Covers the essential techniques needed to make electrical connections for a three-rail toy train layout of any size or complexity. Addresses fundamental electrical concepts, wiring and expanding a layout, accessory wiring, automatic train control, and troubleshooting. By Peter Riddle.

"Whether you're using traditional, direct current (DC) cab control or the latest Digital Command Control (DCC) system [this] will guide you through the steps of planning and wiring a layout. With ... more modelers choosing DCC, this book will help demystify how it works; clarify the advantages of DCC and what makes it different from DC control; and, teach you how to convert an existing DC layout to DCC. Step-by-step instructions and photos are coupled with clear, color-coded diagrams that will guide you through the process of wiring a complete layout or just troubleshooting problem areas"--

A thorough guide to a solid understanding of traditional, non-electronic wiring for toy train layouts. Learn how to master the basics of electricity and wiring, hook up transformers and other components, connect and solder wire, maintain and troubleshoot a layout, and more.

As model railroaders began demanding ever-greater realism, Lionel responded in 2004 with its FasTrack system featuring an integrated roadbed, scale-sized ties, and a less-obvious center rail. Veteran hobby author Bob Schleicher follows up his The Lionel FasTrack Book with a closer, more detailed look at Lionel’s revolutionary O-gauge system. This guide gives enthusiasts a deeper sense of how to take advantage of the FasTrack’s ease of use and unprecedented realism in large-scale model railroading. The book includes 150 color photos and track diagrams for 10 scenicked FasTrack layouts ranging from 6x6-foot tabletop models to an 11x30-foot scale-size empire. Schleicher also provides instructions for building tables to support the layouts, advice for creating both rural and urban scenery, and an appendix of recommended suppliers.

The author shows you how to build a hi-rail toy train layout such as his Sandy Harbor Terminal Railway. He provides modeling concepts as well as practical techniques for incorporating toy trains and accessories into realistic settings.

Get started with Digital Command Control (DCC)! This beginning how-to guide covers the basics, with an overview of DCC, track wiring, cab bus wiring, and converting an existing layout to DCC. Written by Mike Polsgrove, Model Railroader's columnist on DCC.