Cab Control

This 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

Lever Control

This type of layout still has to be sectioned, but sections are selected by the changing of points. Points are changed by a lever housed in a frame, and this is, again, 24v through a capacitor discharge unit. It is advisable that, if this method is adopted, that the points should not exceed 30 in total.

DCC

Much has been talked about in the modelling press about this method of operation. I am of the opinion that it is definitely the future of model railways. But, beware! The client, ie you, needs a good understanding of all the options your controller will give you, so you can get the best out of your railway. If you are able to find your way around a computer, you should have no problem. As to the construction, many manufacturers say that you only have to put two wires to the track. This is not so. Layouts still have to be sectionalized, as in the above methods. There is also the matter of fitting chips to loco's, although a lot of modern OO locos come ready for a chip to be fitted with ease.

We are constructing a layout in Ireland at the moment.Our client has DCC with sound and the results bring a completely new dimension to the hobby. I have never had so much fun with a model railway.

There are two ways of construction either live or dead frog points. The dead frog system is only marginally more expensive than an analogue railway but the live frog system is far more complex and therefore more expensive. This can be explained in more detail on application, we have a good video demonstration which explains the situation in full.

You may wonder why I suggest cab control or lever frrame operation for DCC points when, as one knows, they can be operated from your DCC controller through a modulator. If you use this method it is very difficult to know which point is which because they are selected by a number and even more difficult to know which is left and which is right. Far better to have a mimic board so you can instantly see where you are going. Also with this method we are able to fit Tortoise Point Motors, the best point motor I have come accross in 30 years of modelling. Expensive, yes, but why spoil the ship for a ha'porth of tar!

Hand Operation

Layout with points not electrified. 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.