The GBDB Large Scale database was started back in 2007 as a result of LGB declaring bankruptcy in 2006 and LGBoA pulling off the existing LGB web-based database a short time after that.
Initially the database only covered LGB and everything was in German only.
The database has since evolved a lot over the years, it was made bi-lingual, added the download capability of the various documents relating to each entry, after we received written permission from LGB, USA Trains, Aristocraft etc. to store their pictures, information and documentation on the database.
A few years ago we also moved the database from a server in Germany (that was often unavailable for days) to a server in Canada that is much more reliable.
The whole idea of that database is that the Large Scale community contribute with whatever info they have to the benefit of everyone.
The database is meant to cover scales from 1:13.7 to 1:29, essentially everything that runs on 45mm gauge track but we also include 1:22.5 scale standard gauge items that run on 64mm track.
Initially we started with small picture, 640 pixels wide - that evolved over time to the current "standard" (which we try to follow as much as possible) of pictures 1200 pixels wide with any rolling stock sitting on the appropriate track photographed at a 3/4 angle with a neutral background.
Exceptions are made if we want to enter the data into the database but no suitable pcture meeting the "standard" requirements is available. Then a smalle picture, 800 pixels wide minimum is used with possibly no track or not a neutral background.
For many of the US based companies, ie Aristocraft, Bachmann, Hartland, USA Trains, we have grouped all cars/locos of one type within the GBDB entry of the first item of that series since usually only the livery changes - that we we have a chance to at least cover all products with at least the product ID, description and running numbers; however if a good picture of an item is available, an entry of each of those items will be made with a reference back to the first item of that series which will have a listing of all items.
We usually limit each item to one entry in the database unless the two sides of the item are different or there are differences between the various production runs. Differences were very common with the early LGB production and we try to cover those as much as possible.
If anyone wishes to contribute they can either send me the pictures and info and I will add the entry or they can add the info to the database themselves but then they need to register so that we know where the information came from in case there are any questions.
No registration of any kind is required to use the database.
If anyone notices any errors, and I'm sure there are many, or if anyone has a better picture to contribute, I would be happy to hear from them.
This database is obviously far from complete - it is actively being maintained and expanded as time permits.
The more people contribute, the better it will be for all of us
Regards,
Knut - GBDB Co-Admin
www.gbdb.info
Initially the database only covered LGB and everything was in German only.
The database has since evolved a lot over the years, it was made bi-lingual, added the download capability of the various documents relating to each entry, after we received written permission from LGB, USA Trains, Aristocraft etc. to store their pictures, information and documentation on the database.
A few years ago we also moved the database from a server in Germany (that was often unavailable for days) to a server in Canada that is much more reliable.
The whole idea of that database is that the Large Scale community contribute with whatever info they have to the benefit of everyone.
The database is meant to cover scales from 1:13.7 to 1:29, essentially everything that runs on 45mm gauge track but we also include 1:22.5 scale standard gauge items that run on 64mm track.
Initially we started with small picture, 640 pixels wide - that evolved over time to the current "standard" (which we try to follow as much as possible) of pictures 1200 pixels wide with any rolling stock sitting on the appropriate track photographed at a 3/4 angle with a neutral background.
Exceptions are made if we want to enter the data into the database but no suitable pcture meeting the "standard" requirements is available. Then a smalle picture, 800 pixels wide minimum is used with possibly no track or not a neutral background.
For many of the US based companies, ie Aristocraft, Bachmann, Hartland, USA Trains, we have grouped all cars/locos of one type within the GBDB entry of the first item of that series since usually only the livery changes - that we we have a chance to at least cover all products with at least the product ID, description and running numbers; however if a good picture of an item is available, an entry of each of those items will be made with a reference back to the first item of that series which will have a listing of all items.
We usually limit each item to one entry in the database unless the two sides of the item are different or there are differences between the various production runs. Differences were very common with the early LGB production and we try to cover those as much as possible.
If anyone wishes to contribute they can either send me the pictures and info and I will add the entry or they can add the info to the database themselves but then they need to register so that we know where the information came from in case there are any questions.
No registration of any kind is required to use the database.
If anyone notices any errors, and I'm sure there are many, or if anyone has a better picture to contribute, I would be happy to hear from them.
This database is obviously far from complete - it is actively being maintained and expanded as time permits.
The more people contribute, the better it will be for all of us
Regards,
Knut - GBDB Co-Admin
www.gbdb.info
