Is there a free computer dispatching program that I can add to my laptop? It wouldn’t
be connected to the layout, but I would just build the layout schematic in it, then I could punch in train locations to update the view, kinda like CTC except not connected to signals or a layout?
http://www.railsusa.com/links/Model_Railroad_Software/
You might find one here. Do a Google for Model Railroad software. You’ll get a ton of hits. There’s some free ones and some demos.
Go to google and type “JMRI” (Java Model Railroading Interface project).
They have tools for building a computerized dispatchers panel on your PC … and their software is all open source so it’s free.
I did dispatching on the club layout I was in, the dispatchers panel I made train cutouts using flexible magnets, and made a reasonable fascimily of the layout on the metal board, trains reported to the dispatcher and I advanced the magnets to the next cleared location where they had to report.
You need some kind of program that you can paint shop paint a CTC board then use it as a background then some proggie you can use to make pickup pieces and click/mouse around the pieces.
I’d also consider using Microsoft Excel. This can be pretty effective to create schematics using colors, then plot the routes of trains and delete them as need be. Things like train schedules, line-ups, etc, can be kept in other attached spreadsheets.
Okay. I’m trying JMRI and an accompiananig program, CATS
http://home.comcast.net/~kb0oys/
I’m having some problems though… I’ve made the schematic, but when I start up the actual CATS and load my map, nothing happens, the screen where the layout’s supposed to be stays black. I’m trying to contact the programmer for help, but if any of you know, I’d be happy to hear it.
Soooo… in case I can’t get CATS to work, I’m looking at alternatives. Could somone give me more info on the Excel system?
Thanks,
I don’t know if many users of free software realize that when the software is “open source”, that means that they can download the source code of the software and edit it. If there is a bug in the software, an improvement that can be made, a new feature added, or anything else that can add to the enjoyment of said software, any person can change it in the program code. Of course, the program code would be of use only to the ones who can understand and write in the required code, be it Java or C++ or whatever was used to create the program. Just a little FYI for our readers here.
BUMP…