I’m looking for info. on some of the free model railroad layout design CAD programs that are available on line. Has anyone used these programs? Is one better than the other?
I personally prefer XtrackCad. It’s been around for years, and I’ve used it since it first became freeware, back when Sillub Software owned it.
Some people say that it’s hard to learn. I learned it in less than an hour, simply following the demos under HELP. I designed my own 3 level layout with it, and just click on the link in my sig, and it will take you my webpage where a copy of the plan is. It currently is available from sourceforge.net.
I’ve also used the one called SCARM. you can get it at the link posted in the previous post. Its another real good freebie, and the fellow whose has written the program, is always adding updates. Its very similar to XtrackCad in function and design but appears to be slightly easier to use.
You may have heard of a software called Solidworks? Well they offer thier 2d cad drawing software for free. it is called Draftsight. There are many videos on youtube to show you how to use it.
Steve
I wouldn’t try to use a general purpose CAD program. The model railroad specific programs have too many useful features to give up. My experience is with XTrackCAD. Here’s some of the stuff it does that a general purpose program won’t
- Templates for most comercially avail track components (turnouts, crossings…)
- Keep track of elevations and grades
- Flag too-tight radius, too-steep grade
- Draw benchwork with dimensional lumber (and L-girders)
- Run trains to test designs (I use this all the time to measure my yard tracks and sidings for capacity)
- Parts list
And probably some other stuff I forgot.