Command station
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| Short Definition |
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The heart and brains of the Digital Command Control system, as it listens for commands from throttles and other devices, processes them, and sends the resulting digital data to the booster. |
There are two types of command stations. A stand alone command station requires a booster to function, such as those by Lenz. An integrated unit has both the command station and booster in the same package. One command station is needed for the layout, as its output can be sent to multiple boosters. Many integrated units can be configured to operate as a booster only if needed, taking commands from an external command station.
Another type incorporates not only the command station and booster, but also includes the throttle within the same unit, such as the Digitrax Zephyr system. CVP's EasyDCC command station has the throttle and command station in the same package, but requires an external booster such as their ZoneMaster.
Function
The command station listens for commands from throttles and other devices, processes them, and sends the resulting instructions to the booster. The booster modulates power from the power supply with the digital data stream from the command station. The resulting output is a completely digital signal applied to the track. On the track are locomotives, with their decoders. Other stationary decoders, like switch motors and crossing gates, may also be connected to the track to receive commands.
The command station can be the limiting factor of a DCC system. It is responsible for keeping track of which trains are controlled by what throttle. They are also responsible for a host of other items, such as interpreting additional functions sent by the throttle.
For example, if your command station supports 2 digit addresses only, your decoders only see 2 digit addresses on the track, even though the decoder is capable of understanding a four digit address. (These are hexadecimal, not decimal numbers. The actual range of addresses available are determined by the software in the command station).
Command stations vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, offering different levels of features. Differences may include the number of slots for running trains, range of functions supported, upgrade or expansion possibilities, total output amperes available to the track and the total number of throttles supported. Make sure you understand what you are getting, so you will not be disappointed or overwhelmed with capabilities. Keep in mind you do not have to use all the features of a command station to get a basic layout up and running. It's easier to not use functions and features than it is to add these later on - adding features usually requires a new command station!
Of course, prices vary based on the features of the command station. Be sure to do your research on various brands and models before making a selection. Some command stations will limit the features available, whereas others are only limited by the features of the throttle connected to it.
Note that in most cases, Command Stations offered by various vendors are incompatible with each other.
Data Rates
The command station is able to transmit between 150 and 200 packets per second to the decoders. You might be asking "Is that a lot?" Let's put this into human terms.
Let's say there are 10 decoder-equipped locomotives on the track. Each decoder will receive data packet addressed to it 15 to 20 times each second. This is important because in the absence of a packet bearing its address, a loco will continue doing what it was doing...indefinitely. If a packet of information is corrupted for some reason, it simply takes roughly a tenth of a second longer for the locomotive to respond to the change. Most people will be unable to tell that an error took place in such a short amount of time.
