The Layout (Phase 1)

How the layout will be?

It will be an oval layout. Build completely using Kato Unitrack.

The diagram above was drawn using a free layout drawing programme called XtrackCad. The actual developer has closed the development of this programme and make it as open source. If anyone want to take over the project, do visit the site for more info.

Back to the layout.

I will use Kato Unitrack as stated above. For straight sections, Straight track 248mm will be used. And for the curve, Curve track 45 degrees with radius 282 will be used.

I wanted to start with small layout and expend the layout when I have more time.

Next: Shopping.

What scale?

So, I explained the layout that I want to build.

The next step: what scale?

Since I need a really small layout, these 3 scales are prefectly match my needs. They are:

• N scale
• Z scale
• T scale

N scale

1/150 or 1/160. Not too small, not too big. Have many variation in train model, building, an more. Even Gundam model (HG grade) is near n scale (it's 1/144).

Z scale

1/220. The market are not small. But it's hard to do some scarthbuilt.

T scale

1:450. The smallest scale in market. The layout can be put almost anywhere. Even on the car dashboard!



.So, between these 3, I choose to work on N Scale. Why? I already some n scale trains in my collections. I also have a Z scale train. But Z scale is too small to work with. Same as the T scale. I've seen a layout at a shop here. It is really a piece of engineering.

Another reason why I choose N scale. Most magazine for my readings are about n scale. So, I get some image what will I face when building my own layout.

See you next time!

More info on layout

Here what I want for my layout.

I have very tight situation. Little time, space and money.

So, I think a layout with below criteria

-easy to built.
-simple
-small when operating and keeping.
-expandable for extra fun.

For that I will work on n scale (this blog description updated).

I will post more about the layout which I already started next time.