Frequently Asked Question
Whether you’re just getting started or need help this page is designed to give you the information you need, fast and easily.
Concept
How many Master Panels do I need?
You will need at least one Master Panel, as it controls the other functional panels. If you have multiple, separate areas, you can control each of them with a dedicated Master Panel. They will talk to each other.
Can it only be used for model railroading?
No, you can use it for any diorama besides the railway model. You can spice up the battle diorama with sounds, and create a lifelike environment with automatic lights. You can create an interactive presentation environment with the Segment Controller: the Keypad panel can move many elements (motors, servos, relays) in addition to light and sound effects.
What scale of railway can it be used for?
The current consumption allows the Master Panel to power the lights of all N, TT and H0 scale railway models that can be used in a room.
What experience do I need to have to use it?
The Segment Controller is a ready to use system. The printed circuit boards are delivered fully assembled, and the associated firmware programs are installed before delivery. No programming knowledge or PCB soldering skills are required. It is more than enough if you have DIY skills and can wire a relay or calculate the resistance of an LED.
Are these NMRA standard devices?
No. The Segment Controller has nothing to do with the NMRA standard or digital signal transmission. It is a generic, WiFi-based, 5V system with only a tangential DCC connection.
Do I need to know how to write program code?
No, we take care of that part. You don’t need to know what processor the code is running on, you don’t need to be able to modify the code, and you don’t need to upload it to the devices. However, a minimal algorithmic approach can be useful to know what can be logically connected to what.
Can I just turn it off?
Yes, the devices are mini computers, but they have no BIOS, no Operating System, and they don’t need to be shut down properly. Simply disconnect the power when you’re done playing. Of course, all your settings are retained and you don’t even need a small battery (CR2032), everything is stored in non-volatile memory.
Installation
Why don’t the devices have cover box?
These devices are DIY things. To make them easier to access, we didn’t design a box for them. Due to the 5V power supply, there is no need for touch protection. Since they are usually installed on the bottom of the table, dust protection is also solved.
What should you pay attention to during installation?
You can mount it anywhere, but it is important to use the supporting elements, and to fix them with screws. Thanks to the nearly 10cm bus wire, you can keep a sufficient distance between them.
Can the OLED display be turned off?
No, the display is always on, always showing the current status. This is the only way to see if the Master Panel is working. You don’t have to worry about the panel burning in or ghosting (because it’s OLED) and it doesn’t consume much power, its current consumption is 8-15mA.
Where should the power supply be connected?
Only the Master Panel needs to be powered, this will power the other panels. (An exception to this is motors with high induction, which may have a separate power supply)
What power supply can I use?
For starters, a 5V phone charger (not in PD or QC mode), 5-10W (1-2A) is plenty. If I want to power more than 5 Master Panels, it is worth getting a more powerful, but still fanless 5V power supply.
See: Power supply
Can it be reset remotely?
Yes, if we have installed the Master Panel and do not have direct access to it, there are two methods available: you can wire the reset function to a button or you can restart the panel via software. (All 5 reset functions are available with the button)
Can the beeping be turned down?
You can physically reduce the volume. You can use a sticky cover film – which is shipped with the panel – to reduce the volume.
How many volts does the system operate at?
The Master Panel and all function panels operate on a 5V DC voltage. Never exceed this value and always pay attention to polarity.
What is the maximum current consumption?
The default current consumption of the system is around 80mA. You can increase this with function panels (and the LEDs, motors, servos connected to them). We recommend not to exceed 1A (1000mA) per Master Panel.
Is it necessary to cool the panels?
No, these are such low-power and optimized systems that there is no need for active (fan) or passive (heatsink) cooling. The temperature of any component should not reach 50 degrees Celsius. If this happens, shut down the system!
Network
Do I need a Wi-Fi router?
If you are using a Master Panel, a router is not required, but it is recommended. You can use the built-in hotspot, but you will get the real experience if you connect it to your existing router.
What Wi-Fi router can it be used with?
Any home router that can operate in the 2.4GHz band is suitable.
How many panels can be connected to the Wi-Fi router?
Only the Master Panels are connected to the network, the other panels communicate through it. In our experience, a service provider’s router can handle 5-10 Master Panels, but a dedicated router can connect up to 50 Master Panels.
Are they connected to the internet?
They don’t connect to the Internet by default, but if you want to use the built-in clock – for example, to adjust night mode to the change in night – you can enable Internet access. Even then, it will only retrieve the exact time.
Can they get infected?
Since the firmware of the panels cannot be modified remotely and the entire firmware was written by us, here in Europe, it cannot be infected and you don’t have to worry about a backdoor.
Is it available with Bluetooth connection?
It is only accessible via the built-in web interface, no application needs to be installed and no Bluetooth connection can be established.
What is the USB-C port used for?
You will find a USB-C port on the Master Panel. This is suitable for temporarily powering the Master Panel (for testing or configuration purposes), but is not suitable for powering a complete Segment Controller. The port is used to upload the firmware at the factory. Log information can be extracted on this port, exactly the same as on the web interface.
Purchase and delivery
Where can I buy it?
On our website, we offer the opportunity to add one or more products to your cart and purchase them with a credit card.
Can I only pay by card?
Yes, you can only pay for your order with a bank card.
When will I receive the products?
After receiving your order, we will process it and send your package via mass mailing twice a week as registered mail.
How is the delivery?
Each panel is individually packaged in a double-foamed anti-vibration box. These boxes are shipped to you in an international envelope lined with bubble wrap. Each country’s own postal service delivers the package to your home.
Is there a return option?
Yes. If you are not satisfied with the product or experience any problems, return the product to us and we will refund the price of the product.
What to do if something doesn’t work?
We are happy to help you via email, many problems can be solved this way. If you are experiencing a continuous or system error, or the product itself is defective or damaged, please return it to us and we will replace it.