Learn techniques for installing a TCS WowKits DCC Decoder into an HO scale (1:87.1) diesel locomotive, as demonstrated, step by step, by David Popp. […]
How-to Library | Installing a TCS WowKits DCC Decoder
Section: DCC Wiring
How-to Library | Installing an N scale TCS Keep-Alive
From start to finish, David Popp shares his techniques for installing a TCS KA-N1 Keep-Alive Capacitor into an N scale (1:160) modern diesel locomotive for use on his recently completed T-Trak module, as well as in Model Railroader magazine’s MR&T State Line Route project railroad (as featured in the January 2022 issue and Trains.com Video series)! […]
7 reasons to use DCC on your new layout
Digital Command Control (DCC) or direct current (DC)? That is the question. If you’re preparing to build a new model railroad or are just starting out in the hobby, you may be pondering the reasons to use DCC instead of an old-fashioned power pack to run your trains. Here are seven reasons to use DCC, […]
How do I add DCC passenger car interior lighting?
Q: I have some HO scale passenger cars that I would like to install LED lights into. I’m new to model railroading. I understand that I need decoders in each car, but after that, I’m lost. – Alex Laserson A: If you want to install passenger car interior lighting, you don’t absolutely have to use […]
Track buses for Digital Command Control
Track buses for Digital Command Control: Layouts wired for direct-current block control have several isolated track sections called blocks. Each block has an electrical switch that controls which DC throttle powers that track section. In theory, a Digital Command Control (DCC) layout could be wired as one large block with two wires feeding the power […]
Add a solar-powered light to a large-scale cabin
Garden Railways Editor Hal Miller shows step-by-step how to illuminate a PIKO cabin kit with an inexpensive solar-powered path light available from a home improvement store. […]
Add Bluetooth control to your locomotives with BlueRailDCC
Everything runs on Bluetooth these days, so why not your locomotives? BlueRailDCC from Tam Valley has a solution (BlueRailDCC). This compact board (.57” x 1.5”) supports up to 2A of current, plenty for most HO scale installations. To connect, you’ll need to download the BlueRail Trains app to your Apple iPhone or iPad. Android support […]
How-to Library: DCC Operation – JMRI with Pi
MRVP’s Ben Lake explains the essential components and process for establishing a digital means to control trains, turnouts, blocks, and even signals. His solution? JMRI interfaced with a Raspberry Pi computer. Follow along, and get up to speed on this cutting-edge DCC option for operating your model railroad! […]
How-to Library: DCC decoder and capacitor install for a On30 Heisler
See how David Popp installed a Bachmann Trains DCC sound decoder and TCS capacitor into an O scale (1:48) 14-ton Heisler steam locomotive used on the Olympia Logging Co., a popular MRVP project railroad. […]
How-to Library: Arduinos in Model Railroading – Part 3 Use servos to save your trains
In part 3 of this MRVP mini-series, Gerry Leone resumes his helpful instructions for working with an Arduino. This time Gerry shows how he harnessed their usefulness to solve a problem on his HO scale layout. Turns out the tiny devices really are powerful enough to stop a train in its tracks…or from flying off […]
How-to Library: DCC Sound Decoder Installation for Small Steam Locomotives
In this episode of MRVP Tech, David Popp dives into adding a DCC sound decoder to a Bachmann steam locomotive. Although the OO scale model of a British shunting engine isn’t a typical MRVP subject, Dave show it’s a perfect candidate for demonstrating how to fit a few Soundtraxx products into rather tight quarters! David […]
How-to Library: Arduinos in Model Railroading – Part 4 Background Sounds
To conclude this MRVP mini-series, part 4 presents Gerry Leone’s tips and tricks for using an Arduino to add sound effects to his layout. As with other episodes in this series, Gerry walks and talks you through the steps you can follow to enhance your model railroad with sounds ranging from chirping birds to bustling […]
