Control Boards

[woodcamp66213]

I'm getting ready to build a panel to accommodate my Tech 3, Power Cab and several toggle switches to start. Can I get some pictures of what other panels look like?
This could helpful to me so I won't have to keep reinventing the wheel!

Thanks
Jim

 

[shortwrench]

You didn't mention how big your layout is or where you are planning to place your panel.

This is the control panel for my 5ft x 10ft HO layout. All layout power is routed through the switch
on the left. The next 2 switches are power for DCC and DC throttles, each having its output fused.
The next switch selects whether the track is connected to DCC or DC throttle. The next switch
determines whether a #1157 automotive bulb is connected in-line or bypassed to track power.
Additional switches are spares. Additional fuses for ancillary power supplies. There is plenty of
space for additional "stuff" on the front panel. The panel opens to the left, eliminating the need
to wire upside down if the panel is hinged to open down. It is mounted flush to and below the
fascia so as not to obstruct the aisle.

I also use the Power Cab and thought about getting a holster for it. However, I wanted the capability of
handheld and console operation. An angled holster mounted to the edge of the layout allows for both
modes of operation.

 

[D&J RailRoad]

On my two previous layouts, I built "control" panels, but it took me the second layout to realize how restricting they could be.
Anything up to or beyond a 4X8 table are beyond what a control panel would support. I'm talking in the sense of running DCC though.
Turnout controls on a panel require your attention away from the turnout you're focused on.
Rotary knobs for DC routing might be useful at division points on a large layout. Track shorts might be readily identified on a panel as well.
On the other hand, DCC lends itself to elimination of the control panel and put the turnout controls right at the turnout points.

 

[Colorado Midland Modeler]

This is how mine is currently setup. I plan to refine the appearance of it eventually, but for now, Sharpie marker on plywood gets the job done. The first photo shows it in pencil before I added a couple more turnout switches. The red toggles are DPDT center off to allow me to run the layout in either DC or DCC mode, they also turn different blocks and roundhouse tracks on and off. The large, chrome DPDT center off in the upper left corner is for reversing polarity on the turntable, and the black slider switches control the turnouts. The power packs, (DC, DCC, and turntable motor) are on a shelf to the left of the panel.