On2 FreeMo Module Standard
Version 1.02.00
2004/12/15
This On2 module standard is built on the simplicity of the FreeMo module standards, adapted for On2. I have drawn information from many sources from the web, and I acknowledge this document could not have been created without using (plagiarizing) their information. Their website locations are included under the website listings.
1.0 Module
2.0 Track
5.0 Definitions
6.0 Websites
Revision history
Figure 1.1 End plate
Figure 2.1 Bridging Rail
Figure 3.1 Track power connection
Figure 3.2.1 DCC Control Bus
Figure 3.2.2 DCC Panel (optional)
Figure 3.3.1 DC Control Bus
Introduction
This On2 module standard is built on the simplicity of the FreeMo module standards, adapted for On2. I have drawn information from many sources from the web, and I acknowledge this document could not have been created without using (plagiarizing) their information. Their website locations are included under the website listings.
FreeMo does not specify the actual methods of module construction, which is left up to the individual builder. Only the module ends, track placement, track connection, module height, electrical requirements and basic scenery suggestions for uniformity are specified. Modules dimensions and shape are left to the imagination and artistic license of the module builder. There is no front or back designation for modules, so that they can be used orientated in any manner with other modules. For interoperability, the mandatory standards are to be followed.
Unlike FreeMo, which has standardized on DCC, the On2 FreeMo modules will support DCC and DC control.
Unless otherwise stated, dimensions listed are actual measurements, and NOT dimensional lumber sizes.
1.0 Module Construction
1.1 Mandatory requirements
Ends are to be 6 inches high by 24 inches wide. Ends shall be 3/4x6 plywood (birch plywood works well) or equivalent with an area to provide C-clamping to adjacent modules. To allow room for C-clamps, keep inner surface of endplate clear of obstructions (electrical terminal blocks, LocoNet connectors, etc.). Recommended clearance area is 2” high by 4” wide, centered at bottom edge of endplate inner surface.
Note: the 24” width includes any fascia board that you plan to use.
The module (set) shall have at least four legs and be stand-alone. Nominal height of railhead from the floor is 48 inches. Legs shall have adjustment of plus or minus 1 inch. The bottoms of the legs shall have rubber tip or equivalent floor protection.
Roadbed to be on 1/2 inch plywood or equivalent (foam tops are acceptable), braced to prevent sag or flexing.
Module end plates are to be parallel to each other. This ensures a series of modules will create a straight isle. A module does not have to be rectangular, with parallel end plates they can create a jog in the line of modules, the exception to parallel end plates will be if you are creating a corner module.
Modules may be used with spectators viewing from either side.
If building a corner module, angles are limited to 22 ½ °, 45 ° and 90 degrees.
Both sides of a module shall be skirted. The ends of the skirts will extend two inches past the module end plate to allow overlap from the skirting on an adjacent module. The bottom edge of the skirt shall be 1” off floor when the leg adjustments are set to provide a rail height of 48” off the floor. Final details of the skirt are yet to be determined. Investigation has to be conducted into low cost solutions that meet the flammability requirements that many venues have to follow.
1.2 Optional Recommendations
The module width between end plates is left to the discretion of the modeler. Consider 12 inches as the minimum width to allow sufficient scenery between the track and module edge to protect equipment during a derailment. Module end plates between permanently mated modules or module sets can be of a different width. Only the end plates between interchangeable modules with other modelers must meet the standard.
Module frame and surface should be constructed of dimensionally stable materials to ensure proper alignment with other modules under all possible environmental conditions. Avoid dimensional pine lumber. It has a tendency to warp and ‘cup’ throwing off track alignment. In its place, consider using materials such as plywood ripped into strips the equivalent size of dimensional lumber, other types of laminates, extruded foam sheets, etc See website listings for module construction suggestions. Remember, dimensions for end plate are actual and not dimensional wood sizes.
Each module shall be equipped with sufficient legs to be freestanding. A module must stand secure and level independent of other modules through the use of proper cross and angle bracing. Each leg must include vertical adjustment of +/- 1 inch minimum to compensate for uneven floors. This should provide an adjustable rail top height from the floor between 47” and 49”. See website listings for leg suggestions.
On2 will not support the use of modules with grades at this time. This concept is not fully developed with FreeMo as a standard and will be considered when it is warranted.
Cut handholds into endplates to assist transporting and positioning the module.
2.0 Track
2.1 Mandatory Requirements
Mainline track shall be code-83 nickel-silver flex or hand laid. Minimum radius is 42 inches (preference 49 inches) with at least 12 inches of straight track between reverse curves. Standard mainline rail color is Floquil Roof Brown or equivalent.
At the module ends track shall be centered on the 24 inch width (see fig 1). Track must be perpendicular to the end, also straight and level for 6 inches from each end of the module (see Fig 2.1). By ensuring 6” of straight track from each module, the 12” between reverse curves can be maintained. Note this track placement makes the ends of the module interchangeable.
Rail shall be cut off 1 inch away from module end; ties and ballast shall be continued to the module end for good appearance and matching with the adjacent module.
electrical (see Fig 3.1)
Figure 2.1 – Fitter rail
Ties will be scale 5”x5”x5’. Most two foot modelers have indicated that they want to model track with the ties on the ground in the dirt with no roadbed profile. See Fig 1, a flat roadbed profile has been specified for endplates, unlike the HO FreeMo specs.
Mainline turnouts shall be at least #7. Turnouts shall not rely on the points to power the frog. A mainline turnout would be defined as one where both the main track and the diverging track could be used as the mainline (as in passing sidings). Sidings off the main line where the mainline goes straight through the turnout could be smaller.
2.2 Optional Recommendations
Mainline track will be placed no closer than 6” from the track center-line to the side edge of a module. Yard or industrial spur tracks will be placed no closer than 4” from the track center-line to the side edge of a module.
Tracks placed closer than specified above to the side edge of a module will require the placement of an edge barrier along the side of the module. This is to minimize the potential of equipment accidentally hitting the floor. The edge barrier needs to be a minimum of 1” above the side edge of the module and can be made of clear plexiass to minimize it’s intrusiveness on the modules scenery. Also, building flats or land contours that slope up hill from the track to the module edge can achieve the same performance
Use Atlas code 83/100 joiners on fitter rails (their profile provides a surface for pushing into place).
Control and wring
As there was no consensus with active On2 modelers for using DC or DCC, the decision was to support both. This slightly complicates the wiring, but will allow either dual cab control in DC only operation, or the intermixing of DC and DCC in module setups, or finally DCC only.
DCC specs will call for the Digitrax system to be supported.
The DC system to be used will be left for the individual (or groups) that get together.
3.1 Track Wiring Mandatory
Two Track (Power) Buses labelled A and B will be provided with each module.
Each module (or set of modules) will require one DPDT (double pole double throw) switch, with center OFF position. Discussion point, should we come up with an arrangement for two switches, to maintain the usability of either side of the module? (I think at a minimum, it will require the use of a relay.) For DC, this can be used as the cab selection, whether Track (Power) Bus A or B is selected. The switch in the up position, will select Track (Power) Bus A, which will be designated as the DCC system in a mixed DC/DCC setup. The colors were selected for clarity in the drawing, and do not necessarily have to be used for your module (although it would make it easier to troubleshoot wiring problems).
See the drawing below. Note the connectors are wired differently at either end. A good way to verify the pigtails are correct is: when facing the module endplate the male pin connects to the right-hand rail. Mark the connector appropriately as A or B.
Fig: 3.1 Track Power connections
All Track (Power) Bus wire shall be minimum #16 (preferred #14) gauge or larger. Feeder wire can be of #24 gauge or heavier. For reliable operation, it is recommended that each individual piece of rail have a direct connection to the track power bus. DO NOT rely on the rail joiners to carry the power.
Turnouts shall not rely on points to power frog.
3.2 DCC Wiring
3.2.1 DCC Bus wiring - Mandatory
A straight through bus using RJ12 (6p6c, 6 pins) connectors will be used. The cable will run the length of your module with enough length to reach the adjacent module. Each module will also provide one coupler (straight thru, pin 1 to 1) to connect from one module to another. Radio Shack model m279-423 (http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=279-423)
is a recommendation for the coupler. No Digitrax control panel will be required on your module for operation. DCC users will tap into the bus were required.
3.2.2DCC Control Panel – Optional
It is expected that if you are planning to run Digitrax, that you will supply your own system and connection point through your module. You may be the only member of the group planning to run DCC at a show.
The following diagram shows one example of how a Digitrax UP3 panel could be added to a module.
Figure 3.2.2 UP3 Module Wiring
Diagram shows all possible connections in a Digitrax setup, and not necessarily required.
3.2.3 Optional Programming Track
No provisioning for programming track will be specified for modules.
Suggest you bring a piece of test track for emergency programming. There is a strong possibility of duplicate locomotive numbers.
3.3 DC Wiring
3. 3.1 DC Bus Wiring - Mandatory
A straight through bus using RJ45 (8 pins) connectors will be used. Each module will provide one coupler (straight thru, pin 1 to 1) to connect from one module to another. Radio Shack model 279-444 (http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=279-444)
is a recommendation for the coupler. Note, a straight through Etherent connector (with all eight wires) will work in this application. No DC control panel will be required on module.
Note: by using different connectors for the DC and DCC control bus, there should be not confusion when hooking them up.
3. 3.2 DC Control Panel - Optional
It is expected that if you are planning to run DC, that you will supply your own system and connection point through your module. You may be the only member of the group planning to run DC at a show.
No one to this point has stepped forward to suggest a panel connection they would like to use. A common connector would allow for creating an adapter cable to plug your hand held into the panel.
3.4 Optional recommendations
Use a 4 (or more) position barrier strip at each end under the module for wire hook-up. Since we are developing the standards, may be a good idea to install as a transition point to the connectors, in the event wiring standard changes later on.
Any switches located on modules should be recessed to prevent accidental operation. See example at http://www.free-mo.org/issues/2001/fm4v7.html
Accessory power is left to the individual module needs. Consideration should be given to providing 110Vac “accessory power bus” connection to reduce the number of power outlets (extension cords) that will be required.
Hint about using Straight Through cables using RJ connectors
3.0 Scenery
4.1 Mandatory standard
Scenery at the On2 Free-Mo standard end(s) shall have a flat profile. A module should not only have universal ends in a physical and electrical sense, but also in a scenic sense as well. Having a scenic element that abruptly ends at one module end, like a mountain, river, or road, detracts from the ‘one layout’ scenic ideal. Remember, this applies to the universal module end; on an internal interface between two sections of one ‘module’, these requirements do not apply. Most groups recommend that the flat scenery profile should continue for 6 inches into the module.
General module fascia color shall be Q160D Grand Canyon Brown or similar.
Mainline shall be ballasted Woodland Scenics Fine Light Gray or equivalent, and some form of scenery to blend the first few inches of the module from the endplate to blend scenery from one module to another.
4.2 Optional recommendation
Removable structures should be placed on module mounted foundations that allow the scenery to extend completely up to the foundation.
The specified scenery profile at the module end is flat as shown in Figure 1. The scenery profile within the module can vary as dictated by the effect the modeler is attempting to achieve. Transitions between the flat module end profile and mid-module profiles must be designed to provide a smooth flowing and realistic transition.
For a group of module sections that comprise one module, only the exterior ends that mate with other modules are required to follow the end profile. The interior individual section connections can then follow whatever profile desired to create the scene.
These definitions are provided to establish a common basis of understanding of the following standards.
Accessory Power Bus: The continuous two wire bus powering electrical accessories such as turnout motors, structure lighting, animation, etc.
DC: Direct Control through convention throttle/power pack.
DC Control Bus
DC Control Panel
DCC: Digital command control
DCC Control Bus
DCC Control Panel
Double Track: Parallel track that allows continuous operation of trains in opposing directions.
Endplate: The specified end surface of a module that joins with an adjacent module.
Fitter rails: The 2” long removable rails and joiners used to bridge the joints between adjacent modules or sections.
Loconet Bus: The continuous six-wire bus carrying DCC information among the DigiTrax brand DCC system components such as throttles, boosters, radio receivers, etc.
Module (Traditional): Unit of a portable layout that is of a fixed dimension, typically 2X4, 6 or 8, that features multiple tracks mainlines. Portable layout is constructed with at least four identical 90° corner modules to create a continuous loop of track.
Module (Free-mo): Unit of a portable layout that has a common endplate, track connections and electrical connections to mate to other units and features a single track mainline. Dimensions are not fixed and allow for a unit of any width, length or geometric shape. Portable layout is constructed to provide a point-to-point, point to loop or loop-to-loop meandering main line. A module may consist of multiple subsections.
Pigtail: Connector/wire assemblies used to connect any of the electrical busses together between modules.
Passing Siding: Parallel track that allows one train to overtake and pass a second train. Length is sufficient to hold entire train. Located along single-track main lines to facilitate passing.
Run-around Siding: Parallel track that allows motive power to run-around a cut of cars to switch a facing point spur. Length is not sufficient to hold an entire train. Located in industrial areas to facilitate switching operations.
Single Track: Single track that allows continuous operation of trains in one direction. Combined with multiple passing sidings, intermittent operation of trains in opposing directions is possible.
Section: A part of a larger Module. Used in conjunction with other sections and assembled in the same configuration to create that module. Conforms to end profile, track and electrical connections only on the ends that mate with other independent modules. Typical examples include a long yard, passing siding or turn back loop constructed of multiple sections that only mate together in one configuration.
Track (Power) Bus: two wire bus feeding power to the track (to be 16 -14 AWG wire), in On2 FreeMo connected to Track (Power) Bus A or B through DPDT Center OFF Toggle switch
Track (Power) Bus A: The continuous two wire bus feeding power to module for DC throttle A or DCC commands to the track (to be 16 -14 AWG wire)
Track (Power) Bus B: The continuous two wire bus feeding power to module for DC throttle B (to be 16 -14 AWG wire)
Yahoo group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Free-mo/
Free-Mo resource site by Chris Palomarez http://www.free-mo.org/issues.html
Slaughter guide http://www.mindspring.com/~rslau/ngm/freemo/gentleguide.pdf
Northern Cal guidelines http://www.geocities.com/NorCalFreemo/guidelines.pdf
Calgary Free-mo module specs http://calfreemo.millarwebdesign.com/standards/stdintro.htm
Free-Mo 1Design/Construction http://www.free-mo.org/issues/1996/fm5v2.html#Your_First_Free-Mo_1
More Module Plans 45 degrees http://www.free-mo.org/issues/1997/fm1v3.html#More_Module_Plans
Module Set-up Benefits 45 degrees http://www.free-mo.org/issues/1997/fm2v3.html#Module_Setup_Benefits
Free-Mo Benchwork http://www.free-mo.org/issues/1997/fm5v3.html#Free-Mo_Benchwork
Track termination plate http://www.free-mo.org/issues/1999/fm2v5.html#End_Plate_Information
Mini-mo & double sided http://www.free-mo.org/issues/2003/fm1v9.html#Fringe_Modular_Compliance
Easement Design on Shandin loop http://www.free-mo.org/issues/2002/fm2v8.html#Easement_Design_on_Shandin
N Calif http://www.free-mo.org/grafx/modulethumbs/NCF/
San Luis Obispo http://www.free-mo.org/grafx/modulethumbs/SLOMO/
Central Arizona http://www.free-mo.org/grafx/modulethumbs/CAZF/
Bob Schrempp's loop http://www.trainweb.org/freemoslo/Modules/Bob_Schrempp/Bob-Schrempp's-ho-freemo-modules.htm
jig tool to build modules with angles (45 & 22.5 degrees)
http://www.trainweb.org/freemoslo/Modules/Tips-and-Techniques/module_curve_tool_15_august_200.htm
Troughton Not another module article folding ABS legs (scroll down for legs) http://www.gatewaynmra.org/articles/rpo-4-3.htm#troughton
Free-Mo site article on folding legs 1x2 using LeeValley leg brackets by the Arizona RR Society
http://www.free-mo.org/issues/2001/fm2v7.html#Free-mo_Folding_Legs
Free-Mo site article on ABS legs by Robert Moore http://www.freemo.org/issues/2001/fm5v7.html#ABS_Legs_for_Modules
Northern Cal leg design 2x2 using Lee Valley leg brackets http://www.geocities.com/NorCalFreemo/guidelines.pdf
Calgary Free-Mo using 2x2 leg pockets (Scroll down) http://calfreemo.millarwebdesign.com/standards/stdintro.htm
creating easements for curves http://www.trains.com/Content/Dynamic/Articles/000/000/001/647dsuww.asp
mounting of recessed switches http://www.free-mo.org/issues/2001/fm4v7.html
easy flush mounted switches http://www.trainweb.org/freemoslo/Modules/Tips-and-Techniques/easy_flush_mounted_turnout_contr.htm
2004/11/24 1.02.00 Changes to Dc and DCC control Bus, track wiring changed, 4 wire connector eliminated
2004/10/8 First release