Software to create a track plan

You can build with flex track in SCARM, IF the track library you choose has a flex section available.

I've incorporated flex sections into several layouts that I've designed with the Atlas and Gargraves (Ross) track libraries.  Obviously there is no flex section for Fastrack.  In terms of a workaround, SCARM doesn't prevent you from incorporating Gargraves flex track into a Fastrack layout, even if that could prove difficult in the "real world."

I think RR-Track also permits the use of flex track but after years of using both, I decided that I like SCARM better.  My $.02, good luck with whichever you choose.

If you're expecting any service or tech support after the sale, stay away from RR Track. It's a great product and there is a learning curve to it, but the customer service is severely lacking.

RR Track, hands down.  I’ve used it for years.  There’s plenty of help to be had on the O Gauge RR Tips and Tricks FB page and this Forum.

RR track has a considerably larger learning curve than some of the other track planning applications.  I used AnyRail for my layout, and I used a lot of Gargraves flex track with the Ross switches.

AnyRail & SCARM can both be downloaded and used for free (tested) up to a pre-set piece of track limit.  If you can reconstruct the layout in less than the track piece limit (and a piece of flextrack only counts as one piece), you're done at no cost.  If your job requires more than the track piece limit, you can purchase the license of whichever you prefer.  As a plus, the developer of SCARM also participates on this forum and will answer e-mail queries.

Chuck

RRTrack doesn't really need tech support because it just works.

You pick a track section or turnout and place it on your layout plan.  The next section you place near the previous section locks to the subsequent sections.  Accessories are pick and place as well.

@AlanRail posted:

RRTrack doesn't really need tech support because it just works.

Alan,

We've become used to excessive exaggeration and this is no exception.

You need to be very careful when you say something like this.  There isn't a software application ever written that doesn't really need tech support.  Not one.  All the way back to the first software program ever written.

RRTrack is no exception.  Although you seem to be saying it does exactly what you need, you don't need any more than it delivers, and you have had no need for answers to any questions, this is probably true for you, but there have already been several comments from people who just don't agree.

It "just works" doesn't, at least not for many of us.

Mike

I "Second the motion" presented by GRJ. I used ANYRAIL for design of my modest 15x19-feet L-shaped layout. I selected the Lionel tubular track library with excellent results.  From time to time, the ANYRAIL team updates the product. Two thumbs up!

Mike Mottler   LCCA 12394

One thing to consider is how you are going to “reverse engineer” the existing layout. The way I would approach this is to take pictures from the top of the layout as flat as possible downward with a ruler laying on the layout. I would then import that image as a background and scale it, so that the 1 foot mark on the ruler, matches the 1 foot grid line on the software. This way you can lay the tracks on top of the image and kind of trace it. Depending on the size of the layout, you may need to break it up into sections and work on each section one at a time. I know this functionality exists inside of SCARM. I am not sure about other software, but I am sure that other folks on the forum will comment.

@Edward G posted:

One thing to consider is how you are going to “reverse engineer” the existing layout. The way I would approach this is to take pictures from the top of the layout as flat as possible downward with a ruler laying on the layout. I would then import that image as a background and scale it, so that the 1 foot mark on the ruler, matches the 1 foot grid line on the software. This way you can lay the tracks on top of the image and kind of trace it. Depending on the size of the layout, you may need to break it up into sections and work on each section one at a time. I know this functionality exists inside of SCARM. I am not sure about other software, but I am sure that other folks on the forum will comment.

That seems like a plan.  The layout fills a 32 x 25 ft space and can best be described as a maze of track.  All of the programs suggested I am familiar with.  Not knowing the curve radius or turnouts used presents a challenge.  I tried just using a drawing program and learned how much my hand shakes, the mouse is unforgiving.  I may just use the old fashioned graph paper and pencil method.  I did take a bunch of low res pictures from above so at least it's a start.

@Mike H Mottler posted:

I "Second the motion" presented by GRJ. I used ANYRAIL for design of my modest 15x19-feet L-shaped layout. I selected the Lionel tubular track library with excellent results.  From time to time, the ANYRAIL team updates the product. Two thumbs up!

Mike Mottler   LCCA 12394

I agree, Anyrail was very easy to use and intuitive for me.  I tried others but soon went back to Anyrail.  Worked great with tubular track.

I started with a copy of AutoCAD LT that when the company closed, nobody tracked the license. Switched to Draftsight (no longer free), and I currently use free version of Nanocad, an AutoCAD 2D knock off. You can spend alot of time trying to create track blocks.

If I was to start all over, I would try Solid Edge (not SolidWorks) 2023 free edition by Siemens.

A bunch of companies all buy a core library from Intellicad, and one of the lower priced ones is 4MCAD,  the basic version is 120 Euro.

The advantage to a generic CAD program is you can use it for other things, maybe help in getting a job too.

I've used RR-Track for years. There is a learning curve, but it handles flex and non-standard curve sizes well. The ScaleTrax library seems to have issues, but I'm pleased with it overall. Just remember: "Save Early. Save Often. Save Before Printing". I drummed that into my users' heads to prevent that "My system locked up and I lost my work!" call.

I have also used RR-Track for years.  It has a lot of features, but there is a steep learning curve.  I second Matt's advice to save early and often.  And I am not a fan of the V5 print facility - very counter-intuitive in my professional opinion as a software developer and project manager.  But it handles flex track, allows for the creation of layers (benchwork, wiring, track, scenery - what have you), and can help you design a very intricate layout.

Customer support is a bit lacking, but that (unfortunately) seems to be par for the course in the toy train industry. 

Having said all that, I like the product and continue to use it.

George

I’ve used RR Track for each of my layouts. I found it intuitive and very easy to get the hang of. I never needed tech support. I used the Fastrack library for my first layout and the Atlas library for the remodels. Both worked well.

One complaint: the initial software is only available via a mailed CD ROM. So, you’ll need a CD drive for your computer or budget the cost of a USB CD drive. The track libraries can be downloaded, but not the software itself.