Practical Introduction To Digital Command Control For Railway Modellers

From background information on the technology itself to layout wiring; taking in decoders, hand controllers, wireless and many practical modelling projects, Neil Burkin offers a comprehensive introduction to Digital Command Control [DCC] for the beginner and experienced modeller alike.The book emphasises the benefits of DCC technology as a model railway control system and offers practical advice on the choice of systems, applying the technology to a layout, how to use it to enhance layout operations, and how it can be used to overcome practical difficulties with operations such as banking, double-heading, lighting and sound. Technical jargon is avoided and clear descriptions of each project featured in the book will remove the mystery surrounding DCC. Many of the modelling projects may be adapted for almost any modelling situation and are supported by over 400 excellent colour photographs. A comprehensive guide to Digital Command Control for the beginner and experienced modeller alike. Emphasises the benefits of DCC technology and offers practical advice on the choice of sytems. Includes practical modelling projects which are supported by over 400 excellent colour photographs. Nigel Burkin is a railway modeller with over 20 years' experience and has hundreds of magazine articles to his credit.

The advent of DCC has allowed the enthusiast to control more than one train at a time via the use of computer chip technology. Whereas most modern rolling stock is now designed to be fully compatible with DCC, for modellers it may represent a challenge - particularly if they have collections of locomotives and rolling stock that pre-date its development. This informative volume includes step-by-step photographs showing how all model locomotives can be converted to DCC operation.

Locomotive and layout maintenance is an essential aspect of railway modelling, but one that is little understood by modellers, especially those new to the hobby or returning after a long absence. Fine Tuning and Maintaining 00 Gauge Models shows you all of the techniques required to introduce new models to your layout, run them in, fit all of the parts supplied with them and undertake repairs where necessary. It includes advice on how to carry out routine maintenance, shows the reader techniques for fine-tuning performance and discusses the important issues surrounding conversion to the finer scales. Chapters include: running in new models; fitting factory-supplied parts; rolling stock and locomotive wheels; mechanical enhancements; simple enhancements; keeping the layout running smoothly; ongoing maintenance and repairs. 00 gauge is one of the most popular gauges within the hobby and this book should have wide reaching appeal. Supported by 415 superb colour photographs and detailed instructions.

Do you enjoy running model trains but want to improve your layout? Do you want to gain expertise over a wider range of railway modelling skills and acquire the confidence to tackle modelling tasks that you have previously shied away from? If so, this is the book for you. Brimming with advice and tips, this well-illustrated book covers a wide range of modelling skills, including designing a layout, choosing the right scale, building baseboards, selecting the right track, controlling the trains, building the landscape, making realistic grass and weeds, and adding figures. Particular attention is paid to more modern techniques such as DCC train control, laser cut and downloadable kits, and the use of hard foam in baseboard construction. Step-by-step explantions of many techniques are provided accompanied by over 400 instructional colour photographs. Information is provided about the tools and materials required and the extensive range of commercial railway modelling products that are now available.

Layout building is perhaps the most exciting, rewarding and challenging aspect of creating a model railway. Making the right design decisions and choosing good construction techniques are vital to ensure success. This book takes you through basic baseboard construction, shelf layout themes and how to link multi-deck designs together, enabling you to make the most of a given space. With different concepts covered, from simple portable layouts to helix construction techniques, Nigel Burkin mixes the best of British layouts with those used routinely overseas and shows you how you too can achieve success and satisfaction in executing your layout design. Topics covered included: Designing for comfort; How to use space efficiently; Practical construction techniques from L-Girder to box frame baseboards; Sub track bed construction, track laying and wiring; Fine tuning the layout for smooth operations.

Written in layman's terms, DCC for Railway Modellers gives an in-depth overview of Digital Command and Control. Informed by the author's extensive knowledge of DCC and model layouts, this book will give both the novice and experienced modeller a comprehensive breakdown of DCC and model railway standards. covering topics such as: The history of DCC, Components of DCC, Decoders – DCC, Sound and Function, Fitting decoders, Layout design considerations and wiring and Troubleshooting

In railway modelling, getting the technical components correct is essential for a realistic-looking layout but, unfortunately, these often present the biggest challenges for the hobbyist. Using his own experience as a railway modeller and electronics engineer, Andrew Duckworth provides a guide suitable for all railway modellers, from beginners to the more experienced. With instructions on how and where to use specialist electronic circuits to enhance your layout, this book will help you to achieve a reasonably sophisticated layout. It provides: an overview of the geometry required for building successful model railways; clear explanations of electronics and electrical components; comparisons of direct control and digital command control (DCC); step-by-step instructions for wiring the track, signals, buildings and lighting; reviews of electrical systems, power supplies, wires and cable, control panels and switches and finally, it covers detection, testing and troubleshooting tips.