From R & D

Hot Holiday Picks from Atlas Research & Development

Interesting accessories bring your layout to life, providing viewers with an exciting, “the more you look, the more you see” experience. Winter is the time when model railroaders traditionally refine and/or expand their layouts, so we’ve asked our experts in Research and Development to recommend their favorite new products to add that special “wow” factor to your miniature world.

HO Scale: Quantum Engineer™ Controller

(#325 Quantum Engineer™ Controller adds realistic sound to your layout!)

Rob Pisani, HO Product Development, selected our increasingly popular #325 Quantum Engineer™ Controller as his top holiday pick for ’07. Always eliciting attention and wide-eyed delight at our trade show booths, this must-have accessory provides audible action, adding to the fun of model railroading while elevating the enjoyment of each operating session.

The realism and authenticity of any model railroad is greatly enhanced by the sounds of operating steam or diesel engines, squealing brakes, horns, whistles and bells. Atlas, known for its relentless pursuit of maximum realism, offers this handy device for use with HO sound locomotives.

“The Quantum Engineer™ Controller was created to allow DC users to control all the QSI® Quantum System™ sound features previously available only to those with DCC-equipped layouts,” Rob said. “It allows you to access all the features of your Atlas HO Master™ Gold Series locomotives without special equipment or wiring. Set up is easy, as the Quantum Engineer™ Controller is simply wired between a standard DC power pack and the track. I highly recommend it.”

In addition to the horn and bell sounds, you can access different engine settings and effects such as number board lights, flange squeal dynamic brakes, blower/fans, reverse lights and more. The heightened realism afforded by the Quantum Engineer™ Controller benefits the modeler in many ways, including programming options, locomotive braking, shut-down and start-up procedures, verbal scale speed readout and more!

N Scale: Code 55 Through Plate Girder Bridge Kits

#2080 Single Through Plate Girder Bridge

Bridge the gap with this all-new model, announced in September 2007 and now expected to arrive in January 2008. It’s already generating excitement and orders from N Scale aficionados, and is the top pick for the season from Cory Rothlisberger, N Scale Product Development.

The Through Plate Girder Bridge is based on a common construction style of a bridge deck supported between two plate girders. This type of construction gives it the easily identifiable 'U'-shape. The construction depth on this type of bridge was much less than on other bridges, providing a minimal change of height while clearing terrain. It’s sure to add interest and versatility to your layout.

“Our new bridge is highly detailed and features prototypical bridge track, brown ties and nickel silver rail,” Cory says. “It assembles easily and comes in two sizes: Single Track, measuring 6" x 1-3/8", and Double Track, measuring 6" x 2-5/8". A Single Track Add-On Kit is also available, so you can repeat the five simple assembly instructions to add additional tracks based on your needs and desires.”

See more at www.atlasrr.com/trackmisc/nc55tpgbridge.htm.

O Scale: Atlas O Trainman® Structure Kits

#2009001 Engine House

Jim Weaver, Atlas O, LLC vice-president, says these new Trainman® structure kits are just the ticket to upgrading your layout. Easy to assemble, they can be used as is, or customized in your own unique way. Like all Trainman® products, they deliver high quality detail and workmanship with economical value and long-lasting durability. They arrived in October 2007 and quickly flew out the door to the delight and praise of consumers and the trade media. See them in hobby shops, on our website at http://www.atlastrainman.com/structures/tmostructures.htm

#2009002 Two-Story House

The Engine House, the largest of the new Trainman® building kits, fills an 11 1/2" x 27 1/2" footprint and has an interior length of 27". Two stalls with opening doors and realistic exhaust stacks are complimented by a movable office.

The Two Story House is reminiscent of many around the country whether rural, urban or suburban. With its detailed window shutters, shingled roof and functional wrap-around porch complete with charming decorative bracing, this 9 1/2" x 6 1/2" model offers limitless possibilities.

#2009003 Pedestrian Overpass

The Rural Station sits on a 9 3/4" x 5 1/8" footprint and features simulated shingles, brick detail and the familiar character of many different stations found on U.S. rail lines.

The Switch Tower mimics familiar two-story versions well known to real world locales and model railroad layouts. With windows on three sides of the upper floor and a door leading down a staircase to the first, O Scale aficionados are sure to find just the right spot for this basic, yet traditional enhancement, which has a footprint of 7 ¼ x 4 ¼”.

#2009004 Switch Tower

The Pedestrian Overpass is a functional yet versatile way to get your pedestrians from Point A to Point B safely. While designed to be glued together as shown on the packaging, the two sides can be used in various ways, depending on the limits of your imagination. It has a 6" clearance.