Model train help pdf

You're not discouraged to dive in, but by taking on JMRI - or any powerful, but complex thing - one step at a time you sort of build a solid foundation that will pay for itself in due time. Gradually build on you foundation concepts of the program and pick up elements of interest by following some of the links at the bottom of the left sidebar on the JMRI web Help. Version 2. Version 4. More on Java versions and hardware requirements. Get the latest Java as a free download at: java.

Thanks and congratulations to all who contributed! Additional information on copyright, trademarks and licenses is linked here. View the View the Site Status. The first railroad we show you will be 4' by 8'. Additional access space around the sides is needed so that you can get to all parts of the model to build it. The amount varies with the size and agility of the people who have to get there.

On average , you should assume you need an additional 3' or more on one of the long sides of the model, with 2' on the other three sides. Please Note: The usual disclaimers will apply.

Even though we will examine tools, construction methods, and electrical wiring, it is assumed that you have some very basic knowledge of these items. In other words, if you smash your fingers with a hammer, it's not our fault!

For more information, visit the Safety Page. Beginner's Guide. Get Started with model railroading. Donate Today Every gift helps. Thinking about building a model railroad?

Here's what you need to do before spending your hard-earned money. There's a lot to know, including how to plan your space and layout, how to find quality model train sets, and how to set up electric trains for and with a young child.

A model train's scale is its size compared to the size of a real train. HO is the largest selling scale worldwide, with the N scale in second place. The photo shows O, HO, and N scale locomotives next to a cultural icon whose size should be familiar to most people. There are a number of factors that will influence your scale selection; among them are your eyesight, your access to club layouts in your area, your budget, and your available space.

A model railroad takes space. If you're not planning on building a permanent layout, then a 5 x 9-foot ping-pong table is great for temporary layouts, provided its not too flimsy. Some people use cables and pulleys to lower model railroad tables from the ceiling and raise them for storage.

If temporary layouts are what you have in mind you'll probably want to start out with a train set , and buy additional track and accessories as the mood takes you. Even if you're not building a permanent layout, you'll need to know how to select and set up your railroad. Permanent layouts require space planning. O scale layouts take lots of space. HO and N scale outsell other scales because the average modeler can make space for an HO or N scale layout in their den, basement, or garage.

Some apartment dwellers do remarkable things on small tables or shelves with tiny Z scale trains. Some people build modular layouts. There are clubs devoted to modular layouts, where each member builds their own modules. All the modules can be connected to make large layouts at shows and events. If you're planning on constructing a landscaped layout complete with trees, hills, cities, and roads, you'll first have to build the benchwork to support it.

You can find books on building your benchwork at most local hobby stores that carry model railroad products. NTrak is a set of standards that N Scale clubs use to build modular layouts. Once you've selected your scale and identified your available space, you can start planning your layout.

First, you need to decide what brand of model railroad track you'll be using. There are a number of track planning software packages available to help you design your layout, but you need to select the program's template set for the brand of train track you will be using. It's helpful to look at layout plans on club and manufacturer websites but bear in mind that these plans specify the use of a specific brand of train track.

If you find a layout that you like on a website, it's easiest to choose the same brand of track that's pictured—but with a little work you can implement any track plan using any brand of train track. A packaged train set will usually come with a transformer or power pack. The photo shows a DC power pack that comes bundled with Kato track and train sets. In recent years more and more serious model railroaders are turning to computer-controlled trains, so many transformers and power packs are gathering dust.

Digital Command Control DCC , a new industry standard for powering and controlling model railroad trains using computer technology, is widely available in HO and N scale.

Z scale manufacturers also offer some locomotives that come DCC-equipped.