I have an hour drive to work, which for me is a dangerous thing, because it gives me a lot of time for my mind to wander. What I’m now thinking is that layout(s) should be built as quickly and easily and cheaply and nicely as possible. At the same time, portability is a primary goal.

This morning’s thoughts are:

• That there are three sections to build 30″x60″ layout. (my first N-gauge layout was this size, and I think it would be a good size for HOn30, too).
• Should allow reasonable operation as well as “roundy-round”
• Operations for two
• 360 degree viewing
• Each section is about 20″x30″ and is built into a “brief case” that holds/protects/carries the layout and has a small drawer or drawers for supplies such as the trains, wire connections, tools, other loose bits. EVERYTHING necessary should be able to fit into the layout cases (except, possibly, DCC system*).
• Height of cases is limited such that the cases can fit across the back of a 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring and still have room for camera or overnight bags and other stuff, preferably without folding down the back seats.
• Rolling stock not limited to MinitrainS offerings. Should be little 4- or 8-wheel boxcars, flats and gons, and little passenger cars, too.
• Setup should involve next to nothing – put cases on table, remove lids, click together, play trains.
• Structures, scenery items live on the layout.
• Structures mostly card stock or other quick/easy/cheap bashes.
• Construction concurrent with On30 layout.
• Track could be simple as Atlas N-Gauge snap track (with joints soldered) with most of the ties buried.
• Except for cases, all foam construction

So, with all those thoughts to chew on, I leave you to your morning coffee…