Description
The NCE 5240059 SB5a Smart Booster is the current-production replacement for the NCE SB5 (5240027), which has been discontinued. It does the same job: plug your Power Cab into the SB5a and your system steps up from 2 amps to a full 5 amps of track power, while the Power Cab keeps working as your familiar throttle. This is the upgrade path NCE recommends for Power Cab owners who need more power — more locomotives at once, sound-equipped engines, and larger layouts.
The SB5a is a complete stand-alone command station and booster in one box. Up to six cabs (addresses 2–7) can run trains at the same time, and once the Power Cab is plugged into the SB5a it can be unplugged and moved around the layout without stopping your trains. The internationally approved 12/13.8 V, 5-amp power supply is included, so there's nothing else to buy.
Note: like the original SB5, the SB5a gives up the dedicated programming-track output. You can still program on the main, or keep programming-track access by using your Power Cab with an NCE Auto SW adapter.
- 5 amps of DCC track power for the NCE Power Cab system
- Replaces the discontinued SB5 (5240027 / 524-27) — same Power Cab compatibility
- Includes 5-amp power supply — everything you need in one box
- Up to 6 cabs (addresses 2–7), 18 trains simultaneously, 29 functions, 16 advanced consists
- Short (1–127) and long (0–9999) addressing; 6 recalls per cab
- Supports up to 3 additional cab bus accessories (AIU, USB, Mini-Panel)
- Booster-only mode for use with other DCC systems; works with auto reversers and circuit breakers
- Program-on-the-Main supported (no dedicated programming track — use Power Cab + Auto SW if needed)
Scale: Suitable for all scales (HO, N, and more)
Manufacturer: NCE Corporation
Item #: 5240059 (524-59) — replaces 5240027 (524-27) SB5
This is a special-order item. Place your order and we'll bring it in from our distributor; typical lead time is about 3–4 weeks.