From background information on the technology itself to layout wiring; taking in decoders, hand controllers, wireless and many practical modelling projects, Neil Burkin offers a comprehensive introduction to Digital Command Control [DCC] for the beginner and experienced modeller alike.The book emphasises the benefits of DCC technology as a model railway control system and offers practical advice on the choice of systems, applying the technology to a layout, how to use it to enhance layout operations, and how it can be used to overcome practical difficulties with operations such as banking, double-heading, lighting and sound. Technical jargon is avoided and clear descriptions of each project featured in the book will remove the mystery surrounding DCC. Many of the modelling projects may be adapted for almost any modelling situation and are supported by over 400 excellent colour photographs. A comprehensive guide to Digital Command Control for the beginner and experienced modeller alike. Emphasises the benefits of DCC technology and offers practical advice on the choice of sytems. Includes practical modelling projects which are supported by over 400 excellent colour photographs. Nigel Burkin is a railway modeller with over 20 years' experience and has hundreds of magazine articles to his credit.

The advent of DCC has allowed the enthusiast to control more than one train at a time via the use of computer chip technology. Whereas most modern rolling stock is now designed to be fully compatible with DCC, for modellers it may represent a challenge - particularly if they have collections of locomotives and rolling stock that pre-date its development. This informative volume includes step-by-step photographs showing how all model locomotives can be converted to DCC operation.

Locomotive and layout maintenance is an essential aspect of railway modelling, but one that is little understood by modellers, especially those new to the hobby or returning after a long absence. Fine Tuning and Maintaining 00 Gauge Models shows you all of the techniques required to introduce new models to your layout, run them in, fit all of the parts supplied with them and undertake repairs where necessary. It includes advice on how to carry out routine maintenance, shows the reader techniques for fine-tuning performance and discusses the important issues surrounding conversion to the finer scales. Chapters include: running in new models; fitting factory-supplied parts; rolling stock and locomotive wheels; mechanical enhancements; simple enhancements; keeping the layout running smoothly; ongoing maintenance and repairs. 00 gauge is one of the most popular gauges within the hobby and this book should have wide reaching appeal. Supported by 415 superb colour photographs and detailed instructions.

Most modellers, regardless of what scale they work in, rely heavily on the humble plastic or metal kit, and this book will help both novice and more experienced modellers to achieve the very best results. George Dent presents here a clearly written foundation course in constructing rolling stock from kits. Examines tools, glues and materials; Describes how to successfully construct a chassis for wagons and carriages; Covers work in plastic, resin, white metal and brass; Presents an essential in-depth guide to soldering; Considers detailing, modifying and scratch-building; Discusses painting, transfers and weathering. A comprehensive guide to constructing rolling stock from kits, aimed at railway modellers of all abilities - it helps the modeller to achieve the best results form every kit. Volume one outlines all the necessary foundations and techniques relating to the construction, painting, detailing and finishing of rolling stock kits. Superbly and extensively illustrated with 591 colour photographs. George Dent is a highly respected model-maker and author.

Layout building is perhaps the most exciting, rewarding and challenging aspect of creating a model railway. Making the right design decisions and choosing good construction techniques are vital to ensure success. This book takes you through basic baseboard construction, shelf layout themes and how to link multi-deck designs together, enabling you to make the most of a given space. With different concepts covered, from simple portable layouts to helix construction techniques, Nigel Burkin mixes the best of British layouts with those used routinely overseas and shows you how you too can achieve success and satisfaction in executing your layout design. Topics covered included: Designing for comfort; How to use space efficiently; Practical construction techniques from L-Girder to box frame baseboards; Sub track bed construction, track laying and wiring; Fine tuning the layout for smooth operations.

Do you enjoy running model trains but want to improve your layout? Do you want to gain expertise over a wider range of railway modelling skills and acquire the confidence to tackle modelling tasks that you have previously shied away from? If so, this is the book for you. Brimming with advice and tips, this well-illustrated book covers a wide range of modelling skills, including designing a layout, choosing the right scale, building baseboards, selecting the right track, controlling the trains, building the landscape, making realistic grass and weeds, and adding figures. Particular attention is paid to more modern techniques such as DCC train control, laser cut and downloadable kits, and the use of hard foam in baseboard construction. Step-by-step explantions of many techniques are provided accompanied by over 400 instructional colour photographs. Information is provided about the tools and materials required and the extensive range of commercial railway modelling products that are now available.

This invaluable book is essential reading for all those who wish to build a small, narrow gauge model railway layout to a high standard. Comprehensive in its coverage, the book begins with a useful summary of the history and development of narrow gauge railways in the British Isles, and this is followed by a detailed, but easily digestible, consideration of the complex and wide choice of scales available to the modeller. In subsequent chapters, the author covers all aspects of construction, including materials and tools, skills and techniques, layout design, laying the track, scenic modelling, painting, soldering and wiring, as well as the construction of narrow gauge stock and appropriate buildings. The author provides clear, step-by-step instructions and photographs to show the reader how to build a straightforward narrow gauge model of a fictitious late 19th to early 20th century light railway in 4mm scale on 9mm track. He also suggests how the methods he has used can be adapted to other scales and briefly explains, by way of example, how they can be transferred directly to 7mm scale. Fully illustrated with 223 colour photographs and also included are several working sketches.