Control board schematic

[Chris77504]

Is there any software out that I can get to print a track control board schematic so I can mount my LEDs and toggle and momentary switches.  The schematics like I have seen for subways, etc that show the track layout and where the switches are, etc?

[richhotrain]

I am not aware of any software that performs this function.  Most of us use tools like PowerPoint to draw the schematic and then print it out, mount it under Lexan on a hand built control panel frame.

Rich

[Timboy]

 

[hielsie]

There is a product called ChartPak graphic tape. About 25 foot rolls, various widths in the 1/4 - 1/2 " range. About $3 - $4 a roll. Found at stationary and art supply stores. Black and sometimes colors.

Hielsie

[cheech]

I use the Atlas O free track planning software. The Overview schematic is pretty much what you might be looking for.

 I print it 8.5x11, place it in lamiate sheets -- readily available in a lot of sizes -- piece the parts together and glue it on 1/8in poster board. I add the 'grain of wheat' bulbs and momentary switches at the appropriate spots. I use a label maker to ID the switch numbers on the printout before I lamitate it.

My layout is somewhat complex and has multiple levels, so i print the schematic off in sections and have multiple control boards. I also use it to ID my uncl/unld tracks for those I use rotary(s) switches so it occupies less space. 

Since I'm work in progress I haven't figured out what to do about my Lionel switches and their big controllers. Toying with Toggle switches, but just haven't figured it all out yet.

Ralph

 

[richhotrain]

Timboy

Mr. Hot Rain:

Isn't Powerpoint a software? 

I have heard of guys using automotive racing stripe tape (I don't know what the REAL name for it is).

-Timboy

Timboy,

You got me there! LOL

On my first layout back seven years ago, I used automotive striping on a painted bass wood surface.  Looked pretty good.  To protect the surface, I sprayed it with Dull Coat at the suggestion of the LHS guys.

Rich

[Anonymous]

http://www.rrtrack.com/

Once you use it there is no going back

[Roger Bielen]

I used aluminum sheet, any suitable material will do, painted black and used auto pin-strip tape to layout tne track plan.  With the colors available I used different colors for different loops/main lines.  As indicators I used automotive LED panel lights and mini switches available, at that time, from Radio Shack.