DCC-EX Setup Guide

This guide is for getting a DCC-EX command station or CMMME CSB1-based setup ready for first use.

Before you start

• Check that your command station, motor shield and power supply are suitable for the scale and current draw of your layout.
• Keep the programming track and main track outputs separate while testing.
• Start with one known-good locomotive before adding accessories, turnouts or a full roster.

Basic setup steps

1. Connect the command station to power and USB or WiFi as required.
2. Confirm the command station starts correctly before connecting it to the layout.
3. Connect a short test track to the main output and check for shorts.
4. Connect Engine Driver, WiThrottle, JMRI or your preferred throttle software.
5. Add one locomotive and test direction, speed and stop commands.

Common checks

• If the throttle connects but the locomotive does not move, check track power, wiring polarity and whether the locomotive address is correct.
• If WiFi does not appear, restart the command station and check the WiFi shield/module seating.
• If programming fails, use a short clean programming track and confirm the decoder is fitted correctly.

Need help?

If you are stuck, send photos of the command station, wiring, power supply label and the throttle screen via the contact page. Include your order number if you bought the hardware from CMMME.