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?
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
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
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
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
Once you use it there is no going back
I used .055 thick sheetmetal. This was overkill and don’t recomend it, use masonite. I sprayed the panel silver. then drew a condensed version of my trackplan on it. With 1/8" wide masking tape or tape at Walmart craft area mask the trackplan. Then spray it semi gloss black. If you do use steel drill small holes for the toggles from the front and then drill to size from the rear so the chips dont scratch your work.
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.