PIKO SmartControl User manual

PIKO SmartControl®–
the digital future of
model train control!
User ManUal

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PIKO SmartControl®System
User Manual

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Directory
1. Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 6
2. System description.................................................................................................................. 7
2.1. The new system’s brain: the PIKO SmartBox®...................................................................... 8
2.2. PIKO SmartController®.......................................................................................................... 10
2.3 PIKO SmartBox®..................................................................................................................... 12
3. Getting started ....................................................................................................................... 15
3.1 Installing the PIKO SmartBox®.............................................................................................. 16
3.2 First Start of the PIKO SmartControl®System .................................................................... 19
4. PIKO SmartControl®App....................................................................................................... 24
4.1. Overview of features.............................................................................................................. 25
4.1.1 Settings................................................................................................................................... 25
4.1.2 Main-pages of the PIKO SmartControl®app........................................................................ 27
4.1.3 Overview of features.............................................................................................................. 28
4.2 The control panel ................................................................................................................... 29
4.2.1 Edit locomotive ...................................................................................................................... 30
4.2.2 Create new locomotive.......................................................................................................... 32
4.2.3 “create consist” ..................................................................................................................... 34
4.2.4 Controlling a locomotive....................................................................................................... 34
4.2.5 Switching between locos....................................................................................................... 35
4.3 The switch panel .................................................................................................................... 37
4.3.1 Create new switch panel ....................................................................................................... 37
4.3.2 Control the switch panel ....................................................................................................... 42
4.4 Programming.......................................................................................................................... 43
4.4.1 Read and write CV’s ............................................................................................................... 43
4.4.2 CV Write CV’s.......................................................................................................................... 43
4.4.3 DCC-Address.......................................................................................................................... 44
5. Options and settings of the PIKO SmartControl®System ................................................. 45
5.1 Link the PIKO SmartBox®into a local network ................................................................... 45
5.2 Connecting the PIKO SmartController®to a local network................................................ 46
5.3 Additional settings of the PIKO SmartBox®via the settings app...................................... 46
5.4 Update and Reset of the PIKO SmartBox®........................................................................... 51

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Products, specications and availability subject to change.
Duplications and reproductions of this documentation are strictly forbidden and need to be allowed by PIKO in writing.
PIKO®, PIKO SmartControl®, PIKO SmartController® and PIKO SmartBox® are registered trademarks.
RailComPlus® is a registered trademark of Lenz Elektronik GmbH, Gießen.
59112-90-7001 PIKO Spielwaren GmbH © 2015, V1.0.14
5.4.1 Factory reset .......................................................................................................................... 51
5.4.2 Update ..................................................................................................................................... 51
5.4.3 BackUp and Restore / Rescue of the PIKO SmartBox®...................................................... 52
5.5 Updating the PIKO SmartController®with a computer....................................................... 53
6. Overview of the Android operating system......................................................................... 55
6.1 Downloading and installing apps from the Google®PlayStore......................................... 56
6.2 Changing the background picture........................................................................................ 56
6.3 Personalize your devices ...................................................................................................... 57
6.4 Changing the system language............................................................................................ 57
7. Android-Tips........................................................................................................................... 58
7.1 Display settings: Brightness and timeout ........................................................................... 58
7.2 Font size ................................................................................................................................. 59
7.3 Manage installed apps........................................................................................................... 60
7.4 Checking battery usage ........................................................................................................ 61
8. Detailed instructions for the PIKO SmartControl®App ...................................................... 62
8.1 PIKO SmartControl®App....................................................................................................... 62
8.2 Android menus and features ................................................................................................ 65
9. PIKO SmartController®Accessories .................................................................................... 68
9.1 Attaching the lanyard ............................................................................................................ 68
9.2 Changing the battery of the PIKO SmartController®........................................................... 68
10. Glossary.................................................................................................................................. 70
10.1 Digital glossary ...................................................................................................................... 70
10.2 Android glossary ................................................................................................................... 72
11. Function symbols .................................................................................................................. 73
12. Safety notice........................................................................................................................... 74
13. FAQ.......................................................................................................................................... 74
Notes ....................................................................................................................................... 80

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1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the new PIKO SmartControl® System!
Congratulations for making this decision! You are one of the rst as we are ushering in a new era of
digital train control.
The constant development of model trains and model train control required a completely new approach
to digital train control. Therefor PIKO, as one of the very rst model train companies, decided to
introduce a novel system that really is easy to use and yet is still capable of handling complex train
control scenarios.
This is made possible by the combination of a powerful Smartphone (“simply brilliant”) with proven
analog controls like the speed dial and the physical buttons placed on the sides of the device:
Simply brilliant + brilliantly simple = simply brilliant -> PIKO SmartControl® System.
We hope the new system gives everyone the ability to control his or her model trains in a simple and
intuitive fashion – just start playing and try it yourself!
We wish you lots of satisfaction
Your PIKO Team
PIKO SmartControl®– the digital future of model train control
Simply brilliant – brilliantly simple
Station announcements, lights, motor sounds, conductors whistle – with real life-like effects model train
layouts become more and more realistic. Controlling such a layout should be user friendly and should
not require constantly looking at displays or digital central stations. The new PIKO SmartControl®
System is the perfect choice for model train enthusiasts who want a modern and simple digital control
system.
It can be used for H0, TT as well as N-scale and with all track systems (only using DCC decoders).
It combines the advantages of a smartphone-control with the special requirements of the model train
hobby.

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2. System description
The mobile controller – PIKO SmartControl®
The wireless PIKO SmartController® gives you the ability to select and control trains, switches and
signals just by touching the high-resolution display with your ngertip.
Thanks to the Android operating system, the handling is as simple and intuitive as using your
smartphone.
Easy to understand symbols directly display the available functions. A big metal knob which you
could use with your eyes closed allows for precise speed control. As you switch to another loco it
will automatically readjust to the current loco’s speed. The mechanics will not be damaged if for any
reason the motion of the wheel is blocked.
You can enter names for switches and accessories in the same way you can name locos.
For easy separation of the different items you also can add symbols.
CV-programming and all system conguration can easily be managed with the touch display.
The controller can be easily charged via USB during breaks.
Notice:
The PIKO SmartController® can only be used in conjunction with the PIKO SmartBox®, that transfers
all commands for locos and accessories to the track.
You can use up to 32 PIKO SmartControl® devices with a PIKO SmartBox®.
PIKO SmartController® technical specication:
• Android OS 4.1.x.
• ARM CPU with >1 GHz clock speed, 512 MB RAM, 2 GB Flash ROM
• 3.2” TFT Display, 800x480 pixel resolution
• capacitive multi-touch panel with softkeys
• powered metal dial with end-stop and micro switch for changing direction
• 2 user customizable function buttons on each side
• USB port for software updates and battery charging
• powerful internal battery with 5 to 8 hours of battery life
• internal battery can be replaced by removing two screws
• 3.5 mm stereo headset port (microphone and headphone)
Features:
Controlling locos
• The internal database can hold more than 16,000 locomotives with individual names, symbols and up
to 28 functions per locomotive
Switches and accessories
More than 1,000 accessories or switches can be congured and controlled via graphical user interface
Consisting
Up to 4 locomotives per consist, the system creates the consist virtually

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2.1. The new system’s brain: the PIKO SmartBox®
The handheld PIKO SmartController® communicates with the PIKO SmartBox® via wireless LAN. The
SmartBox® connects to the track to supply both power and digital signals for trains and accessories. The
SmartBox®’s integrated 5A booster allows it to power even large layouts without problems.
Locomotives equipped with RailComPlus decoders will register automatically and will provide their
function key icons to the system. Thanks to RailComPlus, decoder settings can be modied on the main.
A separate programming track comes in handy when conguring other DCC-compliant decoders without
RailComPlus support.
For expanding layouts, additional boosters and occupancy detectors can be connected to the PIKO
SmartBox® without difculty. A PC running model railroad software can be connected to the system via
wired or wireless LAN. Multiple PIKO SmartControl® handsets can be used simultaneously with a single
PIKO SmartBox®.
If so desired, the PIKO SmartBox® can be integrated into your home network. This will make installing
updates especially easy.
All locos with RailCom Plus® supported decoders will be registrated automatically with their name, adress
and available functions. A seperate programming track helps to easily setup old decoders. By the help of
RailComPlus® it’s also possible to modify decoder setups on the main track.
The PIKO SmartBox® communicates with the PIKO SmartControl® over WiFi. The devices will connect
automatically. No further setups or downloads have to be done, no further equipment is required: All
necessary equipment is already included in the PIKO Premium Train Sets.
Attention:
For technical reasons only one PIKO SmartBox®can be used within WiFi range. You cannot
use two PIKO SmartBoxes®in the same room.
For using two PIKO SmartBoxes®with overlapping WiFi range please see chapter „5.3 /
additonal settings of the PIKO SmartBox®via the settings app”.

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PIKO SmartBox® technical specication:
DCC central station with RailComPlus*
• All DCC modes (14, 28, 128 speed steps, LGB serial), long and short addresses are supported
• Up to 16,384 locomotives can be congured and controlled
• Up to 28 individually assignable functions per locomotive
Wireless LAN receiver for the PIKO SmartController®*
• Supports simultaneous use of up to 32 wireless PIKO SmartController®
• Standalone mode: The PIKO SmartBox® will create a wireless network for the controllers, no internet
access
• Access point: The PIKO SmartBox® connects to your home network
• WLAN module for connecting to all common WLAN access points
• Compliant with all relevant IEEE WLAN standards. Suitable for use in America and Europe
Ethernet-Port*
• Connection to home network for software updates and computer interface
Integrated main track booster, up to 5 A output (adjustable)
• suitable for N, TT and H0 scale
Integrated programming track output for decoder programming
• full support of all DCC service mode commands
• import of all decoders used by PIKO to date (excludes old AnDi decoders!)
• import of locomotives possible
Loconet-T extension port**
• wired controllers
• occupancy detectors
**Please note: This function will follow per Update.
Power supply
• DC 5.5 mm / 2.1 mm socket for external regulated DC power supply
• low voltage monitoring and auto shut-off
* a detailed explanation of the terms used above can be found at the end of the manual

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2.2. PIKO SmartController®
Hardware
1 On / Off switch (top right)
2 Analog controller, motor-powered and with end-switch (top center)
3 Display
4 STOP-button (above display, right side, „Pause“-Symbol)
5 Status-LED (above display left)
6 Four function buttons (right and left side, each 2x)
7 3.5mm stereo headset port (below display left) for headset
8 Mini-USB-port (below display right) for PC connection (update / data) or charging
9 Lanyard-hook (centered below display)
The four function buttons on the sides are programmable, each can be assigned to a specic
function.
For more details about setting up the function buttons see “Getting started”
The motorized analog dial automatically adjusts to the current speed of the loco when setting the
speed on the display, taking over control of a loco or when changing direction.
„Stop / II“-button
The STOP-button is something like a panic switch for the PIKO SmartControl® system.
Depending on the delay which is setup in the menu, the button will react immediately or after 0,5
seconds pressing.
Power to the layout will be cut and the status-led switches from green to red. To restart the system just
press the button again.
Please note that the PIKO SmartBox® saves all state before the emergency power-off, as soon as you
restart the system all locos will start driving again and switches as well as accessories will keep their
prior position.
The status-led can also switch to red if you choose the option „act as main controller.“ In case the
connection between the PIKO SmartBox® and the PIKO SmartControl® is lost the system will do an
emergency power-off.
More details can be found under “Getting started”
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The status-LED displays the current state of your system. If the LED is green you can control and
steer as you like. If the LED is red the PIKO SmartBox® either detected a short circuit or you triggered
an emergency-stop.
Hardware-buttons
Left: Menu
Center: Home (to get to the home screen)
Right: Back
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Attaching the Lanyard
In case you need free hands while playing, each PIKO SmartControl® comes with a lanyard. You can
easily t it to the desired hook of the PIKO SmartControl® and carry the SmartControl® around your
neck.
Your hands will be free and an accidental drop will be avoided.
A short description how to attach the lanyard can be found at the end of the manual.
Information about the Android operating system
You may already be familiar with Google’s “Android” operating system from your personal smartphone.
Getting used to the system will be easy, as the PIKO SmartControl® app can be used just like any other
Android-app.
For those of you who never have used a smartphone before – don’t be afraid! You can’t make any big
mistakes, most importantly, you can’t damage anything!
We provide a simple and easy to understand introduction in how to setup your devices in the section
“Getting started”.
See “Short introduction to Google’s Android operating system” at the end of the manual if you want to
learn more about Google’s Android operating system.
2.3 PIKO SmartBox®

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Hardware
top: (each from left to right)
1 status LED for WPS connection
2 button for WPS connection
3 status LED for active connection between PIKO SmartBox and PIKO SmartControl®-app
4 jumper (WiFi on/off)
5 status LED for track power
6 button for reset / backup
7 button for reset / backup
8 button for rescue / update
9 status LED for rescue / update
10 crosshead screw for removing upper part of the PIKO SmartBox housing
11 status LED for power status
Backside: (from left to right):
1 5.5 mm socket for power supply
2 track-out for „programming track“
3 track-out for „main track“
4 LNET (Loconet) –socket
5 ECoSlink-socket
6 Extend-socket
7 LAN-socket
8 USB-socket
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
111091 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

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Connections
Power supply (1)
Hook-up for external power supply
Track-out „programming track“ (2)
Connect the optional programming track here.
Track-out „main track“(3)
This is where the main tracks of your layout will be connected.
LocoNet / LNet-socket (4)*
LocoNet interface. You can connect LocoNet components. This can also be used for connecting a
computer to control your layout.
*Please note: This function will follow per Update.
ESU-compatible sockets (5,6)
„ECoSlink“-socket: ECosLink bus. You can connect your PIKO SmartBox® with an ESU ECoS
command station.
„Extend“-socket: here you can connect additional ESU-compatible components.
LAN-socket (7)
Ethernet interface for connecting to a local network.
USB-socket (8)
USB interface can be used PIKO SmartBox® system updates.
More details can be found in “Update and Reset of the PIKO SmartBox®”
Notice about PIKO SmartBox®
Network settings
The PIKO SmartBox®’s network settings are not customizable. It will always use the default settings
when connecting to a network. In the interest of functional security and reliability we do not provide an
user interface to adjust network settings.
More details on how to connect your system to a network can be found in „Options and settings of the
PIKO SmartControl® System“.
Update of the PIKO SmartBox® rmware
Updates will be easily applied from an USB-stick.
More details can be found in “Update and Reset of the PIKO SmartBox®”

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3. Getting started
System setup
Before you start your new PIKO SmartControl® System please ensure that following things are done:
• Ensure a safe set-up of your layout. This includes properly assembled track without buckle, bends
or kinks. Ensure that all track-connectors are t securely. Secure the track with nails or screws.
Depending on the total length of track expansion joints might be required.
• Power feeders should be added roughly every 6 feet, to avoid voltage drops and ensure a clean
digital signal
• It is necessary to operate the track and the accessories on separate circuits. Accessories may
otherwise interfere with the digital signal.
• Avoid any short circuits from damaged wires, bad insulation, damaged electronics or pieces of metal
on the track (e.g. screws or nails). Please take the time to double check this. It will safe you a lot of
time later, in case there is a problem!
• Choose a proper and safe place to mount the PIKO SmartBox®. This position should meet the
following requirements:
• all connected wires should be xed without pulling-force
• the PIKO SmartBox® is protected against hard vibrations, getting hit or kicked (it contains
very sensitive electronics!)
• there is no interference with the WLAN signal (e.g. do not place the SmartBox® into a metal
housing)
• there is enough space around the PIKO SmartBox® for you to reach it
• the PIKO SmartBox® is in a dry place and protected against direct sunlight
• the integrated fan is not covered (seen from top: right side) and a sufcient air circulation is
possible

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3.1 Installing the PIKO SmartBox®
If you like to, you can permanently mount your PIKO SmartBox® after choosing a place that fullls the
aforementioned requirements.
Remove the small cover plate on top of the unit (using your ngernails) and remove the crosshead
screw underneath.
After the screw has been removed you can lift the upper part of the housing.
Next carefully remove the mainboard of the PIKO SmartBox® by lifting it up. The best way to do that is
to use the two handling areas on the left and right side.
Please take care for the fan which is placed in the bottom part of the PIKO SmartBox® housing. It has a
loose t, so you easily can pull it out without any use of force.
Now place the mainboard carefully onto a soft and non-conductive surface, such as a plastic plate.
After that you can see two holes on the bottom which can be used to x the lower housing to a table.
Attention! To avoid any possibility of short circuits cover the screw heads with electrical tape.
Reassemble in reverse order. Please take care not to bend or damage anything.
Any use of force should be avoided, otherwise the highly sensitive electronics may be damaged.

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Connecting your PIKO SmartBox®to the track
After making sure that your layout is setup according to above mentioned criteria you can connect the
Piko SmartBox® to the track. You begin by connecting the wires to the the terminal / socket-connector.
Terminal / Socket Connector
Before inserting the wire, please open the terminal screws a little bit (see left picture, left side opened).
Open the screws until the wire will t.
The wire ends should be tin-plated ca. 5mm. If you have no soldering iron on hand you can twist the
wire ends instead.
Now insert the wires and tighten the screws. Please make sure that the insulation is not pushed into
the holes, otherwise contact problems may occur.
You will have the choice where to connect your track.
Please connect your layout to “MAIN”. If you have a separate programming track you can connect it to
“PROG” with another socket terminal.
With a programming track in place you can control your layout and program decoders in parallel.

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The PIKO SmartBox® also supports the POM-function, which means „programming on the main“. With
this function you can modify decoder setups directly on the main track, without using the additional
programming track. This feature requires RailComPlus® compatible decoders.
Notice:
Please make sure you insert the socket-terminals the right way up. They won’t t otherwise!
Connecting additional components to the PIKO SmartBox®
Depending on the size of your layout you might want to connect your accessories and other
components to the SmartBox® prior to powering it up for the rst time.
Additional information about the different features can be found under „options and settings of the PIKO
SmartControl® System“.
Connecting the PIKO SmartBox®to the power supply
Once everything above is in place you can connect your PIKO SmartBox® to the power supply.
Just insert the 5.5mm terminal of the power supply into the socket on the back of the PIKO SmartBox®
(socket “PWR”). The PIKO SmartBox® will start automatically and setup a local Wi-Fi network, to
connect with the PIKO SmartControl®.
Notice: If no LAN-wire is connected and WPS is not activated, the PIKO SmartBox® will create a local
wireless network exclusively for the PIKO SmartController®. An internet connection is not available in
this conguration.

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3.2 First Start of the PIKO SmartControl®System
Activating the PIKO SmartController®
Turn on your device by holding the power-button for ca. 2 seconds. As soon as the status-LED is
blinking you can release the button. The device will boot for the rst start now (this may take up to one
minute).
After the device has nished booting you will be automatically redirected to the Android home screen.
The home screen is the equivalent of the desktop on your computer.
Before you start playing we recommend you to take some time to setup your device.

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Setting up the device
(Android-setup) Setup Date and time
To set the date and time on your device, please go to the main menu (press the on home screen
and enter settings).
Then enter “Date and Time” in the column “System”.
To enter the time manually, please press “Automatic time zone / Use network-provided time zone” to
remove the check mark. Now the functions “set date” and “set time” are available.
If you are already planning on connecting your device to the internet you can skip this step. Your device
will automatically download the current date and time from the internet.