The interest in model trains stems from the oval track with a windup train in grade school. The first HO layout was setup in Poland with German manufactured equipment. The next phase was an 4 x 8 layout setup in Evanston, IL, during the 70’s using my son as the reason for putting it together and was reconstituted when moving to a new location. Some of the rolling stock and locomotive power made the trip back from Poland. After retirement in 2006 things got a little more serious. In the third floor hallway area construction was begun on a 20 x 4 layout using Alas 100 code track.
Go to my Home Page to access a website of the 20 x 4 layout in Evanston
This layout operated with regular DC control/power packs wherein power to the various sections of track was switched manually. Turnouts were controlled manually with pushbutton controls connected to solenoid snap switch machines. Some rolling stock and locomotive power which piqued my interest served as motivation for getting started with the project.
Upon moving to an apartment in San Jose, CA, to be near my son and family, a railroad revival was begun using a 4 x 8 folding particle board platform mounted on top of the dining table. Engines, rolling stock, and buildings had been packed up and transported west. To simply track layout HO Kato Unitack was used. In an effort to learn about DCC train operations a DIGITRAX control unit and booster was selected to operate the layout; and in keeping with my interest in computers (note that my home page website and projects were setup using HTML and javascript) I downloaded the JMRI application which integrates with DIGITRAX and provides operational functions.
The next phase of the San Jose project occurred when I moved into a townhouse development. The 4 x 8 foundation was setup in an 8 z 12 alcove room and provided entertainment until new benchwork was setup on which to current layout construction was initiated. Construction has now been completed except for minor improvements.
The final phase will be its dismantlement in May 2020.
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