If your wireless works correctly, DO NOT send it in for updates. The current wireless firmware version inside all wireless cabs is 1.71, released 9/23. The current radio base station version is 2.6. Check the sticker on the bottom of the RB02. When sending a cab in for wireless service, ensure your RB02 is version 2.6. If it is not, it MUST also be sent in. Wireless updates are $30 per item. Please send it in for service. No RMA number is needed for repairs. 1. Put your first and last name LEGIBLY on the outside of the package. 2. Include your contact info (email and phone number) inside the box. 3. Include a detailed description of the problem. 4. Do not include batteries or antennas if sending wireless products. 5. If payment is needed, we will contact you before work is done to make payment arrangements. We do not take credit cards directly. We use PayPal to process credit card payments and make electronic payments. We also accept checks by mail. 6. Please note that NCE does not have an electronic notification system. You will not be notified when we have received your package. Please contact the shipping company for that information. Send to: NCE Corporation, 82 East Main Street, Ste 2, Webster, NY. 14580
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To get the radio firmware version on a Pro Cab or a converted Power Cab, turn off the cab, then the DCC system. Hit the red e-stop button to turn on the throttle. You will see the wireless version on the screen. The current WIRELESS version is 1.71. Note that this differs from the keypad and display firmware version of the Pro Cab that you see when booting up, which is always 1.3.
Any wireless versions 1.4 or older will cause issues and need to be updated. Older cabs with external (2009 or older) antennas must also be updated.
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The cable length used for the RB02 Radio Base Station from the NCE command station will directly impact wireless performance. If the RB02 is 50 feet or more from the command station, the cab bus cables may require a power injection to compensate for cable loss. In addition, any single run of cable between the RB02 and a repeater over 30 to 40 feet will also need additional power. The overall goal is this: A minimum of 8V DC as measured on the UTP Panel and cab bus cables between pins 2 and 5 (Black and Yellow).
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The RB02's optimum location is an upside-down ceiling mount. The frequency used is 916.50MHz. Reception is affected by the number of people in the room and the metal barriers.
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Some detailed clarification on the history of the RB02 / RPT1.
Downgrading an RB02 to an RPT1 was provided as a courtesy during the transition; when it was discontinued many years ago. Doing so required an older version of the RB02/RPT1, since they were both made with the same boards and components. After the RPT1 was officially discontinued, the RB02 was eventually redesigned. The new board design cannot be downgraded. The online article referenced in the conversation was created on 7/3/2014 and was not archived when the situation changed. I have since deleted the article. Again, I apologize for not taking the article down sooner.
The new wireless products have better response times and coverage than the older versions.
The current RB02 radio receiver version is 2.6.
The current wireless board version used in all our cabs is 1.71.
The placement of the RB02 and the length of the cables used will affect wireless performance. In most cases, the RB02 is sensitive enough to be put almost anywhere and achieve good coverage. For the absolute maximum coverage, a few things can help. The ideal placement of the RB02 is in the center of the layout, upside down, on the ceiling. The coverage area is a very large doughnut. Placement testing before deciding on a permanent location is very important.
The total length of the cab bus cables used from the RB02 to the command station will have an impact. Only NCE cables should be used for the cab bus devices and panels including the RB02.
For extra-long lengths of cab bus cables, you can inject additional power to keep the voltage drop from becoming an issue.
NCE has no plans to offer a repeater, and we are unaware of any 3rd party alternatives.Special notes regarding Cab06. If you have a Cab06, you must use an Rb02 version 2.1.
Command station EPROMs must be on version 3/2007C or newer for PH-Pro or 1.65B for Power Cab and SB5. Firmware upgrade costs $30 per item + shipping.
For upgrades, no RMA number is needed. Please include your contact information (email and phone number) and a description of what you want done.
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