What You Need To Know About Ho Scale Model Train

by Ferdinand Dominic

Model trains, as well as any other reproduction of something that lasts in real life, require a scale so as to multiply the dimensions of the train that they represent. Else, they would look out of proportion.

A scale is measured by two numbers, isolated by a colon. The initial number of a scale shows us the equivalent of the model train. For model trains that are smaller than the trains they represent, this number is always one. The second number represents how the first number would translate to the dimensions of an actual train. So, let us take for example a scale of 1:20. That means that if something measures 1 inch on a model train, it would measure 20 inches on the real train.
HO scale trains are merely model trains that use the HO scale, which is the most common scale in nations where English is spoken.
It is fascinating to note that HO scale trains can also be called H0 scale trains. The confusion started because the O scale, which is the scale HO was modeled after, was Initially called 0 scale (as in the number zero). In fact, the nomenclature H0 is still used in most nations, while in the United States, Japan and Australia, those trains are called HO scale trains.
It is as well important to know that the orthoepy of the "O" is "oh," even in those nations where the nomenclature includes a zero. In any case HO scale trains get their name because HO scale is almost one-half of the O scale. Therefore the name "half O scale" or "HO scale."
HO scale trains are scaled at 1:87. As mentioned above, that means that one unit on the HO scale trains corresponds to 87 units on real trains. Another, perhaps easier to understand, way of showing it, is that 3.5 millimeters (approximately one tenth of an inch) equals to one foot on actual train.
Because HO scale trains are so famous, there are a lot of manufacturers, with various ranges of prices, so it is not challenging to see inexpensive HO scale trains that suit a small budget, or more high-priced little parts of machinery that impress guests and adorn a room or a garden.
In Conclusion, like all model trains, HO scale trains require a track to move on. Tracks that are designed for HO trains are two railed, and powered by direct current. Owners control the train speed with a control that varies the voltage applied to the train. They can also switch the polarity of the track, in order to make the train run in the other direction if they like.

About the Author

If you liked this article, you may want to review Everything You Need To Know About Hobby Trains