"Whether you're using traditional, direct current (DC) cab control or the latest Digital Command Control (DCC) system [this] will guide you through the steps of planning and wiring a layout. With ... more modelers choosing DCC, this book will help demystify how it works; clarify the advantages of DCC and what makes it different from DC control; and, teach you how to convert an existing DC layout to DCC. Step-by-step instructions and photos are coupled with clear, color-coded diagrams that will guide you through the process of wiring a complete layout or just troubleshooting problem areas"--

Get started with Digital Command Control (DCC)! This beginning how-to guide covers the basics, with an overview of DCC, track wiring, cab bus wiring, and converting an existing layout to DCC. Written by Mike Polsgrove, Model Railroader's columnist on DCC.

Learn how to get your locomotive, train set, or complete model railroad operating -- even if you don't understand the principles of electricity! Teaches basic electrical connections for a two-rail DC powered layout of any size or complexity. Basic layout wiring techniques are presented simply, with numerous photos, illustrations, and diagrams.

This comprehensive guide helps modelers get the most out of DCC with diagrams and photos showing how DCC works, from wiring to installing decoders in locomotives. Presents an overview of the product lines available and helps modelers select the right system for their plans.

In railway modelling, getting the technical components correct is essential for a realistic-looking layout but, unfortunately, these often present the biggest challenges for the hobbyist. Using his own experience as a railway modeller and electronics engineer, Andrew Duckworth provides a guide suitable for all railway modellers, from beginners to the more experienced. With instructions on how and where to use specialist electronic circuits to enhance your layout, this book will help you to achieve a reasonably sophisticated layout. It provides: an overview of the geometry required for building successful model railways; clear explanations of electronics and electrical components; comparisons of direct control and digital command control (DCC); step-by-step instructions for wiring the track, signals, buildings and lighting; reviews of electrical systems, power supplies, wires and cable, control panels and switches and finally, it covers detection, testing and troubleshooting tips.

There have been numerous advances in N scale railroading since the first edition of this book, and the author addresses them all, from track to train control. He takes beginners through step-by-step chapters that show them how to build and operate a complete N scale 4 x 8-foot railroad based on his Androscoggin Central, an interesting and challenging New England railroad. From planning through bringing the layout to life, everything is covered. The book is also beneficial for experienced modelers looking to build a new N scale empire.

Explains Digital Command Control in a concise and straightforward way. Covers the history of command control, dissects the components of a DCC system, addresses the full range of commercially-available systems, and presents step-by-step projects. Ideal for all hobbyists with an interest in DCC.

Step-by-step instructions and illustrations take the mystery out of constructing benchwork. Covers the materials and tools for making benchwork for any layout.

Model Railroader's managing editor David Popp tells the complete construction story of his N scale Naugatuck River Valley layout using techniques any model railroader can use! More than 30 short projects from building benchwork to realistic operation.

Teaches how to make trains run. Easy-to-read explanations include layout wiring, command control, cab control, turnout control, and electrical troubleshooting.