2.6mm plugs

Because I don't like to solder when I am lying on my back under the layout table with the possibility of hot solder dropping into my eyes, I generally prefer to use these 2.6mm plugs when I need to join wires. I used a lot of these (maybe 250 by now). Märklin has changed to a new type of 2.6mm plugs in order to comply with new safety regulations. But Piko (and some others) still sell the old industry standard plugs. I paid for a package of 32 plugs and 8 sockets the grand sum of US$11. OW PIKO !!!! YOU CHARGED ME US 27 cents FOR ONE OF THESE PLASTIC THINGS ?????? A RIP-OFF!!

Lausitzbahn - Siemen's "Desiro"

I have been running Piko #56121 the DMU (Diesel Multi-Unit) "Desiro" BR642 for a week since receiving it from Edmund Baker. It carries the livery of Connex subsidiary - LausitzBahn.
I LOVE this model - here are some of the reasons:
(1) it runs beautifully - no jerkiness, no abrupt movement
(2) it takes all my tracks well even though I have a mixture of M-tracks and C-tracks
(3) it has no problem with any of my old M-tracks points (turnouts).
(4) it is beautifully crafted and Piko, unlike Mother Märklin, provides a driver in the front cab
(5) the windows are wide and beautiful (see third photo)- no motor is blocking any windows and I look forward to putting in some passengers
(6) the lights are bright white in front and red behind and there are cabin lights too (although these are more apparent at night)
Edmund has ordered for me a sound module to go with this train and that is the next thing to look forward to.

Hurray my Railbus is coming!!!

Peter Bemer told me that my Piko Railbus has arrived in Singapore. This model is a Dieseltriebwagen (Railcar) "Desiro" VT 642 with the livery of Connex GmbH. Desiro is the brand name for a design of modular train manufactured by Siemens of Germany.
The Desiro can be built as a diesel or electric multiple unit (DMU or EMU). It is normally configured as two- and three-car trainsets. Although there are various differences between individual trains, the basic body design is the same. These trains are mostly used for regional services, and belong to a new generation of light, modular trains which have become common in many European countries; they are sometimes referred to as light regional railcars. They are relatively cheap to build and operate. Their quick acceleration makes them suitable for services with short intervals between stations.

My model is Wechselstromausführung (meant for Märklin) and comes with a Digital decoder. I am ordering a sound add-on to put in this model.