For those who've used or are using this track planning software, did/do you use the free version or opt for the paid version? In your opinion is the money for the paid version worth the cost? Why or why not?
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If you are going to use software to design a layout, there is no sense trying to do it with a trail version, they are just too limited for all but the smallest layout, like 2 ovals within each other. Technically you can design larger layouts by creating separate files with 50 tracks or less, but it's just not worth the effort to save $34 (discounted price though Dec 31). Whether or not you pay the extra $24 for the simulation feature depends on how much you want/need it. For me, being able to run multiple trains on my designs to see how they might actually look has been worth the price. I also own the $109 version of RR-Track and now only use it to help others who use it and when I need to design something to exact specifications, like decking or benchwork with exact dimensions.
Free versions of software are OK to get familiar with them. If you are doing a serious design then spend the money of the full program.
Does anyone know if the version 1.0.1 milestone of SCARM can be used on multiple machines? I am planning on buying it but I work from several different laptops and want to be able to access the program from any of them.
Bob
The registration page shows which device the activation key is for and the SCARM server stores a file for that device. The FAQ also states that the same key cannot be used on multiple devices, though it sure would be nice to be able to run on both a desktop and laptop without having to purchase it twice.
FWIW, I just received the v1.1.0 update and the ability to select layers to be displayed in 3D is a welcome feature.
I use the paid version because my layout is too big for the trial version. I also want to support the software developer. He deserves to be compensated for the effort he has put into the program, and the price of the software is very reasonable. I recommend that you use the trial version for a while and then go ahead and purchase the program if you like it.
DoubleDAZ posted:The registration page shows which device the activation key is for and the SCARM server stores a file for that device. The FAQ also states that the same key cannot be used on multiple devices, though it sure would be nice to be able to run on both a desktop and laptop without having to purchase it twice.
Thanks for the info Dave. I had not gone into the purchase page to investigate further. I guess I will have to limit full functionality to one machine. I can still view files with the free version on my others.
I know that the SCARM creator is lurking on here somewhere. Maybe he will take our comments as creative advice and offer a multi-device key.
Bob
Bob, Mixy is very open to suggestions and nothing works better than contacting him directly at scarm@scarm.info to share your idea and the reasoning behind it. He also has a thread here where ideas are discussed, though it hasn't seen any new posts since mid-September.
