Using new technology such as smart phones and Raspberry Pi’s can significantly drop the initial cost of entry into DCC Model Railroading without giving up high functionality. Specifically, we'll demonstrate and discuss Engine Driver, WiThrottle, Digitrax, LnWi, MRC WiFi, RaspberryPi, PiSPROG, bluetooth remotes, and who knows what else......
This clinic will present the design and construction of a classification yard for the existing HO scale Pennington Junction Railroad. Topics of this multi-level layout expansion will describe the use of a space saving compound ladder yard design with car detection for automated uncoupling and coupling, the use of a wye for turning locomotives and trains in the yard and the construction of a helix to move trains between levels.
Dave Winans and Jack Varadi are two of the Division members who attended the 2018 Convention. They will present information on prototype tours, layout tours, clinics and other events they attended to give an overall view of the convention. KC has a railroad history that set the tone for the convention.
On November 4, 2017, Ken Majchrzak presented an excellent clinic explaining "What is Garden Railroading?" He detailed the history and details of this interesting aspect of our hobby.
On November 4, 2017 Rich Lehman entertained us with a clinic describing his [Progress on the Creek Junction RR].
On March 11, 2017, John LePere gave an enlightening presentation on the History of the Uintah Rwy, described as:
A small weird narrow gauge railroad in eastern Utah and Western Colorado called the Uintah RR. It included 5 miles of 7.5 ℅ grade and some of the sharpest curves ever laid. It also links Ute Indians, a manipulated Congress and remotely Henry Ford. It began with a mineral discovery shortly after the civil war and continued until just before WW II.
On March 15, 2014, Gordon Fewster gave a clinic on “Adding Decals to your Railroad”. His “how to” and “tips” were very informative and examples of his work were on display.
On March 15, 2014, Marv Havens gave us a photo and map tour of railroad history in and around Greenville. He covered long ago abandoned 2 foot gauge tracks on Greenville’s east side to “river junction” near downtown to the newly completed “inland port” intermodal container facility in Greer. We expect to see a surge in rail-fan activity around here as the spring weather arrives!
On March 6, 2016, Geoff Duncan gave a clinic "Automatic Coupling and Uncoupling".
This clinic will explore the elements of automatic coupling and uncoupling on a computer controlled model railroad. The principles described can be applied to all scales using popular automation software such as Train Controller © and JMRI. Several examples of DCC operated HO coupler hardware will be discussed. The presenter will also describe in detail the techniques and procedures used to apply automation to setting out and picking up cars during mainline and industry operations on his Pennington Junction layout.
On March 6, 2016, Mike Jensen gave the clinic "Using the Raspberry Pi for Model Railroad Wireless Control".
This clinic will describe the popular stand-alone linux-based Raspberry Pi microcomputer. You will learn how to use this clever yet inexpensive device to send wireless commands from your Android or iPhone to your locos and layout. This works for both NCE and Digitrax with various interface options. The clinic will cover purchase options, cost, configuration, installation and operation No programming involved and no computer required.
