Re: GATS

["Ed Weltens" <eweltens@apcinc.com>]

A few thoughts:

1. Module height -  I think we need taller members.  :-)
Seriously, I think we should leave the height as is.  I think there are some legs that are 1/2" too long compared to the others, but I think we should leave it at the standard height.  We could have some steps for smaller kids to view the layout from, my only concern there it liability if someone fell off.  In general the closer to eye level the trains are running the better the perspective.  Right now I think we are at a height that children that are too short to see it well are still light enough for their parents to pick them up.  Josie is 4 and she was able to see it pretty well.  The wheelchair spectators I have seen seemed to have a good view.

2. Plexiglass - This would be a good thing.  The easiest way is to buy molding that has a slot in it for sliding it in.  I think we should probably make it 6" above the module surface so 8" pieces would work.   The only hard part is re-attaching the velcro to the molding so the curtains work.

3. Skyboards - I think we should leave them off the corners and the yard unless they are only 4".  We could also limit the depth of interior scenery modules for reaching over them.  18" is probably the max.  Any future scenery modules I build will probably be for the outside of the layout.  I may also lower them 2" so that they do not block the view of the trains as much and are easier to see for the kids.  we could also consider lowering the max height of scenery modules.

4. Module power - Whenever we connect power to the accessory lines we must be sure that one post is a ground post and not just another AC output post.  We may have to use variable power posts and just manually set the voltage.

Ed Weltens