CAD software

[Anonymous]

I am new to the hobby and I am currently looking to build a layout (HO) in an area 13' x 8' which I hope to expand to 13' x 21' in a few years. I would like to build an engine service/repair facility and car repair shop with a main line and a few industries. I will be running some 6 axle diesels so I know I will need larger radius curves. My question is, are the CAD software pakages that are out there really helpfull, and if so, does anyone know which one would be the best for me, CADRAIL, 3RD PLANET, etc...?

Thanks

[Anonymous]

I've tried using the cadrail and 3rd planet software, and i am sure that they are very helpful, that is if you have the patients to figure them out. They are all very complicated. If you want you can try a demo of these programs to see what i mean at...
http://store.yahoo.com/sandia/cadrail7demo.html
http://www.trackplanning.com/download.htm

[Anonymous]

If you plan on doing a lot of layout designing as a hobby, then the CAD software will definitely be an asset. As stated above, the do have a steep learning curve and can be frustrating initially to learn. By the time you have really learned the software, you could have a dozen plans done up by hand using graph paper.

[Allen Jenkins]

Accord1991, I'm currently downloading Cadrail 8 Demo, to try that one out, thanks to Cassidy1190. There is other discussions of cadrails in the Train Simulators forums http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=15590 . Good luck, and post back to let us know how it's going, remember to print the downloadable tutorial pages, and make a simple 3 ring binder type notebook, so you can study from time to time. 3rd PlanIt had me running five SD40's in about a month! Enjoy Your Freeware!ACJ.

[FriscoFool]

Accord1991

I used Cadrail to design my trackplan and benchwork. As has been mentioned, there is a steep and frustrating learning curve. However, unless one iscomfortable with freehand sketching and using drafting tools, I think it is worth it. See my web site.

In addition to the normal plan view, Cadrail will allow "3-D" perspectives and will create material lists of turnouts, straight track, and curved track, etc. I haven't tried to use it to plan scenery yet, but that is a capability.

My next step is to print out the track plan at a 1 to 1 scale for a sanity check and to use when I cut subroadbed.

Good luck.

[Allen Jenkins]

Accord1991, after trying Cadrail 8, I find the most reward in 3rd PlanIt, at http://www.trackplanning.com/download.htm , The reason being that the train offered to run as demo in three D is more of a reward, and offers better possibilities, for content creation. You'll go a long way farther, and plan your total picture better, or else get to the Trainz of your choice, however you decide. Between the two, I'd choose 3rd PlanIt, as the content available has given me hours of enjoyment! ACJ

[ClinchValleySD40]

Almost all have free demo downloads. Try some and see what you're comfortable with and if it will be worth the expense.

[StillGrande]

I have no patience (or time) to learn a complicated program, but really wanted some more assurance before I begin building my 36' x 24' layout, so I looked around and finally, after seeing a demo (rather than the aweful download versions which tell you nothing) I bought the full version of 3rd Planit in March. I am amazed at how fast I picked it up. If you take the time to go through the tutorial (I bought the version with the printed manual, rather than the download of the manual) you get the basics right away. I am still discovering things as I go, but I was able to draw (and operate) my first hand drawn design that evening. I can now draw a basic, 2 level layout in about an hour. There are also some nice sites to get free building, scenic, and rolling stock add-ons. The main package has a lot of things already, but there are free downloads available for a lot of the items in the Walthers catalog. I rarely, if ever find myself looking at the manual anymore. The hints available, along with reading the amazingly helpful (for a computer program manual) really give you the tools to make it work.
It was worth the investment to be able to try different designs and then operate a train on them. I can see the number of cars a siding will hold without having to guess (it eliminates the natural tendency to fudge capacity - admit it, everyone does it!).
Being able to operate a train and switch industries is very helpful.
I am amazed how much I use it.

[Anonymous]

Hey thanks alot guys, the info is great, Ive tried the CADRAIL demo and found it rather complicated. I downloaded the 3rd planet demo and will try that. Thanks Dewey if the 3rd planet demo seems easier to work with I think I'll follow in your tracks and jump in and buy the full version.

Great info thanks again to all !!!