Component ShortagesS-CAB is negatively impacted by price increases and component shortages.
S-CAB ReceiversA large inventory of radio modules and a choice of three S-CAB receivers is good news.
Feb 2021: LXR-v4.3b: Basic S-CAB receiver with DRCMarch 2021: LXR-NEM for decoders with NEM socketsFeb 2021: LXR-DCC for decoders requiring DCC input |
DevelopmentBattery Power SupplyJan. 2020: BPS-Lite
BatteriesDec. 2020: Introduced a 1200 mAh Battery
S-CAB Throttle
Since the new radio receiver is backward compatible with Linx Technology radio modules (now obsolete), the upgrade has no affect on existing users. Not only is this the best result for S-CAB users, it is a good choice for new users since it is lower cost and requires no DCC equipment (except decoder), no WiFi network, no Bluetooth or other communications equipment, no computer, no phone.
Another advantage, especially when using battery power, is very low energy consumption. An S-CAB receiver consumes 7 mA compared to approx. 200 mA for a typical WiFi receiver.
Configurable frequency is another benefit. The radio module can be configured to use any frequency in US ISM band (902 to 928 MHz). In addition to 916.48 MHz required for S-CAB backward compatibility, a second frequency (918.12 MHz) is provided to allow use of CVP's T-5000 throttle (Freq 11) and to avoid interference with NCE wireless throttles.
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Motherboards
June 2019: MB-GP-v3: For decoders with JST 9-pin Socket
Developed as upgrade of earlier motherboards, MB-GP-v3 fits a broad selection of HO scale, US style diesel-electric locos; including EMD GP series for which interior width is limited to approx. 0.7 inches. When assembled, this MB is 5.8” long, 0.67" wide, 0.43" thick (148 x 17 x 11 mm). Small enough for a GP-7, yet large enough to include components for a complete battery powered, radio controlled, ready-to-run installation. Ends can be trimmed to reduce length to 5.25".
A 9-pin JST connector is provided for decoders with NMRA-compliant socket. No wiring harness is required. A BPS-v4 battery power supply mounts directly on motherboard (as in photo). Connections are provided for motor, lights and battery charging input.
July 2020: MB-GP-NEM: For decoders with 21-pin NEM Socket
MB-GP-NEM is a diesel loco motherboard for SoundTraxx (sound) and NCE (non-sound) decoders with a 21-pin NEM socket. It's the second member of S-CAB's motherboard family.
Measurements are 5.5" x 0.7" x 0.4" (140 x 17.5 x 10.2 mm). For 2P-420 battery, allow 12 mm vertical clearance. |
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Dec 2020: MB-GP-NEM-S: A short version of MB-GP-NEM
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