Operation is the running of trains like real railroads run them. Basically, you run freight cars from siding to siding, or yard to yard if you have them, and passenger cars to other cities. Some people get really serious, having 10 to 15 people over per session. A session usually represents a day (or night) of prototypical operation, and can last for 3 or more hours at a time!

Switchlist

Mainly, you start by making a list of all the industries on your layout. Then, list all the types of cars that ship these products. Next, write a list of all the commercial establishments in your world, and the types of cars that are delivered to them. Finally, you compile (and make another list) of these combined, so that it tells you where to switch which cars. You start by putting all the cars in their starter positions. Then pick up a branch or two, and make your way around the layout. As you go, pick up or drop off cars as your list says.

This is a simple adaptation of a basic operating session. Some people get really into it, pretending (no, believing), they're Casey Jones. Groups of people have special jobs in running the trains, and there even is a dispatcher. With large layouts, members often need headset radios to communicate. People will have shirts made for their operators, and some even require a period of engineer training.

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