Although McKinley is a technologically complex railway, the tools used by operators are intuitive, consistent, and designed to make running the layout as smooth as possible. New team members are always trained and supported, so there’s no need to worry about being thrown in at the deep end.
The Essentials
Most of McKinley’s seven locations are equipped in a similar way, which makes it easier for operators to move between them.
1. The Throttle (Handheld Controller)
At the heart of the system is the Digitrax DT500 throttle, used to control locomotives. While not everyone’s favourite in terms of design, it’s reliable and performs well with our DCC system. You’ll only need to learn about 6–8 buttons to operate trains effectively — selecting a loco, and controlling speed and direction. After some practice, you’ll be ready for more advanced tasks.
2. Custom Control Panels
Above each location, you’ll find a large, clearly laid out control panel for setting points and routes. These panels are tailored to their location but follow a consistent design across the layout, so once you’ve used one, others will feel familiar. Mastering a new location is more about learning the traffic and geography than adjusting to new tools.
3. Freight/Yard Manager Screens
These show a digital schematic of each station or yard, including all the rolling stock in that area. They’re fed by RFID sensors that track the exact position of every wagon and coach. The screen tells operators where to move stock, which trains need assembling, and what’s due to depart soon. They’re a vital guide to what’s happening on the ground.
4. Station Manager iPads
Each station manager has an iPad showing upcoming arrivals and departures (usually the next 60 minutes). It also shows which platform or track is being used for each service — such as platforms, goods tracks, or engine shed lines. This is a planning tool that helps the manager coordinate activity and maintain timetable accuracy.
Central Control Desk
At the heart of McKinley is the control desk, where two key team members use computers to oversee and drive the wider railway.
District Controller
The district controller has a single screen displaying all seven locations and monitors their progress against the timetable. He isn’t concerned with how specific trains are assembled — his focus is on keeping the whole railway flowing and spotting bottlenecks before they cause delays.
Operations Manager
Sitting next to him, the ops manager uses four screens running TrainController software to manage computer-driven trains. An additional screen lists all the services the software should be handling. When a station manager confirms a train is ready, the ops manager programs it into TrainController and starts its automated journey. He typically oversees around 12 active trains at once.
These tools — throttle, control panel, yard manager screen, iPad, and the central control system — are what keep McKinley running smoothly. While the underlying technology is sophisticated, the user experience is designed to be simple and effective, ensuring operators can focus on running an enjoyable and realistic railway.