The Environment
The good new is that I have enough room – well, if there is something like “enough room” – as I can use some space in our garage. It is five by two metres large and, as it is in the garage, I will have all the tools I need at hand. The bad news, on the other hand, is that the garage is not heated – and therefore might be a bit damp, especially in winter. Let’s see what we can do about that.
The Scale
Having 10 square metres sounds big but choosing the right scale will help to optimally utilise the space. “N” seems to be the best when dealing with confined space. However, I prefer “HO”. Firstly, because the models have more detail and second easier to handle. And because I already have some stuff (rails, signals, engines, carriages, etc.) the decision was easy. This, of course means that I will also stick with using Märklin’s “third rail” electricity system (very much like the ones used by trains here in the southeast of England).
Analogue or Digital
One decision made – and the next is coming up fast: Analogue or digital train operation. The decision fell, again, because of the material I already have – which is 20 years of age. Back then the word “digital” was hardly known. Moreover, to upgrade to digital systems is always possible at a later point in time.
Epoch
Finally, the last decision for now. What time to model? My first recollections of railroads were when my grandmother boarded trains running from Hamburg into East Germany in the early 70ies. I still vividly remember the steam locomotives letting of steam in loud and hot bursts and the huge wheels. So, this is the time it has to be: Epoch III (the official definition of this time period is provided here; please note, it’s in German) with its heavy steam engines running in parallel with early diesel and electric locomotives. That period just offers the most variety.