The control panel is approximately 4` long by 15" wide.

The diagram for the fiddle yard is already drawn with point change contacts fitted appropriately, and when connected up it works very well. Ample room remains on top for the layout diagram.There are two CDU`s, - one for the fiddle yard and one for the layout.

In the February 1984 issue of The Loco Modeller, Gaugemaster advertised their 100M controller in kit form. I purchased one, built it and found that it performed very well with N Gauge locos, and against other controllers that were available at the time. Eventually I designed and built a pcb with three of the 100M on it, I also included a thermal cutout on each one.The original kit is still in use on my test track in the den, and is also very good with OO gauge.The gang of three controllers have worked well over the years on other layouts that I`ve built

On this layout, two of the controllers work the main lines, whilst the other is connected in such a way that it can be used to run the loco sheds and goods yard, or the fiddle yard at the throw of a switch.This one also has a Relco fitted which can be used as required when running.

This 100M kit was to be `the electronic bug` that bit deeply, as I had not had any knowledge of electronics prior to this.

I was very fortunate when a new neighbour John Glover moved in nearby. He was an Electronics Engineer. We became close friends, he became my mentor, and he spent hours showing, explaining and telling me about the basics of electronics.
He helped me a lot. Sadly John passed away about a year ago, I lost a brilliant friend and teacher.

Whilst using vero board is fairly easy, I had aspirations to build my own. In an electronics magazine I saw a second hand UV box advertised for sale. I bought it, but on arrival by post it was all smashed to bits. A claim on the GPO resulted in a new one from Maplins arriving. PCB production was under way.

Having got to this stage, how would I design the PCB. Using the usual tape and various markings? I found it tedious.

I had an Amiga computer. One day our son rang (being aware of my newly gained electronic prowess). He had found a "Demo" floppy called Electrocad PCB design software. It was just what I wanted. I contacted the designer, and he modified it to suit my needs. Within a couple of weeks I felt like ringing RS and Maplins to see if they could cope with my production!

To be serious, I progressed to designing and producing my own pcb`s.

Now having a PC, I have a pcb design programme by `Labcenter`. It is uncomplicated - it must be for my use.

Two or three years ago I became a member of MERG (Model Electronics Railway Group). Best thing I ever did. Whilst a great deal goes over my head, I can request assistance, and it is freely and respectfully given by any one of the members. My aim in the not too distant future is to have a small 2mm.layout with a DCC fitted loco running on it.

to be continued..............