Learning JMRI

Since all of my electronics were performing correctly it was now time to determine how to automate the processes.  I have selected JMRI which is a Java based open system that connects to model railroads.  As I have talked about previously I have standardized on Digitrax and I have connected my computer running JMRI to the…

Test the Electronics

I finally got the first phase of the track, signals, and turnouts wired up. I was able to test out each of the boards. I had trouble with the BDL186 showing the occupied blocks. After a lot of checking I noticed the green network light was not behaving as the other circuit boards did. This…

Train Track Finished, Starting Electrical

With the help of lot of my children who were home for Christmas and Baptism of Betty Murry we made a lot of progress on the train.  After attending some railroad shows last year, I decided to add some additional track that would allow the trains to stop while other trains passed them on the…

Always Learning about Model Railroading

I attended the train show in Greenville SC several weeks ago.  It was a great show and I learned a lot. I attended a couple of great seminars and had some great discussions afterwards about signaling and block detection.  I realized that I did not have enough blocks and all of the turnouts needed to…

Finished Laying all of the Track

Yeah ! finished laying the final track tonight.  I was waiting on some Hardboards to finish up the side spurs.  I finally got everything finished and laid out.  Everyone keeps asking me when I will be finished and I tell them in about 3 years and they don’t believe it.  Laying the track is just…

Adding DCC controls to the Locomotives

I have selected 2 ways I want to control my locomotives on the track at the Peachtree City house.  One way is radio control using the RCS system with battery power and the second way is using DCC via track power.  Both have their advantages and disadvantages and my intent is to install both in…

Finished Last City Loop

I finished the last city loop this weekend.  This city is slated to be the Notre Dame city for the Kalamazoo Toy Train Notre Dame Locomotive and cars.  I found this set in a local model railroad store that was used.  It was a fantastic buy and since them I have bought additional Kalamazoo Toy…