Expanding layout

[yougottawanta]

 I am starting to build my first layout. I have started the layout with an Atlas system that for a new modeler is a great way to get started. It came with a list of parts,wiring diagram,plan etc...I am ready to start expanding on this layout. Here is the question. The wiring is a little bit daunting and I wanted to know if there is a resource whether it be a book,article,web site or what ever that will help me understand the wiring of the switches,powering of the rails,block wiring etc. Currently I am using the traditional system (dcc?) and may in the future convert to electronics systems being offered. Any suggestions on the resources ?  

[TomDiehl]

 I am starting to build my first layout. I have started the layout with an Atlas system that for a new modeler is a great way to get started. It came with a list of parts,wiring diagram,plan etc...I am ready to start expanding on this layout. Here is the question. The wiring is a little bit daunting and I wanted to know if there is a resource whether it be a book,article,web site or what ever that will help me understand the wiring of the switches,powering of the rails,block wiring etc. Currently I am using the traditional system (dcc?) and may in the future convert to electronics systems being offered. Any suggestions on the resources ?  

First, traditional system is DC. Voltage is varied on the track to vary the speed and polarity is reversed to change directions. DCC is digital command control and requires special power supplies and decoders in each loco, probably something to put off until you get some more experience.

Second, a good source for basic and beginner info is the NMRA. A link to the "Beginner Page:"

http://www.nmra.org/beginner/

In the left column, check out the "Let's build, Electrical" section.

A bit lower in the column, there's a link for "DCC Basics" that can explain it better, and help you decide when (and if) you're ready for it.

[yougottawanta]

Thanks for the web site. I will look into it.

[tgindy]

I am starting to build my first layout. I have started the layout with an Atlas system that for a new modeler is a great way to get started.

 

Here is a link to quite a few good wiring books...

http://index.mrmag.com/tm.exe?opt=s&cmdtext=book+wiring&sort=2 

Atlas has a good introductory book, DC-oriented, that would be user-friendly with Atlas track plus Atlas electrical switches and controls.

Model Railroader's, Andy Sperandeo, described his book, "Easy Model Railroading," about a month ago in anther thread with parts devoted to DC, some parts to DCC, and quite a bit that would apply to DC or DCC systems.

DC = Direct Current => the traditional power pack electrical system.  It sounds like you now have a DC system, and it is a good way to learn as you come to know more about the hobby.

DCC - Digital Command Control => the newer digital electrical system.

You'll see a lot of opinions in this forum about whether DC or DCC is the better system.  Quite frankly, the best suggestion is to take your time doing research for any aspect of model railroading, and not just the electrical...  and don't forget to have some fun!

[yougottawanta]

Thank you for the advice and web site. When I was a little kid a grown up family friend showed me his HO train (I was hooked !), I think it was an F-Unit ? Anyways I have been collecting ,reviewing and researching different aspects for a layout and what I thought it may or may not include ever since then). For some reason I completely overlooked the wiring aspect. Now I am scrambling to understand the DC system and the wiring. Thanks again for the input.