Abstract: A device and system and method for connecting powered accessories to a model railroad layout using an electronic interface device (EID). The EID includes a terminal for interfacing with an accessory control device that is configured to control features of model railroad accessories, and a connection jack configured to accept an accessory cable plug that is connected to two or more wires of an accessory cable. The connection jack places at least one of the two or more wires of the accessory cable in electrical contact with the terminal of the EID such that, when the accessory control device is electrically connected to the terminal, the at least one of the two or more wires of the accessory cable are placed in electrical communication with the accessory control device, when the plug of the accessory cable is plugged into the connection jack.