So, by the end of 2009, the train layout was fundamentally complete but also fundamentally boring. So I decided to set two goals: (1) completely computerize the train layout while (2) spending as little money as possible.
Because I want to do this cheaply I decided to do in stages, one stage per year. Here are the goals for the 2010 stage:
- Finish the scenery.
- This means adding a few more buildings and an ice skating pond. I already have the kits for the buildings and a box of goop that promises to look just like water when it's done.
- Add realistic lighting to all the houses
- In other words, I don't want the layout to glow like a UFO was landing, and I don't want the lights to blink on and off in sequence, I want the light in each house to turn on and off independently of the others.
- Add some simple sound effects.
- Whenever the trolley stops in front of the train station, play "Jingle Bells". Not when it passes, mind you - it has to stop for at least two full seconds.
- Bonus Goal
- Allow the trolley to be controlled by the micro-controller.
So, how do I get there, and as cheaply as possible, when I haven't tried to build anything electronic since 1979? I'm gonna use one of these.
Next post will discuss how the layout will have to change to make this possible.