Master Controller (PC)

Overview

NameMaster Controller (PC)
Release dateMarch 4, 1998
Serial codeVOK-00105
Notes

Supported software

SoftwareNotes
Hmmsim Metro (PC - Windows)Set to Type D.
Train Crew (PC - Windows)Requires plugin from official website. Set to Type G.
Train Simulator (PC - Windows)Many entries require companion software to use the controller.
Train Simulator + Densha de GO!: Tokyu Line (Sony PlayStation 2)Requires official USB adapter. Set to Type D.
Train Simulator PLUS (PC - Windows)
Train Simulator Real: THE Keihin Electric Express Railway (Sony PlayStation 2)Requires official USB adapter. Set to Type C.
Train Simulator Real: THE Yamanote Line (Sony PlayStation 2)Requires official USB adapter. Set to Type F.
Train Simulator: Keisei, Toei Asakusa, Keikyu Lines (Sony PlayStation 2)Requires official USB adapter. Set to Type C.
Train Simulator: Kyūshū Shinkansen (Sony PlayStation 2)Requires official USB adapter. Set to Type G.
Train Simulator: Midōsuji Line (Sony PlayStation 2)Requires official USB adapter. Set to Type D.

Technical details

This controller has one handle (with adjustable notches), a reverser switch with 3 positions (F, N, B) and 4 buttons (S, A, B, C). It was manufactured by Pony Canyon. It requires external power to work, either with an included power supply or 4 AA-sized batteries.

It connects to PC via serial cable, either directly via a DE-9 connector or with a USB adapter.

Baud rate19200
Data bits8
ParityNone
Stop bits1
Flow controlNone

Unlike other controllers, the notches in the combined power-brake handle are adjustable. On the underside of the controller there are a sliding switch, as well as a window with dip switches, to change gears. This change can be done with the controller turned off. The notch print beside the handle can also be changed to match the current gear setting.

The are 8 possible gear settings:

SettingPower notchesBrake notches
Type A45
Type B37
Type C55
Type D47
Type E48
Type F58
Type G57
Type H6 (no click)8 (no click)

Input

The controller sends 5-character events separated by a carriage return (ASCII 0xD).

Events for the handle are the following.

NotchEvent
EmergencyTSB20
B8TSB30
B7TSB40
B6TSE99
B5TSA05
B4TSA15
B3TSA25
B2TSA35
B1TSA45
NTSA50
P1TSA55
P2TSA65
P3TSA75
P4TSA85
P5TSA95
P6TSB60

Events for the reverser are the following.

PositionEvent
ForwardTSG99
NeutralTSG50
BackwardTSG00

Events for the buttons are the following. One event is reported when the button is pressed, and another event when the button is released.

ButtonPress EventRelease Event
STSK99TSK00
ATSX99TSX00
BTSY99TSY00
CTSZ99TSZ00