Special sneak preview: Iowa Scaled Engineering ProtoThrottle

Iowa Scaled Engineering ProtoThrottle

Iowa Scaled Engineering ProtoThrottle Recently I tested a pre-production sample of the Iowa Scaled Engineering ProtoThrottle. This wireless Digital Command Control cab is designed to mimic a diesel-electric locomotive control stand in looks and operation. In both cases, the ProtoThrottle delivers. The receiver. The ProtoThrottle isn’t a standalone DCC system and doesn’t program decoders. The […]

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Cornfield collision avoidance

Two model locomotives on a train layout

A robot train script with automated reversal capability is shown in this video. Automated turnouts, signals and occupancy sensors are used. Train runs from a yard and returns after turning around using a WYE track topology. Stop spots are calculated to avoid fouling turnout points. Video by Tom Stack. […]

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Cornfield collision avoidance

Two model locomotives on a train layout

A robot train script with automated reversal capability is shown in this video. Automated turnouts, signals and occupancy sensors are used. Train runs from a yard and returns after turning around using a WYE track topology. Stop spots are calculated to avoid fouling turnout points. Video by Tom Stack. […]

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Ask MRVP: Episode 35

David Popp standing in the Model Railroader workshop introducing a video.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this episode, host David Popp returns to a topic first addressed in the May 2018 show. Who knew there are so many ways to bend styrene? David demonstrates some of your suggestions, and then turns to other topics related to T-Trak modules, […]

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Ask MRVP: Episode 35

David Popp standing in the Model Railroader workshop introducing a video.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this episode, host David Popp returns to a topic first addressed in the May 2018 show. Who knew there are so many ways to bend styrene? David demonstrates some of your suggestions, and then turns to other topics related to T-Trak modules, […]

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Quick Look: NCE Light-It and Iluminator lighting decoders

MRRPR0518_10

NCE Light-It and Illuminator lighting decoders Price: Light-It 3 pack, $19.95; 6 pack, $39.95; 15 pack, $99.95; Illuminator, $16.95; 5 pack, $79.95 Manufacturer NCE Corp. 82 E. Main St. Webster, NY 14580 www.ncedcc.com Comments: Lighting is one of the more basic forms of animation we can add to our model railroads, and NCE has released […]

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Soundtraxx Tsunami 2

tsunami2

Kevin Strong Four-amp DCC sound/motor decoder Soundtraxx 141 Burnett Drive Durango CO 81301 Price: $179.95 Website: www.soundtraxx.com Soundtraxx Tsunami2 TSU-4400; many sounds to chose from; diesel, steam, and electric boards available; many control variables. Dimensions: 2 3⁄4″ x 1 3⁄16″ x 5⁄8″ Pros: Good sound fidelity; multiple options for various sounds programmed on the board; […]

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Off The Rails: Episode 21

Off the Rails with Gerry Leone Episode 21

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this special episode of Off The Rails, you’ll get an insider look at the habitat of our mad genius, show host Gerry Leone. Tour Leone Labs, and you’ll see just how Gerry manages to keep his tools, supplies, and workspaces neat, orderly, […]

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