i might be dumb...

[Summertrainz]

but how do the trains run even if the track is not finished?
should'nt be a complete circuit in order to run?
or am i missing something
probbably am because they do...
does it have something to do with the ac and dc electrics?

[Hunt]

You are missing the fact that an electric circuit is completed by the electrical components in the locomotive, no matter if it is a motor needing AC or DC power.

[r.cprmier]

Hunt an Summertrainz;

I have said it before, and I will so again.  One of the best tools for anyone engaged in this hobby within these parameters is going to be a book on how electricity works.  It does not have to go into anything other than possibly Ohm's law and the basic concepts, but at least one would have a working knowledge of the nature of it.

Based upon some of the questions/statements presented on this and other forums, a handbook would save a lot of extra work, misconceptions, etc; and possibly even some damaged componets due to "light shows" created by inadequate knowledge as applied to "hands on".

Rich

[GlennW]

No, you're not dumb. You're just a beginner.

Summertrainz, what you need is a good primer for your scale. I miss the books Bachmann, concor & Life Like used to give away with their trainsets.
You may need a subscription for Model Railroading or Railroad Model Craftsman. Both publishers have some good books you will find useful.

[Hunt]

Summertrainz,
I agree with Rich’s point, you and many others should take the time to research how electricity works and apply what you learn to model railroading.

Folks realize… not knowing Summertrainz’s education level; I kept my reply basic, possibly too simplistic.  But there are other sources to explain free electrons, electrical conductor, electrical circuit, motor load in an electric circuit, how an electric motor works, direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), transformer, model railroad power pack, etc, etc, etc.

If anyone thinks a more in-depth answer is required here to Summertrainz’s post … give it.

P.S. Summertrainz
I suggest when you are trying to gain knowledge, never use the phase, "I might be dumb."

[Jim Banner]

P.S. Summertrainz
I suggest when you are trying to gain knowledge, never use the phase, "I might be dumb."

The only dumb questions are the ones not asked.

[SteamGene]

Hey Jim - I have to differ.
"I'll answer any questions about Marc Antony's 'Oh pardon me' speech."
"Can I go to the bathroom?"

Gene

[kevin2083]

Hey Jim - I have to differ.
"I'll answer any questions about Marc Antony's 'Oh pardon me' speech."
"Can I go to the bathroom?"

Gene

Yes, you can go.

[duker1]

He does not know what he does not know!

Go to atlasrr.com and click on the Beginners tab for basic info. Right next to that is the Layouts tab. That will have a dropdown and click on Wiring. That will give you a primer to help get you started. They also have their current (yep) wiring books that you can order or pickup at LHS or online.
Also go to NMRA.org and scroll down to section on their 'Introduction to Model Railroading'. Again basics are taught.
Currentsolutions.com has a glossary in their Knowledge base tab that may be helpful.
Google/Yahoo search model railroad wiring and learn from that.

Duke....

[Summertrainz]

at the age of 2 it is uncommon to have a large attention span to do research
but i have done much research on how electricity works and the workings of ac dc and dcc
and their historys
i just like to ask the pro's first= who roam freely among this message board

i looked it up and i know now

[Summertrainz]

 
age of 12!
lol
that would be weird

[Guilford Guy]

I dunno, I'm 14. You need a better research attention span when you enter 8th grade. Oh boy, High School starts Thursday. Spelling and grammar may help as well. 

[SteamGene]

My answer would be "I have no idea if you can or not.  But you may not now."
GG, good luck with starting high school!  It is a whole new world!
Gene

[duker1]

Yeah!  SteamedGene Could be your English teacher.

He's too broke to pay attention.

Duke....

[Hoople]

Summertrainz, I was 12 2.5 weeks ago.(Yes I am 13 now. WOO!) If I can figure all this stuff out, you can too.