Modeling general discussion
Kato wiring
i have a Kato unitrack layout with a turnout off the main line and then comes back to the main line with Kato switches. When running on the main line and I want to switch to the turnout the train stops if I don't operate the switches once the engine crosses the entering switch, then after it passes that I have to switch the ending switch in time before leaving the turnout. Is there a way to wire so the main line and the turnouts are powered without shutting down the engine. If I open or close both switches at the same time it shuts down.
New iPhone adjustable depth of focus feature AFTER picture taken
I was watching the Apple Special Event today and the announcement of the camera features of the iPhone 10s. You can now take a picture and, even if the background is blurry, you can adjust the f-stop on the photo you have taken and the pictures software will let you adjust the depth of field. You do not have to take multiple pictures and knit them together in Helicon focus or similar software. One picture will do, and the adjustment is done in the super fast processing in Apple's new A-12 64 bit processor.

A bit of silliness for those who like to be silly - Master Railroad Modeler
I don’t have the necessary model railroad skills nor desire to try and attain the NMRA’s Master Model Railroader certification. I’m a supporter of the NMRA and the program; however, I do have a silly streak so……………..
Rusty!
For the first time in 18 years or so, I’m working on a plastic structure kit. So, I’ve pulled the airbrush out of storage.
Some things are like riding a bike. Painting hasn’t been an issue. Painting using a correct work flow? It’s like I’m learning all over again.
Brass Scratchbuilding Supplies
Guys, help me out here if you can!
I'm looking for some pre-cut brass - smaller than typical from K&S or other suppliers.
I need some strips that are 0.020" thick and 0.050" wide - by almost any length.
I can't cut these myself from existing 0.020" stock. Or at least I lack the technique to do it accurately.
I want to scratchbuild some ladders in brass as replacements on some older tenders and other brass rolling stock.
need some layout ideas for n scale
ok so i have a boat load of atlas code 80 n scale track. but im limited on space and im feeling creatively blocked im limited to a 2 foot by 4 foot sheet of thick MDF can you fellas toss me some decent layout designs for inspiration plz

Scale speed test for a small layout
My friend, Joe A., and I were discussing scale speed for operations and it got me thinking about what actual speeds I had programmed into my main engine. I had assumed that my top-end speed was about 20 mph, but I was surprised after I calculated the actual scale speeds. See what you think.
I have my main engine, an SW1200, programmed with a speed curve where the maximum speed is reached at notch 4 on my ProtoThrottle. Notches 5-8 are "playable" in that the top speed remains the same but the prime mover sounds change according to each notch.

Whats on your workbench - Sep 2018
Time for September's What's on your workbench thread ...

3D printing - Dinghy
3D printing has been around for a while now but there are still drastic improvements being made in the 3D printing world on a weekly basis!
I’ve been using the Anycubic Photon since the start of the year and I’m always amazed when it finishes printing.
Lately I’ve been working on printing a dinghy for an upcoming video and since 3D printing has been talked about quite a lot in the model railroad community I wanted to share some of the results for anyone who is on the fence about getting into resin 3D printing.

NNGC this year?
Just wondering if anyone is attending the NNGC this year in the Twin Cities?
Any chance someone can find out the scoop on the Blackstone Big K’s?
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