Prince William County Model Railroad Crew

Module Building:

Model railroading has made a tremendous jump over the past 20 years in technology which many hobbyists are hesitant to delve into due to cost and complexity of the electronics. While most model railroads are operated on a simple direct voltage (DC) application, the innovation of digital control (DCC) has expanded the operating capabilities and realism of the hobby far beyond the average enthusiasts’ technical skills. The PWMRC can help modelers to make the difficult transition into the digital control environment.

Standards that all modules must adhere to

Tips:

• Consider adding a loconet joiner at the end of each module, connected by a cable end-to-end of the module. You will only need a 6" patch cable between modules.
• For modules that require power for lights, switches, or other accessories, consider adding a powerstrip to the bottom of the module. Only 1 plug needed to power the whole module up.
• For module groups of 3 or more, consider adding a Digitrax UP5 port to the front and/or back. Especially if there are switches or any yard track.
• Use a short section of straight track at the ends of the modules to help flex track to maintain the correct placement to mate up to the next module, especially on curves. Flex track is always trying to return to straight and this short section helps to "fix" it in place.

FAQ:

What is a module?

A module is a stand-alone diaorama or scene with the tracks at a fixed position from the end of the scene. This fixed position allows multiple modules to be connected into an operating layout.

What is DCC and how does it work?

DCC stands for Digital Command Control. It provides a digital signal over the rails. The Command Station uses this signal to "talk" to the receiving computer chips installed in each locomotive. The chips have a programmable address so the Command Station addresses the signal to each locomotive, much like a delivery is sent to the correct street address..