|
| | The group currently has two layouts which it can use at meetings and are also available for exhibitions. In addition, a number of individual members have their own 'exhibition layouts'. The two group layouts consist of a DCC only layout which can be exhibited as full size or half size (for details see the two top links on the left) and a DC only/DC plus DCC layout. The latter layout comprises a 12 foot long fiddle yard with 10 storage sidings, plus 4 corners and a variety of filler pieces of various sizes. The 'scenic part' of the layout consists of modules which are provided by different members of the group. These represent the owner's individual interests and are a variety of sizes normally in multiples of 4 feet. There are 4 main running lines, with the outermost 2 tracks electrically separate from the inner 2. This means that the layout can run both DC and DCC (or all DC).
The minimum size of the layout when set up is 12 feet by 6 feet (which uses 3 scenic modules). This is now under review, as there is a lot of the layout which is not covered with scenics (most notably the corners) and so does not appeal to exhibition organisers. Plans are being discussed to alter the format of the layout to include more scenic areas to enable it to become more 'exhibition friendly'.
One of the main causes of this, is that the corner boards had to be kept as small as possible to allow for easy storage/transport at a time when storage space was not readily available. Now we are able to store boards at the Community Centre, this is no longer such a problem.
Trackwork in the fiddle yard is all Peco Code 80 (helps with putting stock on!) and points are all electrified using Peco point motors and accessory switches which power the frogs to give reliable running. This, in the main, works well but if we were rebuilding, then large radius points would be used rather than medium radius. Point control is by probe and stud on a centrally mounted panel. DC controllers for each track have been built by a group member. All the electrics for the layout are fed into the fiddle yard; and power is taken round the layout from board to board by means of phono plugs and sockets (for more details click on the 'Standards' section above.
|
| |
| |
|
|
