Modular Standards
NTRAKStarted in 1973, NTRAK is the original N-Scale modular standard. NTRAK has a three track mainline common to all modules. Modules are 40" high, and the basic module is 2ft x 4ft. oNeTRAKoNeTRAK is an off-shoot of NTRAK, creating an NTRAK compatible branch-line specification that extends the NTRAK Red Line. Modules are 40" high, with a single mainline common track. NCATAnother off-shoot of NTRAK, NCAT is primarily a standard for adding catenary. | T-TRAKT-TRAK was first seen in 2000, and has grown to be one of the most popular N-Scale modular standard. T-TRAK has a two track mainline common to all modules. Modules are built to be only 2.75" tall, and placed on tables. Modules are built in lengths of 310mm. T-1-TRAKT-1-TRAK is a variation on T-TRAK that uses only one of the two mainlines. The modules are built using the same dimensions, but only use the Red or the Yellow line. Similar to oNeTRAK, it can be used to create a single-track branchline off of a standard T-TRAK module. |
BendtrakBendTrack was created in 1986 and uses "balloon modules" to turn the double track mainline around to the opposite side of the module. BendTrack modules are 50” height, and can be of any length. ModuTRAKModuTRAK is a Chicago area group of modelers who have developed their own. The specifications call for double track, code 55, run flush to the end of the module. Module are 53" height, and the basic module is 18" by 60". | Free-moNStarted in 2002, Free-moN is the newest of the N-Scale modular standards. It has a single track mainline that runs down the center of all modules. Modules are 50" high, and can be any dimension, encouraging a more free-flowing layout design. |
Each of these standards have its advantages and disadvantages. For example, not having backdrops makes photography a challenge along with maintaining the illusion of the magical model railroad world. Height can be a hot topic, with T-TRAK at child’s eye level very enticing to youngsters while some model railroaders prefers the 50” height to foster the concept of railfanning as the train passes through the modules. Requiring DCC simplifies wiring and electronics such as signaling and detection but can disenfranchise the beginning model railroader or long time modeler who wants to run older equipment that does not readily lend itself to conversion.
Regardless of which standard is your favorite, NRail will continue to promote all N scale module railroading. Comments and observations are always welcomed and can be directed to info@NRail.org.