We compile a FAQ similar to wiring for DCC? Maybe a sticky post?
I would be willing to contribute.
Suggested sections
Any other ideas?
Don - Specializing in layout DC->DCC conversions
Modeling C&O transition era and steel industries There's Nothing Like Big Steam!
DigitalGriffin wrote: We compile a FAQ similar to wiring for DCC? Maybe a sticky post?I would be willing to contribute.Suggested sectionsWiring 101Electrical Basics-How to use a volt meter and track down shortsHow to read electrical schematicsWiring up DC / DCC turnoutsBlocking and why it's used. How to wire it.Basic digital circuits and how they workIntro to DCCAny other ideas?
That looks like a great bunch of topics to start with, how about Adding Control Pannel Design. Do's and Don'ts? Types of switches and what to use for what? Just a few idea's.
While we are at it --- how about a sticky on electrical/electrictronic soldering? Been doing it for nearly 50 years and it's not hard --- but many seem to be afraid of it. And no, I don't feel qualified to do a write up on how to
John in the cold cow pasture
Just a couple of thoughts:
Powering and controlling structure lighting.
Animation ideas: design, power and control.
Plus all the rolling stock propulsion ideas already mentioned.
Sometimes we overlook the models that DON'T run on flanged wheels.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
Jerry SP FOREVER http://photobucket.com/albums/f317/GAPPLEG/
I like these ideas---
and it would be helpful if the subject clearly identified the topic, makes hunting needed info so much easier.
Hi Everyone!
Just to chime in here for a minute. While I think the "stickies" idea is a terrific one - in all reaility, the implementing (and maintaining) of it will be the difficult part.
If we have too many "stickies" on the first page, the regular threads probably wouldn't show up till pg. 2. That might confuse folks who are visiting the new forum for the first time; thinking that it doesn't get much traffic because they see all the same threads on pg. 1.
Perhaps a suggestion, if I may. Post the helpful threads as you normally do but maybe have a AggroJones-type "Compilation of REALLY useful [DCC or Electronics] threads" thread that contains the links to those specific threads.
Having it as a "sticky" at the top of pg. 1 would probably be premature. However, having it as a "floating" thread that gets brought up to the top on a regular basis might work. Someone would have to take the initiative and post those links in a thread. They would then themselves be responsible for editing it.
Before doing so, let me run it by Erik (Bergie) and get his input and insight first. In the meantime, continue to keep the ideas coming...
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
"You show me a man with both feet on the ground and I'll show you a man who can't get his pants on." -anonymous
tstage wrote:If we have too many "stickies" on the first page, the regular threads probably wouldn't show up till pg. 2. That might confuse folks who are visiting the new forum for the first time; thinking that it doesn't get much traffic because they see all the same threads on pg. 1. Perhaps a suggestion, if I may. Post the helpful threads as you normally do but maybe have a AggroJones-type "Compilation of REALLY useful [DCC or Electronics] threads" thread that contains the links to those specific threads. Having it as a "sticky" at the top of pg. 1 would probably be premature. However, having it as a "floating" thread that gets brought up to the top on a regular basis might work. Someone would have to take the initiative and post those links in a thread. They would then themselves be responsible for editing it.Before doing so, let me run it by Erik (Bergie) and get his input and insight first. In the meantime, continue to keep the ideas coming... Tom
I think this is great advice Tom. Let us know what Eric says and in the meantime guys keep those ideas coming. Anyone who want's to contribute should start clicking keys in their word processors in preparation. I think the floating thread idea is fine as long as some of us take the bull by the horns and keep the thread on top of the pile. On the other hand, if Erik is willing, ONE or TWO sticky threads might be ok too.
Tom, what would you say is the best way to get valuable DCC/Electronic threads over here from the general and layout sections?
TIA.
GAPPLEG wrote:And if possible a blow by blow description of adding decoders to different units ( especially converting older units) Call it ? converting old units ?
DavidmBedard Just did a pictorial tutorial on How to use the Digitrax SFX sound decoder in multiple applications.
I thought it was awesome. It's one I would like to see available here.
Electric and electronic basics do not change.
Instead of a ton of "stickys" I would suggest a single sticky at the top that explains to newcomers how to search all the previous threads for the subject on which you need help or advise.
Just a thought.
Dave
Lackawanna Route of the Phoebe Snow
Kudos for getting this thread off the ground. Here is my for FAQs:
basic MRR circuit schematics (CDU's, diode matrix, etc)
Lighting basics (LED's, resistors, etc)
Basics of DCC install (typical BB install we've all attempted)
I'm sure there are more, but those were at the top of mind right now.
DigitalGriffin wrote: Any other ideas?
Great start to the new Electronics and DCC Forum!
And yes, I was wondering if there is a way to move some of the past "Oldie but Goody" DCC and electronic topic threads into the new Electronics and DCC Forum. There are plenty of topics already posted that would be great in here. If that is not possible or acceptable, I understand! Just an idea!
Ryan BoudreauxThe Piedmont Division Modeling The Southern Railway, Norfolk & Western & Norfolk Southern in HO during the merger eraCajun Chef Ryan
Well Tom,
What I was more or less suggesting is that we create one sticky with a table of contents. The table of contents links to various topics mixed in the regular threads. Sort of a directory of "How-To"
Would anybody like to volunteer for a topic? Like on electronics soldering? Those who could post pictures and diagrams as well as text would be most helpful.
Oh how about "detection circuits" and "wiring for signaling" as a topic?
SilverSpike wrote: DigitalGriffin wrote: Any other ideas?Great start to the new Electronics and DCC Forum!And yes, I was wondering if there is a way to move some of the past "Oldie but Goody" DCC and electronic topic threads into the new Electronics and DCC Forum. There are plenty of topics already posted that would be great in here. If that is not possible or acceptable, I understand! Just an idea!
I'm going to shoot a pm off to a mod and see what they say. If nothing else, WE can go through the somewhat daunting process of finding and recreating the threads over here by quoting them...I haven't thought of any other solutions that would not require one of us being bestowed with temporary mod super powers.
DigitalGriffin wrote: Well Tom, What I was more or less suggesting is that we create one sticky with a table of contents. The table of contents links to various topics mixed in the regular threads. Sort of a directory of "How-To"
BRILLIANT!!
Guys, I am currently in a discussion with Tom, (tstage) about the feasibility of moving valuable threads here from the other forums. As soon as I know anything I'll post it here.
I think with many threads the table of contents is a good idea, but in some cases where a thread may be ressurected for new discussion would it not be confusing to have the thread disappear back into the wastelands of general discussion rather than being found in the correct forum? How would a "newbie" search for the answer he needs in DCC/Electronics if the pertinent thread is in general or elsewhere? I'm confused already.
With this idea in mind I would encourage all to make a list of threads - with links, that they believe should be moved to this forum. In the event that we can get some threads moved we will then have a compilation of threads we can whittle down to a must have list for submission to Eric,(Bergie) for approval. Just thinking out loud again.
BlueHillsCPR wrote: How would a "newbie" search for the answer he needs in DCC/Electronics if the pertinent thread is in general or elsewhere?
How would a "newbie" search for the answer he needs in DCC/Electronics if the pertinent thread is in general or elsewhere?
By searching the table of contents in the sticky. But on the outside shot that his problem isn't covered by the FAQ, I guess a new post wouldn't hurt.
Here are a few threads that I think would be good for a stiky, TOC, or FAQ section:
Thread Title / URL
Tutorial: Using Decoder Pro WITHOUT a connection to your layout. PHOTO-INTENSIVEhttp://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/1/1207458/ShowPost.aspx#1207458
FORUM CLINIC: Picking the best DCC systemhttp://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/626238/ShowPost.aspx
SEE FOR YOURSELF - DCC locos with sound + lights (video)http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/924679/ShowPost.aspx
FORUM CLINIC: 12 years using DCC - SIGNIFICANT NEW INFO!http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/467668/ShowPost.aspx
Ok guys,
I have been in touch with tstage and he has indicated that if we can come up with a reasonable list of threads we would like moved to this forum he will see what he can do for us. I think we will need to choose the threads very carefully so as not to expect too much work in moving the threads. I think tstage and Crandell will be the ones who will handle any workload so lets take it easy on them.
SilverSpike,
I like the looks of your list. I'm hoping the sticky TOC idea will get the go ahead from the mods.
SilverSpike wrote: Here are a few threads that I think would be good for a stiky, TOC, or FAQ section:Thread Title / URLTutorial: Using Decoder Pro WITHOUT a connection to your layout. PHOTO-INTENSIVEhttp://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/1/1207458/ShowPost.aspx#1207458 FORUM CLINIC: Picking the best DCC systemhttp://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/626238/ShowPost.aspx SEE FOR YOURSELF - DCC locos with sound + lights (video)http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/924679/ShowPost.aspx FORUM CLINIC: 12 years using DCC - SIGNIFICANT NEW INFO!http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/467668/ShowPost.aspx
I just moved all the threads mentioned above into this section.
I'm going to work with Tom (tstage) who is in turn working with BlueHillsCPR to get a list of threads that should be moved over here. (I prefer to do it that way so we don't get multiple requests for the same thread.)
In terms of a sticky, I prefer the route of having a note that tells users how to get the most from this section (by searching, for example). The other route, of listing good threads, is subjective based on who's updating the list. Plus, I don't want one anyone's feelings hurt because their thread (that they thought was very useful) doesn't get chosen for "the list".
Nice work so far on this new section, fellas. Keep up the good work!
Bergie
Thanks Bergie!
The speedy response and service is impressive!
Bergie, you rock!
I am seeing a number of the the threads that were going on my list in SilverSpikes list so those have already been moved. AWESOME!
I'll finish up my short list of threads this weekend and get it posted in here. Anybody else who knows of threads they think should be moved here make your list up this weekend if you can, so we can get a short list to Tom early next week for approval. Lets try to keep this reasonable and only ask to move the cream of the crop. Everything else can be linked and maintained by a core of members I would think. Guys, if you have a thread in mind that you think should be moved here either email me, PM me, or post your list here and we can go from there.
This forum is amazing me already! I just can't stop smiling about it! All of you pro's and experts have made the difference IMO. The know how that is being shared is just great! Thanks for making this a great place to get wired!
Bergie wrote:In terms of a sticky, I prefer the route of having a note that tells users how to get the most from this section (by searching, for example). Bergie
I think your take on the sticky is perfect. "How to get the most from this forum" might even be the best topic heading for the sticky. Having more than that at the top of the page will just be that many more than that will just become clutter in the long run, IMO. Thanks again Erik.
BlueHillsCPR wrote: Bergie, you rock! I am seeing a number of the the threads that were going on my list in SilverSpikes list so those have already been moved. AWESOME!I'll finish up my short list of threads this weekend and get it posted in here. Anybody else who knows of threads they think should be moved here make your list up this weekend if you can, so we can get a short list to Tom early next week for approval. Lets try to keep this reasonable and only ask to move the cream of the crop. Everything else can be linked and maintained by a core of members I would think. Guys, if you have a thread in mind that you think should be moved here either email me, PM me, or post your list here and we can go from there.This forum is amazing me already! I just can't stop smiling about it! All of you pro's and experts have made the difference IMO. The know how that is being shared is just great! Thanks for making this a great place to get wired! Bergie wrote:In terms of a sticky, I prefer the route of having a note that tells users how to get the most from this section (by searching, for example). BergieI think your take on the sticky is perfect. "How to get the most from this forum" might even be the best topic heading for the sticky. Having more than that at the top of the page will just be that many more than that will just become clutter in the long run, IMO. Thanks again Erik.
If a guy( that's electrically challenged ,including DCC ,although I run Digitrax)could make a suggestion, when all of you EE's respond to a ? couldja "dumb down" the Wording so's us carpenters can unnerstan it?Thanks!!!
Terry
Terry in NW Wisconsin
Queenbogey715 is my Youtube channel
Bergie wrote: In terms of a sticky, I prefer the route of having a note that tells users how to get the most from this section (by searching, for example). The other route, of listing good threads, is subjective based on who's updating the list. Plus, I don't want one anyone's feelings hurt because their thread (that they thought was very useful) doesn't get chosen for "the list".
Thanks for the extra work Bergie. It is greatly appreciated.
Unfortunately most people refuse to use a search function, no matter how many times we suggest it. How many times have topics come up like, "What's the best Airbrush?"
I admit I'm guilty of this one. I was hoping a wiki like index/TOC and moderator controlled topic would cut down on these instances, so people don't have to read through 5,000 similar threads.
But you're the leader of this pack. So I will humbly respect your decision. :-D
Have a good weekend.
~D
Now you guys are learning why Bergie dragged his feet about making the change.
He made the change you requested and the result is many more change requests.
If you constantly do more than is expected, pretty soon they will expect more.....
Bergie:
Thank you for the change. I hope all these followup requests don't make you sorry you did it.
Phoebe Vet wrote: He made the change you requested and the result is many more change requests.If you constantly do more than is expected, pretty soon they will expect more.....
Yeah I was worried about the same thing. I am greatful for the change however.
DigitalGriffin wrote: Phoebe Vet wrote: He made the change you requested and the result is many more change requests.If you constantly do more than is expected, pretty soon they will expect more..... Yeah I was worried about the same thing. I am greatful for the change however.
Relax guys. As of this moment Bergie is fine with what I requested and what we have been doing. Stick to the guidelines he laid out in his post...
Bergie wrote:I'm going to work with Tom (tstage) who is in turn working with BlueHillsCPR to get a list of threads that should be moved over here. (I prefer to do it that way so we don't get multiple requests for the same thread.)Bergie
and everything will be alright.
As long as we don't beat a dead horse about the sticky and people don't start sending Erik, (Bergie) PM's about more changes/ideas for this forum he will be quite happy with the way things are going, IMO.
In regards to the sticky... it really doesn't matter what the sticky is. The people who don't bother to read the sticky that advises them how to best use the forum will be the same people who ignore a TOC sticky. That's just the way it will be, IMO.
There is no reason why a TOC thread cannot be created and maintained by a member of the forum. If someone wants to step forward and create a TOC that would be great. If we can get a core of users to maintain it and bump it that should suffice.
DigitalGriffin, for myself, I would be quite happy if you wanted to take on the TOC project. If any one else would like to get in on the creation of a TOC thread speak up!
Also,
After I received your, (DigitalGriffin's) email expressing concern over creating undue workload and problems for Bergie I took the matter up with Tom, (tstage). He indicated in a PM to me that Bergie is fine with the way I have handled the forum requests thus far. I see no problems providing a we all follow Bergie's advice, funnel your ideas through me and don't try to second guess everything he decides from this point on. If we do that, considering how the forum is shaping up so far I think Bergies is going to be pleased overall.