B-6 Booster for digital model railway layouts Item no.
tams elektronik ni k Booster B-6 tro Version: 1.0 | Status: 04/2023 © Tams Elektronik GmbH Printing the manual el ek 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 Elektronik GmbH. We reserve the right to make technical changes. ta m s The formatting is optimised for double-sided printing. The standard page size is DIN A5.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Contents 1. Getting started.............................................................................................................5 1.1. Contents of the package.......................................................................................5 1.2. Accessories..........................................................................................................5 1.3. Intended use......................................................................................
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 5. Settings / Configuration...............................................................................................26 5.1. Programming via BiDiB.......................................................................................26 5.2. Main track programming (POM)...........................................................................26 Recommendations for the settings.......................................................................29 6. Operation............
tams elektronik Booster B-6 1. Getting started This manual will help you step by step to install and use your booster B-6 safely and properly. Before you start using the booster, read through this manual completely, particularly the chapter on safety instructions and the checklist for trouble shooting. You will then know where to take care and how to prevent mistakes which take a lot of effort to correct. Keep this manual safely so that you can solve problems in the future.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 1.3. Intended use The booster B-6 is intended for use in digital 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 booster is not intended to be used by children under the age of 14. 1.4.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 2. Your B-6 Boosters have three main tasks: 1. supply the current needed to operate the digitally controlled locomotives and turnouts, but also other (digital) consumers. 2. to bring the voltage to the track so that the digital driving and switching commands arrive at all vehicle and accessory decoders. 3. in case of a short circuit on the layout (e.g. derailment of a vehicle), ensure that the current is switched off and damage to the rails and the vehicles is prevented.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 2.2. Displays and operation the current power consumption in the booster circuit the operating status (e.g. normal operation, stop, short circuit, overheating) during programming: the set values RGB LEDs in the housing tro ni The 2-digit 7-segment display shows you essential information, e.g. k Display (7-segment display) el ek The top of the B-6 is made of translucent plastic.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Configuration The Booster B-6 can be adapted to individual requirements: via BiDiB with PC software that supports BiDiB, or via main track programming (POM) according to RailCommunity standard RCN-226 ("DCC protocol | special values for configuration"), which regulates, among other things, the configuration of devices that do not have their own address and whose connection to a programming track is not possible or reasonable.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Background information: Output signal Symmetrical output signal The output signal is created by constantly reversing the polarity of the transformer voltage according to the specifications of the digital control signal from the central unit. Since the same voltage is always present at the output (alternately positive and negative), the output voltage at the booster output of the B-6 is 100 % symmetrical.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 2.4. Protocols 2.4.1. Digital formats The Booster B-6 is multi-protocol capable, it can transmit data (via both the DCC compliant and BiDiB interfaces) in the following formats: DCC Motorola I and II m³ and mfx: The B-6 transmits control commands in m³ and mfx format, but no mfx feedback. DCC-A k The RailCom-based extension of the DCC format according to RailCommunity Norm RCN-218 enables the automatic registration of vehicle decoders with the central unit.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 2.5. Safety devices 2.5.1. Short-circuit switch-off The B-6 has an internal short-circuit cut-off which automatically sets the booster to "STOP" (i.e. switches off the track voltage at the output) in the event of a short-circuit at the track output. This prevents defects on the booster, the track and the vehicles. The time until the short-circuit switch-off responds (= short-circuit sensitivity) can be set to a value between 20 and 200 milliseconds.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Inrush time The sum of the charging currents of buffer capacitors on vehicle decoders (especially sound decoders) and additional external backup capacitors can become so high when the layout is switched on that the short-circuit disconnection of the booster reacts immediately. This makes it difficult to start up the layout when the short-circuit cut-off is active. The B-6 can accept an increased current of 6 A for a short time (adjustable up to max.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 2.6. Use with BiDiB The Booster B-6 is in the sense of the BiDiB specification a device of the class "Booster" with the additional specification "BiDi-(RailCom-)Detector". 2.6.1. Features According to the BiDiB specification, data can be sent to and from the B-6 via the BiDi bus. Setting options On the PC, all settings for the B-6 can be made, e.g.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 2.6.2. Possible applications The Booster B-6 can be operated together with up to 31 other nodes on one level. It can be used together with different types of so-called track output devices in the BiDi bus: Digital central units with integrated BiDiB-PC interface (e.g. MasterControl 2**). Digital central units without BiDiB interface (e.g. MasterControl**, RedBox**) in combination with BiDiB PC interfaces (e.g.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 2.6.3. Wiring In accordance with the BiDiBus specification, patch cables with RJ 45 connectors (Cat5 cables) are provided as bus cables for the B-6 booster. These cables are easy and quick to handle and ensure secure connections to the interface and to other nodes. Connecting and disconnecting the cables during operation is permitted (hot plug). 2.6.4.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 3. Conception of the digital layout 3.1. Dividing the layout Divide your layout into individual, electrically separate sections (booster circuits), each supplied with its own booster. A maximum of three to five locomotives should run in each booster circuit at the same time.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Cut the transitions between the booster circuits as follows: For 2-conductor layouts: one rail. Make sure that you cut the same rail ("left" or "right") in all booster circuits. In larger, unclear systems, it is recommended to cut both rails. In centre-conductor layouts: the centre conductor. 3.2. Supply with several boosters If possible, a layout should be supplied by identical boosters from the same manufacturer.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Equalising currents and double track voltage When crossing the separation points, equalising currents occur between the (briefly differently polarised) booster circuits, even when using identical boosters from the same manufacturer. These currents are harmless for rails and vehicles and do not affect the operation. The more different the voltage curve is in the two booster circuits, the higher the equalising currents are.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Tip: Detecting equalising currents The question of whether or not dangerous equalising currents occur at a booster separation point can be detected relatively easily with the help of a model railway incandescent lamp connected to the rails or the centre conductors across the separation point. Note: For the test, use an incandescent lamp whose maximum voltage corresponds approximately to the set maximum track voltage. Suitable are e.g. bulbs with integrated cables or wire ends.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 4. Connections 4.1. Connection to the power supply ! Note: Only use the supplied power supply unit as power supply for your B-6 and the components of your layout that are supplied by the B-6. ni k Insert the 4-pin appliance plug of the power supply connection cable into the "Power" socket on the rear of the B-6, with the flat part of the plug pointing upwards.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Cable cross-sections For the connection to the rails, use a cable with a cross-section sufficient for the load (recommended cross-section: > 0.75 to 1.5 mm²). ! Please note: If the cross-section is too small, the overcurrent/short-circuit cut-off will not function reliably and the cable may become very warm.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 4.3. Connection to the digital central unit You can use either the BiDiB interface (variant 1) or the DCC-compliant interface (version 2) for the connection of the B-6 to the central unit. Preferred connection variant: BiDiB interface k If you use a digital control unit with BiDiB interface (e.g. MasterControl 2**), it is recommended to use the BiDiB interface of the B-6 for the connection to the control unit.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Connection of further boosters (BiDiB) The remaining RJ 45 socket is available for the connection of further BiDiB components (e.g. additional booster, stationary decoder, feedback unit). For the connection of additional boosters, also use the BiDiB interface and not the DCC-compliant ("CDE") interface of the B-6. The BiDiB and the DCC-compliant interface of the B-6 are not internally connected to each other.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Connection of further boosters ("CDE") To connect additional boosters, also use the DCC-compliant ("CDE") interface of the B-6 and not the BiDiB interface. The BiDiB and the DCC-compliant interface of the B-6 are not internally connected to each other. ni k ! When selecting additional boosters, be sure to observe the notes and background information in section 3 "Conception of the digital layout"! 4.4.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 5. Settings / Configuration The Booster B-6 can be adapted to individual requirements: via BiDiB with PC software or via main track programming (POM) according to RailCommunity standard RCN-226 ("DCC protocol | Special values for configuration"), which regulates, among other things, the configuration of devices that do not have their own address and whose connection to a programming track is not possible or reasonable.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Input value for CV 7 Setting / Comment Start programming mode 62 To change settings, you must enter a value for CV 7 again within 30 seconds. Otherwise, the programming mode is automatically terminated. Reset 7 To reset all settings to the default values (= values at delivery). → The RGB LEDs light up purple. rE Track voltage 8 8V 08 9 9V 10 … 21 11 … 21 V 22 22 V 34 4 sec. t4 35 5 sec. t5 36 … 39 6 … 9 sec. t6 … t9 40 10 sec.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Function Input value for CV 7 Switching the watchdog on and off with DCC turnout command 76 Setting / Comment Display → The RGB LEDs flash white. Switch to switch turnouts on your digital control. Set the desired turnout address and enter a turnout setting command for this address ("straight ahead" for "active" or "branch" for "inactive"). The turnout address and operating status are now set.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 Recommendations for the settings Track voltage Locomotive motors are - depending on the nominal size - designed for operation with a certain track voltage. If they are driven with a track voltage significantly higher than the recommended one, the motors will be more heavily loaded and the carbons more worn, HF interference and brush fires will be increased.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 6. Operation 6.1. Operating and display elements The Booster B-6 has a button with which you can trigger the following functions: switch the track voltage on and off independently of the control unit trigger a reset identify the B-6 via BiDiB with the PC control software (BiDiB-Identify) The display on the front provides you with essential information during programming and operation.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 6.1.2. Display and RGB-LEDs Display Colour of the RGB LEDs Meaning GO | present current consumption [A] Booster GO Track voltage at booster output is switched on. Central unit GO A valid input signal is present at the booster input. Booster STOP Track voltage at booster output is switched off. Central unit GO Booster GO 0.0 to 6.0 ta m s -- -- ni el ek -- A valid input signal is present at the booster input. tro St.
Booster B-6 Display tams elektronik Colour of the RGB LEDs Meaning orange-red flickering: "Overtemperature" / overheating Immediately disconnect the booster from the power supply. Eliminate the cause of the overheating (obstruction of air exchange, very high ambient temperature or direct sunlight). As soon as the booster has cooled down, you can put it back into operation. ot. rE violet rising and falling: Reset After the reset, the B-6 automatically switches back to standard operation.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 6.2. Activating the Watchdog When delivered, the Booster B-6 is not assigned a turnout address for switching the watchdog on and off. To be able to use the function, you must therefore first assign a turnout address to the B-6. → Section 5.2 "Main track programming", input value for CV 7: 76 To activate and deactivate the watchdog, send a turnout setting command to the turnout address you have assigned to the booster for this function.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 6.1.2 "Display and RGB LEDs"). The track voltage must then always be switched on by pressing the STOP-GO button (several times if necessary). 6.3.3.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 6.4. Reset Restart You can trigger a restart of the booster with the STOP-GO button (→ section 6.1.2 "Display and RGB LEDs"). Keep the STOP-GO button pressed until the blue flashing of the RGB LEDs changes to a violet rise and fall and "rE" is shown in the display. After the reset, the B-6 automatically switches back to standard operation.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 7. Update In order to adapt the booster to new developments, a software update can be carried out for the B-6 via BiDiB. Required accessories You will need a BiDiB interface (e.g. ZEUS) or a digital control unit with integrated BiDiB interface (e.g. mc²) as well as PC control software that supports BiDiB and the update function. Alternatively, free BiDiB add-on programs are available with which updates can be carried out (e.g. BiDiB Monitor or BiDiB Wizard).
tams elektronik Booster B-6 8. Checklist for troubleshooting and error correction The RGB LEDs under the top of the enclosure indicate the operating status and the occurrence of a short circuit or overheating. → Section 8.1.1 "Display and RGB LEDs". ! Warning: If you notice a strong heat development or if the booster has switched off the track voltage due to overtemperature, disconnect the B-6 from the supply voltage immediately.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 8.4. Problems with the Watchdog Function The watchdog function is not active after switching on the booster, although a switch address has been assigned to it. Possible cause: The watchdog function is only activated after switching on when the setting command "turnout straight ahead" has been sent for the assigned turnout address. 8.5.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 9. Technical data 9.1. Booster B-6 Digital protocols Data formats Motorola-I and -II DCC (according to NMRA and RCN standard) m3 and mfx (limited to the control of mfx decoders) DCC-A This function is not yet available (Status: 04/2023).
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Protection class IP 20 Meaning: Protected against solid foreign bodies with a diameter ≥ 12.5 mm and access with a finger. No protection against water.
tams elektronik Booster B-6 9.2. Power supply unit Manufacturer MEAN WELL ENTERPRISE Co. Ltd. Type designation GSM160B24-R7B 24 VDC Rated current 6.67 A Output current 0 – 6.67 A Rated powerNennleistung max. 160 watts ni Output voltage k Output Input 80 ~ 264 VAC or 113 ~ 370 VDC Frequency range 47 ~ 63Hz Input current 90A / 115VAC or 110A / 230VAC el ek average: 93,5 % at low load (10%): 87.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik Environment For use in closed rooms -30 ~ + 70 °C Permissible relative humidity during operation 20 ~ 90% (non-condensing) Ambient temperature during storage - 40 ~ + 85 °C Permissible relative humidityduring storage 10 ~ 95% (non-condensing) ni Ambient temperature during operation k Note: To allow unhindered air exchange and to predect the unit from overheating, a distance of at least 20 cm must be maintained between the side surfaces, the top surfaces and the rear
tams elektronik Booster B-6 10. Warranty, EU conformity & WEEE 10.1. 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.
Booster B-6 tams elektronik 10.2. EU Declaration of Conformity This product fulfils the requirements of the following EU directives and therefore bears the CE marking. 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).
Booster B-6 ta m s el ek tro ni k tams elektronik
tams elektronik ta m s el ek tro ni k Booster B-6
Booster B-6 ta m s el ek tro ni k tams elektronik
n n n n Further Information and Tips: ni n tro http://www.tams-online.de n k n ta m s el ek n n n n Warranty and Service: n Tams Elektronik GmbH n Fuhrberger Straße 4 DE-30625 Hannover fon: +49 (0)511 / 55 60 60 fax: +49 (0)511 / 55 61 61 e-mail: modellbahn@tams-online.
