Electronics : Classy Model Trains

Digital Command Control | Boosters boost signal to DC motors
Before we dive into this latest subject I want to firstly explain the function of a booster as it relates to digital command control. Boosters convert the low currents admitted by your command station and "BOOST" the signal to a level usable by your model locomotive.

Digital Command Control | DCC | controls for model trains
The idea behind Digital Command Control is simply to empower the modeler with control over his environment. The concept sprouted in the 40's when the granddaddy of model train companies (Lionel) brought to market a two channel unit.

Cam Trucks | A birds Eye View | How to Build a Cam Truck
Most modellers are truly kids at heart. One of the outstanding qualities of youth is the ability to explore your imagination and projecting yourself into different worlds. Many of us are satisfied with the simple operations of our layouts. Cool effects, life like replicas and true to life sounds of our locomotives gliding across rails at scaled down speeds.

Soldering Iron | Soldering Tips | model train tips
Apply a dash of flux before soldering | keep tip clean | Use damp sponge between uses
Problems with Aftermarket Sound Installation : By Fred Krause
Recently, a customer purchased two of Bachmann’s EMD DDA40X Centennials with DCC on board. It’s a beautiful model compared to older Bachmann locomotives and is quite detailed. The customer had asked us if we could install sound in the engines and as it said “designed for aftermarket sound installation we said yes.

Trouble Shooting | DC Power Packs | How Your Train Works
If you ever run across a situation where your model train or trains don't run… it's wise to have the knowledge of how your train works under your belt.

Decoders | decoder installation | checking decoders
If you have a drop in place decoder, testing will require you clamp your (alligator) monster clips to leads on the decoder. Their are attachments designed to assist you in finding the connections. To make this an easy task, the NMRA has harnesses designed for just such a task.

Model Train Electronics | model railway electrical supplies
In reality classic model train layouts are the combination of three distinct hobbies bound together by voltage. The act of planning and creating scenery is an unmeasurable thrill for hundreds of thousands, yet the act of laying track and operating your model train set can be just as breath taking for millions. The single element that binds these two distinct hobbies is electronics.

Model Train Software | Automate Your Layout
You can punch in commands and watch your plan come together. Be the talk of your next modelers show when you un-veil your hands free display and locomotives are hanging on rails and switching lines at will.
Digital Command Control | wireless cab controls| model trains
Hand held throttles or cabs allow you, the modeler slash operator to interact with your locomotives via a wire free remote. These units can either be radio controlled or infrared.

DCCTrain.com | Model Train Electronics Shop
These guys rock! They've got all it takes to rule the rails in hands free style. Atlas, Bachman Digitrax, you name it they carry it!

Digital Command Control |Multiple Boosters | Amperage Chart
When running large layouts, say for instance a large city scheme, you're bound to have a healthy display of street lights and buildings with lit windows and moving figurines, turntables, switches, and other energy consuming accessories. You may find yourself in need of multiple boosters.