Phase 1 T-track Plan

Here is a rough sketch of the Phase 1 layout plan that I'm putting together with T-trak modules. The track outline is in black, the module borders are in blue.

I'm putting together an order to complete most of the Phase 1 trackwork and electrical components. So far, my experience is encouraging. For me, it's a foray into new principles of layout design, because this layout will be

• modular
• easily dismantled and moved
• reconfigurable
• expandable
• with new-generation electrical components and a computer interface via JMRI, programmable

The computer interface and two additional lengthwise modules will be part of a Phase 2. But moving to stationary decoders means switches can be thrown from the DCC hand-held controller, so no permanent control panel is needed. Adding or moving modules means yoiu don't have to change the control panel schematic or do something about control panel switches -- and there's no rat's nest of wiring to redo. As a design principle, I want to keep wiring local to each individual module.

Then at a later time, I can add a computer interface that, with infrared detectors, can control trains for automatic operation.