I'm just about ready to start laying track on my new H0n3-layout, and I've chosen to use Micro Engineering turnouts. My initial plan was to use Bullfrog turnout controls, but I think the control rod is a little bit flimsy, and I also need to cut a lot of holes to recess these into the fascia, resulting in a "messy" look. Would it be possible at all to use these turnouts manually like they are right out of the box? Or would that result in bad electrical connections after a while (like on Peco turnouts)?

Congratulations to these three winners!

• MRH identify the source: HVT (Dave)
• Random MRH Winner: griffine (Eugene)
• Random Facebook Winner: Earl Schmutz

The draws ended at 11am Central Time on Monday December 1 2014.

I will be releasing my next new product here on MRH on Monday December 1st 2014.

There was a recent discussion of occupancy detection methods on MRH (see: http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/20240 ).

I would like to add another option that involves using a small laser and phototranistor to detect when a train is occupying a section of track.  I use this method rather successfully on my HO module.  A laser detects when a train is on the main line so that another train that runs only on my module doesn't cross the main track at an inopportune time!

As a new arrival, I've enjoyed scratchbuilding simple structures so far, from plasticard, embossed styrene, regular styrene, and sometimes wood and card too. I'm using high-school D&T methods, really: draw out the parts needed with a pencil and a steel rule, cut out with craft knife/mini saw, stick together with appropriate glue.