In my last entry, I reported that I couldn't get the signals to work and suspected some switching problem, which I assumed was due to my attempts at some limited interlocking within the control panel. This requires certain switches to be either normal or reversed in order to allow the circuit to the signal servo control board to be broken, thus clearing the signal. So, for instance, it is not possible to clear the home signal unless the entry point is set to the platform road and the FPL engaged or it is not possible to clear the yard exit ground signal if the cross-over is not set or if if the yard entry signal is already off.

Anyway, all this arrangement was checked using a resistance meter to check the making/breaking of the circuits within the panel and all appeared OK.

My next worry was the use of the layout common return for the sevo control return rather than a dedicated servo control return, especially when DCC power is in use because of possible traction signal interference to the servo system.

Well, I don't really know what had happened, because without making any alterations (other than swapping two of the signal switch connection on one of the control boards which I had connected to the wrong wires from the control panel), when I tried the system a short time ago everything worked OK, even with the DCC system connected. Phew!

I've also fitted two of the Tortoise point motors with stiffer operating wires to solve a couple of point throw issues.

Better get on with the point rodding stool supports, cosmetic tie bars, etc., prior to painting the track on the most recent board. Than it's ballasting - something I'm really not looking forward to!

Dave.