EX-CommandStation software updates and configuration

CSB1 command station / boosters use 'Ex-CommandStation' software which is occaisionally updated by the DCC-EX development team.

DCCSC loads the current version when shipping CSB1 units but users can manually update as desired.  CSB1 devices can also be manually reconfigured or programmed with advanced features and options.

On this page:

  • Ex-CommandStation versions
  • Installed Ex-CommandStation version indication
  • EX-CommandStation software version update process


Ex-CommandStation versions

Most version updates deliver bug fixes or advanced capability improvements.  The core functionality is currently quite mature and stable.

The Ex-CommandStation version history is available at version.h.

As of September 23, 2026, the current Ex-CommandStation software version is 5.6.6.

The earliest version delivered by DCCSC was 5.4.16 which still delivers all standard features.


Installed version indication

Your CSB1 displays its installed Ex-CommandStation version on the first line of the display screen.

Sample CSB1 display screen.  Line 1 indicates that the device had version 5.2.85 installed.

The version number is also indicated on the delivery sticker applied either to the anti-static bag containing the CSB1 classic or CSB1 for unassembled kits, or in the box lid for assembled kits.

Sample CSB1 delivery sticker.  "Software version:  v5.6.5-Prod" indicates that the device had the production release of version 5.6.5 installed.


EX-CommandStation software version update process

Software version updates bay be installed on CSB1 devices by freshly installing the EX-CommandStation software.  Any installation can also adjust configuration options.

The update process is described fully on the DCC-EX Ex-CommandStation page.  The following graphics illustrate the particular options used by standard DCCSC installations.  (Apart from the first screen, these screens will only be visible on your computer only after connecting the CSB1 with a USB cable, as described in the Ex-CommandStation page.)

Select 'Espressif ESP32' (normally the default)

Press 'Select your device' button


Select 'DCC-EX EX-CSB1' in the device list pull-down field.

Press 'Select product to install' button


Select EX-CommandStation to be installed

The 'Select EX-CommandStation version' screen should open.


Select 'Latest Production (vX.X.X-Prod) - Recommended!' in the EX-CommandStation version field.

Select 'Configure options on the next screen'.  (This is the place where custom configuration files can optionally be selected.)

Press the 'Configure EX-CommandStation button'


Default Install Ex-CommandStation screen with default options selected.


Select "I have a display" and the "OLED 132 x 64" options.


Additionally select the 'Start with power on' and 'EXCSB1' motor driver options.

Press 'Compile and load' button.

 

Press 'Load'.  

Loading can take one or two minutes.  After about one minute the display will show the software version and license information, followed by the remaining information when complete.

If desired a different CSB1 may be connected and pressing 'Load' will install or the identical version and options.

 

Optional advanced features

DCCSC management is gradually learning about the optional advanced features that can be configured into CSB1 devices using EXRAIL scripts.

Currently only adding a roster has been attempted.  DCC-EX documentation can be found here.

Many impressive additional programming and optimization capabilities are documented elsewhere in the DCC-EX site.