Folks,
I’m looking at building an N scale layout using two tables I had from an HO layout. The tables are each 8’ by 3.5’. I want to use some kind of software to design and adjust the track plan before buying supplies and building the actual line. I have tried the Atlas software with mixed results and just heard of xtrackcad software. Has anyone had any success with either or is there another recommendation out there?
Thanks,
Dan
I’ve used Cadrail for many years and have been very pleased with it. - Nevin
Hi dan,
i find RTS very easy to use, though the library is limitated to Atlas.
Often i first draw a plan with sectional track, then remove the straights, angle the ladders a wee bit and connect them by flextrack.
Win-rail is the same though with a larger library, the other programs are not easier to use. Anyway when you are drawing just your plan, IMHO any CAD-program is a waste of time.
If you have any questions about Atlas, just ask them.
Smile
Paul
I found xtrackcad very useful and the available track systems that are included cover all track available. Hand laid can also be specified. Easements can be automatically drawn as well. Perhaps most importantly I found it easy to learn and use.
Hope this helps.
CHRIS.
I’ve used Anyrail to design my layout and now the upgrade to it.
I like it. It has an extensive track library. I like that it exports to Trainplayer, which allowed me to run trains on my layout before it was built, or (shhhh, lol) while working now that it is built.
I initially tried the Atlas program but found Anyrail easier to use.
It’s probably more of a Ford VS Chevy VS Mopar thing. shrug
-Ed
Any software will assist you with this task. RTS is the right price, but, as pointed out, is limited to Atlas, and so may not work for you.
There are free CAD programs out there, as well as CAD programs you pay for. For my money, I’d pick Anyrail as well (I did, actually). After trying all the free stuff, and running the demo versions of all the paid products, I thought it was far and away the best value for money, and had the shallowest learning curve.
Just remember, the layout design software is the neurons and gray matter inside your head. Software only helps you make a more precise sketch.
I also used Xtrackcad for my HO layout and was pleased with it. I would emphasize getting started using the tutorials on the website. That alone may tell you whether you want to pursue it further. Questions can get answered here or at the Yahoo user group.
My experience was over 3 winter seasons of experimenting with a wide variety of designs, for different rooms, etc. When I got away from it for many months it took a bit of refreshing. I did find it invaluable to develop a plan and then refine it before building the framing and starting tracklaying. In my case, I used Walthers Shinohara turnouts and Atlas crossings combined with flextrack. For the latter, I used W-S curve segments or arcs I would draw in. I found that a careful design could be closely laid out in reality, with relatively few adjustments for easements, connecting curved turnouts, and shortening turnouts to adjust related track spacing.
Good luch with whatever you try.
Hi Dan:
I purchased 3rdPlanIt several years ago and I am very happy with it.
I have seen several criticisms of CAD software on the forums made by people who are experienced using pencil and paper to design their layouts. Note the word “experienced”. I have also seen several pencil drawings by newbies where some of the turnouts, curves and elevations were hopelessly impossible.
3rdPlanIt has allowed me to examine the potential faults with my plan, and it has allowed my to make numerous adjustments. I have been able to achieve 25" radii and a 2 1/2% grade, eliminate ‘S’ curves, and ensure that over and under passes will have sufficient clearance, just as examples. I can study many separate details in isolation by putting similar things into separate layers in the design. For example, if I just want to study the track plan I can hide the structures and terrain. I can see my mainline separate from secondary track, and I can view my staging on its own as well. I can build benchwork using ‘real’ wood. I can print my plan 1:1. I have barely begun to explore the terrain building options.
Some have said that the CAD designs do not allow enough space for things like turnouts. I have tested my drawings against an actual mock up and the program has no such problem.
As a bonus, I have recently used 3rdPlanIt to draw deck designs, property plans and interior renovations all for building code approval. My son has also used it to create drawings for school.
Well worth the investment IMHO.
Dave