Software?

[rclick9]

I'm trying to plan a track layout outside. Is it good to use computer software to help design my layout? If so what is the best software I could use? Thanks a million![?]

[ttrigg]

I guess I'm just an old putz. I like to play in the dirt. Had a mental concept of what I wanted to do and just started playing in the dirt until I got something that I liked and that worked well. Then I drew it out, picked it up and started constructing the sub roadbed.

[Anonymous]

I use RR-Track. Each person has his own style. Tom likes to draw in the dirt but I'm more of a formal planner type. With RR-Track I've been able to "try" a couple of ideas that would have been disasters if I had started putting them together.

Whichever type you are, the primary rule is "Have Fun!" [8D][8D][8D] That's what this is all about.

Dan

[whiterab]

I used RR Track extensively when I started the new layout do to grade problems and a vertically challenged layout. I found it fun to use and after 3 years I'm still using the basic plan. Changes now are made doing the dirt method of throwing track down and seeing what fits but RR Track was a great help at the start.

Do a search on this forum for "RR Track" and you will find lots of previous discussions on this software.

[CandCRR]

I use the paper napkin along with Tom's play in the dirt method. My Wife and I will sit up on the deck and rough out what we want on a napkin or scrap of paper. Then we go down to the yard with a couple scetions of curve and streight track and a water hose and lay out what we want. Changing things as we run into trees, rocks, or other obsticles., Then we start digging, filling, or what ever till we have something workable.

Personally I have not found the software helpful. Its probably that I enjoy playing in the dirt too much to realy bother learning to use the software correctly.

[emipapa]

I also like to play in the dirt. The best part is I can spend that $100.00 on track or other required equipment.
That's just my [2c]
Ron

[rpc7271]

I use Bentley Microstation but them I am a CADD Manager and Microstation is a $5,000.00 program. Ah! the fringe benefits of being an engineer. AwfulCad, I mean AutoCad can also be used.