VickyB,
I've been following some of your posts, (as I think your layout is kinda neat for a high speed commutor system), but others may not be familiar with "what" your working with. You may want to include product types and brand names when asking for specific information.
That being said, I assume you're using the Kato switch controllers, and not just simple toggle switches. The previous solutions are good ones for traditional switch control, but may not work for you with the modular system that Kato uses.
You may want to "organize" your controllers from left to right, as looking at the layout, to match the left to right order of the switches on layout.
Another method would be to use small letter/number stickers to "identify" your switch location and function; MX1=Mainline Crossover #1, YL4=Yard Ladder Track #4, Etc.
I would start your mainline numbering at the control area, and move in a clockwise direction around the layout. Keep it as simple as possible.
Try doing a search on here for control panels, there have been several threads that explained different methods.
The schematic is probably the easiest to use, pretty much anyone can walk up and figure out how to get from point A to point B. There are a number of methods to get the diagrams on the panel, pick the one you feel most comfortable with.
For the routing, you can go to either diode matrix, or some type of route selection circuit where you pick the track and the circuit lines up all the switches for the route. Which system you use kind of depends on what type of switch machines you use. Again, there have been a few threads here on these subjects or maybe someone can point you to an article.
Lionel collector, stuck in an N scaler's modelling space.
Build a control panel with a diagram of you track layout and add the turnout controls at the appropriate places on the control panel:
I made mine from 1/4 birch plywood, latex house paint, striping tape, and stick on letters. You can also add indicator lights to show how the turnouts are lined. Depending on what type of machines and switches you are using, you can drive the indicators off the control switch, the contacts of the switch machine, or an auxiliary relay.
Nick
Take a Ride on the Reading with the: Reading Company Technical & Historical Society http://www.readingrailroad.org/
Hello Everyone,
I have 28 turnouts on my layout and hence, 28 turnout control switches. Does anyone have any ideas on how to label them, group them etc. so that its easier to control them without switching 10 switches and trying to figure out if the correct one(s) went through... ?
Can I use panel pro for this? I tried using panel pro but am thoroughly lost.... I would love to know how I can see if I have set the correct switch pattern to get the correct path into a yard..
Any suggestions are welcome and much needed.
thanks so much