Andy Y Posted July 30, 2014 Share Posted July 30, 2014 What constitutes a module? A module may consist of one or more boards to make up a section which can be used within a combined arrangement. To make sure there is broad compatability the following standards apply: Absolutes Gauge – OO, suggest Peco Code 75 as the maximum code with any variations being 'compatible' at the module joints. Floor to rail height – suggest 45” as a reasonable figure workable for as many people as possible and inclusive of existing Freemo work. Height adjustment - - suggest +/- 1” either side of the Floor to rail height measurement End boards at module joints – Of sufficient thickness (minimum 9mm) and depth (suggest 4”) to enable modules to be clamped or bolted together. Rail centres at module joints – Double track modules to have track centres at 50mm to match Peco. Track ends - all track joins at end of the module should be at 90 degrees to the board end. Track Bus – A common standard for interlinking modules, revised to 4mm banana plug/sockets, each module should present a connection for front and rear rails by means of a 4mm socket for a banana plug lead for each rail. It should be made clear which socket applies to which rail. Control System – A module must be wired for, or be compatible with, DCC control. Point/Signal control – A module operator should maintain and provide a means of local control (via DC or DCC) of all points and signals if used to enable operation through from an adjacent module. Clearances – All modules should ensure the following clearances are met. Track curvature - Minimum radius for the mainline should be 36" which corresponds with Peco Medium Radius points and for sidings 24" which corresponds with Peco Small Radius Points. Recommendations Board widths at module joints – Matching board widths encourages uniformity of appearance – suggest 18” width, if a ‘module’ is wider or narrower than this it should be ‘blended’ to match at the module joint. Track centres – if a centre point of the 18” wide board is taken for the track centre this will encourage modules which can be used both ways round in a gathered meeting. For double track module joints the twin track formation (with 50mm centres) should centred on the 18” width. Board landscape at module joints – whilst creativity of cuttings, embankments, tunnels, viaducts etc should be encouraged it would be helpful to return the ground level to that of the track base at the module joint. 8th August addition - it is recommended that any visible board fascias are painted matt black. Revisions Any revisions will noted and marked with date if absolutely necessary. 5 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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