What is N Scale and NTRAK?
What is N Scale?
“N” Scale model trains get
their name from the rails they run on, which are spaced Nine
millimeters apart. They are about half the size of the more common “H.O.”
scale model trains, and only a quarter of the size of the Lionel type.
The smaller N Scale trains
allow greater amounts of scenery to be created for a more true-to-life look.
Smaller, more portable layouts
are easily created with N Scale, and much longer trains are possible than in
most other scales.
What is
NTRAK?
NTRAK is an international
grass roots association of model railroaders which has created a set of
standards that anyone may use to build N Scale “modules”, or layout
sections. These sections join together to form large portable layouts like
the record-breaking layout that will be at the Dulles Expo on August 7 and
8, 2004. They also connect together with other folks who follow the NTRAK
Standard the world over. The modular layouts have the flexibility to fit
into areas of different size and shape, from warehouses to small bedrooms.
Since one builds only a small section, even those who live in townhouses or
apartments can enjoy model railroading.
NTRAK layouts offer close up
viewing, correctly proportioned scenery, and maximum train action. NTRAK
layouts allow long trains of 50, 60 or even 100 cars! The NTRAK Standards
are available from the national NTRAK organization in the “Module How-To
Book.” Copies of these standards are available at the show.
What are NTRAK Modules?
NTRAK Modules are tables that "C" clamp together to form large N Scale train layouts. The basic module is two feet wide, four feet long, and 40" high. There are adjustment bolts in the legs with a two inch adjustment range. The three tracks are common to all modules and the same electrical connectors are used on all modules. This makes setting up layouts a quick job. There are optional sizes and track locations to give a great deal of flexibility to the system.
While designed for large public display layouts, the NTRAK modules are being used for home layouts and for club layouts as well. For the modeler, the NTRAK modules offer a number of advantages over a fixed layout. We are such a mobile society; the modules make it very easy to move a layout from one home to the next without destroying all the work that went into it. Our smaller homes, apartments, and mobile homes all lend themselves to N Scale layouts. Persons who want to run longer trains have the opportunity to take a module to one of the many NTRAK meets during the year and
to be part of a large layout. There, they can run their longer trains and meet other N Scale modelers.
Northern Virginia NTRAK is a non-profit
corporation whose purpose is to educate the public about Railroads and Model
Railroading, Railroad History and Safety, and to promote the hobby of
N-Scale Model Railroading. They are an IRS approved 501-C-3
Educational Organization. Formed in 1991, N.V.NTRAK has the distinction of
being the largest N-Scale Model Railroad club in the world and presently has
over 90 members from throughout the Metropolitan Washington DC area. In
1996, the group held the record for the largest Model Railroad layout of all
time, soon to be overtaken by the Dulles Expo Layout, which will set a new
record with over 450 modular pieces making up a layout of over SIXTY N-scale
miles in length.
Members of NVNTRAK range from beginners to Master Model Railroaders and are
skilled at carpentry, electronics and scenery construction. Member’s
interests include railroad operations, history and safety, writing and
photography, as well as model building. The members learn from each other,
and provide new members with assistance in layout operations and module
construction at regular meetings, workshops and public exhibits. Members
also participate in a wide variety of other activities including field trips
to observe railroad operations, visit railroad museums and have fun while
learning.
Throughout the year, the organization sets up at railroad shows and shopping
malls throughout the Metropolitan area. The layouts are flexible and their
modular nature allows the layout to be tailored to fit the available space.
These setups allow members to run realistic-length trains over long
stretches of varied scenery, something that is not usually possible on home
layouts.
NVNTRAK membership is open to all persons 16 years old who are interested in
the hobby of N-Scale Model Railroading. Dues are $45 per year for a
“family” membership, which includes spouses and children under 16. Our
informative monthly newsletter contains news about club setups, area model
railroad events, and interesting railroad-related articles. It is available
to non-members for a $20 contribution.
Members hail from Northern Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.
Regular meetings are held on the first and third Sundays of the month.
If you want some more information about us,
please feel free to contact our Membership Committee. They are (and can be
contacted by email): Steve
Jackson Treasurer
Join us for chances to learn more about
railroads and model railroading, interesting activities, long trains and
lots of fun and fellowship!
|
