TS Controllers

TS Controllers: hand-built hardware for train simulation

TS Controllers is a UK-based maker of physical controllers for train simulation software. The company states that it specialises exclusively in hardware for train simulation, unlike firms that produce a broad range of gaming peripherals. Its products are hand-built in the UK, and the company says all software is developed in-house and updated regularly.

The business was started in 2020 by Dan, described as a lifelong rail enthusiast, with the AWS Plunger for TS Classic and Train Sim World. The Door Panel followed soon after, and the PBC (Power Brake Controller) launched in 2021. The company says the PBC surpassed its expectations in sales and customer feedback, and an all-new PBC Pro was scheduled for launch in 2026.

Controllers and components in the catalogue

The product range covers several distinct pieces of desktop cab hardware, designed to be collected in stages and combined into a modular, customisable simulation setup:

• PBC Pro, the new generation of the Power Brake Controller.
• Flexi-Brake Controller and Flexi Lever.
• Class 66 / USA Style controls for TS Classic and Train Sim World.
• USB AWS Plunger Button for Train Simulator and Train Sim World.
• Door Panel Controller with DRA for Train Simulator.
• Vigilance Pedal (DSD / SIFA).
• PBC Pro handles and PBC v1 handles with rubber feet.

The site also lists a throttle stack / control desk among its featured products. The company says its aim is to offer affordable, quality hardware that replicates the look and feel of real train controls while remaining compatible across most add-ons. Controllers are designed to work out of the box without complicated configuration for individual add-ons, and updatable firmware allows new features and refinements after purchase.

Software and support

All software is developed in-house and continuously updated. The same TS Controllers Interface Software platform used in the retail controllers also powers the company's custom simulator projects. The company highlights personalised customer support and says it listens to the community when developing new features. A wiki and a support section are available on the website, and a new wiki was announced in September 2026.

Work with railway preservation groups

Beyond retail products, TS Controllers has provided simulation hardware, electronics, software development and technical services to railway preservation societies across the UK. The company says it carried out conversion work and associated services free of charge for two projects: a Class 442 simulator for The Cab Yard and a Class 507 simulator for the Class 507 Preservation Society.

Class 442 cab simulator for The Cab Yard

The Cab Yard, based in Wales, holds a collection of authentic UK train cabs. It approached TS Controllers to turn its Class 442 cab into a train simulator. TS Controllers designed and installed electronics to interface the cab's existing controls with the simulator, using multiple custom modules communicating with the TS Controllers Interface Software. The original cab controls were retained and used wherever possible. The completed simulator was shown at The Greatest Gathering in 2025, with ramps and a wheelchair lift provided for access. It now has a permanent home at the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway, where it opens to the public on selected dates.

Mobile Class 507 simulator

The Class 507 Preservation Society wanted a mobile simulator to take the experience of driving a Class 507 to events and transport shows across Merseyside. Parts and controls were transported from Merseyside to the TS Controllers workshop, where the simulator was developed over several months. Original controls were wired into custom electronics modules, with software developed specifically for the project. Full integration was created for both Train Simulator Classic and Train Sim World. The simulator made its public debut at The Greatest Gathering in 2025 and has since become a regular feature at local transport shows and events.

Who the controllers are for

TS Controllers describes its customers as individual enthusiasts building home simulators, as well as professional training organisations and railway preservation groups. The company presents its products as aimed at enthusiasts who demand realism, reliability and a premium experience, and it also supports the wider railway industry with specialist simulation hardware and solutions.