What is Free-mo?

Free-mo is the newest and most exciting innovation in modular railroading.

Free-mo is more modular and flexible than modules based upon the existing NMRA standard.

Free-mo modelers desire to simulate, if not prototypical situations, at least realistic scenes and operation.  

Free-mo modules emphasize scenery and track flexibility.

Modules:

The standard only mandates how to join modules together (both mechanically and electrically), leaving the size of the module and track configuration up to the modeler.  The Free-mo code 83 mainline is centered on a two foot end. Modules can be inverted 180 degrees and still mate up to the adjacent module without modification to wiring or track. Three bus lines - DCC control, an accessory bus and a power bus - run through all modules. Each module is viewable and operable from both sides.

The flexibility of the Free-mo standard enables the modeler's creativity to shine through their modules allowing construction of modules specific to their own needs and dreams.  The Free-mo modeler is no longer confined to 2 foot by 4 foot and in some cases designs yield more than two ends.

Layouts:

Free-mo layouts generally are operated with a single track mainline, though there is allowance in the standard for double-track mainlines. The three inter-module bus lines allow for the operation of dozens of trains.

 Typically the layouts are configured as point to loop, loop to loop, or point to point. Though the standard does not exclude circular layouts they are generally looked upon as un-prototypical and non-realistic.

Layout sizes can vary to any size conceivable. Free-Mo layouts can curve and snake about in interesting ways. Because emphasis is on building modules with realistic scenery that can be operated prototypically, Free-Mo layouts look good and operate well. So Free-mo operates like a permanent home layout while still retaining modularity.