Train Layout Software

[Anonymous]

I was wondering if a software exists that can create a layout plan. I have seen some pictures on the forum of drawn layouts. They look like visio or cad drawings, but they could be stencils. Can anyone tell me where I can either download a program or get a stencil.

Thank you
Angelo

[Anonymous]

I've used Atlas Right Track Software with a lot of success, and best of all its free. Go to the Atlas site and you will be directed to the download area. It's not bad once you get used to it. I built my whole whole layout based on it.
Bill

[Big_Boy_4005]

There are a bunch of CAD programs for model railroading. Go over to the MR forum and do a search to see what other people have said about the different programs.

[Anonymous]

There's a product called RR Track that does an excellent job. For about $80, you get a complete library of all O gauge track systems with all the pieces. You can also get add-on libraries for things like accessories & other scales.

You can even plan out your benchwork in the product.

Go to http://www.rrtrack.com/ for more information.

Tony

[Dr. John]

Let me second Tony's suggestion for RR Track software. It is easy to use and does a great job for the price. I thoroughly enjoy using it!

[spankybird]

HI Angelo,

What track system are you planning on using?

I have also used the RR Track system and do like it.

tom

[Anonymous]

I'll call this reply a "hook" onto the original question...
Several of you have said that you liked the RR Track system. I've just ordered it to help me plan my new layout. Any hints, tips or advice on how to get it up and running would be appreciated.
Bob

[spankybird]

Hi Bob,

My copy came with my membership to MTH collectors club. It is on a CD. Just put in the drive and click on the menus.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the info guys. I'm going to check them out now.
Tom, I am using lionel O tubular track.

I drew some of it out but it never works when I put the tracks together. I figured that I would have an easier time with a program.

Thanks Again
Angelo

[spankybird]

Angelo, I can tell you that I have done CAD design since 84, and the first two layout I tried with the track planner was easier when I just layed the track out on the floor. After I did that I did the same layout with the planner and it work. The next two layout I started with the planner and they work.

So don't give up if it doesn't work the first time.

[Anonymous]

You have to keep one thing in mind when using any CAD system, whether it be for designing train layouts or cabinets or houses: the precision in the program is almost certainly greater than the precision you'll get in the real world.

What I mean is that the measurements & accuracy of the CAD program probably exceed the accuracy of the measuring instruments you own. I'm designing some cabinets in AutoCAD for my workshop. Everything in the CAD drawing is accurate to 1/32 of an inch. When I go to cut the wood, however, all of my tape measures & rullers are marked in 1/16's & I'm using my two eyes instead of other tools on the market that measure accurately to 1/32 of an inch.

So when my cabinets are actually built, the measurements almost certainly won't be within 1/32 of the measurements on the plan. Not that I'm not going to try to get as close as I can get!

So when you measure your space in order to set up an RR Track file for a layout, take the time to get the measurements as accurate as you can. Hold the measuring tape taught so there's little or no slack. Don't measure from the end of the tape; measure from the one inch mark & subtract an inch (the dingus on the end of a steel tape measure can have a significant amount of play in it, which will throw off your measurements).

Good luck!

Tony

[spankybird]

Good points Tony,
I work in the toola and die, within 0.0002". A human hair is 0.003" in diameter. Wood working drives me nuts. It is nice to work with my trains where not everything has to be so close and it works.

tom

[Anonymous]

Good point, I don't have that much room and a screwup like that would probably leave me with wasted space.
Thanks for the info Tony
I tried to download it yesterday and the site is underconstruction. I am going to keep checking back though.
Angelo