According to the official website, the predecessor of DCC-EX was DCC++, initiated by Gregg Berman with his original DCC++ BaseStation project. That DCC++ BaseStation evolved into EX-CommandStation today. DCC-EX s a team of dedicated enthusiasts producing open source DCC and DC solutions to run your entire model railroad layout. Their easy to use, ready-to-run and do-it-yourself products use either their own custom hardware or off-the-shelf Arduino and similar technology.

Their mission is to provide free and open source software and hardware designs to make model railroading accessible and affordable to everyone. Yes, less than 50€ for a self-assembled Arduino Mega board and motor shield DCC command station that can support DC and automation or about 110€ (from a supplier in Austria; excluding 12V power supply) for a complete ready-to-run EX-CSB1 (EX-CommandStation/Booster One Express) that delivers 5V to the track!

I read the documentations on their DCC-EX website and was immediately sold with their idea of running DCC and/or DC layout with train and accessories automation as well as Android throttle Engine Driver and connection to JMRI.

I was so sold with their idea and capability that i immediately bought a ready-to-run EX-CSB1 and looking forward to experiment its capabilities. I have many ideas what to automate so I shall blog them as I learned more.

Official website and documentations: www.dcc-ex.com (only in English). Official DCC-EX dealers and retailers are listed here.