The model railway is situated in a loft approximately 6m * 3m and from the outset the intention was to take advantageof the developments for digital control.   I consider this approach offers the user an enhanced capability for control.

To see photos of the layout and a track plan click on 'Layout Views'. Do give your views by clicking on 'Feedback'.

The scale is "N" gauge and routes were originally set manually by 60 Seep point motors operated from a layout control panel with the direction indicated by 12 volt LED's. Over 300 coloured wires 6 for each point connected to the LED's and momentary point motor switches.   All of this heavy concentration on masses of wires has been changed as the operation is now achieved by the use of 15 digital accessory decoders.

These were obtained as a member of the Model Electronic Railway Group (MERG) http://ww.merg.info priced £10-00 in kit form for self assembly. Why not join we have kits for DC (analogue) and DCC (digital) controls of all types. If you need help the email forum of 500 members will help you find a solution. Have a look at the web site. Details of membership from the membership secretary at memsec@merg.info.

It is such a pleasure to touch the screen of the ECOS DCC command station and see 15 points change to let a train through on the main line. Recently track sensors have been introduced so that the ECOS system can set the route for a train when it occupies the section of track that is being monitored.  In future each train being driven will set it's own route by this means.   When more track sensors have been installed it will be possible to introduce computer control using the RailRoad & Co software. Track sensors are essential to enable the computer to know the position of the trains.

The ECOS by ESU DCC command station is one of a new generation of systems using a touch screen with a built in PC interface. It can also take the output from any existing DCC system to avoid making it redundant.

The Model Electronic Railway Group  has provided the support for my venture into digital control. The membership  has just reached 1000 members 10% of whom are situated abroad. We hold meetings in the UK in London, Dorset, Kent, Wales, and Aberdeen in Scotland. There is also a quarterly Journal and over 240 technical bulletins to help members.

I know that many of you out there struggle with wiring a layout. We are the only organisation that is independant of manufacturers that can help you.

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