New member looking for advice

[PhilC]

Morning all
I'm a new member and new to modelling too.  I have a question about controllers and I'm not sure where on the forum to look. Perhaps someone can help please?
Anyway, my question is this: I want to use a DC controller to run a simple layout, but am baffled about which controller to choose (must have additional outputs for points etc) - where can I get some advice and help please?
Many thanks to you all

[Newportnobby]

Hi Phil, and welcome aboard

It would help you greatly to have a look at the Controller Review section...................
http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?board=82.0

I'd just say for DC there are 2 predominant controllers - Gaugemaster and Morley.
The Gaugemasters have a lifetime guarantee and the Morleys have a 5 year one.
However, my preference is the Morley version as it comes with built in CDU* for firing point motors and also a nifty hand held controller with a decent length lead.

* Capacitor Discharge Unit

[Caz]

Welcome to the friendly forum Phil, as you´ve already seen the members on here are only too willing to help whenever they can.   I´m DCC so can´t help out much with DC controllers but it looks like you´ve already received quite a bit of useful info.

[Railwaygun]

Don't forget the DCC rgreads!

http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?board=8.0

Im a Z21 / Unitrack man personally, worth a look if you want to control your trains using a Tablet/Smartphone as a throttle. However not to everyone's taste!

[port perran]

I run DC and find the Gaugemaster controllers to be excellent.
Compact and light, they can be fixed down but are equally at home being hand held.

[D1042 Western Princess]

Hello and welcome, Phil. 

As 'Only Me' said, when choosing a controller make sure that it's suitable for N Gauge motors; any reputable model railway shop will make certain for you but it will (should) say something on the box or casing about 'suitable for N Gauge' motors. If it doesn't mention N Gauge then it's probably best avoided, to be honest.
Personally I use a Gaugemaster panel controller with the 12v supply from an old (1970s) Clipper from H&M.

Remember, on this site there are NO 'stupid questions' so ask away.
Best wishes,
Greg.

[Geoff]

Morning all
I'm a new member and new to modelling too.  I have a question about controllers and I'm not sure where on the forum to look. Perhaps someone can help please?
Anyway, my question is this: I want to use a DC controller to run a simple layout, but am baffled about which controller to choose (must have additional outputs for points etc) - where can I get some advice and help please?
Many thanks to you all

Hi Phil C and welcome to the forum, you state in your post that you are looking for a controller that is DC and you are looking at controlling your Points, if you go down the KATO route with your track and controller then the point controls just clip on the side of the controller, KATO points come with the motor already installed and a nice length of wire with plug attached to snap into the point switches, Kato keep things simple to get you up a running quickly.

This set comes with a passing loop and has the Controller and Switches in the pack this is a great starter pack and all you need to do is add loco and rolling stock.

http://www.traintrax.co.uk/20851-basic-oval-with-passing-loop-controller-p-397.html 

[Bealman]

G'day from Australia, Phil, and welcome to the NGF!