Various Bits and Pieces

1. I have received my BitScope Micro, and it works quite well. And have now received the dual channel BNC adapter, which will allow me to use my probe. 
2. I have received a DCC chipped class 08 shunting locomotive from CR Signals.
3. I have received the SPROG II from DCCconcepts
4. I have now (09/01/2015) received a Princess Coronation "Duchess of Norfolk" in BR Express Blue (GF 372-186)

I have tested my class 08 locomotive with the SPROG II and they both worked.

Class 08 shunter controlled by JMRI on mac via SPROG.

Class 08 shunter

I am glad that I had ordered the Duchess of Norfolk, she has become the pride of my fleet and will be used with my Stanier coaching stock, which currently makes a rake of three coaches:

• LMS 50ft Full brake M31319 (GF 374-886)
• Stanier Brake 1st Coach M5060 (GF 374-831B)
• Stanier Brake 2nd Coach M5777 (GF 374-826B)

Duchess of Norfolk with a rake of three Stanier coaches (Full Brake, Brake 1st, & Brake 2nd)

I have to get around to ordering some Stanier corridor and vestibule coaches. I do have some BR Mk1 first and second corridor coaches, and will be using them when needed.

I now need to rethink my layout plans, as my branch line idea doesn't justify the use or sighting of a coronation class locomotive. Although it has been suggested by a member of the N Gauge Forum that I could still have the duchess run on my branch in the form of a rail tour before the branch was closed or as a Heritage railway.

I do have two ideas that I would like to implement:

1. A small to medium sized Mainline terminus with a branch-line connection, this will allow me to have an engine maintenance facility, including a turntable and some coaching stock storage. And possibly a freight handling area. 
2. A small to medium branch line terminus - a platform that on one side can handle a rake of three to four coaches. And a bay platform on the other that can handle a rake of two coaches plus a tank locomotive, pretty much a push & pull (/motor coach) train. And some freight handling - a goods shed, cattle dock, and couple of sidings.

An example of the branch line terminus idea.

At this point in regards to the terminus idea, I plan to work on the branch line as it should be less complex than my main line.