As a multi-protocol control unit, the Central Station 3 features a high-resolution, modern color touchscreen, two speed controllers, and an integrated control panel with a central track diagram, allowing for easy and comfortable control of locomotives and the entire system. Up to 32 functions can be activated for locomotives, while up to 320 Motorola or 2048 DCC relays are possible for accessories.

Additionally, the Central Station 3 includes two integrated locomotive card readers for storing locomotive data or quickly retrieving locomotives by inserting the locomotive card. It also has an SD card slot for expanding storage capacity and an integrated speaker for playing typical model railway sounds. A powerful booster is built in to supply the system with drive and switching current.

The system supports additional control consoles, further systems, and keyboards, allowing for shared and separate configurations for the areas to be controlled, which can be stored in the Central Station 3. It features two integrated USB hosts for devices such as a mouse, keyboard, or USB stick, a USB charging port, a network connection for communication with a PC, connections for two Mobile Stations, a connection for external speakers, and additional connections for the Märklin bus system. S88 connections can be realized externally via Link s88. The load capacity at the connection track is a maximum of 5 A, while the load capacity at the programming track is a maximum of 1.2 A.