Power and control

Most toggle or lever switches used on a model railway feature just two positions. A type called an SPDT switch (on/on switch) is ideal for operating a two-aspect colour light signal as the two positions of the switch can be used to select between...

Wiring colour light signals to a DCC layout can be a little daunting when doing it for the first time. That's because LED lights are not compatible with the AC power supply used on DCC layouts, and an external power source is usually required to...

There are a number of reasons modellers will need to create a layout in sections, some may desire a transportable show or display layout, others may simply prefer the practicality of a layout that can be packed away after use, whatever the...

The term 'Start Voltage' is used in model railways to describe how much voltage is needed to get a locomotive moving from a standing start.When starting a train using an analogue controller, its start voltage isn't very important as we simply...

Wiring is sometimes a subject of wide debate amongst modellers. Each layout is unique with a wide range of aspects each having an effect including size, complexity and the range of items to be electrified including lights, points and signals. This...

To wire a controller to the track on a model railway, you will need to follow these simple steps :Connect the controller to the transformer or power supply, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Connect the track to the controller...

Model railway layouts can be dangerous if they are not properly designed, constructed and maintained.  Electrical components, such as transformers, controllers and point motors can pose a risk of electrical shock if they are not used and handled...

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the choice between surface-mounted and under-baseboard point motors depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few factors to consider when deciding which type of point...

It is possible to create overhead electrification for a model railway layout. This typically involves installing overhead wires and pantographs on the trains to transfer power from the wires to the trains. Overhead electrification can add a...

Yes, it is recommended to use a surge protector for the electrics used for model railways. Model railway systems often use low-voltage direct current (DC) power supplies, which can be susceptible to electrical surges and spikes. These surges can...

A Capacitor Discharge Unit (CDU) is a device that can be used in conjunction with a point motor in model railways to provide more reliable and consistent performance. Here are some circumstances where a modeller may wish to consider using a CDU...

There are a few options for motorising a level crossing on a model railway layout: Servo motor: One option is to use a servo motor to operate the level crossing gates. Servo motors can be controlled with a servo decoder, allowing smooth operation...