Well, things are getting exciting with trains running on the lower deck now. I've been having some fun getting all of the kinks and bugs out of the layout with most issues corrected, bar a couple of points in the staging yard and 2 dead DCC point motors. Fortunately, the guys at DCC Concepts have a a fantastic lifetime warranty for their point motors so these have been returned and I'm waiting for the replacements to arrive. The last things I need to do is to install 2 UTP patch panels for the NCE Power Cab and install the turntables, one of which has been purchased, a 90ft table for the bottom deck. I've also still go a fair bit of fascia work to do but that will come as the scenery goes in.
One thing I've also been doing is integrating JMRI Software into the DCC system. I was surprised at how easy this was to do so the next task will be designing some control panels for the storage yard control. I've also integrated some iPhones and an iPad to act as wireless throttles and these are working a treat. My initial thoughts are that they're actually easier to use than the NCE Power Cab and much cheaper too!!! I was going to get a NCE wireless add on but the iPhones are more than adequate.
Technology
Here's a few photos of some train action at Picton.
5096
5221
CPH5
Staging Yards
The great thing is I can now get back to doing what I love the most, building rolling stock and locomotives. And, I'll be able to start on scenery and structures too so I'm thrilled to have gotten to this point after many years and many mistakes. Let the good times roll!!!
.jpg)
