle
Momentum
Momentar Left = Off, Momentar Right = On Aileron
Left Stick
While full stopped
Direction
Momentar Up = Forward, Momentar Down = Reverse Elevator
While running
Station Stops
Momentar Up = Enable, Momentar Down = Disable Elevator
Auto Whistle
Hold Up = Enable, Hold Down = Disable Elevator
During Tx Power On Hold Up to enter “Speed Programming” mode Elevator
Hold Down to enter “Throttle Stick Calibration” mode Elevator
Manual Sounds
Momentar Left = T2(Bell), Mom. Right = T1(Whistle/Horn)
Half Left = T4, Half Right = T3
Rudder
Power Off while running maintains speed and automation
Power On while running restores manual control
Tx Power On/Off
Mode 1 Tx
OFF ON
T3/T1 Whistle Bell T / T4
Momentum ON Momentum OFF
0 to 100% Speed
Forward
Reverse

Page 15
Trouble Shooting Manual Operation
• Nothing seems to be working 
Check the power. The LED should be flashing a “heartbeat”. You should measure between 7 and 25 volts
DC applied to terminals B+ (18), B- (19).
You should measure 5 volts DC on terminals 1(+), 5(-)
Verif all wiring connections.
Repeat the “Binding” process for the transmitter and receiver. The Receiver LED should come on a few
seconds (2-20 secs) after turning on the transmitter.
• Did you successfully do the throttle calibration procedure on page 9? Do it again. This step alone will
solve most problems.
• Erratic throttle behavior? Reset throttle to default values using throttle programming command 5
(page )
• M locomotive just quits, then it will start working again after awhile.
The control board ma be overheating; especiall if it is a hot da and our batter voltage is greater than
about 15 volts. Increase ventilation to the control board, or reduce our batter voltage, if possible.
• The transmitter / receiver doesn't work at all
Check the batteries in the transmitter.
Check the receiver wiring: A connector ma be backwards or plugged into the wrong place. The white
wires should be towards the inside of the receiver.
Did ou successfull bind the receiver to the transmitter?
• One or more of the control sticks work backwards ...
Make sure the transmitter servo reversing switches are all set for “Normal”.
• The loco doesn’t start moving until I move the throttle stick wa off the bottom ...
Recalibrate the throttle stick.
Program the Min Speed setting to a higher value.
• The loco starts moving even though I have the throttle stick at full down ...
Program the Min Speed setting to a lower value.
• The direction commands are backwards ...
Reverse the wires at the motor output, terminals M+ (20) & M- (21).
Make sure the transmitter servo reversing switches are all set for “Normal”.
Change the Motor Polarit using the Throttle Programming Command (4).
• The loco won’t run as fast as I like even though I keep tr ing to increase the speed setting 
Maximum speed is determined b our batter voltage. You need more cells/voltage.
You ma need to restore the default throttle programming settings (page 21).
• The speed setting seems to be changing on me...
The “Speed Setting” is actuall a “% of batter voltage setting”. Hence, as the batter voltage decreases
during discharge, the speed will slow down some. Also, changes in load, such as adding more rolling
stock to the train, will decrease speed slight.
• I can’t get full throttle ...
The throttle programming function has a “Max Speed” function. This ma need to be reset. See page 20.
• The PCB LED and lights turn off as soon as I turn on the transmitter ...
The RailBoss is shutting down due to low batter voltage. Disable or reprogram the Low Voltage Warning
parameter (6) for the proper batter size.
( lso, see Testing on page 8)

Page 16
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 our open house or public displa s.
Automated operation is easil achieved with the RailBoss R/C Control. You just need to add a reed switch to our
locomotive and place some track magnets on our la out.
Automated station stops are initiated b a track magnet placed ahead of the station. The magnet initiates decel-
eration to a stop. You can make as man stops as ou 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. The magnet in front of the locomotive when leaving the sta-
tion will be ignored.
The distance the magnet is located from the station will depend on our 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. This sec-
ond trigger will cause the loco to depart the station in the opposite direction. Magnet spacing requirements var
with speed of the loco. 6” 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: Provide end of track bumpers or wheels chocks, just in case.
Radio Shack 1/2” round ceramic magnets make good track magnets. The can be glued to the top of a rail tie or
placed between the ties. An magnet of suitable size and strength can be used. But the must be located no more
than 1/4” from the reed switch passing overhead. Track magnets mounted higher than the rail tops will be suscep-
tible to damage b 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. A momentar UP command
on the direction stick to enable. A momentar DOWN command on the direction stick to disable. During a station
stop, transmitter commands are disabled. However, ou can give a momentar UP command on the direction
stick to leave the station earl . Station stops are enabled at power-on.
Sound Systems
“But I alread use magnets to trigger m sound s stem!” You ma have existing track magnets used to trigger the
bell and whistle of our sound s stem. For example; whistle magnet on the right, bell on the left. RailBoss can
share these same magnets fairl easil . Install our RailBoss reed switch on the same side ou use to trigger the
bell. The bell will ring as ou approach the station, and the whistle will still blow in our favorite locations.

Page 17
There are several wa s to connect our reed switches. Reed switch 1 (terminals 6,9) is required for automated
station stops. Reed switch 1 will also trigger the bell (if so desired) via the bell sound trigger output to the sound
board. The whistle reed switch can remain connected to our sound board, in parallel with the RailBoss sound
trigger, and it will operate as normal.
Or, it can be connected as Reed switch 2 (terminals 7,9) and trigger the sound board via the whistle sound trigger.
The advantage here is, the RailBoss has some optional randomization functions, which will onl sound the whistle
a certain percentage of the time the reed switch passes over the track magnet. The result? No more repetitive
whistle blowing, lap after lap. It reduces the overall noise, and makes things less predictable.
Movable Magnets
Being able to easil move our
magnets to new track locations
makes it much easier to set up
our station stops, or change
things as the need arises. If
ou just place a loose magnet
in between ties, the metal of
the loco ma pick it up as it
passes. Glue our magnets to
a strip of st rene as shown.
When placed under the rails,
the magnet will sta in place.
Magnet can be on the left or
right b simpl rotating the
strip.
Trouble Shooting Automated Operation
• Make sure ou have enabled station stops from the transmitter (UP on the throttle stick while running).
• Loco fails to stop after crossing a single decel magnet. Verif 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).
• The 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 ou can’t get the loco to make a proper intermediate station stop in both directions after making the above
adjustments, it ma 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.
• The location of the station stop changes over time. Magnet locations are onl precise for one given speed
setting. As the batter discharges, the loco will slow somewhat, even though the speed setting has not been
changed. This effects the stopping distance after a magnet trigger.

Page 18
DIP Switch Programming
Some of the operating parameters of the RailBoss Plus can be modified to meet our individual needs. No pro-
gramming is necessar to get our s stem up and running, onl to modif it, if so desired.
User configurable parameters can be programmed using the 4-position DIP switch, on-board push-button switch,
and on-board LED. The DIP switch selects the parameter to be programmed, and the LED flashes the currentl
selected option. See the programming chart following this discussion for specific instructions.
Parameter 0
Station Stop Dwell Time
The elapsed time spent from a full stop at the station to departure.
Parameter 1
Station Stop Accel/Decel Time
The time it takes to decelerate to a full stop after crossing the station stop magnet. Use this adjustment not onl to
make the stop look protot pical, but also to match the characteristics of other locomotives making station stops
using the same magnets. Thus, ou don’t have to move the magnets for each locomotive.
Parameter
Whistle Operation via Reed Switch
The reed switch at terminals 6&9, triggers the output at terminal 14. B connecting our whistle/horn reed switch
to the RailBoss, instead of directl to the sound board, the RailBoss can now control its operation. The whistle/
horn, especiall the grade crossing whistle, gets prett anno ing in a hurr if it sounds ever X seconds, lap after
lap, all da long at our open house. This parameter allows ou to control the percentage of time, that it actuall
sounds;. e.g. at the 50% setting, after crossing the whistle magnet 10 times, the whistle will have onl sounded
about 5 times. The triggers are random events, and thus ver unpredictable, adding character, and a bit of m s-
ter to our la out.
Parameter 3
Station Stops & Bell Operation via Reed Switch
The reed switch at terminals 4&9, initiates a station stop, if enabled from the transmitter, and also triggers the out-
put at terminal 15, normall connected to the bell trigger of ou sound board. Like the random whistle function de-
scribed in Parameter 2, ou can randomize our station stops, adding interest for ou and our 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.
Parameter 4
Throttle Momentum
This parameter sets the amount of momentum applied to the throttle when the momentum function is turned ON.
Parameter 5
Direction Control
This determines how the direction stick commands will operate.
Forward/Reverse: Up for Forward, Down for Reverse. The throttle is alwa s engaged.
Forward/Neutral/Reverse: Up for Forward, down back to Neutral, down again to get into Reverse. Up is back to
neutral. The throttle is disabled while in Neutral.
Parameter 6
Number of Batter Cells
This enables low batter warning and determines the basic voltage of our batter pack; 3.7 volts per cell.
Parameter 7
Low Batter Warning Voltage
This setting finel tunes the warning voltage. Trial and error will determine the best setting.

Page 19
DIP Switch Programming Procedure
User configurable parameters can be programmed using the 3-position DIP switch, on-board push-button switch,
and on-board LED.
Enter Programming Mode
DIP programming mode can onl be accessed at power-up, prior to linking the Tx/Rx. With RailBoss power on,
and the Transmitter off, momentaril press the ellow push-button located next to the DIP switch. The LED will
begin flashing.
Select Parameter
Select the parameter ou 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
The LED will repeatedl flash the option code for the currentl selected parameter; e.g. two flashes followed b a
pause indicate option 2.
Change the Option Code
Momentaril press the push-button during the pause to advance the option to the next higher number, until ou
get the desired number of flashes.
Save the Option Code
Press and hold down the push-button for about 4 seconds until the LED starts flashing rapidl , which indicates the
save is complete.
Select the next Parameter
Repeat the above as needed to view or make changes to other parameters. Note: If an invalid parameter number
is selected, the LED will stop flashing.
Exit Programming Mode
Turn off RailBoss power.
Upon return to power, the new options will be activated.
The DIP switch sets a binar number. Each switch, when turned on, has a different value. When added together,
the give ou the parameter number. But don’t worry! All you need to do is look at the pictures on the next
page, 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
The switch setting shown here is set for parameter 6:
Switch 1 = 0 (off)
Switch 2 = 2 (on)
Switch 3 = 4 (on) for a total of 0 + 2 + 4 = 6
DIP Switch

Page 20
Option
Parameter 0 -
Station Stop
Dwell Time
1 15 secs
30 secs [factor setting]
3 45 secs
4 60 secs
Option
Parameter 1 -
Station Stop
Accel/Decel Time
1 Fastest
Faster
3 [factor setting]
5 Slowest
4 Slower
Option
Parameter -
Whistle Operation
from Reed Sw
1 100% (Alwa s triggers via track magnet)
[factor setting]
75%
3 50%
4 25%
5 0% (Disabled)
Option
Parameter 4 -
Throttle Momentum
1 Fastest Response (Off) - (factor setting)
Faster
3 Medium
4 Slower
5 Slowest
Option
Parameter 5 -
Direction Control
1 Forward / Reverse (No Neutral) [factor setting]
Forward / Neutral / Reverse
Option
Parameter 3 -
Station Stops & Bell
from Reed Sw
1 100% (Alwa s triggers) / Trolle mode
[factor setting]
75%
3 50%
4 25%
.4GHZ RailBoss Plus
DIP Switch Programming
Option
Parameter 6 -
No. of Lithium Battery Cells
(3.7V ea.)
1 Disable Low Batter Warning [factor setting]
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 Lowest Voltage, least run-time after warning
3
4
5 [Factor Setting]
6
7 Nominal Voltage, most run-time after warning
.4GHZ RailBoss Plus