BosKonay

As you say, I didn't want the BUZZ THUNK of the normal points, I also required computer control, so any solution had to have a digital control side. I reviewed the tortoise and cobalt and tried one of each but went with the Cobalt as they are much smaller, the DCC decoder is integrated, and you get additional switches to allow the addition of signalling and frog control, all with just two wires to the motor. In practice they are solid, reliable, throw beautifully and are very quiet. However, I hit 'wierd' issues around programming them, with roughly 50% of the motors I ordered. After many attempts and tweaks without avail, I'm awaiting a replacement box of motors at the moment. An odd issue certainly, but not one that's put me off them, and the customer service from Modelshopbelfast, Gaugemaster and DCC concepts was faultless.

That's a good question! When fully finished there will be almost three mini layouts, each joined by mainline. Amiens Street terminus includes two long push pull platforms, ostensibly the enterprise platforms but also for mk3 and 4 sets. Platforms 2 and 3 have the loco release road and are for all of the above as well as loco hauled and specials. Platform 1 at the front is the shortest and is intended for the commuter dmu service. ( maybe in time emu too) The additional sidings at the from here are dmu stabling with the facing two lines a running shed for same. Opposite is a freight yard (top three lines on right) a small per way years then three coach sidings and the shed. The shed and coach sidings have access to all platforms with some shunting required by the pilot to prepare freights for the road. Then there will be Blackrock Road Depot, a preserved small terminus with associated works and storage yards. There is an as yet unnamed through station on the mainline and Cement yard which will be a small cement unloading yard and maybe a small commuter halt. I'd expect pilots at Amiens street and Blackrock road to be very busy preparing services, DMUs shuttling around (eventually on autopilot) handling the rush hour and then the mainline services competing with freights on the two line mainline. A little like the real thing I'd hope with help to have 10-12 trains. 'Active' at peak use with 4 out on the mainline at any one time! Why I need block detection and automation might now make sense! That or my madness is exposed!

I always wondered why there wasn't even one annual air show in Ireland.

It is honestly simpler than almost any other method - trust me Any questions let me know! I've wired things so I can easy insert block detection in time and move towards near full automation in time.

Once all the points are configured you can pick a route by simply clicking and dragging on the diagram. You can also set one click keys to handle repetitive routes. There's no easy way to do this analog without miles of cables and custom circuits.

http://forum.moorestreettmd.co.uk/mstmd/forum/default.asp

BigBear DCC actually. I'm finding it very straightforward to use !

For me I find the technology actually simplifies the task but then I've been working in IT for 15 years!

The blue boxes are Cobalt digital point motors. http://www.dccconcepts.com/index_files/Cobalt_turnout_motor.htm The whole layout uses them for digital switching. They make wiring much simpler and will work well with the computer controlled route management.

Tomorrow's task!

Making progress! This is the CTC version of Amiens street and the facing yards.

Ah just lovely wiggy:)

Onwards and upwards

No truth in it. Just a half baked former someone with an axe to grind Ignore willfully

Looking amazing k! The das looks very effective! You're giving me loads of inspiration for Amiens at !

Lovely capture!

I also have some HO per way kit which looks fine too as long as not too close to the OO

Just gets better and better Anthony! Thanks for sharing!

Impressive little thing!!

Check for replacement tips too. You'll normally find listings on eBay etc. the tip will eventually wear away so being able to replace it with readily available spares is a must have.

Just wow!! Pure quality!

Halfords do a 40w iron that's extremely good for 20 euro last I looked.

Stacks of balsa?

Hey Bman - welcome! Hoping you can find those photos!