Middle Earth Model Railway

Accessories requiring an electrical supply include buildings and street lighting, light signals and the coal mine (for winching trucks into the mine). Much of this is still under construction, although it is estimated that between 100 and 200 light bulbs will be installed across the layout when complete. It is intended that the bulbs will be grouped into networks so that they may be either all on, or switched on and off in groups.

The coal mine winch currently uses a 12 Volt DC motor which is either on or off, but a planned upgrade will enable variable speed control by linking it to the Hobbiton controller.

The light signals are controlled by switches attached to the point motors. This has two advantages: the signalling system is fully automated, and a green light on a signal indicates the relevant points are correctly positioned (if the point is not correctly lined up, the switch on the motor will not be triggered and the light will remain at red). Power is via the 5.5 Volt DC supply.

Michel Delving currently has six automatic light signals controlling the outward-bound trains from the platforms and sidings. In addition, the Grey Havens control panel has built-in lights to indicate the point positions, and an automatic light signal will be installed on the passenger platform.