Layout CAD software

Can't speak to "CAD" layout software, but there are several available computer-based layout design programs available.  RRTrack and AnyRail are both available for purchase, and AnyRail also has a free sample of itself available, limited, I believe, to 50 pieces of track.  SCARM is another currently free track layout program.  All of these utilize track systems from various manufacturers and scales, so you should have no problem finding one that meets your needs.  Look at the Track Plans and Layouts sub-forum for more info.

Chuck

PRR1950 has already covered the ones I would have suggested for track design. RR-Track probably has the most track, accessory and sample layout libraries and has been around the longest. It can get a bit pricy if you get all the additional libraries available.  

I don't know what you are thinking, but CAD is short for Computer Aided Design.  Therefore all the software packages you mentioned are CAD layout software.

I personally use SCARM since it's free and was quick to pick up.  I tired using XTrackCAD, but it was too buggy and I found it hard to use.  But then it was the Mac version.

My choice for CAD layout software was 3rdPlanit.

Ed Rappe

Is that one for Windows?

The version I have (8 years old) runs on the Widows OS - but I saw in their web site user feedback from someone running it on a Mac.

Ed Rappe

Thanks, I took a look at it and it looked pretty interesting, but I couldn't figure out if it was Windows or Mac. If I wasn't so heavily invested in RR-Track I might try it out, it looked really nice. I like new programs, just don't like the learning curve.

I use CadRail from http://www.sandiasoftware.com. It's for Windows and has a free demo version on the home page.

I used 3rd PlanIt about 15 years ago. At the time it was a program that was a little more flexible than others I looked into.

PlanIt had an extension for $10 which allowed me to make a DXF or DWG extention which allowed me to take it to a local shop and have the plywood for my whole layout CNC routed. I picked up all of my cut plywood in a truck and it was essentially a kit to put together. I  had my benchwork built and when I got the plywood it was scabbed together in ONE DAY. It was within one inch loosely putting it together. I went to the opposite side of the room and gave it a nudge and it was together perfectly.

I also had the layout printed out 1:1 on large sheets of paper, some 25 feet long, so I could precisely trace the center lines onto the plywood.

Holy cow what a great idea! That's an amazing amount of work saved.

I am working right now with the SCARM software. It's user friendly but I don't know what it all will do yet.

Chuck