Learn about modern electronics.
Build electronic circuits that will enhance the operation of your model railway.

The rapid advance in electronics has touched every aspect of our lives. Railway Modelling is no exception, and there is no doubt that the technological advances in electronics can dramatically improve the realistic operation of model railways, irrespective of gauge, scale, era or prototype.

The course on Electronics for Railway Modellers ranges from the basic electrical concepts needed to wire up a layout for conventional DC or analogue operation, layout control techniques, train on track detection, getting the best out of Digital Command Control (DCC), Interlocking, Printed Circuit design and production to advanced ideas on computer control. If you want to take advantage of the ever increasing pace of development in semiconductor technology, then this unique course is for you.

2011 WEEKEND    6th - 8th May

Bookings are now open. Call 01296 383 582 for details.

Based on feedback from last year, we have changed the programme for beginners and those with little experience of electronics. Beginners will be taught layout wiring, soldering and shown how to build and test an electronic circuit to enhance the realistic operation of any layout. Beginners will come away with a working module and a better understanding of electrical and electronic aspects of railway modelling.

For the more experienced there will be an update on the latest developments in the CBUS Layout Control system designed by Mike Bolton , a Digital Command Control workshop, PCB design and production, PIC programming for model railway applications and the opportunity to build/test other circuits for your model railway.

FULL DETAILS are available - CLICK HERE.  If you wish to save the PDF, right click on the link and choose 'Save as . .' or 'Download'.  File size is 210kb.

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The course is run in conjunction with the Model Electronics Railway Group (MERG) who provide all the tutors, and a range of kits which can be built during the course. Participants then have a working electronic module to take home and install on their layout.

Founded in 1967, MERG’s aim is to actively promote and advance the use of electronic and computer technology for model railway operation. Railway modelling, one of the world’s most popular hobbies is ideally suited to take advantage of these technologies, and the application of electronics and computers can be used to good effect to add enhanced features and realism to model railway operation including:

• Command control (DCC and/or computer interfacing)
  
• Train-on-track detection
  
• Signalling
  
• Sound
  
• Scenic effects

More information on MERG and its activities can be found on the MERG website.

A useful site for electronic bits and pieces is Rapid Electronics.

The tutors are Mike Bolton, Peter Brownlow, Gordon Hopkins and Howard Watkins from MERG.