RR-Concepts StationMaster-5 User manual

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This manual contains detailed hookup and programming instructions for the
StationMaster - Reversing train controller.
The Reversing StationMaster is similar to a standard StationMaster however
it contains software to perform automatic back-and-forth operation with or without
sensors.
Before we Start- Please do not attach power wires (from your power pack or
transformer) to any other terminals except the designated inputs.
Your StationMaster will be damaged if power is put on any of the sensor terminals.
ONLY ATTACH WIRES WHILE THE POWER IS OFF.
tation aster -
Reversing Train Controller, V2 version
Status LED
Top Speed Adjust and
Programming Dial YardMaster data cable
plug.
IN 8-20VDC
Out to Track
Sensor LED
Programming
Pushbuttons
Sensor Inputs
End
sensor
In-between stop
sensor
STOP sensor
RR Concepts
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July, 2019
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To
Power Pack
DC TRACK
Terminals.
If StationMaster does not turn on
then reverse direction on transformer.
To
TRACK
Diode Isolators (two places)
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Reversing Operations -
No Sensors, acceleration, deceleration.
The default hookup uses diodes at the ends which will stop the train when it
crosses the boundary. If desirable, LGB 10151 units can be use in place of diodes.
PROGRAMMING:
Best performance is achieved with the factory default settings. (See factory default
programming instructions) If desired the acceleration rate and time delays can be changed.
Reversing using Diodes
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Diodes can be wired to the track using
self-tapping screws or attached to an isolator.
A 1 or 2 AMP diode is usually sufficient.
continued...
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StationMaster
Here is the hookup:
* 2 wires from the transformer to the Reverser.
* 2 wires from the Reverser to the track.
* Diodes on the ends where the engine will stop.

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OPERATIONS: Basically watch the train, and set the location where the
deceleration should start
The Reverser has a 2 step speed profile. Speed #1 is the top speed of the train set by the transformer.
Speed #2 is a “creeping” speed which allows the train to always reach the diode isolators on the ends.
The Reverser will accelerate using the programmed acceleration rate, maintain a top speed, and then
decelerate down to Speed #2 when the TIME TO DECELERATE time is reached.
Once the deceleration has completed, Speed #2 will be maintained for the duration of the “pause time”.
This provides a very realistic and smooth operation. After a reverse, the operation is repeated.
HOW TO SET OR RESET THE AUTOMATIC DECELERATION REVERSING:
1. Set the transformer for the desired top speed of the train. Turn the StationMaster top speed dial
fully clockwise.
2. Press programming buttons #1 and #2 at the same time OR perform a factory reset. This will
erase any programmed TIME TO DECELERATE values. Note that this is not always necessary since the
TIME TO DECELERATE can be changed at any time. (see below, pressing button #1 will also reset)
3. Watch the train and press BUTTON #3 when the train reaches the TIME TO DECELERATE location.
This is typically 3 feet from the ends, but depends on the speed of the train and the programmed deceleration
rate. The train will blink red and decelerate. After decelerating, the Reverser will blink RED/GREEN while
the train creeps into the stops. After reversing, repeat for the other direction. Notice that the Reverser
will store different TIME TO DECELERATE values for each direction since trains don’t always go
the same speed in forward and reverse.
That’s it!
Dial: - optional -
Turn counter-clockwise
to decrease “creep speed”.
Note: Turning too far will enter
programming mode.
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Continued...
Reversing Operations - No Sensors Continued...
Pushbutton Operations
Button 1:
Reset TIMETO DECELERATE
for this direction. (start over)
Button #2: - optional -
Terminate the time delay operation
and reverse as soon as possible.
(Convenience during programming)
Button #3:
Set the TIME TO DECELERATE
for this direction NOW.

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Reversing Operations - No Sensors Continued...
Notes
LED Indications
This LED will:
Flash GREEN when accelerating,
Flash RED when decelerating,
Slowly flash GREEN/RED during the time delay.
Blink ORANGE when an infinite time delay is running.
(When in this condition button #2 MUST be pressed to continue.)
This LED will:
Turn RED when a TIME TO DECELERATE
value is NOT set for this direction. Button #3 MUST
be pressed to set the deceleration time or the train will never reverse.
Pushbutton and Dial Operations - a few more details
All recorded values are stored in flash memory and retained after a power cycle. For consistent
operation day after day the transformer throttle setting should be the same. Sometimes trains
will run a different speed after operating for awhile, and this is expected. To always creep into the
ends set the TIME TO DECELERATE location sooner to allow more creep time.
The duration of the creep time comes from the programmed delay time. The delay time is actually
“wait this long before reversing”. If a very long creep is done, then the pause at the ends will be
shorter. Increase the time delay if a longer pause time at the ends is desired.
When the Reverser is running, button #3 can be pressed at any time to set the TIME TO
DECELERATE. When pressed, the deceleration will start and this time is recorded.
If the deceleration is starting too soon and a different time is desired, then press
BUTTON #1 to erase the stored value. This will cause the Reverser to set an infinite time delay
to allow the train to creep into the stops (orange blink). Once the train enters the stops,
press button #2 (terminate the time delay) to continue. Set the TIME TO DECEL again after
the train reverses and comes back in this direction.
The default creep speed is relative to the transformer throttle setting. If a slower creep speed is
desired, then turn the top speed dial counter-clockwise to slow the train down. Note that the
creep speed will be the same for both directions. Some trains will creep faster in forward than
in reverse. Note that the StationMaster requires at least 8 volts to operate.
Most important- Always allow the trains to enter the stops on the ends before setting the
TIME TO DECELERATE value (button #3). We need to record the time to start the deceleration
for the full length of track.
T

5
To
Power Pack
DC TRACK
Terminals.
If StationMaster does not turn on.
reverse direction on transformer.
To
TRACK
Place MAGNET
on bottom of engine.
Sensors in PARALLEL.
Reversing using Sensors
PROGRAMMING:
Set programming blink 1 to use sensors.
(See programming instructions for more info)
Set acceleration and deceleration rates as desired.
Set time delay on ends as desired.
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Reversing Operations using Sensors
When sensors are used the StationMaster will reverse before every acceleration
and ignore the next DECEL sensor it encounters after a reversal. Using sensors provides
a more consistent day-to-day operation regardless of changing speeds changing trains, etc.
This is a more reliable operation for multiple train sidings where the trains travel at different
speeds.
This hookup requires a sensor to be placed on the extreme ends to signal the StationMaster
to begin the deceleration/pause/acceleration sequences.
Terminals
8 & 9 to end
sensors
Terminals
10 & 11 to
in-between sensoers
In-Between Station Stops
For in-between station stops add sensors to terminals 10 & 11 wired in parallel.
Note that 2 sensors must be used for each stop. Place sensors so that the train
stops between these sensors. This will allow the train to stop at the same position
regardless of direction. There is no limit to the number of stops that can be added.
If only one stop is desired in-between then one sensor can be used however the
train will stop at a different location for each direction due to the deceleration distance.
Two sensors are recommended.
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StationMaster
Optional STOP sensors
on the ends attached to 12
& 13 will allow precise stopping
location and realistic
“creep-stop” when enabled.

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StationMaster Basic Hookup Description
The StationMaster is designed to be installed
between the train transformer, and the track.
Attach 1 & 2 to your transformer's DC output (Sometimes
labeled as TRACK). Set your transformer’s throttle position
to the desired top speed of the train. If the StationMaster does
not "light up", then reverse the direction on the transformer
to change the voltage polarity, or swap these two wires.
Attach 3 & 4 to your track. This is the
controlled output voltage.
Terminals 8 & 9 are the start DECEL sensor for the ends.
When this sensor detects a magnet the StationMaster will begin a decelerate,
pause, reverse, and then accelerate sequence. The sensor LED will light up when
this sensor is detected. The DECEL sensor should be placed 1 or 2 feet from the
ends, depending on the deceleration rate. One is required on each end.
*This sensor can be simulated by pressing programming button #1.
END Sensor - only when programmed to use sensors.
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StationMaster
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StationMaster

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Terminals 10 and 11 will perform an in-between station stop.
When this sensor detects a magnet the StationMaster/Reverser
will use a fixed deceleration and acceleration rate for a station stop..
*This sensor can be simulated by pressing programming button #2.
Terminals 12 and 13 are the optional STOP sensor.
In-between station stop Sensor - Only when programmed to use sensors
STOP Sensor - Only when programmed to use sensors
When the train is decelerating and this sensor detects a magnet, the train
will immediately STOP. This sensor is not necessary unless an exact stopping
position is desired.
This sensor is REQUIRED when “Creep Stop” is turned on.
*This sensor can be simulated by pressing programming button #3.
Sensor Descriptions
Optional
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StationMaster
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StationMaster

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StationMaster
Speed Adjust
and
Programming Mode
When programed to use sensors:
The top "cruising" speed of the train can be adjusted by turning the "top speed" dial.
“Full speed" is clockwise. Turn this dial down as necessary to set the desired cruising speed.
Typically, this dial is set fully clockwise and the transformer is used to set the
speed of the train.
If you have a fixed DC power supply, then use this dial to set the top speed of your trains.
Default condition for diode reverse mode:
Reduce the “creep speed” of the train into the diode stops after the deceleration has finished.
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Speed Dial
Full counter-clockwise will enter Programming Mode.
When not full counter-clockwise, this dial does the following:

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Green flashing: train is ACCELERATING.
Green NOT flashing: Train is AT TOP CRUISING SPEED.
Orange NOT flashing, StationMaster will ignore next DECEL sensor
1. Quick Red flashing: Train is DECELERATING.
2. Red/GREEN flashing at 1 second rate: StationMaster is performing a time delay.
or possibly creeping into the stops.
Default mode: The TIME TO DECELERATE is not set for this direction.
Sensor mode: A sensor is detected.
Two Red Blinking LED's indicate a SHORT CIRCUIT condition.
Turn the top speed dial to zero and then back to 100%, or turn off
power to recover. If condition returns after recovery re-program shutdown
threshold by entering and exiting program mode, or locate the short circuit.
Sensor LED GREEN twinkling indicates secondary Programming mode.
Sensor LED orange twinkling indicates programming mode.
STATUS LED
STATUS LED
SENSOR LED
SENSOR LED
LED indicators
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1. Make sure all three sensor inputs are open.
2. If the top speed dial is not already at zero, then turn the top speed dial to zero.
(fully counter-clockwise.) The sensor LED will turn ORANGE.
3. Push and hold programming button #1.
4. Watch the status led. Each RED blink will decelerate slower.
The fastest deceleration will be with one blink. (TRAIN Stops
sooner) Release the pushbutton when the desired number of blinks have occurred.
A typical number is 5. Repeat this procedure if you want a different value.
One blink corresponds to a 3 second deceleration rate. Each additional blink adds
1 second. For example, a blink count of 5 would result in a deceleration rate of
8 seconds.
When finished with all programming turn the top speed dial fully clockwise and
then turn down to a desired creeping or top speed if needed.
All programming values are stored in flash memory and are retained until
re-programmed.
Programming:
Deceleration Rate
Fully
counter
clockwise
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1. Make sure all three sensor inputs are open. (Red LED is off)
2. If the top speed dial is not already at zero, then turn the top speed dial to zero.
(fully counter-clockwise.) The sensor LED will turn ORANGE.
3. Press and hold programming button #2..
4. Watch the status led. Each GREEN flash will accelerate slower.
The fastest acceleration will be with one blink.
Release the button when the desired number of blinks have occurred.
A typical number is 5. Repeat this procedure if you want a different value.
One blink corresponds to a 3 second acceleration time. Each additional blink adds
1 second. For example, a blink count of 5 would result in a deceleration rate of
8 seconds. A factory default will set to 5.
When finished with all programming, increase the top speed dial clockwise
to MAX and then down to a desired top speed. All programming values are stored
in flash memory and are retained until re-programmed.
A Note on Realistic Accelerations:
* For blinks 1 thru 9 the train will accelerate linearly with the programmed value.
This may be required for some block control operations where a second train is
approaching and the first train needs to quickly accelerate to get out of the way, or for
a trolley which accelerates quickly.
* For blinks 10 and above the train will creep very slowly out of the station
and then continue accelerating as it continues down the main line.
This provides a very realistic operation as a train creeps out of a siding or station
and shows off sound systems with incredible realism.
* 10 blinks will creep for 5 seconds.
* 11 blinks will creep for 10 seconds.
* 12 blinks and up will creep for 15 seconds.
Programming:
Acceleration Rate
Fully
counter
clockwise
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1. Make sure all three sensor inputs are open. (red Led is off)
2. If the top speed dial is not already at zero, then turn the top speed dial to zero.
(fully counter-clockwise.) The sensor LED will turn ORANGE.
3. Press and hold programming button #3.
4. Each ORANGE flash will increase the waiting time after a station stop.
A wait time of zero will be with one flash.
Release the button when the desired number of flashes have occurred.
Repeat this procedure if you want a different value.
The LED will flash orange when an infinite delay is set (after 13 counts).
When infinite delay is set, then the ACCEL sensor is required to start up the train
after a station stop. A fun thing to do would be to connect the ACCEL terminals to a
doorbell switch. Your train would patiently wait until someone pushed the button! Motion
sensors are another possible way to start the train.
When finished with all programming increase the top speed dial clockwise to
maximum or to a desired top speed. All programming values are stored
in flash memory and are retained until re-programmed.
The number of orange FLASHES will correspond to the following
time delays:
1: 0 seconds, no wait.
2: 5 seconds
3: 10 seconds
4 15 seconds
5: 20 seconds
6: 30 seconds
7: 1 minute
8: 2 minutes
9: 5 minutes
10: 10 minutes
11: 30 minutes
12: 60 minutes
13: Infinite, wait for GO sensor. This is for block control operations.
Programming:
Pause Time
Fully
counter
clockwise
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HOW TO PROGRAM: (Perform a factory reset to clear everything if needed)
1. Enter Secondary Programming mode: (Skip this step if already in secondary programming mode)
* Turn the Top Speed dial fully counter-clockwise to enter programming mode
(Skip this step if already in programming mode). The sensor LED will turn ORANGE.
* Turn the Top Speed dial slowly clockwise until the sensor LED turns GREEN. This indicates
secondary programming mode. This should be about half-way.
2. Press and hold programming button #1 until the desired number of blinks have occurred.
Each blink will set or clear a different feature. If currently ON it will turn off. If ON it will turn OFF.
When finished do not power off without first turning the dial fully clockwise.
Programmable Modes: (Any or all of these or all can be programmed independently)
Hold button for 1 blink = Sensor Reversing Mode, ignore next sensor after reversing, ACCEL sensor
will perform an in-between station stop.
Hold button for 2 blinks = Fire YardMaster before acceleration starts.
Hold button for 3 blinks = Fire YardMaster after train has stopped. (Default ON after a factory reset)
Hold button for 4 blinks = Sensor mode only: Reverse direction before every acceleration.
Never ignore sensors.
Hold button for 5 blinks = Only fire YardMaster in forward direction. (For reversing operations with
a siding on one end)
Hold button for 6 blinks = Shut off current sensor. This could cause damage to the StationMaster
unless the transformer can provide short-circuit shutdown. This is sometimes
necessary when running with very small transformers. (1 AMP or less)
Hold button for 7 blinks = Sensor mode only: Turn on “creep stop”. The train will decelerate then
creep until reaching the STOP sensor. LEDs will flash RED/GREEN
when creeping.
When the button is released the StationMaster will echo the currently programmed features (modes)
by blinking the red/green LED 6 times. For example, if “Fire YardMaster after train has stopped” has
been programmed (button pressed for 3 blinks) and nothing else is programmed then the StationMaster
will blink:
blink 1 RED: Sensor Reversing mode is OFF.
blink 2 RED: Fire YardMaster before acceleration starts
blink 3 GREEN: Fire YardMaster after stopping ON
blink 4 RED: Reverse direction before every acceleration OFF
blink 5 RED: Only fire YardMaster in forward direction OFF
blink 6 RED: Disable current sensor: OFF
blink 7 RED: Creep-stop mode : OFF
Each time a feature is “programmed” that feature will toggle on or off. (Toggle means the feature will
go OFF if currently ON, or ON if currently OFF). A factory reset will clear all values and set bit 2.
To view the currently programmed operating modes quickly press and release button #1.
Programming:
Operating Modes
Please go to RRconcepts.com
to view an informational
video on how to program
operating modes.
Orange
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The train count is needed for 2 reasons:
1. Manage different creeping speeds for up to 5 trains. (sensor mode only)
2. Send proper signals to attached YardMasters to correctly fire turnouts.
For example, a 3 track siding using 2 YardMasters wired in parallel would
have a train count of 3, since 3 trains will be controlled.
A factory reset will set this to 2 trains.
When running a simple back and forth this value can be anything.
Programming:
1. Make sure all three sensor inputs are open.
2. If not already in programming mode turn the top speed dial to zero.
(fully counter-clockwise.)
3. Slowly turn the top speed dial clockwise until the sensor LED turns GREEN.
This indicates secondary programming mode.
(Skip this step if already in secondary programming mode)
4. Press and hold button #3.
5. Each orange flash counts the number of running trains.
Release the button when the desired number of flashes have occurred.
The number will be echoed back when the button is released..
Repeat this procedure if you want a different value.
When finished with all programming, increase the top speed dial clockwise to MAX,
and then down to a desired top speed or creep speed if necessary.
All programming values are stored in flash memory and saved until re-programmed again.
NOTICE: A factory reset will set the train count to 2.
Programming:
Train Count
Green
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Programming:
Factory Reset
To set the StationMaster back to factory defaults perform the following:
1: Enter programming mode by turning the top speed dial fully counter-clockwise
2. Press and hold both button #1 AND button #3 at the same time.
3 Turn the top speed dial fully clockwise to exit programming mode.
Do not power off without first turning the dial fully clockwise.
The factory default settings are:
* Acceleration rate 1 blink.
* Deceleration rate 1 blink.
* Time delay 15 seconds.
* Train count: 2
* Creep settings reset
* Deceleration times reset
* Operating mode (features) set as follows:
Blink 1 = RED, Sensor Reversing Mode: OFF.
Blink 2 = GREEN, Fire YardMaster before accelerating:
Blink 3 = RED, Reverse before every acceleration: OFF
Blink 4 = RED, Fire YardMaster only in forward direction: OFF
Blink 5 = RED, Disable current sensor: OFF
Blink 6 = RED, Enable CREEP-STOP mode: OF
Fully
counter
clockwise
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“Creep-Stop” Deceleration for Incredible Realism
- Sensor mode only -
A unique and extremely realistic feature of the StationMaster is “Creep-Stop” Deceleration.
By using both a DECEL sensor and a STOP sensor the StationMaster will provide a very realistic station stop.
Programming your StationMaster to use “Creep-Stop” is very easy:
1. Set bit 6 in programming mode.(Press and hold button #1 in SECONDARY Programming mode until the
LED blinks rapidly)
2. Place the DECEL and STOP sensors on your track as shown. The distance between
sensors should be about 2 to 6 feet, or whatever looks good to you.
3. Program the deceleration rate (if needed) to provide a realistic deceleration into the train yard before the creep
starts.
When “Creep Stop” is enabled, the train will decelerate using the programmed deceleration rate, then “creep”
forward until the STOP sensor is reached. This guarantees the train will always stop on the STOP sensor using
a realistic profile. The starting creep speed is relatively slow however the train must
reach the STOP sensor within 25 seconds. If the train stalls, then the creep speed is increased for the next time.
When a stall occurs, the voltage will be increased to allow the train to reach the STOP sensor after 25 seconds.
Be patient. If the train stalls it will eventually carry on.
The length of the creeping can be adjusted by either increasing or decreasing the distance between DECEL and
STOP sensors, increasing or decreasing the deceleration rate, or both. Start with a 4 foot distance and see
how that looks.
Up to 5 different creep speeds can be used for 5 different trains. Slow trains can run next to fast trains
and each will creep perfectly, Use the “train count” to set the number of trains that will be run. A factory default will
set for 2 trains which is perfect for an alternating siding setup.
STOP sensor DECEL sensor
To
Power Pack
TRACK
Terminals
Attach to
TRACK
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That’s it!
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StationMaster

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StationMaster “Deadman Timer”
A unique feature of the StationMaster is the DeadmanTimer.
If a train is sensed on the track and no sensor has been
detected for 10 minutes, the StationMaster will SHUT DOWN
and flash both the GREEN LEDs.
This prevents the condition where a train is hung up on an
obstruction and spinning it’s wheels, most probably grinding a
divot in the rails and wearing out wheels and gears.
Each time a sensor is triggered, or the train is not sensed, the deadman
10 minute timer is reset.
The Deadman Timer will be enabled AFTER the first
sensor or pushbutton is pressed after power up.
How to use or bypass the Deadman Timer Shutdown:
* When the sensor connector is pulled and trains are running “manually”,
the Deadman Shutdown will not be enabled, unless a button is pushed.
* To run “manually” and also use the Deadman Shutdown, the DECEL
sensor needs to be pulled, and either the STOP or ACCEL sensor must
be run over.
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Flashing Green LEDs
Sensor
Connector

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+ Voltage INPUT
Common Ground
Output Voltage to Track
Output Voltage to Track
Sensor
Inputs
+ 5V
Common Ground
Electrical Details
For reference only
The locations of the common grounds could be useful for some wiring harnesses.
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Common Ground
Sensor Input
Common Ground
Sensor Input
Common Ground
Sensor Input
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Troubleshooting
Problem:
The StationMaster goes into shutdown mode when it should not.
Background:
When exiting programming mode the StationMaster turns on internal relays
to short circuit the track for a brief amount of time. During this time the power
entering the current sensor is measured. This is then stored as the “shutdown”
current. When the StationMaster detects this amount of current flowing thru
the track it will shut down assuming that there is a short circuit due to a derail,
mis-wire, etc. Sometimes a low shutdown value can be recorded if the
transformer is set to a low value during programming operations.
If the transformer throttle is then turned up while running the StationMaster could
sense an over-current and shut down.
Solution:
During programming mode turn the transformer throttle up to full speed.
To exit programming mode (as normal) turn the StationMaster dial fully clockwise
and allow the relays to click. At this time the true shutdown current is measured
and recorded. When the green LED starts flashing turn the transformer throttle back
down to the desired top speed of the train.
Problem:
The trains stops before reaching the ends.
Background:
The time to start decelerating is set by button #3 and retained in memory,
however the speed of the train could have changed due to a change in the
transformer throttle position, change of train engine, or change in programmed
acceleration or deceleration blinks.
Solution:
Any one of the following will allow the train to run farther before stopping:
1. Turn the top speed dial clockwise to increase the creep speed.
2. Turn up the transformer throttle.
3. Increase the programmed time delay to allow more creeping before reversing.
4. Change the START DECELERATION spot to be closer to the ends. (Press
button #1 to clear the programming for this direction and press button #3 again
to set the point where deceleration starts after the train reverses and comes
back.

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Sensor Placements on Track
The suggested sensor placement on track is shown below with the train magnet installed
in the center of the train. Best sensing is done with the magnet passing over the tip of
the sensor.
Sensor Placement for identifying a train.
Offset the train’s magnet
to the same side as the
sensor as shown.
For example,
passenger trains have the magnet offset to the right and freight trains
have the magnet offset to the left side.
Sensor placement for HO EZ track is under the roadbed.
Other scale trains can place the sensors where appropriate. Very small sensors are available
which do not have the waterproof housing. These smaller sensors can be used for N, HO, etc.
Contact RR Concepts for these sensors.
Your StationMaster is warranted, and guaranteed operational for 1 year.
It will be repaired or replaced at no charge within that time period.
Contact for additional information.http://www.RR-Concepts.com
WARRANTY
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