If you’re into model railroading, you know how essential it is to plan your track layout carefully. While there are many tools available in the market, investing in a professional track planning software can be costly. Luckily, several free track planning software options allow you to plan and visualize your layout without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore the top free track planning software and their features.
What is Track Planning Software?
Track planning software allows you to design and visualize a model train layout before you start building it. It helps you experiment with different track arrangements, adding and removing track sections, and adjusting the elevation. With the help of these software tools, you can create a detailed layout that ensures the smooth running of trains and avoids derailments.
Top Free Track Planning Software
1. SCARM
SCARM, short for Simple Computer Aided Railway Modeller, is a free and easy-to-use track planning software. It supports a wide range of track systems, including Hornby, Fleischmann, Peco, and Kato. With SCARM, you can design complex layouts, add scenery, and create 3D views. The software also includes a comprehensive library of track components and accessories.
2. AnyRail
AnyRail is another popular track planning software that is available for free. It supports over 50 track systems, including Atlas, Bachmann, Märklin, and Piko. AnyRail allows you to design layouts in any scale and includes a vast library of track components, buildings, and scenery. The software also allows you to import images and create 3D views of your layout.
3. XTrackCAD
XTrackCAD is an open-source track planning software that runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac. It supports over 200 different track systems, including Lionel, Märklin, and Kato. XTrackCAD allows you to design layouts in any scale and includes a library of track components and accessories. The software also supports the creation of 3D views and can export your design to other modeling software.
4. RailModeller Express
RailModeller Express is a free version of the RailModeller Pro track planning software. It runs on Mac and supports a wide range of track systems, including Hornby, Märklin, and Bachmann. RailModeller Express includes a comprehensive library of track components and allows you to add scenery and create 3D views of your layout. The software also includes a printing feature that lets you print out a list of the required track sections.
5. Traxeditor
Traxeditor is a free and straightforward track planning software that runs on Windows. It supports a wide range of track systems, including Atlas, Peco, and Fleischmann. Traxeditor allows you to create layouts in any scale and includes a library of track components and accessories. The software also includes a 3D view feature that lets you visualize your layout.
Conclusion
Planning your model train layout is an essential step in creating a successful model railroad. While professional track planning software can be costly, several free options are available. SCARM, AnyRail, XTrackCAD, RailModeller Express, and Traxeditor are some of the best free track planning software options available. They offer a range of features, including support for different track systems, libraries of track components, and 3D view creation.
FAQs
- What is the best free track planning software?
Ans: The best free track planning software depends on your preferences and the track system you are using. Some popular options are SCARM, AnyRail, and XTrackCAD. - Is free track planning software as good as paid software?
Ans: While paid track planning software may offer more features and advanced capabilities, free track planning software can be just as effective in creating a successful model train layout. They offer a range of tools and features, including support for different track systems, libraries of track components, and 3D view creation.
- Can I import my own images into free track planning software?
Ans: Yes, some free track planning software, such as AnyRail and RailModeller Express, allow you to import your own images to create a more realistic visualization of your layout.
- Can I print out a list of required track sections with free track planning software?
Ans: Yes, some free track planning software, such as RailModeller Express, include a printing feature that lets you print out a list of the required track sections for your layout.
- Is free track planning software user-friendly?
Ans: Yes, most free track planning software is designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and easy-to-use tools. However, some software may have a steeper learning curve than others, depending on your level of expertise with model railroading and track planning.