You might find this free tutorial from Mathworks (makers of Mathcad software) that covers the basics of brushless DC motors and how to control them.

https://www.mathworks.com/videos/brushless-dc-motors-introduction-156472...

It is short and very basic, but provides a good starting point for understanding these machines.

I haven't searched their website, but they well might have other free learning materials dealing with various types of motors and their control.

so many nooks and crannies are part of this hobby,

The TrainSpotter makes detection of locomotives or rolling stock easy and reliable. Place the sensor where its invisible light beam will reflect off the object of interest and you're done - no time-consuming or frustrating adjustments! Works in all lighting conditions. With discrete under-track installation, this low-profile sensor solves many of the challenges that plague other optical detector products.

The TrainSpotter now comes with a detachable 24" cable and simplified circuitry.

I'm working on some 3D designs for some step and truck lights for my 1/29 locomotives. I figured if you HO scale guys can have working lights, I should be able to as well in 3x scale..

My design so far looks like a 0805 SMD LED will fit nicely into the housing.

Where are folks finding SMD LED's and what's a good price? I'd prefer them with wires presoldered. Ebay showed a variety of pricing and options but I'm not sure what is a good deal, etc.

Craig

Scale Model Animation—bringing models to life—adds enormously to the interest and enjoyment of any layout or individual model! When I started out designing low-cost decoders, they were intended to facilitate my animation work.