Command Station and Booster Installed

As you can see in the photo, the DCS100 command station and the DB210 booster, with their associated power supplies, have been installed. The PM74 has also been installed with the booster. The cable from the PS2012E to the DB210 shown has been replaced by a newly built cable capable of delivering 8 amps. The Y cable shown could only provide 5 amps. After the relocation (and the new cable), I tested the system and all works perfectly. Whew!

The PM74 usage has changed from what I previously thought. It now will power the Albany Yard, the turntable, and the staging. The other PM74/DB210 will power the logging, Yaquina Bay, and Mill City. This allows me to continue the installation of any trackage on the lower level that would be installed earlier. Since the other booster will be under Yaquina Bay, it will be installed later after the second level is installed.

I used wood filler putty to level the top of the elevated track. I think I will need a second coat as I didn't remove all of the unevenness with the first coat. After finishing that, I will use a sanding block to smooth it.

I went through the wiring after installing the electronics in their final locations and removed a lot of the slack that was present. I usually used a screwed-on pad with a zip tie to secure the wire in some places while retaining the clips in most other locations. I also re-routed the Loconet cables and any extension cords to be neater.

I've also built the additional backdrop support I needed and have marked the planned locations for final installation. I will probably complete that in the next month. I won't be able to install the backdrop until spring, after I've painted it. I also cut additional supports for the track, but I need to install the second level before its final location can be defined.

I went through the bridges that I had on my previous layout, and while most can't be used, I do have a trestle bridge that is slightly curved, and if extended, would be perfect for the bridge in the elevated track over the river. I need to research the best way to cut the masonite and install the bridge because it will need to be done before I install the track.

I've been doing some more thinking about the best way to install scenery over the area between the elevated track and the backdrop. I'm going to add some cross-pieces to the track risers to support the front edge and attach some wood pieces to the backdrop to support the back edge. I'll try to better design the terrain before I proceed, however.