Beginner needs to get started on design

[LlandudnoJunction]

Hi Jimmy,

 

Hopefully this will help in your questions about automation on your layout and what you need to think about.

 

Firstly picking the right DCC controller (Lenz / Roco / Digitrax etc) is paramount and does depend on your budget. You need a DCC controller that allows feedback modules to communicate with automated software (i-train / train controller etc) for total control.

 

Just stay away from gaugemaster and Hornby dcc controllers as they are very limited to connections with automated software.

 

My layout is run on an end to end layout with automated routes and I have set time tables.

 

My set up is as follows 

 

1) Dcc controller is Digikeijs DR5000

2) DCC concepts cobalt Point motors and led signals controlled with 2x Digikeijs DR4018 modules

3) 2 Rail feedback with Digikeijs DR4088cs module for block detection
4) DR5088 module track detection / feedback  

5) Software i-train standard subscription

 

I hope it helps with your planning.

 

cheers

mark