tams elektronik KSM-4 User manual

KSM-4
Loop Module
for digital model railroad layouts
Manual
Item nos. 49-01146 | 49-01147
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KSM-4 tams ele troni
Version: 2.0 | Status: 12/2022
© Tams Elektronik GmbH
All rights reserved, in particular the right of reproduction, distribution and translation. Copies,
reproductions and alterations in any form require the written permission of Tams Ele troni
GmbH. We reserve the right to ma e technical changes.
Printing the manual
The formatting is optimised for double-sided printing. The standard page size is DIN A5. If
you prefer a larger display, printing on DIN A4 is recommended.
2 | Contents

tams ele troni KSM-4
Contents
1. Getting started.............................................................................................................4
1.1. Contents of the pac age.......................................................................................4
1.2. Accessories..........................................................................................................4
1.3. Intended use.......................................................................................................4
1.4. Safety instructions................................................................................................5
1.5. Care....................................................................................................................5
2. Operation overview.......................................................................................................6
2.1. Loop problems.....................................................................................................6
2.2. Mode of operation of the KSM-4............................................................................6
2.3. Procedure............................................................................................................7
2.4. Designing a layout with the KSM-4........................................................................8
2.5. Use with a turntable.............................................................................................8
3. Connections KSM-4.......................................................................................................9
3.1. Dividing the loop into sections...............................................................................9
3.2. Connections.......................................................................................................10
4. Operation...................................................................................................................11
5. Chec list for troubleshooting and error correction.........................................................12
5.1. Technical Hotline................................................................................................13
5.2. Repairs..............................................................................................................13
6. Technical data............................................................................................................14
7. Warranty, EU conformity & WEEE................................................................................16
7.1. Guarantee bond.................................................................................................16
7.2. EU Declaration of Conformity..............................................................................17
7.3. Declarations on the WEEE Directive.....................................................................17
Contents | 3

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1. Getting started
The instructions will help you step by step with the safe and proper installation and use of
your loop module. Before you start to put the loop module into operation, read this manual
completely, especially the safety instructions and the section on possible errors and their
elimination. You will then now what you have to pay attention to and thus avoid errors that
sometimes can only be rectified with a lot of effort.
Keep the instructions in a safe place so that you can restore functionality later in the event of
any malfunctions. If you pass the loop module on to another person, also give the instructions
with it.
1.1. Contents of the pac age
1 ready-built and tested circuit board KSM-4 (item no. 49-01146-01) or
1 loop module KSM-4 in housing (item no. 49-01147-01)
2 push-buttons
1.2. Accessories
onnection cables
The use of stranded wire is recommended for ma ing the connections. Stranded wires consist
of several thin individual wires and are therefore more flexible than rigid wires with the same
copper cross-section. Recommended cross-sections:
Connection of the rails: > 0.75 mm²
Connection of the points: > 0.25 mm
Connection of the push-buttons: > 0.10 mm
1.3. Intended use
The loop module is intended for use in model railway layouts as specified in the instructions.
Any other use is not in accordance with the intended use and will result in the loss of the
warranty claim. Intended use also includes reading, understanding and following all parts of
the instructions. The loop module is not intended to be used by children under the age of 14.
4 | Getting started

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1.4. Safety instructions
Note:
The loop module contains integrated circuits (ICs). These are sensitive to electrostatic
charging. Therefore, do not touch these components until you have "discharged" yourself.
For this purpose, e.g. a grip on a radiator is sufficient.
Improper use and non-observance of the instructions can lead to incalculable hazards. Prevent
these dangers by carrying out the following measures:
Only use the loop module in closed, clean and dry rooms. Avoid moisture and splash water
in the environment. After condensation has formed, wait two hours for acclimatisation
before use.
Disconnect the loop module from the power supply before carrying out wiring wor .
Supply the loop module only with extra-low voltage as specified in the technical data. Use
only tested and approved transformers.
Only plug the mains plugs of transformers into properly installed and fused earthed soc ets.
When ma ing electrical connections, ensure that the cable cross-section is sufficient.
Heating of the loop module during operation is normal and harmless.
Do not expose the loop module to high ambient temperatures or direct sunlight. Observe
the information on the maximum operating temperature in the technical data.
Regularly chec the operational safety of the loop module, e.g. for damage to the
connection cables.
If you notice damage or if malfunctions occur, disconnect the connection to the power
supply immediately. Send the loop module in for inspection.
1.5. Care
Do not use any cleaning agents to clean the loop module. Only wipe the module dry.
Disconnect the loop module from the power supply before cleaning.
Getting started | 5

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2. Operation overview
2.1. Loop problems
At the loop points in two-rail-systems, different polarities meet with each other. As soon as a
vehicle bridges the differently polarized sections when driving in or out the terminal loop a
short circuit occurs.
In digital layouts loop modules generally
have to adapt the polarity within the
terminal loop to the one outside. In case
the polarity outside the terminal loop
would be altered, different polarities would
meet with each other at the transition to
the next booster section. Thus the problem
would be misaligned only.
2.2. Mode of operation of the KSM-4
In standard operation, the KSM-4 adapts the polarity within the terminal loop according to the
position of points that way, the polarities at the transisiton to the outside match. This
foresighted setting of the polarity avoids shorts circuits at the transition between the two
sections.
ontrolling the points
The operation principle of the KSM-4 is based on switching as well the points and in doing so,
adapting the polarity within the terminal loop depending on the position of points.
The points can be switched in differant ways:
automatically when a train is leaving the terminal loop;
by means of two push-buttons;
with DCC accessory commands to the address of the integrated points decoder.
The KSM-4 can be used to control coil driven points as well as motor-run points.
"Manual" setting of the points
In this context, "manual" setting of the points means any change of the position of points
carried out bypassing the KSM-4; in other words without using the two push-buttons or the
integrated points decoder.
When the position of points is changed manually, the KSM-4 cannot adapt foresightedly the
polarity within the terminal loop. In this case, a short circuit possibly occurs when a
locomotive passes the section point. Then, the KSM-4 alters immediately the polarity within
the terminal loop.
This short circuit-based polarity change is intended as a safety measure only; an individual
setting of the sensitivity for the polarity reversal is not provided with the KSM-4. For that
reason locomotives passing the section point possibly jer when a short circuit-based polarity
change occurs.
6 | Operation overview

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2.3. Procedure
Phase 1: Train entering the terminal loop: When switching the points with the push-buttons
or via the integrated points decoder, the polarity in the transmission zone and within the
terminal loop is set automatically that way the train can enter the terminal loop without
causing a short circuit. In case the position of points has not been altered since the last train
has left, the polarity within the terminal loop is already set correctly.
Phase 2: Train leaving the terminal loop: As soon as a vehicle (a locomotive or a carriage
with current consumer) coming from the inside of the terminal loop reaches one of the two
transisiton zones, it is detected by the integrated trac occupancy detector. Thereupon, the
points are set that way, the vehicle can leave the terminal loop and the polarity within the loop
is adpated. This foresighted setting of the polarity avoids shorts circuits when leaving the
terminal loop.
Operation overview | 7

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2.4. Designing a layout with the KSM-4
The rails in the loop´s inside have to be at least as long as the longest train to pass the
terminal loop. Additionally, two transition zones which are at least half as long as the longest
locomotive have to be added between the points and the loop´s inside.
The circuit also wor s properly when there are several trains within the loop at the same time
provided that there are not two locomotives passing the sectioning points simultaneously. This
allows branching rails or installing a shadow station within in terminal loop, for example.
The maximum current of all vehicles in the loop is 3 A (including motor current of the
locomotive, carriage lightings, other accessories).
2.5. Use with a turntable
With turntables different polarities possibly occur at the transitions between bridge and the
other parts of the layout after turning the bridge. Loop modules can solve this problem.
In principle, it is possible to use the KSM-4 with turntables, but is not recommended for this
application. For this application the loop module KSM-3 (item nos. 49-01135, 49-01136 or
49-01137) is more suitable.
8 | Operation overview

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3. Connections KSM-4
3.1. Dividing the loop into sections
Divide the loop into three sections according to the figure.
two transition zones near the points and
the inner section of the loop.
Isolate
at the transition to the points: both rails;
at the transition to the terminal loop´s inside: the outer rail in both cases.
The transition zones should be about half as long as the longest locomotive, the inner section
as long as the longest train. A train within the loop should never bridge both transition zones
simultaneously!
Connections KSM-4 | 9

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3.2. Connections
There are terminal strips soldered to the module which are used to insert and screw on the
connecting cables.
1 | 2 Rails outside the terminal loop.
Pay attention to assigning both rail connections exactly as shown in the figure!
3 | 4 Transition zones, outer rail in both cases.
5 | 6 Inner section of the loop:
5 → outer rail | 6 → inner rail
7 | 8 Push-button 1
9 | 10 Push-button 2
Coil driven points: Motor-run points:
W 1 Position of points 1 Connection 1
W 2 Voltage supply / Return conductor not in use
W 3 Position of points 2 Connection 2
10 | Connections KSM-4

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4. Operation
LED displays
There are two LEDs (red and green) on the PCB, showing significant operating states:
red LED green LED
Standard
operation
on → showing the points´
switching time
on → position of points 1
off → position of points 2
Setting the
adress
fast flashing → KSM-4 in
programming mode
After having programmed the new address, both LEDs flash together
several times and remain switched on until the points are switched for
the next time.
Setting the
switching time
for points
on → showing the points´
switching time
fast flashing
→ KSM-4 in setting mode
Points address
In state of delivery the points react to address 100. In order to change the address, proceed
as follows:
1. Switch on the voltage supply ("go"). Push both push-buttons simultaneuously. The green
LED flashes, the KSM-4 is in programming mode.
2. Enter the desired address at you digital central unit and perform a switching command for
this address.
3. The programming mode is terminated automatically. Both LEDs flash together several
times and remain switched on until the points are switched for the next time.
Setting the switching time for the points
In state of delivery the switching time for the points is set to 500 ms. In order to change the
switching time, proceed as follows:
1. Switch off the voltage supply ("stop"). Switch on the voltage supply ("go") again and while
doing so, eep both push-buttons pushed simultaneuously. The green LED flashes, the red
one shows the points´ switching time.
2. Then, push the push-buttons to alter the switching time; push-button 1 to decrease the
switching time, push-button 2 to increase the switching time. The red LED always shows
the set switching time. Before altering the switching time again, you have to wait for the
red LED to go out.
3. In order to finish the setting of the switching time, switch off the voltage supply again
("stop").
Operation | 11

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5. Chec list for troubleshooting and error correction
Warning: If you notice a strong heat development, immediately disconnect the
connection to the supply voltage. Fire hazard!
Possible causes:
One or more connections are faulty. à Chec the connections.
The current consumption of the vehicles in the terminal loop exceeds 3 A. à Reduce the
current consumption.
The module is defective. à Send the loop module in for inspection.
Short circuit when entering the transition areas
Possible causes:
The connections to the points W1 and W3 have been connected the wrong way. For that
reason the polarity within the terminal loop does not correspond to the actual position of
points.  Interchange the connections to the points W1 and W3.
The connections to the rails differ from the connections diagram. Chec the connections
1 to 6 and correct them if necessary.
The points have been set manually (bypassing the KSM-4). You should use the push-
buttons or the integrated points decoder to set the points instead.
Stop of the locomotive when entering the transition areas
Possible causes:
One or several connections to the rails have been interrupted. Chec the connections 1
to 6 and correct them if necessary.
12 | Chec list for troubleshooting and error correction

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5.1. Technical Hotline
If you have any questions about the use of your loop module, our technical hotline will help
you (telephone number and e-mail address on the last page).
5.2. Repairs
You can send us a defective module for repair (address on the last page). In the event of a
warranty or guarantee claim, the repair is free of charge for you. As proof of any warranty or
guarantee claim, please enclose the proof of purchase with your return.
If there is no warranty or guarantee claim, we are entitled to charge you the costs of the
repair and the costs of the return shipment. We charge a maximum of 50% of the new price
for the repair according to our valid price list. We reserve the right to refuse the repair if it is
technically impossible or uneconomical.
If you want to clarify whether a repair is possible or economical before sending it in, please
contact our Technical Hotline (telephone number and email address on the last page).
Please do not send us repair shipments freight collect. In the event of a warranty or guarantee
claim, we will reimburse you for the regular shipping costs.
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6. Technical data
Digital protocols
Data format all
Digital format of the
integrated points decoder
DCC
Address range: 2.040
Interfaces, outputs and inputs
Trac outputs 2 for connecting the trac s inside the reversing loop
2 for connecting the trac s in the transition areas
2 for connecting the trac s outside the reversing loop
Points output Connection of points mandatory
Number: 1
For the direct connection of coil-driven or motor-run points
Maximum current: 1 A
Switching time: 100 ms to 5 sec (adjustable)
Inputs 2 connections for push-buttons
Electrical characteristics
Voltage supply via the rails
Current consumption
(without connected devices)
ca. 40 mA
Max. current of all vehicles in
the loop
3 A
Protection
Protection class Ready-made module (without housing): IP 00
Meaning: No protection against foreign bodies, contact and water.
Ready device (in housing): IP 20
Meaning: Protected against solid foreign bodies with diameter ≥ 12.5 mm and
access with a finger. No protection against water.
14 | Technical data

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Environment
For use in closed rooms
Ambient temperature during
operation
0 ~ + 30 °C
Permissible relative humidity
during operation
10 ~ 85% (non-condensing)
Ambient temperature during
storage
- 10 ~ + 40 °C
Permissible relative humidity
during storage
10 ~ 85% (non-condensing)
Other features
Dimensions (approx.) Circuit board: 48 x 52 mm
Ready device including housing: 70 x 60 x 25 mm
Weight (approx.) Assembled board (ready-made module): 22 g
Ready device including housing: 39 g
Technical data | 15

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7. Warranty, EU conformity & WEEE
7.1. Guarantee bond
For this product we issue voluntarily a guarantee of 2 years from the date of purchase by the
first customer, but in maximum 3 years after the end of series production. The first customer
is the consumer first purchasing the product from us, a dealer or another natural or juristic
person reselling or mounting the product on the basis of self-employment. The guarantee
exists supplementary to the legal warranty of merchantability due to the consumer by the
seller.
The warranty includes the free correction of faults which can be proved to be due to material
failure or factory flaw. With its we guarantee the completeness and quality of the
components as well as the function of the parts according to the parameters in not mounted
state. We guarantee the adherence to the technical specifications when the it has been
assembled and the ready-built circuit connected according to the manual and when start and
mode of operation follow the instructions.
We retain the right to repair, ma e improvements, to deliver spares or to return the purchase
price. Other claims are excluded. Claims for secondary damages or product liability consist
only according to legal requirements.
Condition for this guarantee to be valid, is the adherence to the manual. In addition, the
guarantee claim is excluded in the following cases:
if arbitrary changes in the circuit are made,
if repair attempts have failed with a ready-made module or device,
if damaged by other persons,
if damaged by faulty operation or by careless use or abuse.
16 | Warranty, EU conformity & WEEE

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7.2. EU Declaration of Conformity
This product fulfils the requirements of the following EU directives and therefore
bears the CE mar ing.
2001/95/EU Product Safety Directive
2015/863/EU on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and
electronic equipment (RoHS)
2014/30/EU on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC Directive). Underlying standards:
DIN-EN 55014-1 and 55014-2: Electromagnetic compatibility - Requirements for household
appliances, electric tools and similar electrical appliances. Part 1: Emitted interference, Part 2:
Immunity to interference
To maintain electromagnetic compatibility during operation, observe the following measures:
Only connect the supply transformer to a professionally installed and fused earthed soc et.
Do not ma e any changes to the original components and follow the instructions, connection
and assembly diagrams in this manual exactly.
Only use original spare parts for repair wor .
7.3. Declarations on the WEEE Directive
This product is subject to the requirements of the EU Directive 2012/19/EC on Waste Electrical
and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), i.e. the manufacturer, distributor or seller of the product
must contribute to the proper disposal and treatment of waste equipment in accordance with
EU and national law. This obligation includes
registration with the registering authorities ("registers") in the country where WEEE is
distributed or sold
the regular reporting of the amount of EEE sold
the organisation or financing of collection, treatment, recycling and recovery of the
products
for distributors, the establishment of a ta e-bac service where customers can return WEEE
free of charge
for producers, compliance with the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances
in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) Directive.
The "crossed-out wheeled bin" symbol means that you are legally obliged to
recycle the mar ed equipment at the end of its life. The appliances must not be
disposed of with (unsorted) household waste or pac aging waste. Dispose of the
appliances at special collection and return points, e.g. at recycling centres or at
dealers who offer a corresponding ta e-bac service.
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Further Information and Tips:
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http://www.tams-online.de n
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Warranty and Service:
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Tams Ele troni GmbH n
Fuhrberger Straße 4
DE-30625 Hannover
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fon: +49 (0)511 / 55 60 60
fax: +49 (0)511 / 55 61 61
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e-mail: [email protected] n
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