Track Planning Software

[Anonymous]

Do any of you guys know a good track planning program that is free? One that is 3d would be great. I don't feel like paying $99 for one.

[MisterBeasley]

The one from Atlas, downloadable from their web site, is free. Of course, it's oriented towards Atlas sectional track, and it's strictly 2D. On the other hand, the price is right. It might take a few hours to learn to use it, but it will do the basics for you.

[Anonymous]

XtrkCAD used to cost money but is not open source. Much better than Atlas. At first I started with Atlas, tried XtrkCAD and stayed with it.

There is a free 3D utility that turns the Atlas RTS layouts into 3D. You need to search around. I don't have the link handy.

[claycts]

In software PLEASE remeber you get what you pay for. That said, if you are just doing track both are fine, want to be benches, buildings and try out the train you need a stronger program if you are looking to design down to the qty of screws then it is a real cad program. I just CLOSED the design book on mine after 2.5 years of working on cad only. There was an article in MTM about each Cad program, along with cost.

[Anonymous]

Check out www.trainplayer.com. It deals with the first step (thinking about plans). Coming soon, a program that lets you lay track and play with it.

-- Jim