The method of operation is from a control panel, where there is a map of your layout.

A picture of the control panel of my last commission

The layout is divided up into sections, which are controlled by rotary switches. These can select up to six controllers. In addition, momentary switches operate the points (24 v through a capacitor discharge unit). So, all one has to do is select the route, select the controller and the locomotive will travel as programmed (hopefully!).

This shows the panel wiring

Types of Layout

DCC

Since out last website update there have been major changes in the types of layout clients are commissioning. It is rare to receive a commission that is not DCC operated.If you are still not convinced that DCC is the way to go a visit to our premises should soon resiolve any problems you may think you have

DCC today plays a major part in model railwaying. There are new and exciting things coming along all the time, one of these is the addition of sound. for me personally this brings a completely new dimension to the hobby.

For those who fear the new technology be not afraid I have a 7 year old grandson who has no problem at all operating the layout.

There is an old story that DCC only needs two wires that go to the track, this is only partiallly true. The two wires commonly referred to do need to go to a distribution box from which every other section of track must be connected, both positive and negative to ensure that there is no loss of power.

Points Operation - It is preferable for all points to be live frog but with DCC operation points have to be DCC friendly. I will not go into the complications of this but it is essential that this is done. It is possible to use self-isolating points and this would work out a cheaper option.

Analogue

For those still not convinced we can constuct your layout on an analogue basis and this will work out approximately 10% cheaper than a DCC layout (see pricing your layout).

Hand Operation

We can construct your layout with hand operated points, prices on application.This is a very simple and straightforward method of layout construction for branch lines and smaller layouts. But, my advice is that the point works should not exceed 10-12 points.