so, i arrived quite a while back from the DCC++ board. spent some time with the code, and after i altered it to suit my needs, i figured it was as good a time as any to build a layout (more than just my circle of test track). here is my latest thread, in DCC++: https://www.trainboard.com/highball/index.php?threads/my-modified-dcc-base-station-notes.126580/ my plan, is to use space in the forward part of my "Man Cave" (former 29 foot camper). as the prevalent power supply out there is 12Vdc, i plan to use that for my general layout power. i will use DC to DC power converters to get the 5Vdc, and 15Vdc needed for my DCC++ (arduino logic, and track power). easier than having the larger AC to DC switching regulators taking up space. My outputs (turnouts, signaling, etc) will be controlled from JMRI, via MQTT and Arduino boards. the inputs sensors will be read via MCP23017 i/o expanders, into DCC++ (via my customized code). the layout will be a point to point footprint, due to the space constraints in the "Man Cave". though i will still incorporate a circle of track for testing and programming CVs. it will be tied to the main-line, and isolated with turnouts. i will use a DPDT switch to select the connection between main and programming. for construction, i think my layout "foundation" will be 1 X 4 lumber, and a top of a product i am familiar with called multi-ply (could be a local term). it is a 1/4" ply, composed of several layers of hardwood, for stability. these are my plans, thus far. updates to follow. ~Travis
Merry Christmas to all those that celebrate! I have received many train gifts this year to help me with my layout. A box of peco code 83 nickle-silver track (SL-8300) A Bachmann HO ez-railer (looks very handy) Woodland scenics rail tracker cleaning kit Woodland scenics roto wheel cleaner A book on building better bench work (model railroader books) Should be good to get me well on my way! Now i just have to get gleaning out space in my "man cave" to start building. ~Travis Sent from my SM-T560NU using Tapatalk
i just finished getting a little TCS speaker installed into my Athearn SD40-2, with a TCS WOWDiesel wow121 decoder. fisrt loco with DCC sound. i haven't tested it yet, as my DCC++ setup is slightly apart while i build it into an enclosure. I have ordered an inexpensive and used DCC controller (MRC Prodigy Express, not squared) for a backup controller, so whichever one is usable first will have the honor of testing (and setting up) my loco. ~Travis
