Base Station Software

Base Station Key Fob Configuration

Key Fob Configuration

The FX Receiver Module is configured using Base Station Software (free download). During setup, the module simply plugs into the ZIGMO Configuration Board. One ZIGMO is all you eed - no matter how many KFX Receivers you plan to configure.

The ZIGMO serves as the communication bridge between your computer and the KFX Module, allowing you to set Baud Rate and define the Data Bytes sent for each key fob button press. The ZIGMO is included with the KFX Configuration Kit and is available at checkout.

---

Free Setup Software

Your board can ship preconfigured with toggle or momentary operation at no charge.
For custom commands, use the Key Fob Configuration Kit and Base Station Software to program the KFX Module. After configuration, the module is placed back into your board and is ready to transmit your programmed commands each time a button is pressed.

---

ZigMo Configuration Kit

KFX Receiver Modules are configured through Base Station Software and must be plugged into a ZIGMO Configuration Board during setup. The KFX Module is only installed in the Configuration Kit during setup - after that, it goes right back into your board. Only one ZIGMO is required no matter how many receivers you use.

The ZIGMO provides the connection between your computer and the KFX Module, allowing you to set Baud Rate, define Data Bytes, and customize the actions for each button press.
The ZIGMO is included in the KFX Integration Kit and available during checkout.

---

Configuring the Buttons

When you program a button, you're configuring the command the KFX Module will send to the board when that button is pressed. Using Base Station Software, you can assign simple toggle actions or advanced commands with delays, pulse patterns, or timed operations.
The KFX Module supports both button-press and button-release events for even greater flexibility.

---

Common Commands

Here's a brief list of some of the more common commands used when a button is pushed on the key fob.

• Toggle and Momentary Commands
• Turn Off All Relays Then Turn On a Specific Relay
• Relay Timers: Relay Energized for a Specific Time
• Relay Pulse Commands
• Relay Grouping: Controlling Multiple Relays Together
• Relay Flashing Commands

---

KFX Module

Every Key Fob Relay board is equipped with a KFX Communications Module, adding full wireless key fob capabilities. The module is powered directly from the board.
The board itself requires 12VDC, which can be hardwired or supplied using an optional wall-wart power supply available at checkout.

---

Data Sheets & Quick Start Guides

---

The AD8 Command Set

Reading Switches/Variable Resistance Signals

This controller includes eight channels of 8/10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converters capable of reading 0 - 5V DC signals. The ADCs allow you to monitor external sensors or detect contact-closure inputs. Connect temperature sensors, light sensors, current sensors, buttons, switches, or any device that outputs a 0 - 5V signal or simple contact closure.

• With 8-bit resolution, inputs convert 0 - 5V into values from 0 to 255
• With 10-bit resolution, values range from 0 to 1023

Resolution is software-selectable. Request an analog value from the controller and it responds instantly.

---

A/D Inputs

All ProXR Lite boards and ProXR boards that begin with ZADR or ZADSR include an onboard 8-channel Analog-to-Digital converter in addition to relay control. Each channel accepts a 0-5V DC input and converts it into a numeric value for processing.

Using the AD8 Command Set, analog voltages are translated into digital values (8- or 10-bit resolution, depending on configuration), making it easy to monitor and act on sensor data from a wide range of devices.

Each analog input can be configured to turn relays ON or OFF, toggle relay states, flash relays, enable or disable flashing, send push-notification data, and more - all based on live input values read in real time.

As shown in the graphic, ProXR AD8 controllers are available with multiple analog input connector options. One of the connector styles shown corresponds to the specific board you are viewing, allowing you to quickly identify how sensors will physically connect. All analog inputs share a common ground, simplifying wiring and making it easy to connect multiple sensors to a single controller.

Once connected, A/D input values can be used consistently across N-Button and Base Station software for automation, relay control, monitoring, and diagnostics. This unified approach ensures predictable behavior from hardware to software, whether you are building a simple monitoring system or a fully automated control solution.

---

Analog Inputs Controlling Relays

ProXR AD8 relay controllers allow analog inputs to directly control onboard relays using the same A/D input data used by N-Button and Base Station software (see Relay Activator section below). This makes it easy to monitor sensor values, automate relay behavior, and visualize input data across all supported software tools.

---

Analog to Digital Connections

AD8 controllers are designed for stable sensor and switch monitoring. A/D inputs should never be left floating - each input must connect to a voltage or ground.

A built-in 10K pull-up/pull-down resistor (jumper-selectable) ties each input to +5V or ground to prevent floating conditions. While this resistor adds slight loading, the improved stability far outweighs any minor interference.

---

AD8 Command Set

The AD8 Command Set reads analog voltages using the controller's 8-channel 8/10-bit ADC.

• 8-bit mode: Converts 0 - 5V to values from 0 to 255
• 10-bit mode: Converts 0 - 5V to values from 0 to 1023

Because 10-bit values transmit as two bytes (MSB and LSB), reconstruct the full reading using: 10BitValue = (MSB - 256) + LSB

Reads the 8-Bit Analog Input of Channels

This command will read the Analog Input of Channels 1-8 and return an 8-bit value for each.

Send Bytes:	Byte 1:	Byte 2:
Function:	Command	Parameter (Channel 1-8)
Decimal Values:	254	150-157
Hex Values	0xFE	0x96 - 0x9D
Receive Byte:	Decimal:	0-255
	Hex:	0x00-0xFF

These are just a few examples from the AD8 Command Set to help illustrate the command structure. For the complete list of commands, download the AD Quick Start Guide.

---

View A/D Input Data in Real Time

Base Station software allows you to read all analog inputs in real time while clearly displaying the exact command data being sent to and from the controller. In the example shown, all eight A/D input channels are read simultaneously and displayed as live numeric values along with a real-time graph, making it easy to visualize how each input changes over time.

Because Base Station shows the actual commands used to read the A/D inputs, it becomes an invaluable learning and diagnostic tool. You can see precisely how input values are requested, returned, and interpreted by the controller, then copy those commands directly into your own applications or custom software. This dramatically simplifies development, testing, and troubleshooting when integrating A/D inputs into larger systems.

Whether you are validating sensor behavior, monitoring multiple inputs at once, or building your own custom control software, Base Station gives you clear visibility into both the data and the communication behind it.

---

---

Relay Activator

Relay Activator and Analog Inputs

Base Station Software's Relay Activator is ideal for applications that primarily rely on computer control but still require occasional manual operation. By connecting external buttons or switches, you can take direct, hands-on control of any relay without giving up software-based control.

This creates true bi-directional control. For example, a relay can be turned ON through the computer interface and later turned OFF using a physical switch - or vice versa. Whether you're testing, troubleshooting, or building a hybrid manual/software-controlled system, Relay Activator keeps everything synchronized and predictable.

As shown in the example, each input includes a pull-down menu that allows you to select exactly how that input will control a relay. This makes configuration fast and intuitive - simply choose the desired action for each input without writing any code.

Each of the 8 input channels can be configured to control relays 1 through 8, with multiple action types available. This flexibility allows every input to perform exactly the function your application requires.

Available Relay Actions per Input
Each input can be assigned one of the following actions:

• Momentary Control - Activates the relay only while the input is engaged
• Toggle Relay State - Alternates the relay between ON and OFF
• Turn Relay ON - Forces the relay into the ON state
• Turn Relay OFF - Forces the relay into the OFF state
• Flash Relay (Momentary) - Pulses the relay while the input is active
• Flash Relay (Toggle) - Toggles flashing behavior ON and OFF

This level of control makes Relay Activator perfect for operator panels, test benches, safety overrides, and any application where manual interaction and software automation need to work together seamlessly.
AD8 Relay Activator Quick Start Guide.

---

---

N-Button Software

Using A/D Inputs with N-Button

N-Button Lite and Pro support powerful A/D Input Automation rules that allow you to automatically control relays based on analog input levels. Simply define a voltage threshold or range, and N-Button will energize or de-energize relays as conditions change.

N-Button also supports Send Email and Text Message actions (Push Notifications), enabling automatic alerts when an A/D input reaches a specific level or falls within a defined range. Relay control and notifications can work together seamlessly, all driven by live A/D input data.

---

Works Seamlessly with N-Button Software

Each A/D channel supports industry-standard 0-5V inputs, making it simple to integrate a wide range of sensors without extra hardware. Using N-Button, you can:

• Build desktop meters that show real-time sensor data
• Create dashboards with multiple sensor feeds
• Trigger Push Notification alerts from A/D thresholds
• Control relays based on sensor conditions - no programming required

---

Using the Input Information

N-Button allows you to use A/D input values in multiple ways without writing code. Numeric values or value ranges can be used to:

• Trigger text or email alerts when thresholds are exceeded
• Control individual relays or banks of relays
• Display live readings on customizable desktop meters

For example, when an input value rises above 125, a relay can automatically energize or a notification can be sent. You can also define a valid operating range where a relay remains on, and automatically turns off if the value moves above or below that range.

---

Control Relays with A/D Inputs

N-Button Lite/Pro software makes it incredibly easy to automate relay control using A/D input levels from this board. Simply create an Automation rule that links any A/D input channel to any relay channel. When the input voltage reaches the threshold you define, the relay energizes (turns on). When the input drops below that threshold, the relay de-energizes (turns off). No programming required.

---

Precision + Performance

High-resolution readings ensure accurate measurements, even in demanding environments. Stream live data or automate actions based on your input thresholds.

---

Create Desktop Meters

N-Button software lets you build live desktop meters that display real-time readings from the AD8 inputs, giving you constant visibility of your sensor data right on your screen. In the example shown, a "Live Soil Moisture Reading" meter provides instant feedback on soil conditions. Right below the meter, Relay 1 and Relay 2 buttons allow you to manually control relays directly from your desktop, or see their current status at a glance - the buttons change color to indicate whether a relay is on or off, giving you a complete view of your system in real time.

Each meter can be individually labeled, like the "Soil Moisture" label shown, making it easy to identify each sensor at a glance. Meter increments are fully customizable - the "Customizable Increments" callout shows how you can adjust the scale to match your application, whether you need fine-grained precision or a broader overview.

N-Button also allows you to arrange multiple meters on your desktop, creating a personalized dashboard that updates in real time. This makes it simple to compare different sensors side by side, spot trends, and react quickly if readings go outside expected ranges (unless you have the relays set automatically). Whether you're monitoring a single sensor or a full set of eight, N-Button makes live data monitoring intuitive and actionable.

---

Push Notification

N-Button software also includes a powerful point-and-click messaging system that sends alerts to the recipients you choose. Because N-Button runs on your PC, it can automatically deliver text messages and/or emails directly from your computer.

Send SMS and email alerts when voltage levels are reached. Customize the subject and message to identify exactly what triggered the alert. You can even set repeat notifications at a defined interval until the input level returns to normal.
Visit our N-Button Page

Base Station Taralist Setup

Base Station Software

Base Station software works by communicating with your controller to identify the model and provides the appropriate graphical user interface for setting the time schedule and uploading it to the board.  Base Station Software is used to configure and upload the time schedules to the Board and take manual control of the board to override the time schedule.
Download Base Station

Integrated Real Time Clock

The Taralist series have an integrated battery backed Real Time Clock with memory that allows users to control relays based on a time schedule.  Use your computer to setup the time schedule and store your schedule into the board.  Once stored, the Taralist does not require a computer, and will control the relay according to a schedule that can be as simple or as complex as your application requires.

Time Schedule Events

Events are scheduled times when a relay or group of relays are turned on or off.  They are defined by the user first by time: Year, Month, Day of Month, Day of week, Hour, Minute, and Second. You have the ability of switching relays on or off at very specific times!  Activate relays only when the day is Monday, activate relays when the day is Monday and the Year is 2020, activate relays when the day is Monday, the year is 2020 at 9:44:21 AM.  They are also defined by how they control the relays, whether they turn a relay or group of relays on or off. You can add up to 1000 Events to the list.

Program Multiple Schedules

Override functions are also supported.  So if the normal schedule activates a light during weekdays, but you don't want the light to come on during holidays, simply program your holiday schedule to prevent the light from activating according to your normal schedule.

Daylight Savings Time is also supported, and is FULLY CUSTOMIZEABLE.  As we all know, DST laws change periodically, but the Taralist series allow you to change the year and date of all DST events (we have programmed the US dates until 2030).

Save You Schedules

Taralist controllers allow you to build and save your time schedule as a file on your computer.  Different schedules can be configured for different times of the year, for instance one for Summer School and one for the full school year.  Upload the schedule you need for that part of the year.  For users with multiple boards saved schedules can also be used to store the time schedule into each controller easily without re configuring.

Clock Accuracy - Adjustable Time Compensation

Like most clocks, time drift is a reality and the Taralist controller will drift over time.  The Taralist clock has some special features to help keep the time accurate.  Time compensation functions are included that allow you to automatically adjust the clock forward or back (by up to 15 seconds) each day of the week.  For instance, you may find the Taralist keeps better time if it automatically advances the clock 1 second each day of the week.  Or you may find that you need to subtract 5 seconds from the clock 1 day per week.  Adjustable time compensation will help keep your clock accurate (though it is always a good idea to check on the clock periodically).

If your application requires your relay control to match a computer's time exactly we recommend using a computer controlled Relay and Relay Timer Software.  The software can be installed on a computer or server and match the time exactly.  We recommend this for school bells and shift change applications where matching a time clock is vital.  Select a Wired or Wireless Relay under Relay Control from the top menu to select a board then add the Relay Timer Software at checkout.

Manual Control

TaraList boards have some amazing abilities when it comes to making decisions on their own based on the events you configure, but you can take control of the relays at any time from a computer as long as communications are established between your computer and the Time Relay device.

The interface elements shown at right allow a computer to take over control of any relay and force the relays to a On or Off state.  You may also turn all relays on or off using the all relays on and all relays off buttons.  You can also read the status of relays by clicking the Read Relay 1-8 Status.  The Status of the relay will be shown to the right of the button.  The slider at the top of the screen allows you to select with bank of relays these commands are directed to. 

Power Loss Backup Buffer

The Midnight Backup Buffer is a special feature developed to help keep track of which relays should be activated in the event power is lost.  Every night at midnight, the current status of all relays is stored in non-volatile memory.  If power is lost, the Taralist will load the status of the relays from memory.  Next, the Taralist will calculate all events from midnight to the current time to determine if any relays need to be activated or deactivated.  Finally, the Taralist will refresh all relays and will be ready for normal operation.

Base Station Reactor Configuration

Base Station Software

Base Station will assist you in learning how this device functions and is the ultimate reference tool for configuring, testing and controlling this device.  Base Station software supports every feature of this device - no other controller manufacturer even comes close to offering this type of software.  Base Station works by communicating with your controller to identify the model and provides the appropriate graphical user interface for setting up and testing the identified device.  All Reactor configurations will be made through Base Station and an overview will be discussed below.  To help you get started and learn this controller Quick Start Guides are available for just about every feature.  As you discover a feature in Base Station a link is provided where you can easily download the Quick Start Guide.    Download Base Statione

Configure Each Input

The Reactor Relay allows users to define the activation of a relay or an event based on the voltage readings of the analog inputs.  An input can trigger a relay directly or an input can trigger an event, such as a timer. If an input triggers a relay, the relay may turn on. If an input triggers a timer event, a timer may be started, but a relay may or may not be turned on based on how you have configured the controller (the time delay may be before the relay triggers).  Triggering an event does not mean you are triggering a relay, it just means you are triggering an internal function. Relays may be associated with this internal function to achieve a large number of possible operations.

Using Input Values

Reading from Left to right, the settings above indicate Input 1 will trigger a relay when Analog Input 1 is above 200.  We have defined that a relay will turn on when the input level is defined by a value of 200.


In the above example, a relay is triggered when an analog input is inside a set range between 100 and 202.  By defining two limits, you can further narrow the parameters for the activation of a relay.  The limits can also be assigned to set the relay to be activated outside two set limits.

Output Configuration

Reactor controllers have up to 8 relays available depending on the actual model selected. Each relay can be assigned to a different input or event.  In the example shown below, Relay 1 is Controlled by Input 1 directly.  Input 1 will turn Relay 1 ON. In order for Relay 1 to activate, it must meet the conditions of the Input 1 configuration using the settings on the Input Configuration tab (see above).

There are many ways to directly control a relay from an input. Relays 1-5 in the below example shows how inputs can turn relays on, off, toggle relay state, set the relay to match the state of the input, or set the relay to NOT equal the state of a input.

In the example below, Relay 6 is controlled by Timer 1. In other words, if Timer 1 is active, the relay will stay ON. Otherwise, the relay will turn off. This is a great way to activate a light for a given period of time. If you are interested in Time Delay Relay, timers will be discussed on our Time Delay Relay Page.

Complex Automation through Experimentation

Don’t be afraid to experiment with Reactor!  Some complex automation can be achieved by experimenting with Reactor settings.  Of course Reactor is capable of triggering relays and it can also trigger events.  Relays can be associated with events, allowing you to play with all kinds of complex timing and counting settings.  Events greatly expand the pallet of functionality available to Reactor.

Computer Controlled Relays

Software developers who need remote access to a Reactor controller will find themselves at home.  The Reactor supports a very powerful computer-based command set, so it is possible for a computer to operate the relays and read sensor inputs.  The computer can over-ride the Reactor decision logic, trigger events, and return control of the relays back to the Reactor Logic.  Configuration settings are stored in files that can be loaded into other Reactor controllers.

Many More Options

We have just touched on the many ways the Reactor board can be configured.  The applications that this board can be use in are extensive.  For a more detailed look at the configuration and setup you can look at the Reactor Series Quick Start Guide.

Base Station Software

Compatible with All Boards on this Site

Base Station software works by talking directly to your controller to identify the model, then automatically loads the right graphical interface for controlling and testing that device. It's a great way to learn how any NCD controller works, and doubles as a powerful diagnostic tool to verify your device is operating correctly.

Base Station exercises every supported feature on every supported device. For learning, testing, and troubleshooting NCD boards, this is the ultimate reference tool.

---

User Interface

Base Station gives you a list of command sets supported by your controller. Just click any item once to open the custom graphical interface that was created alongside the firmware. Each command set corresponds with a module installed inside your device."

---

Device Identification

Click the Device Identification window to view important read-only info about your controller.

Watch for the field labeled "Documentation Related to this Controller" - it's a complete list of articles connected to your device. Click any entry to open it. (Internet required.)

All devices released in 2012 and later support Device Identification.

---

Device Command Sets

Base Station asks the controller which command sets it supports, then displays them when the software launches. Some devices show more command sets, others fewer - it's always based on the board.

ProXR users can access the entire ProXR Command Set to turn relays on/off and run every available function.

---

Control All ProXR Functions

Turn relays on or off, read relay status, monitor inputs ? Base Station gives full ProXR control through a clean point-and-click interface.

For programmers, Base Station also shows every command being sent to the board, making it a great tool for learning and development.

---

Useful Features

There are some useful features to look for when using Base Station Software to control, test, or configure your device:

• Links to Quick Start Guides and documentation/li>
• Discovery of network devices with IP address display
• Command Set Window for viewing raw commands (especially helpful for ProXR users)
• Relay Activator with Analog Inputs

---

---

Relay Activator

Relay Activator and Analog Inputs

Base Station Software's Relay Activator is ideal for applications that primarily rely on computer control but still require occasional manual operation. By connecting external buttons or switches, you can take direct, hands-on control of any relay without giving up software-based control.

This creates true bi-directional control. For example, a relay can be turned ON through the computer interface and later turned OFF using a physical switch - or vice versa. Whether you're testing, troubleshooting, or building a hybrid manual/software-controlled system, Relay Activator keeps everything synchronized and predictable.

As shown in the example, each input includes a pull-down menu that allows you to select exactly how that input will control a relay. This makes configuration fast and intuitive - simply choose the desired action for each input without writing any code.

Each of the 8 input channels can be configured to control relays 1 through 8, with multiple action types available. This flexibility allows every input to perform exactly the function your application requires.

Available Relay Actions per Input
Each input can be assigned one of the following actions:

• Momentary Control - Activates the relay only while the input is engaged
• Toggle Relay State - Alternates the relay between ON and OFF
• Turn Relay ON - Forces the relay into the ON state
• Turn Relay OFF - Forces the relay into the OFF state
• Flash Relay (Momentary) - Pulses the relay while the input is active
• Flash Relay (Toggle) - Toggles flashing behavior ON and OFF

This level of control makes Relay Activator perfect for operator panels, test benches, safety overrides, and any application where manual interaction and software automation need to work together seamlessly.
AD8 Relay Activator Quick Start Guide.

---

---

Reactor Users

Reactor Events Settings

All Reactor configuration is handled inside Base Station.

You can define when a relay or event activates based on the voltage readings of analog inputs. Inputs can trigger relays directly or trigger timed events.

The Reactor GUI only appears when Base Station detects a Reactor board, and some functions may not display for other board types.

---

---

TaraList Users

TaraList Setup

Base Station includes configuration tools and scheduling upload controls for TaraList Time Activated Boards.

TaraList users will see setup pages for creating and uploading time schedules. ProXR users won't - those pages appear only when Base Station detects a TaraList controller.

Device Configuration

All devices are configured prior to shipping.  The Configuration page is for experienced users who wish to customize their device.  Most users have no need to customize their device differently from what is configured prior to shipping.

Supported Devices

Not all devices support Device Configuration.  All Devices released in 2012 and later support Device Configuration.  Some configuration settings will affect device communication timing, which can render a device too fast for the chosen interface.  If you ever lose communications with your controller, power down the controller, set the Program/Run jumper to the Program Position and power up the device.  Attempt Communication at 57.6K or 115.2K Baud.  If problems persist, install a ZUSB communications module to recover device settings.

Configuration and Run Modes

All NCD controllers have two modes of operation: Configuration mode and Run mode.  Normally, the controller should always be in RUN mode.  Use Configuration mode if you want to make changes to the settings of the controller.  Configuration mode is a temporary mode.  Configuration mode allows you to write parameters to the controllers for changing device settings.  Run mode does not allow accidental changes to configuration parameters.  On-board memory is protected from write operations in Run mode.

Traditionally, you needed to move a jumper to change device modes.  You can still do this, but 2012 and later controllers allow you to put the device in Configuration mode for a short period of time without moving the jumper.  This is very convenient when you need to setup the device in a remote location.

So far, the concept of Configuration and Run mode is pretty simple.  But there are special rules about the use of these modes that must be followed to prevent loss of communications. Most notably, changing the baud rate or any of the UART settings can cause a loss of communications.  This is where the hardware Configuration/Run jumper comes into play.  When the jumper is set to Configuration mode and the controller is powered up, the controller will always load safe communication settings so you can recover communications with the device.

Software Configuration Mode

Software Configuration Mode allows you to send a command to put the controller in Configuration mode for up to 255 seconds.  This is extremely useful if you need to make changes to the controller from a remote location.  If you change the baud rate settings, our Base software will attempt to Re-Sync to the device.  This is effective most of the time, but occasionally, you may need to exit and re-run Base software.

If you make changes to any parameters while in software configuration mode, the controller will not respond to these changes until the Reboot command is issued.  Our software automatically issues the Reboot command at the appropriate times, allowing you to make changes without ever touching the device.   However, configuration settings can lead to a loss of communications, so if you intend to make changes to communication parameters, make sure the Configuration/Run jumper is accessible in case you need to boot up the controller in “Safe” mode of 57.6K or 115.2K Baud.

Quick Start Guide

Below is the Quick Start Guides for this software.  Download this for more information about this software.