Another great one Charlie. Particularly appreciate the explanation of block detection. I see you added the catch point that we had forgotten to the goods yard exit :) One (slight) niggle - I'm surprised that all the wires into your drop down board come down over the front of the baseboard edge - why didn't you bring them to the back of the drop down and then through a couple of holes?
@@ChadwickModelRailway "the facia will cover it" oh yeah??? Next you'll be saying that was the plan all along - ha! I do love how neat you make everything and those labels on the cables help. I assume you have a spreadsheet or something where you have the names of each of the sections and the numbers of each point motor identified against the position on the plan.
Its a good idea, and I plan to use the concept, but hang the hinged panel back from the edge so the wires can be hidden behind the fascia/edge. Solved the panic attacks I've been having at spending hours on my back underneath the board reaching 2 feet up to fiddle with screw connectors that oddly seem to use flat head screws rather than pozidriv in some cases.
I think you must give a warning when you tell a very funny and very true statement. It is only 1 wire at a time, was not ready for that this morning almost fell off my chair with a snort of laughter. Thank you so much it was a good thing this morning.
Friday is now a happy place. Why because once again a RUclips fix of Charlie @ Chadwick reminds me that there’s is more to life than working more hours than is healthy or that I’m paid to work! DCC may have to wait until such time I have a suitable location to build my planned layout but that’s another matter! Thanks as ever Charlie.
Morning Charlie, your in a league way ahead of me, I look at your layout and for me it's the stuff of dreams. But I get so much from watching and learning. I don't know how or if you can manage to get switched off at night but your mind must be going all the time, with wireing diagrams block detection and all the other things that are going into building this magnificent model railway. For me you are making it so interesting and even when you're doing something which I just don't understand or dare I say boring for me I find I have to watch till the end. Thanks for sharing with us your progress and journey. It's a brilliant layout and i enjoy immensely riding along with you, you take care and I'll see you on the next one Eddy xx
Hi Charlie, I’m sitting here in bed watching your latest video, (next to my wife) , when you mentioned the female has all the power, my wife looked at me and said, “And don’t you forget it”, she just reminded me that she has all the power 😂🤣😉 .
Charlie many thanks for your comments on points, I think I’m going to have to sit down and think how it’s going to operate, as I just thought it was more about finance than operation as I can’t teach all the points so I will need to automate the layout👍🏻
Charlie, Thank you so much for your videos. It's been the best instruction/education since I've been out of the hobby since I was a kid. Well done and keep up the great work! Tug
Well done Charlie. A good teacher always admits when he screwed something up and how to fix it. This is why I like coming here over and over. Even though I'm a Lego train guy. Great work.
DCC wiring reminds me of the “how do you eat an elephant” question, now I know it’s one wire at a time... Neat, well explained and tempting me with block control. As ever, thank you Charlie.
Hi Charlie. Another good lesson about wiring and block detection, thank you very much indeed. And above all, thanks for the tip about the independant power supply for the switches, the reason seems obvious after seeing the video, but I'm sure lots of people don't even think about it. I take this as a must-do in planning my own layout. Have a nice weekend and stay safe. Best regards.
Another great video Charlie. I only run a DC controlled end to end layout, but I particularly found your cable management very useful. My layout was inherited from my brother and really needs re-wiring so your methods will be put to great use. The thing I like about your videos is that you never rush anything and all the aspects are explained fully together with some excellent links. Look forward to the next one.
@@ChadwickModelRailway It really is Charlie. I don't think I've found another channel that gives such plain and simple guidance about the various subjects involved in model railways. Always look forward to the next one. Keep well.
Once again another Great Video Just started my road to Full Automation just been extending my Dcc Droppers to go to a Block Detector no fun crawling under my Layout to solder extended Droppers but Charlie your videos give me and many others inspiration. So keep up the good work
FANTASTIC always a pleasure I’m stuck building two model airports at the moment but once they are done that’s it unlike the model railway a truly HAPPILY FOREVER after always a great watch.
Thanks for another great video Charlie. Much appreciated as always. I am impressed with the crimped pins, crimper and the bus connectors. They will make things better organised on my own layout.
Same here but after an hour or so trying to emulate Charlie, I just get bogged down and stuck. Wiring the droppers and bus and point motors under the board is a PITA so going to give those 12 way connectors a go. DCC was supposed to be easy but not in my book
Great video again Charlie. I am glad that we agree on wire sizes. I have linked to it in my weekly newsletter which will be sent out on Saturday morning. Also must thank you for the mention of the Railwayscenics website again. Its appreciated. If there is anything I can do in return all you have to do is ask. Steve from Railwayscenics.
@@ChadwickModelRailway Charlie did you try ringing me. I have been having phone problems, which should be cured now. The answer phone was not doing the one job it is meant to.
Hi Charlie another excellent presentation. Wish I had seen your video before going DCC some years ago. Really enjoy your modelling sessions. Thanks and keep up the good work. Ken Carter.
Great informative video Charlie, having spent a lifetime in the electrical and computer industries I still find watching your videos fascinating and interesting. Keep up the good work.
Just found this channel and subscribed, this by far is the best channel to learn anything about DCC as I'm about to begin to convert over sadly enough I will have a bunch of great older blue box locomotives (Athearn) on ebay as I've learned older engines do not fair as well due to metal chassis and older motors and by the time money is spent to change all this, it's easier to just upgrade the fleet, thank you for these great videos.
Hi Charlie, just want to say a big thankyou for keeping me entertained during lockdown I binge watched all your episodes! I’m yet to build my layout but you have given me so much to think about when I finally can, keep up the great work the layout is looking amazing!
I do enjoy these videos, even though I'm not a Railway Modeller, all this wiring Malarkey, I'd understand more if you spoke in Mandarin but I keep with it, in hope for yourself and those who have more an inkling on these things. However its excellent seeing the progress and did laugh and say, jesus, when you plonked all them wires down. I'd love to see the bleeped version, when things dont go to plan or when Mrs Chadwick tells you to stop swearing. Thoroughly enjoyable Charlie, many thanks for sharing. Keep up the good fight young sir, your getting there.
Yes, well it’s another excellent Video Charlie,, I am very impressed with all the Tools that you have, some must cost a lot of Money. As others have noticed I too wondered about the Wires coming across the front of the Fascia Board. Thank you.
Charlie, another master class in DCC wiring! I've been using your techniques to complete all my connections, and it surely makes a difference in ease of troubleshooting. I still believe the Brother PT-E300VP printer is one of the best investments I've made - I know exactly where each wire begins and terminates! It is also comforting to hear you confess everything doesn't always magically work perfectly when you press the power button; we still have to chase down the defects - and there always seem to be some. Great video, Charlie; thanks again for another great lesson!
Thank you for this great insight Charlie, I love how the wiring over the course of the video changed from a conundrum to a very clean and neat solution. Somehow you can make wiring in and of itself an interesting video to watch for half an hour, just marvellous. I want you wish you and the missus a great weekend ahead, and I hope the cough/sneeze will soon be gone.
Hi Charlie I missed this episode a week earlier due to my phones technical difficulties. This is a learning experience as I'm struggling to rebuild a replacement layout. I see genius and a little comedy as the process was right but upside down. But that's okay this has happened to me with my stereo system hookups RCA PLUGS in the out put instead of the input. I know now on the hardware what to purchase next at the home center. Thank you I enjoy watching The Chadwick Model railroad well done. 👏🙂
Thanks again Charlie. I watched your very early DCC Wiring video some time ago when you first used the RS wirestripper and thought 'I must get one of those' and of course then did nothing. So TODAY, I finally ordered it from RS (365 in stock) - Yay !! (now they only have 364) :-) Love your videos. Keep it up. (And thanks for the Lenz shout-out). Haha. Keith
Your videos are most instructive, particularly the ones covering complex systems. Are you going to add trackside signals to this part of your layout? I would like to see the planning and wiring of multiple trackside signals and what you use to control the signals - tortoise or other devices.
Nicely done as always. I wired my shelf layout with your advice and had a really nice time, those ferrules and terminal blocks are a godsend. Only downside is I hear « black to the back » every time I work on the layout but that’s a pitfall I’m willing to live with. Take care!
Almost ready to start building - very very helpful information so thanks for all that. You asked for submission of track plans for comments and putting together for others to see but where should I submit the anyrail file?
Thank you Charlie. I am completely new to DCC and have constructed a baseboard and am now track planning. I intend to use some form of block detection using a Digikeijs DR4088CS via a DR5000 controller. However I wondered if having set up all of the block control it can be 'turned off' if I wanted to play around 'outside of the blocks'. Probably a very dumb question but as I said, this is all new to me.
Maybe go for some spiral wrap for the looms to give more support and easy replacement of a duff cable post cable tying. Also a cheap rj-xx network cable tester could help testing those cables
“Only 1 wire at a time”! - I need to remember that next time I have a “rats nest”. You can be so inspiring- I wish I could get this sort of wiring result. Time to rip it all out and start over :) I want to add power zones so nows a good time to start again perhaps?
You should run a heavier gauge wire to the power in side of the block detection circuit. The power in side wiring to the block detector needs to supply the total current for all the loads on the connected blocks.
Very enjoyable video charlie, and some really nice explanation! I'm looking forward to seeing this area of your layout build up, good job and keep it up.
Nice vid. When I solder to track, I do it to the outside of the rails. If any ever come loose, I can resolder without having to lift up the track. The joints are pretty ugly, though.
Your advice; 'buy good quality tools', does pay off. Also, like you, I don't buy a new one when the one I've got still does the job. My Solon 24W soldering iron was bought on my 15th birthday and still works perfectly today, more than 50 odd years later. Once again I must admire your 'neat & tidy' wiring- try as I will, I just can't do it!
Another fine one .Iam about to wire up my layout but mine is just the good old D.C . Added to that my new class 25 from Hattons arrived this week and a very fine model it is too fromHeljen
Nice explanation, its interesting to see all these options even though I'm not going down quite as complex route. I do wish I'd chosen different colour wires for my track feed as I have gone old school with point control and I'm using Peco surface mount motors that also use red and black wires. I didn't want to change colour going to my levers so I now have lots of red and black wires of two slightly different gauges though the point ones do have green running with them. It's way too late to change now but next time. All that said I find wire quite enjoyable.
Hi Charlie, I'm another fan of your excellent videos and they are invaluable as I plan my first layout. I noticed your very clear cable labels but I am unable to find where I can buy them. Can you help please?
if you have to pick an obsession, being obsessive about running noise reduction is a very good one, nice to see the focus on it and may end up nicking that copydex idea, need to find a thinner trackbed for "N", the XPS flooring from your helix stuff looks spot on to cover large areas
Great videos Charlie , I have been wondering which manufacturer of double slip you are using on your code 100 track layout as Peco only make a code 75 type in electro frog, Also have you ever tried a Peco insulfrog diamond crossing on the DCC layout. Many thanks for your time in explaining things on your videos Geoff
Yes I’ve tried them all. The diamond crossing caused electrical problems with Lima wheels and I have used code 75 electrofrog double slips with converter fishplates.
Hi Charlie, once again a excellent informative video, however could you do a talk on the components required to set up Block detection and how you have laid this out on your layout, as the Digitrax and other websites are baffling with all of the componentry available. It needs a communicator like yourself to put it across to the layman starter at this side of the hobby.
I will in time at Lizzie. However, could you check out the channel McKinley Railway. We have produced a block detection video on that channel. Regards Charlie
I have done the same with my layout Charlie using the digital systems, it’s worth it. I take it are you going to do the next step with the system like I have and use computer control? Keep up the great work 😊
Yes Michelle but I’m torn between iTrain and train controller. At the current time. I do have train controller silver but it doesn’t do multiple screens!
hi charlie nice to see you adding your cables charlie will that B.D.L board work with the Z21 system i no that you have train controler silver if it is on a memory stick then you might be able to use traincontroller gold down load it see if it works give it a try derek let me no ok
Charlie, at 16:13 you mentioned that you exclude your point feeders from your block detection network. I assume that is due, at least in part, to the need to use insulated joiners on the frog end of the track. Have you tried Peco's unifrog points that don't require insulated joiners, and if so, do you still find it preferable to exclude the points feeders from block detection? Paul
No Paul that’s not the reason. I never park trains across points it just seems to be an added burden wiring them in as well. James from DCC Train Automation also reckons that it’s not best practice. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, another very interesting and useful video, thanks. I thought I'd check out the brother printer but the Amazon link seems to go to a different printer!! Any chance you can have a look, I may be getting it wrong?!!
Hi Charlie. On your recommendation I’ve purchased those terminal blocks you use to tidy up my wiring, and I noticed at around 15.26 when discussing them, you have the wires attached to something yellow (Ferrels?)…. what are these exactly please, and do I need a specific size (my knowledge of such things is very limited!). Thanks in advance 👍🏻🚂
Great video Charlie as always, correct me if I'm wrong but is it not so when using Train Controller there is no need for 2 Blocks within a ramp down and stop detection Block Train Controller will Stop the Loco at the given point ?
Love your videos. Just ordered the RS 382*2847..THANK YOU..What is the yellow piece you added to the end of the wire before you put into BDL 168? THANK YOU.
Hey Charlie, terrific video as always. I did want to ask, though, why you use the DS64 to control all of your Tortoise machines instead of the SE8C..? Or perhaps some combination of the two..? Watching here from Canada, I rather enjoy the different varieties of motive power and rolling stock over the pond..! Paul
Great video Charlie, can you possibly show how too wire 2 points to strike as one. As you had your points do this on this video, it would be could as I have tried RUclips and there is nothing. :) Tom
It’s quite straightforward Tom, you just wire both sets of points to the same terminals. And if they’re striking the wrong way around just reverse the wires on one of the points. With the equipment I use it is straightforward. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, another most helpful video. what is the name of the board that connects to the Digitrax BDR 168? It makes for an easier wiring job for those of us not into soldering. John McD
Great explanation Charlie, in your amazon store is one of those cutters for trimming track, if so which one? Can you also add the correct cable for making loconet cables to the Amazon store? cheers Onky
Charlie--Others have said what I'm thinking, that your videos are terrific. I found this one particularly enlightening because I'm working on the wiring. You are well organized, and that is a goal we should all strive to reach. What is the circuit board with the 3 DS-64 boxes? I have a question about the detection blocks: You seem to be breaking them only on one of the rails--i.e., you installed an insulated joiner (fish plate) on one side, but not the other. My initial reaction is that that makes sense, but when I create districts, I break both rails.
Hi James the circuit board is a Digitrax B DL168.It detects 16 different zones, and you only need to supply one cable of a block to the detector. Hence I leave all the black cable runs intact. I don’t cut the black rails as it’s not required. However, I do not include any point work into the blocks. Regards Charlie
Hello Charlie, whilst I do not have any BLOCK DETECTION on my layout I nevertheless found your video interesting. If I ever build another layout I can take on board what you have done on your layout. Cheers Greg
Hey Charlie, why is there an isolated section of track used to brake trains? Why can’t the ‘slow down’ track right before the ‘brake’ track be used to slow and stop a train? Can something be programmed to slow down and stop a train in one block using time or another variable? I would guess that if a train slows down and stops in the same block, it would be more gradual and the wiring more simple. Thanks, Jack.
Another great one Charlie. Particularly appreciate the explanation of block detection. I see you added the catch point that we had forgotten to the goods yard exit :)
One (slight) niggle - I'm surprised that all the wires into your drop down board come down over the front of the baseboard edge - why didn't you bring them to the back of the drop down and then through a couple of holes?
That intrigued me too, Lea!
So Charlie; why?
I know, I’m shaking my head looking at it.
However, the facia may well cover that area.
@@ChadwickModelRailway "the facia will cover it" oh yeah??? Next you'll be saying that was the plan all along - ha!
I do love how neat you make everything and those labels on the cables help. I assume you have a spreadsheet or something where you have the names of each of the sections and the numbers of each point motor identified against the position on the plan.
Oh yes, we love spreadsheets!
Its a good idea, and I plan to use the concept, but hang the hinged panel back from the edge so the wires can be hidden behind the fascia/edge. Solved the panic attacks I've been having at spending hours on my back underneath the board reaching 2 feet up to fiddle with screw connectors that oddly seem to use flat head screws rather than pozidriv in some cases.
I think you must give a warning when you tell a very funny and very true statement.
It is only 1 wire at a time, was not ready for that this morning almost fell off my chair with a snort of laughter. Thank you so much it was a good thing this morning.
I’m so pleased that it cheered up your day. Regards Charlie
Friday is now a happy place. Why because once again a RUclips fix of Charlie @ Chadwick reminds me that there’s is more to life than working more hours than is healthy or that I’m paid to work! DCC may have to wait until such time I have a suitable location to build my planned layout but that’s another matter! Thanks as ever Charlie.
What a heartwarming comment David.Regards Charlie
Morning Charlie, your in a league way ahead of me, I look at your layout and for me it's the stuff of dreams. But I get so much from watching and learning. I don't know how or if you can manage to get switched off at night but your mind must be going all the time, with wireing diagrams block detection and all the other things that are going into building this magnificent model railway. For me you are making it so interesting and even when you're doing something which I just don't understand or dare I say boring for me I find I have to watch till the end. Thanks for sharing with us your progress and journey. It's a brilliant layout and i enjoy immensely riding along with you, you take care and I'll see you on the next one Eddy xx
What a truly heartwarming comment Eddy. It’s great to have you on-board mate, regards Charlie
Very grateful - slightly less of a “dark art” having watched this! Still impressed by the skill, though and everything so neatly done.
I’m so pleased that you found it useful Alex. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I’m sitting here in bed watching your latest video, (next to my wife) , when you mentioned the female has all the power, my wife looked at me and said, “And don’t you forget it”, she just reminded me that she has all the power 😂🤣😉 .
Never, a truer word!
Charlie many thanks for your comments on points, I think I’m going to have to sit down and think how it’s going to operate, as I just thought it was more about finance than operation as I can’t teach all the points so I will need to automate the layout👍🏻
Yes Adrian, the complications of model railways can be staggering. And of course our pockets always tend to suffer. Regards Charlie
Charlie, Thank you so much for your videos. It's been the best instruction/education since I've been out of the hobby since I was a kid. Well done and keep up the great work! Tug
Thanks Tug, I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting. Regards Charlie
Well done Charlie.
A good teacher always admits when he screwed something up and how to fix it.
This is why I like coming here over and over.
Even though I'm a Lego train guy.
Great work.
Thanks Bill I’m so pleased that you find the channel entertaining. Regards Charlie
DCC wiring reminds me of the “how do you eat an elephant” question, now I know it’s one wire at a time...
Neat, well explained and tempting me with block control. As ever, thank you Charlie.
Always good to hear from you Dave.
Happy modelling, regards Charlie
You eat elephants one wire at a time ...?
@@thomasm1964 absolutely, especially the Handspring Puppet Company ones.
"Remember, Female has the Power..." So very true. :-)
Not to be forgotten!
It will be great to watch trains run through to the main layout, it's looking very good. Thank you as always for an enjoyable video.
Thanks Simon, I can’t wait until it’s fully operational either. Regards Charlie
Many thanks Charlie. Another good video. I have used so many of your good ideas for model railways. Once again, thank you from Canada.
I’m so pleased that you find the channel useful Alan.
Hi Charlie. Another good lesson about wiring and block detection, thank you very much indeed. And above all, thanks for the tip about the independant power supply for the switches, the reason seems obvious after seeing the video, but I'm sure lots of people don't even think about it. I take this as a must-do in planning my own layout. Have a nice weekend and stay safe. Best regards.
I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting Antoine, regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie. I only run a DC controlled end to end layout, but I particularly found your cable management very useful.
My layout was inherited from my brother and really needs re-wiring so your methods will be put to great use. The thing I like about your videos is that you never rush anything and all the aspects are explained fully together with some excellent links. Look forward to the next one.
Thanks Kevin I’m so pleased that you find the channel useful.
@@ChadwickModelRailway It really is Charlie. I don't think I've found another channel that gives such plain and simple guidance about the various subjects involved in model railways. Always look forward to the next one. Keep well.
Great video Charlie. Hugely insightful. I liked the end where you showed that you still make mistakes.
Glad you enjoyed it Bill.
Once again another Great Video
Just started my road to Full Automation just been extending my Dcc Droppers to go to a Block Detector no fun crawling under my Layout to solder extended Droppers but Charlie your videos give me and many others inspiration.
So keep up the good work
What a heartwarming comment Chris, good luck mate.
Excellent as always, dont ever stop doing these videos, I look forward to and enjoy every one!
Glad you like them David.
I always love the wiring videos, that’s something I’m really into
Vincent, I think you need to get out more mate. Clearly so do I, regards Charlie
Charlie, really well done video on wiring and block detection.
Thank you for sharing
Muse
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting David
Charlie, I messaged you a few months back regarding DCC wiring. Thank you very much for your recent videos on this. Makes much more sense now 👍
I’m so pleased that you found the channel useful Stephen.
Great Video as usual, you are quite diligent when it comes to wiring - a man after my own heart!
A day without wiring Owen, is a day wasted!
FANTASTIC always a pleasure I’m stuck building two model airports at the moment but once they are done that’s it unlike the model railway a truly HAPPILY FOREVER after always a great watch.
Thanks Josef, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
One wire at a time. All 28,693 of them.
Very nice wiring too. Neatness counts!
It certainly counts for faultfinding Frank. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway That plus your wiring ID system. I just hope you don't have many faults to test for.
Thanks for another great video.
Thanks for another great video Charlie. Much appreciated as always. I am impressed with the crimped pins, crimper and the bus connectors. They will make things better organised on my own layout.
I’m so pleased that you found it useful Peter.
I've said it before but I'll say it again, Charlie you make it sound and look so easy, always look forward to watching your skills
It’s just practice and patience Simon.
Same here but after an hour or so trying to emulate Charlie, I just get bogged down and stuck. Wiring the droppers and bus and point motors under the board is a PITA so going to give those 12 way connectors a go. DCC was supposed to be easy but not in my book
Thanks again Charlie. Another top video. I love the fold away board. Your wiring is amazing. Cheers Alan
Thanks Alan, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie.
Great video again Charlie. I am glad that we agree on wire sizes. I have linked to it in my weekly newsletter which will be sent out on Saturday morning. Also must thank you for the mention of the Railwayscenics website again. Its appreciated. If there is anything I can do in return all you have to do is ask. Steve from Railwayscenics.
Thanks Stephen, I shall give you a ring sometime next week. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Charlie did you try ringing me. I have been having phone problems, which should be cured now. The answer phone was not doing the one job it is meant to.
Hi Charlie another excellent presentation. Wish I had seen your video before going DCC some years ago. Really enjoy your modelling sessions. Thanks and keep up the good work. Ken Carter.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Ken, regards Charlie
Another very informative and entertaining presentation! Your layout is looking great and moving along in leaps and bounds. Well done Charlie!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Alan.
Excellent content Charlie as always made as simple as you can which is great for us beginners. Stay safe.
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Richard, regards Charlie
The drop-down hinge plate accessible behind the facia...
Top Notch as usual, Mr Charlie!
🤟🏽🐻
Thanks TB, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
You're moving on at a good pace Charlie - nice work. You've encouraged me to make the wiring neater and more organised on my next project.
Good for you Chris, it’s a skill worth pursuing. Regards Charlie
Great informative video Charlie, having spent a lifetime in the electrical and computer industries I still find watching your videos fascinating and interesting. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Bryan. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
Thanks Charlie, another great video of education. I can’t deny, wiring still scares the heck out of me! DCC - Only two wires... 😂
It’s still only one wire at a time, but planning is everything Mike.
Been inspired again to get in model railways again plus with covid comes boredom. Got a couple of dc sets I had when I a younger buck
It’s never too late Aidan.
@@ChadwickModelRailway what’s the best thickness for base board 9mm ply or 12mm ply
@@ChadwickModelRailway bit will be standard Hornby big layout track mat copy with my pickyness . Just till I get more room
@@ChadwickModelRailway it’s fine only 21 heaps of times left
Just found this channel and subscribed, this by far is the best channel to learn anything about DCC as I'm about to begin to convert over sadly enough I will have a bunch of great older blue box locomotives (Athearn) on ebay as I've learned older engines do not fair as well due to metal chassis and older motors and by the time money is spent to change all this, it's easier to just upgrade the fleet, thank you for these great videos.
Welcome aboard Joseph, regards Charlie
You are a real live wire..great to see and well explained...
Thanks David, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
Hi Charlie, just want to say a big thankyou for keeping me entertained during lockdown I binge watched all your episodes! I’m yet to build my layout but you have given me so much to think about when I finally can, keep up the great work the layout is looking amazing!
Thanks Mark, I’m so pleased that you have enjoyed the channel.
Looking great Charlie! I'm progressing slowly with my layout with your wiring as inspiration 👍
What a heartwarming comment Edward.
I do enjoy these videos, even though I'm not a Railway Modeller, all this wiring Malarkey, I'd understand more if you spoke in Mandarin but I keep with it, in hope for yourself and those who have more an inkling on these things. However its excellent seeing the progress and did laugh and say, jesus, when you plonked all them wires down. I'd love to see the bleeped version, when things dont go to plan or when Mrs Chadwick tells you to stop swearing. Thoroughly enjoyable Charlie, many thanks for sharing. Keep up the good fight young sir, your getting there.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Mickey. Regards Charlie
Yes, well it’s another excellent Video Charlie,, I am very impressed with all the Tools that you have, some must cost a lot of Money. As others have noticed I too wondered about the Wires coming across the front of the Fascia Board. Thank you.
I’ve been shamed into fixing it on Monday Peter.
@@ChadwickModelRailway S--t happens........
Yes another Charlie episode dealing with something I am having problems with
I’m pleased as I’m here to help, regards Charlie
Enjoyed this video, Thanks for sharing the hobby with the rest of us.
Thanks Dave.
Well done Charlie another class act well explained enjoyed it ! John from Chichester.
Thanks John I’m so pleased that you found it interesting.
Charlie, another master class in DCC wiring! I've been using your techniques to complete all my connections, and it surely makes a difference in ease of troubleshooting. I still believe the Brother PT-E300VP printer is one of the best investments I've made - I know exactly where each wire begins and terminates! It is also comforting to hear you confess everything doesn't always magically work perfectly when you press the power button; we still have to chase down the defects - and there always seem to be some. Great video, Charlie; thanks again for another great lesson!
What a heartwarming comment Pat, you’re too kind.
Great video Charlie thanks for all the helpful info
You’re most welcome Nicholas, regards Charlie
Nice neat idea with the folding panel 👌
Thanks buddy.
Thank you for this great insight Charlie, I love how the wiring over the course of the video changed from a conundrum to a very clean and neat solution. Somehow you can make wiring in and of itself an interesting video to watch for half an hour, just marvellous. I want you wish you and the missus a great weekend ahead, and I hope the cough/sneeze will soon be gone.
Thanks Richy, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it and my cough is starting to disappear. But it’s very kind of you to say so, regards Charlie
Great explanation thank you as always
Your most welcome Samuel.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie I missed this episode a week earlier due to my phones technical difficulties. This is a learning experience as I'm struggling to rebuild a replacement layout. I see genius and a little comedy as the process was right but upside down. But that's okay this has happened to me with my stereo system hookups RCA PLUGS in the out put instead of the input. I know now on the hardware what to purchase next at the home center. Thank you I enjoy watching The Chadwick Model railroad well done. 👏🙂
Thanks Harold, you’re too kind, regards Charlie
Thanks again Charlie. I watched your very early DCC Wiring video some time ago when you first used the RS wirestripper and thought 'I must get one of those' and of course then did nothing. So TODAY, I finally ordered it from RS (365 in stock) - Yay !! (now they only have 364) :-) Love your videos. Keep it up. (And thanks for the Lenz shout-out). Haha. Keith
Nothing wrong with Lenz gear Keith.
Charlie, really enjoy your channel.. across the big pond in Canada!
Thanks Tony, I’m so pleased that you do.
Thanks Charlie, very helpful as always. Cheers Warren
Thanks Warren
Your videos are most instructive, particularly the ones covering complex systems. Are you going to add trackside signals to this part of your layout? I would like to see the planning and wiring of multiple trackside signals and what you use to control the signals - tortoise or other devices.
Yes I will Joseph, and I’ll be using a Digitrax signal controller called an SE8C. Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie. Thanks for sharing, regards, Chris
Thanks Chris, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate.
Nicely done as always. I wired my shelf layout with your advice and had a really nice time, those ferrules and terminal blocks are a godsend. Only downside is I hear « black to the back » every time I work on the layout but that’s a pitfall I’m willing to live with. Take care!
Ah, you went for “red to the rear”!
Great and interesting again Charlie! Thanks for sharing mate! Cheers Onno.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed my latest update Onno.
Great video!!! Keep it up, every time you do one about wiring it inspires me to wire my own!!👍👍
No time like the present EM.
Almost ready to start building - very very helpful information so thanks for all that. You asked for submission of track plans for comments and putting together for others to see but where should I submit the anyrail file?
Please email it to me at
chadwickmodelrailway@gmail.com
@@ChadwickModelRailway great - on it way .....
Thank you Charlie. I am completely new to DCC and have constructed a baseboard and am now track planning. I intend to use some form of block detection using a Digikeijs DR4088CS via a DR5000 controller. However I wondered if having set up all of the block control it can be 'turned off' if I wanted to play around 'outside of the blocks'. Probably a very dumb question but as I said, this is all new to me.
Yes, it will run perfectly well manually Stephen.
Maybe go for some spiral wrap for the looms to give more support and easy replacement of a duff cable post cable tying. Also a cheap rj-xx network cable tester could help testing those cables
I’ve got one on order sbv
“Only 1 wire at a time”! - I need to remember that next time I have a “rats nest”. You can be so inspiring- I wish I could get this sort of wiring result. Time to rip it all out and start over :) I want to add power zones so nows a good time to start again perhaps?
Planning is everything. Don’t do something that you might regret mate.
You should run a heavier gauge wire to the power in side of the block detection circuit. The power in side wiring to the block detector needs to supply the total current for all the loads on the connected blocks.
Yes you’re dead right Jonathan the power feed cables are not sorted yet it was just a basic distribution network. Regards Charlie
Very enjoyable video charlie, and some really nice explanation! I'm looking forward to seeing this area of your layout build up, good job and keep it up.
Thanks Ordy, regards Charlie.
Thankyou still thinking witch system to use again thankyou
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Mark.
Thanks for your video again Charlie 👍
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Steve.
Nice vid.
When I solder to track, I do it to the outside of the rails. If any ever come loose, I can resolder without having to lift up the track. The joints are pretty ugly, though.
There is always a downside Donald.
Your advice; 'buy good quality tools', does pay off. Also, like you, I don't buy a new one when the one I've got still does the job. My Solon 24W soldering iron was bought on my 15th birthday and still works perfectly today, more than 50 odd years later.
Once again I must admire your 'neat & tidy' wiring- try as I will, I just can't do it!
Thanks Brian, I’m so pleased that your trusty old one still performs well (perhaps unlike us).
Another fine one .Iam about to wire up my layout but mine is just the good old D.C . Added to that my new class 25 from Hattons arrived this week and a very fine model it is too fromHeljen
I did fancy one myself but it would put my old one to shame.
Nice explanation, its interesting to see all these options even though I'm not going down quite as complex route. I do wish I'd chosen different colour wires for my track feed as I have gone old school with point control and I'm using Peco surface mount motors that also use red and black wires. I didn't want to change colour going to my levers so I now have lots of red and black wires of two slightly different gauges though the point ones do have green running with them. It's way too late to change now but next time. All that said I find wire quite enjoyable.
Good for you Rob, I also find wiring quite therapeutic, strangely! Regards Charlie
Fascinating Charlie.
I watched it right to the end, even though I've absolutely no interest in DCC.
Thanks Peter, I’m pleased that you found it interesting.
Try get some "PCB spacers", they are fairly cheap and you will save having to try get the lengths right on plastic piping .
I shall check them out on eBay Chris thanks, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I'm another fan of your excellent videos and they are invaluable as I plan my first layout. I noticed your very clear cable labels but I am unable to find where I can buy them. Can you help please?
Hi Gordon, the printer and the labels are in the show more tab. Regards, Charlie
Evening Charlie. Really interesting video on DCC wiring 👍🏻
Thanks Stevie, regards Charlie
if you have to pick an obsession, being obsessive about running noise reduction is a very good one, nice to see the focus on it and may end up nicking that copydex idea, need to find a thinner trackbed for "N", the XPS flooring from your helix stuff looks spot on to cover large areas
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Dale. Regards Charlie
Great videos Charlie , I have been wondering which manufacturer of double slip you are using on your code 100 track layout as Peco only make a code 75 type in electro frog, Also have you ever tried a Peco insulfrog diamond crossing on the DCC layout.
Many thanks for your time in explaining things on your videos
Geoff
Yes I’ve tried them all. The diamond crossing caused electrical problems with Lima wheels and I have used code 75 electrofrog double slips with converter fishplates.
Hello Charlie. On the large black connection blocks, what connector do you use on the wires to fix them into the blocks. Thanks, Nigel
I tend to use ferules Nigel. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie, once again a excellent informative video, however could you do a talk on the components required to set up Block detection and how you have laid this out on your layout, as the Digitrax and other websites are baffling with all of the componentry available. It needs a communicator like yourself to put it across to the layman starter at this side of the hobby.
I will in time at Lizzie. However, could you check out the channel McKinley Railway. We have produced a block detection video on that channel. Regards Charlie
Great video mate! Sorry I haven't commented on some of your videos recently, I've been quite busy. It's good to be back!
Not a problem GS, it’s great to have you onboard.
Charlie, thank you for the video. I wondered what you use to label your cables?
The link to the printer is in the show more tab. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie, the links didn't show on my phone but do on my laptop.
I have done the same with my layout Charlie using the digital systems, it’s worth it. I take it are you going to do the next step with the system like I have and use computer control? Keep up the great work 😊
Yes Michelle but I’m torn between iTrain and train controller. At the current time. I do have train controller silver but it doesn’t do multiple screens!
hi charlie nice to see you adding your cables charlie will that B.D.L board work with the Z21 system i no that you have train controler silver if it is on a memory stick then you might be able to use traincontroller gold down load it see if it works give it a try derek let me no ok
Hi Derek, sorry I have no knowledge of the Z21.
I’d love to upgrade to TC Gold but it’s too expensive.
Charlie, at 16:13 you mentioned that you exclude your point feeders from your block detection network. I assume that is due, at least in part, to the need to use insulated joiners on the frog end of the track. Have you tried Peco's unifrog points that don't require insulated joiners, and if so, do you still find it preferable to exclude the points feeders from block detection? Paul
No Paul that’s not the reason. I never park trains across points it just seems to be an added burden wiring them in as well. James from DCC Train Automation also reckons that it’s not best practice. Regards Charlie
Thanks Charlie, regards Phil.
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Phil. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, another very interesting and useful video, thanks.
I thought I'd check out the brother printer but the Amazon link seems to go to a different printer!! Any chance you can have a look, I may be getting it wrong?!!
Yes I will fill. It should go to a brother printer rather large and orange in colour.
Nice neat job Charlie!
Thanks buddy.
Hi Charlie. On your recommendation I’ve purchased those terminal blocks you use to tidy up my wiring, and I noticed at around 15.26 when discussing them, you have the wires attached to something yellow (Ferrels?)…. what are these exactly please, and do I need a specific size (my knowledge of such things is very limited!). Thanks in advance 👍🏻🚂
Hi Brian, yes I use a ferrule crimping kit.
It is listed in my Amazon link in the show more tab. Regards Charlie
A question in regards to a Digitrax product, is the DS78V simply a double-sized DS64? Thank you and keep up the excellent videos. Harry
Sorry Harry but I’m unaware of the specs of this one. Regards Charlie
Great vid Charlie!
Thanks JP.
Great video Charlie as always, correct me if I'm wrong but is it not so when using Train Controller there is no need for 2 Blocks within a ramp down and stop detection Block Train Controller will Stop the Loco at the given point ?
Not quite true Gaz. TC will stop it after a given time, not distance. The second detector just makes it more accurate.
Regards Charlie
Love your videos. Just ordered the RS 382*2847..THANK YOU..What is the yellow piece you added to the end of the wire before you put into BDL 168? THANK YOU.
Hi Frank, I use Ferrules to ensure I get a good electrical contact. The details are in the “show more” tab.
@@ChadwickModelRailway THANK YOU
Hey Charlie, terrific video as always. I did want to ask, though, why you use the DS64 to control all of your Tortoise machines instead of the SE8C..? Or perhaps some combination of the two..?
Watching here from Canada, I rather enjoy the different varieties of motive power and rolling stock over the pond..!
Paul
It just seems easier to use the SE8C purely for signals.
Great video Charlie, can you possibly show how too wire 2 points to strike as one. As you had your points do this on this video, it would be could as I have tried RUclips and there is nothing. :) Tom
It’s quite straightforward Tom, you just wire both sets of points to the same terminals. And if they’re striking the wrong way around just reverse the wires on one of the points. With the equipment I use it is straightforward. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway thanks Charlie now I know what I am doing .
Hi Charlie, another most helpful video. what is the name of the board that connects to the Digitrax BDR 168? It makes for an easier wiring job for those of us not into soldering. John McD
Hi John, Google Acculites Breakout Board.
Great explanation Charlie, in your amazon store is one of those cutters for trimming track, if so which one? Can you also add the correct cable for making loconet cables to the Amazon store? cheers Onky
I shall certainly look into it mate.
Charlie--Others have said what I'm thinking, that your videos are terrific. I found this one particularly enlightening because I'm working on the wiring. You are well organized, and that is a goal we should all strive to reach.
What is the circuit board with the 3 DS-64 boxes?
I have a question about the detection blocks: You seem to be breaking them only on one of the rails--i.e., you installed an insulated joiner (fish plate) on one side, but not the other. My initial reaction is that that makes sense, but when I create districts, I break both rails.
Hi James the circuit board is a Digitrax B DL168.It detects 16 different zones, and you only need to supply one cable of a block to the detector. Hence I leave all the black cable runs intact. I don’t cut the black rails as it’s not required. However, I do not include any point work into the blocks. Regards Charlie
Hello Charlie, whilst I do not have any BLOCK DETECTION on my layout I nevertheless found your video interesting. If I ever build another layout I can take on board what you have done on your layout. Cheers Greg
Hi Greg, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video and perhaps in time you might find it useful. Regards Charlie.
Hey Charlie, why is there an isolated section of track used to brake trains? Why can’t the ‘slow down’ track right before the ‘brake’ track be used to slow and stop a train? Can something be programmed to slow down and stop a train in one block using time or another variable? I would guess that if a train slows down and stops in the same block, it would be more gradual and the wiring more simple. Thanks, Jack.
It is possible Jack but it is not always a reliable alternative. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks for the reply.
Good video keep posting videos updates up on layout
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it buddy.