CRAVENMODELORANGESLOGO   Cravenmodels.com   MTLOGO3IMPACTCUT

Modeltrainsuk.com

Model Railway Accessories – UK and Continental Railways

 

BERKOSINGLEHEAD2ASPECTSGREYREV     help

 

MODEL RAILWAY ELECTRICS

HELP - TERMINOLOGY  & GLOSSARY

 

ELECTRICS MAIN PRODUCT INDEX  << Click

 

 

 

MODEL RAILWAY AND TRAIN ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS

 

There are many different power supplies available within the Model Industry.

 

Please read all the manufacturers instructions before attempting to connect any power supply to an electrical device.

 

Using an incorrect power supply may damage the product – It may work initially but may burn out due to incorrect voltage or amperage being used.

There are supplies that are DC or AC.     The correct one must be used.

Some products call for the use of Diodes and or Resistors and or  Regulators and or Controllers.

 

THE CORRECT SUPPLY MUST BE USED AT ALL TIMES

 

For further information please email  or  telephone 01588 660580 or goto  www.cravenmodels.com

 

SYMBOLS USED IN PRODUCT MARKING

Symbol

Description

AC

AC

DC

DC

AC or DC

AC or DC

Positive

Positive

Negative

Negative

Ground

Ground

Diode

Diode

Audible Continuity

Audible Continuity

Hz

Hertz

Capacitor

Capacitor

MFD

MicroFarads

΅

Micro

m

Milli

M

Mega

K

Kilo

OL

Overload

 

 

    ANALOGUE MODEL RAILWAY ELECTRICS BOOKLET

 

ANALOGUE TERMINOLOGY - MODEL RAILWAY CONTROL

• A.C. CURRENT:   Alternating Current (AC, also ac )  ( ~ ) the movement (or flow) of electric charge periodically reverses direction. An electric charge would for instance move forward, then backward, then forward, then backward, over and over again. In Direct Current  (DC), the movement (or flow) of electric charge is only in one direction.  If AC is used instead of DC some accessories will flicker – alternate on and off – Signals and lighting etc if not designed to do so.

Some Electrical products that can use AC or DC are usually marked with the symbol      but please follow manufacturers instructions and use any additional converter or product or component recommended.

• AMPS:  AMPERS. This measurement is called Current and is measured in amperes.  It is the size of the current that can make electricity dangerous.  A 12 volt car battery with a large amperage can give you a nasty shock and possibly a burn to the skin.   Volts x Amps = Watts.  Some products or circuits will be protected by AMP FUSES to protect the component or appliance from damage.  A household appliance of 240 volts with 5 amp current equates to 1200 watts.  Or a 240 volt 750 watt appliance will have a current rating of 3.125 amps.

• ANALOGUE CONTROL:  Conventional track voltage control system, typically varying between 0 and 12 volts DC for speed control and polarity reversal for direction control.

• COMMON RETURN:  A conductor which is common to more than one part of an electrical circuit and which forms the return path for the current from these parts of the circuit.  Normally one rail of all sections or circuits of a layout is chosen as the common rail and current from all these sections or circuits returns to the power supply through this rail.  The other rail can then be divided into sections or circuits as required.

• CUTOUT:  A protective device built into an electrical circuit for the purpose of switching off the current when the load reaches a predetermined number of amps.  All Gaugemaster controllers and cased transformers are fitted with these devices on all outputs.  They reset automatically when the cause of the overload is removed.

• D.C. CURRENT:  D.C. ( - ) current flows constantly in the same direction along its conductors which are termed positive and negative.  The polarity of the conductors can be reversed and the current flows in the opposite direction.  All controlled outputs from Gaugemaster controllers produce D.C. current which has been converted by the controller from A.C. current delivered by the transformer.

• FEEDBACK:  Feedback controllers create a closed loop between the controller and the locomotive which senses the load in the circuit and constantly adjusts the output.  This will maintain the locomotive at an even speed up and down gradients and around curves without altering the regulator of the controller.  Feedback controllers are not suitable for Portescap or other coreless motors or for poor quality mechanisms particularly in ‘N’ and other small gauges.

• INERTIA:  See Simulator

• MOMENTUM:  See Simulator

• POLARITY:  The two directions of current flow, positive (+) and negative (-), or potential in an electrical circuit.

• PRIMARY WINDING:  This is the winding of a transformer which is connected to the source of supply, normally the mains.

• REVERSE LOOP:  A reverse loop is created where a track leaves a circuit and then rejoins it with the train going in the opposite direction.  This will result in a short circuit unless the section is isolated from the rest of the circuit.  A DPDT switch is then used to reverse the polarity of the circuit concerned.

• SECONDARY WINDING:  This is the output winding of a transformer and is usually isolated from primary winding.  Many transformers have two secondary windings.

• SIMULATOR:  This is sometimes called "inertia" or "momentum".  It allows controllers so fitted to automatically accelerate a train, allow it to coast or be braked to a standstill.  This is achieved by two controls, a regulator and a brake and gives more realistic acceleration and braking.  In Gaugemaster controllers it can be switched off to allow the controller to be operated with standard control.

• TRACK ISOLATION:  Track isolation is particularly important with modern controllers.  You should always ensure it is not possible for more than one controlled output to be connected to the same circuit or section at the same time.  You should similarly ensure that A.C. and uncontrolled outputs are not connected to a controlled circuit.

• TRANSFORMER:  A device designed to change the voltage of an A.C. supply.  All transformers deliver A.C. current and this is converted to D.C. by the rectifier circuit in a Gaugemaster controller (see also primary and secondary winding).  Transformers are often used to power accessories on a layout (e.g. Point Motors).

• VOLT:  This is the standard unit of electrical pressure, and indicates the potential difference between conductors in a circuit, it can be either A.C. or D.C.

 

DIGITAL TERMINOLOGY – DCC  Digital Command Control

   DIGITAL MODEL RAILWAYS

• DIGITAL:  A train command system, fast gaining ground on older Analogue systems in terms of popularity.  Whereas analogue systems work by providing a regulated supply of power to the track that increases or decreases according to user input, Digital systems supply a constant power supply to the entire layout.  Trains are operated through a command signal, sent through the track to the locomotive.  With each locomotive operating on it's own frequency, locomotives can be commanded individually.  See the article Introducing the World of Digital for a more detailed description.

• ACCESSORY DECODER OR MODULE  Used to control any accessories on a layout, such as signals, lighting, points and so on.

• ADDRESS:  A number identifying each individual locomotive and accessory decoder on a layout.  When a controller is set to a particular address, only the decoder set to the corresponding address can read the instructions from the controller.

• BOOSTER:  Used to supply power to the track, and to increase the rating on an existing supply.  One or more can be used alongside the Command Station.

• COMMAND STATION:  The central hub, or brain of the Digital system, this unit is where control data is converted into electronic format before being sent to the track.  Only one command station should be used per layout.

• CONSISTING:  See Double Heading

• CV:  Configuration Variable.  Components within a decoder which store the characteristics of that device.  Each component has it's own reference number, and these can be individually programmed.

• DCC:  Digital Command Control.  A control system for Digital model railways that is now the most widespread system worldwide.  The standard set down by the NMRA (National Model Railroad Association) in the USA allows equipment from different manufacturers to be used together.  The Gaugemaster Prodigy Advance System uses the DCC command language.

• DECODER:  Circuit board used for operating Digital models.  Any locomotive or accessory to be used on a digital system requires a decoder, which receives and interprets the Digital information sent by the Controller.  Many decoders offer added functions such as lighting, sound and so on.  These are referred to as multi-function decoders.

• DOUBLE HEADING:  Often known as consisting or multi-traction, a means whereby two or more locomotives can be run together under the same address.

• MAIN TRACK:  Any track or section of track that is part of the normal railway layout - as opposed to Programming Track

• MULTI-TRACTION:  See Double Heading

• NMRA CONFORMANCE:  Products that have passed the NMRA's testing procedures are eligible for a Conformance Warrant if the manufacturer also agrees to fix any discrepancies that might become apparent in the future.  The Conformance Seal is awarded by the NMRA for products passing the Conformance and Inspection program for particular NMRA standards.

• NMRA STANDARD:  A code of practive developed by the National Model Railroad Association in order to acheive standardised decoder formats.

• PROGRAMMING:  The action of setting the internal parameters of decoders and other control equipment.  During programming, values are set for CV's to determine the characteristics of locomotives, decoders and other programmable Digital devices.

• PROGRAMMING TRACK:  Many Digital systems require a ‘Programming Track’ separate from the rest of the layout on which to perform programming operations on locomotives.

• ROUTE:  The simultaneous operation of a series of points along a designated section of your railway.

• SPEED STEPS:  Controllable voltage increments which are used to control motor speed on a locomotive.  Some decoders allow the output power to be set for each speed step.  The range from zero to full power is divided equally into 14, 28 or 128 speed steps.

 

 

Introducing the world of digital

As the Model Railway hobby develops, and the technology improves, so the horizons and aspirations of the modellers themselves increase.  More is now expected from a layout in terms operational flexibility and capability, and new technologies and methods are developed to reflect this.  Digital technologies are at the forefront of this development.

In actual fact, however, the technology for Digital control has been in existence around the world for many years, but is only more recently taking hold in the UK.  So what is Digital, how does it work, and what are the advantages over the traditional form of Analogue control?

WHAT IS DIGITAL?

The main difference between a Digital system and the more traditional Analogue system is the way that the power is supplied to the layout.  The philosophy is that the user controls the train rather than the track that it is running on.

With analogue control, the user sets the desired speed of the locomotive, and this determines the proportionate amount of current to be supplied to the track by the controller.  The disadvantage of this method of control is that each train on the track will respond in exactly the same way.  In order to have different trains running in different directions and at different speeds, a layout has to be broken down into different sections of track each with an individual controller.

With Digital control power is supplied to the track constantly, and each locomotive will respond only to the commands relevant to it.  This works through the use of a decoder fitted in each locomotive, which is able to interpret the commands sent from the controller and determine which ones are intended for that locomotive.

This means that each train can be controlled individually without the need for different track sections and all the complications involved in breaking one layout into separate, isolated electric circuits.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DIGITAL?

The first benefit of a Digital system over Analogue comes in the building of a layout.  Without the need for isolated sections, the wiring required is significantly reduced in an instant.  On a basic layout with digital control power can be supplied to the track via only two wires, connecting to the track at one point.  This is sufficient to supply power to multiple tracks, loops and sidings without any additional wiring.  Whilst more wiring will be required for larger and more complex layouts, there is still nowhere near the complexity of electrics required with analogue control.

From an operational point of view, digital brings a number of benefits:

·         Operate more trains simultaneously on your layout.

One controller can be used to set the speed and direction of a train, then be switched to take control of the next train without disturbing the control of the first train.

·         Each locomotive responds to individual commands.

Every digital locomotive contains a decoder with an "address". Commands for each locomotive will be "delivered" only to that address. This means that different speeds and directions can be set for locomotives on the same track.

·         Double heading and multiple units.

Multiple train control opens up the possibility for replicating Double Heading, Banking Locomotives and other prototypical railway operations that are only possible on analogue by using non-motorised locomotives alongside a single motorised loco.

·         Lighting, Sound & Steam Effects.

With digital comes the ability to control additional functions within each locomotives, such as directional running lights, interior lighting effects, on board sound effects and smoke generators for steam locomotives. Whilst these functions can be found on analogue locomotives, digital brings a new level of control, with the user able to activate/deactivate individual functions as and when they want, as opposed the "always on" nature of analogue.

·         Additional locomotive functions.

Other functions such as controllable couplings and pantographs, shunting speeds and so on can be found on digital systems, all of which add to the involvement level and fun-factor for the modeller.

·         Control of trackwork & accessories.

Most digital systems will offer the user the opportunity to use decoder-fitted accessories such as signals and point motors. This will bring the same level of control to these accessories as with the locomotives, such as the ability to change sequences of accessories with a single push of a button.

These are just some of the features of digital control currently available. There are many more, and the scope exists for future expansion. All of this makes digital control the most exciting technology in the modelling hobby, and it is fair to say that the possibilities are almost endless when it comes to operating a layout and replicating what you might find on the real thing.

WHY START WITH DIGITAL RATHER THAN ANALOGUE?

In addition to all of the benefits listed above, it is also important to consider future developments.  Whereas the advancement and improvement seen in analogue control is now limited, digital control has the potential to continue growing and improving for many years to come.

For those making a start in the hobby, digital offers a much easier introduction than analogue, as the work involved in setting up a reasonable layout is much less, and much simpler, and the potential much greater.

Far from being "too complicated" or "just for experts", digital is in essence ideal for beginners, as it lends itself very well to a smaller layout, but can be easily expanded and upgraded as well.

 >>  DCC & CONTROLLERS & TRANSFORMERS  <<

 

>>  ELECTRICS WIRES & SWITCHES  <<

 

Model Railway Scales - Mainly Indoor

 

Gauge Name

Size/Scale

Track Gauge (mm)

Description

 

O scale

1:43.5 (Great Britain and France),
1:45 (Germany),
1:48 (US)

32.00

Name originally was '0' (zero), '1' through '6' were already in use for larger scales. In the US, this is frequently a considered a 'toy train' scale rather than for scale modellers. However, though toy trains use this gauge, they are often nowhere near scale. Scale modellers have begun to use this gauge for their scale models, resulting in a two separate groups of modellers within this "scale": "hi-railers", those who run toy train equipment on oversized track and scale modellers, who run scale equipment on scale track. A limited few have been able to combine both. Nowadays, even high-railers have the option of extremely precise scale models and track. Lionel, LLC, MTH Electric Trains, and Atlas O [4] are major manufacturers of this scale. We can supply this Scale.

 

 

Proto:48

1:48

29.90

These are to the same scale as US O gauge but are accurate scale models in all dimensions including track and wheels.

 

 

Scale Seven

1:43.5

33.00

Exact scale version of British O gauge.

 

 

Z0 gauge

1:60

24.00

Got attention in Germany around 1950 as an attempt of a scale between O and H0. Z0 means "Zwischen-Null" (between O).

 

 

S gauge

1:64

22.42

Originally called "H-1" because it was half the size of Gauge 1 (1:32), the "S" name is derived from 'S'ixty-fourth. In the US, American Flyer toy trains used this gauge, but it is also used for more precise modelling and supported by several manufacturers. In the UK, S scale modelling is largely the preserve of a dedicated few hand-building models or using a small number of available kits and parts, mostly depicting standard gauge prototypes but also narrow and broad gauge subjects too. The UK-based S Scale Model Railway Society is the oldest scale support society in the world, being first established in 1946. In the United States, S scale has a small but growing following in the modelling of standard gauge railroads, especially those of the 1940s and 1950s era, a focus that is supported by S Helper Service [5] and American Models [6], among others. This scale is also popular in North America to depict 3 ft  (914 mm) narrow gauge prototypes (using dedicated 14.28 mm (0.562 in) gauge track and known as "Sn3"), and elsewhere to depict the 3 ft 6 in (1,067 mm) narrow gauge railways (using H0 16.5 mm/0.650 in gauge track and known as "Sn3½") of South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

 

 

00 gauge

1:76.2

16.5

This scale is today the most popular modelling scale in the UK, although it once had some following in the US (on 19 mm/0.748 in gauge track) before WW2. 00 or "Double-Oh", together with EM gauge and P4 standards are all to 4 mm scale as the scale is the same, but the track standards are incompatible. 00 uses the same track as H0 (16.5 mm/0.650 in gauge), which is not correct for this slightly larger scale, but it is the most common British standard for ready-to-run trains. In Britain there exists The Double 0 Gauge Association to promote this scale. Narrow gauge modelling of 3 ft  (914 mm) prototypes ("00n3" on 12 mm/0.472 in track) was once popular although now less so, but the depiction of approximately 2 ft  (610 mm) or 2 ft 6 in (762 mm) prototypes ("OO9" on 9 mm/0.354 in track) has a greater following with a flourishing supply of kits and parts from many small UK-based suppliers.   We can supply this Scale.

 

 

EM gauge

1:76.2

18.2

EM gauge was an earlier attempt in the 1950s to improve the inaccuracies of 00 gauge, with wider, more accurate track at 18 mm (0.709 in) between the rails, but still narrower than the correct gauge. The gauge was later widened to 18.2 mm (0.717 in). The UK-based EM Gauge Society exists to supports modellers of these standards.

 

 

P4 gauge

1:76.2

18.83

P4 was created in the 1960s as the most accurate possible standards for modelling in 4 mm scale. Supported by the UK based Scalefour Society.

 

 

H0 scale

1:87

16.5

This is the most popular model railway scale in the world (except in the United Kingdom). The name is derived from "Half O" and the European (NEM) standards define the scale as exactly 1:87, the US NMRA as 1:87.1 (3.5 mm : 1 ft). There is a vast selection of ready-to-run, kits and parts for locomotives, rolling stock and scenic items from many manufacturers depicting trains from all around the world. During the 1970s, companies such as Tyco Toys and Life-Like made cheap, oversized, under detailed toy trains that ran on H0 scale track, and were sold in packages called train sets, and were built only for speed, much like a slot car set. This term eventually carried over to the model railroad industry.  We can supply this Scale.

 

 

Proto:87

1:87

16.5

An alternative finescale standard for H0, with wheels and track that correspond with the prototypes, taking its lead from the establishment of P4 standards in the UK.

 

 

HOn3-1/2 scale,
H0m in
Europe

1:87

12.25

H0 Scale using 12 mm (0.472 in) gauge track to represent Cape gauge used as "standard" gauge in many African countries, New Zealand, Queensland, Japan, etc. European H0m ('metre gauge

') models represent prototype gauges ranging between 850 and 1,250 mm (33.5 and 49.2 in).

 

 

H0e scale

1:87

9.0

European H0 Scale narrow gauge models using 9 mm (0.354 in) (the same as N scale) track to represent prototypes with gauge between 650 and 850 mm (25.6 and 33.5 in), particularly 750 mm (2 ft 5+12 in) and 760 mm (2 ft 5+78 in) gauge.

 

 

3 mm scale

1:101.1

12 and 14.2

A UK version of TT introduced by the firm Tri-ang in the late 1950s (then known as "TT-3") and supported by several other firms offering kits and parts. Commercial production by Tri-ang petered out in the late 1960s, but "The 3 mm Society" was established in 1965 and a dedicated membership has kept this UK scale alive. TT-3 was originally designed to run on TT's 12 mm (0.472 in) gauge track, but latterly the more accurate gauge of 14.125 mm (0.556 in) (popularly known as "14.2") has been adopted by some seeking more accuracy. Like the intermediate EM gauge standard in 4 mm scale, some modellers in 3 mm scale developed 13.5 mm (0.531 in) track gauge, but this has largely been superseded by 14.2 mm (0.559 in) gauge. Both 3 ft  (914 mm) narrow gauge (using 9 mm/0.354 in gauge track) and 5 ft 3 in (1,600 mm) broad gauge (using 15.76 mm/0.620 in gauge track) are also modelled in 3 mm scale in the UK.

 

 

TT scale

1:120

12.0

Name stands for 'Table Top'. It is quite popular in Europe, particularly in Germany, especially in East Germany (former DDR), has some popularity in countries of former USSR and a small following in the United States.  We can supply this Scale.

 

 

N scale

1:148

9.0

As with 1:160 N scale below, the name is derived from its Nine millimeter track gauge, but the scale is a slightly larger at 2.0625 mm = 1 foot (1 : 147.78). Developed as a UK commercial version of N scale in the late 1960s, models are restricted to depicting UK prototypes. Although nominally to 1:148 scale, some manufacturers took significant liberties with exact scale to suit production limitations. Despite the collapse of Graham Farish and its subsequent sale to Bachmann Industries there is a growing choice of ready-to-run models available.

 

 

N scale

1:150

9.0

N scale in Japan is normally built to this scale, even though most rail lines are 3 ft 6 in (1,067 mm) (narrow gauge). Because the Shinkansen lines are 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+12 in) (standard gauge), models of these are usually built to the scale of 1:160. 

 

 

2 mm scale

1:152

9.42

British finescale standard, older than N scale, being first used as long ago as 1927 with photos and articles published in the model press. Became more popular in the 1950s, with The 2 mm Scale Association established by 1960 to promote and support modellers in this tiny scale, and it remains very active in the UK to this day. In recent years the finer track and wheel standards of 2 mm scale (but not the gauge) have also been adapted for use in 1:160 N scale (on 9 mm/0.354 in gauge) in Europe and called "fine", and is supported by the FREMO modelling organization. Since the 1950s, incredibly, 2 mm scale has been used to depict narrow gauge prototypes on various track gauges down to 4 mm (0.157 in), but almost everything has to be hand-made, unless some Z scale parts are used. 

 

 

N scale

1:160

9.0

Name derived from Nine millimeter; this is the second most popular scale worldwide. N scale developed by the German firm of Arnold Rapido in the early 1960s, and was rapidly adopted worldwide as the most popular small-scale modelling choice. In recent years, finer profile wheels and track have been developed by some manufacturers (although the gauge and standards have remained the same). Huge range of ready-to-run models available as well as supporting kits and parts. With the introduction of an even smaller Z scale in 1972, the modelling of narrower gauge prototypes has been possible using that scale's locomotive mechanisms, track and wheels. In North America the depiction of 3 ft  (914 mm) gauge railroads in N scale using Z scale track is known as "Nn3"; in Europe, metre gauge modelling in N scale is known as "Nm". We can supply this Scale.

 

 

Z scale

1:220

6.5

Until recently the smallest commercially available model railway scale, introduced by the German firm of Mδrklin in 1972 depicting German and other European prototypes. In North America, Micro Trains and others have introduced a range of US prototype models. On both continents, a growing range of kits and scenic accessories are still becoming available to help increase its popularity. In Europe a few enterprising manufacturers have developed even smaller metre gauge models (but still in 1:220 scale) known as "Zm" on 4.5 mm (0.177 in) gauge track.

 

 

ZZ scale

1:300

4.8

Introduced by Bandai, ZZ scale was very briefly the smallest commercially available model railway available. As of 2005 only three Shinkansen trains are available and limited other items. The trains are battery-powered and run on plastic rail. Bandai makes no accessories for this scale.

 

 

T scale

1:450

3.0

Announced by Eishindo of Japan in 2006 (and finally released for sale in 2008), T Gauge is the smallest commercially available model railroading scale in the world. Several trains are available, complete with track, as well as many accessories including buildings, people, trees and vehicles. The trains run on metal rails and controlled by a power supply.  We can supply this Scale.

 

 

 

 

Model Railway Scales – Mainly Outdoor

 

Gauge Name

Size/Scale

Track Gauge (mm)

Description

Grand Scale

1:4 and up

254 mm and up

254 mm (10 in). Several large scales exist, but are not strictly model railroading gauges. Instead, they are used mostly in commercial settings, such as amusement park rides.

 

Live steam

1:8

184 or 190

Rideable, outdoor gauge, named according to the gauge in inches, and scale in inches per foot, for example 7+14 in (184 mm) gauge, 1.5 inch scale. The gauge is 7+12 in (190.5 mm) in the western parts of US and Canada, where the scale sometimes is 1.6 inch for diesel-type models. Private and public (club) tracks exist in many areas, among them the world's largest model railroad, Train Mountain[1], with over 25 miles (40 km) of tracks. Powerful locomotives can pull 50 or more passengers. Narrow gauge models in this gauge can be as large as 1:3 scale.

 

Live steam

1:12

127 or 121

Rideable, outdoor gauge. The gauge is 5 in (127 mm) in Europe, but 4+34 in (121 mm) in US and Canada. For standard gauge prototypes at 5 inch, the scale is 1-1/16 inch per foot or approximately 1:11.3. Together with the 1:8 scale above, this is a popular scale for backyard railroads. Pulling power is enough for more than a dozen passengers on level tracks.

 

SE scale 7/8 inch

1:13.71

45

Models of 2 ft  (610 mm) gauge prototypes using 45 mm (1.772 in) track. Used by folks modelling the Maine 2-footers, but increasingly also by anyone interested in very large scale models of industrial prototypes, including the many Welsh slate mines and other European operations. Although this is mostly a scratch-builders scale, there is an increasing supply of kits, parts and figures. Some modelers using 7/8 scale operate on 32 mm (1.260 in) track, used to replicate 18 in (457 mm) gauge industrial lines found in Great Britain and other countries.

 

Live steam

1:16

89

Rideable, outdoor gauge. The gauge is 3+12 in (89 mm) the world over.

 

gauge 3

1:22.5

64

One of the original model railroad scales standardized in 1909, a minority interest, although 63 mm (2.48 in) gauge 3 track is commercially available. The European G scale standard of 1:22.5 scale trains on 45 mm (1.772 in) track is sometimes called 3m, as per European narrow gauge naming conventions.

 

Live steam

1:24

63

At 2+12 in (63.5 mm), this The smallest of the "rideable" gauges. Only one or two passengers can be pulled. This was one of the first popular live steam gauges, developed in England in the early 1900s, though now less popular than the larger gauges it still has a following. A model can normally be lifted by one person.

 

Wide gauge

1:26.59 or 1:28.25

53.975

Called Standard Gauge by Lionel, who trademarked the name. Other manufacturers used the same gauge and called it Wide Gauge. Not widely produced after 1940. Gauge No. 2 using track of gauge 2 in (50.8 mm) was one of the standard model gauges in 1909.

 

16 mm scale

1:19.05

32

This scale was first developed in the UK in the 1950s to depict 2 ft  (610 mm) narrow gauge prototypes utilising 32 mm (1.260 in) or "O gauge" track and wheels, but really took off in popularity during the 1960s and 70s. Originally, it was mostly used as an indoor modelling scale, but has also developed as a popular scale for garden railways of narrow gauge prototypes. Some manufacturers that produce models depicting North American 2 ft  (610 mm) narrow gauge prototypes have also adopted this scale for use alongside the near-compatible Fn3 (15 mm or 1: 20.32) scale on 45 mm (1.772 in) track already popular in the US. Both electric, battery and live steam propulsion is used to power model locomotives in this scale, and is supported by a growing range of commercially available ready-to-run models, kits and parts.

 

Fn3 scale

1:20.3

45

Similar to G Scale below, this scale also uses 45 mm (1.772 in) gauge track, and is used for both indoor and garden railways of narrow gauge prototypes. The scale of 1:20.3 was developed to depict North American 3 ft  (914 mm) gauge trains in exact proportion to their correct track gauge whilst using 45 mm (1.772 in) gauge model track. It equates to 15 mm = 1 foot (1 : 20.32) scale. Increasingly popular for both electric and live steam propulsion of model locomotives, with an ever growing range of commercially available ready-to-run models, kits and parts. Fn3 scale, together with G scale and ½ inch (1:24) scale, are commonly and collectively referred to as "Large Scale" by many modellers.

 

G scale

1:22.5

45

(Originally from the German groί (meaning "big"), now also G as in Garden, correctly IIm or 2m) G is generally used for garden railways of narrow gauge prototypes, and uses the same track gauge as 1 gauge, below.  We can supply this gauge.

 

½ inch scale

1:24

45

Similar to G Scale above, this scale also runs on 45 mm (1.772 in) gauge track, and is generally used for both indoor and garden railways of narrow gauge prototypes. The scale of 1:24 in combination with 45 mm (1.772 in) track is an attempt to model North American and UK 3 ft  (914 mm) narrow gauge or 3 ft 6 in (1,067 mm) narrow gauge trains in better proportion to the rails they run on.

 

Gauge 2

1:29

50.4/45

The dominant scale used in the United States for models of "standard gauge" trains running on 45 mm (1.772 in) track, even though 1:32 is more prototypically correct. 1:29 represents standard gauge using 2 in (50.8 mm) gauge track, the original gauge 2. This fell into disuse as gauge 1 at 1.75 inch was very close. Some manufacturers kept the scale for the models but running them on slightly narrow gauge track.

 

1 gauge
3/8 inch scale

1:32

45

This large scale, once rarely seen indoors in modern use but frequently used for modelling standard gauge trains as garden railways, is making a come-back. The Japanese firm of Aster Hobby [2] offers ready-to-run gas-fired live steam models. Accucraft Trains <http://accucraft.com> also offer finely crafted live steam models in this scale. Gauge 1 has seen something of a remarkable revival in recent years after decades of near extinction commercially, with a growing number of smaller UK manufacturers offering electrically powered and live steam locomotives and rolling stock in ready to run, parts and kit form. Some manufacturers offer so-called Gauge 1 items in 1:30.48 scale (10 mm = 1 foot) that also run on 45 mm (1.772 in) gauge track. Gauge 1 also has its own international association.

 

L gauge

1:38 (nominal)

 

Unofficial designation of toy trains built from LEGO. Equipment can be built to differing widths in relation to the track gauge, and are becoming increasingly popular among persons who grew up with the building toy system.

 

 

 

 

 

BOOKS from Modeltrainsuk at Cravenmodels

 

        FROM TRAIN SET TO MODEL RAILWAY

http://www.modeltrainsuk.co.uk/books--catalogues-model-railways-37-c.asp     <<  Just Click to purchase on line   or BOOK Catalogue www.cravenmodels.com/BOOKS.htm << Click

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facilities & Services  - Please click on box required

 

 

Cravenmodels International Mail Order Company

Craven Model Centre, Bungalow Railway Workshops, Purslow Estate, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 0HJ

Tel:  01588 660 580         sales@cravenmodels.com

 

 

 

  logotelrightengine   

INTERNET TRADING FOR OVER 10 YEARS

 

 

 

                PCU1WIRINGREVISEDCOLOURS             

      Catenary         Signals              OnTrack               Controllers                       DCC                     Electrics                         Street Lighting      Yard Lighting