XTrackCAD

Discussion in 'Track Design Software' started by paul_l, Apr 5, 2016.

  1. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    XTrackCAD is a CAD program for designing model railroad layouts

    http://www.xtrkcad.org/Wikka/HomePage
     
  2. gormo

    gormo Staff Member Administrator

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    G`day Folks,
    I have used XTrackCAD extensively to design my railway.
    There is a reasonable learning curve but if you stay at it you`ll get the hang of it. I wouldn`t say it`s intuitive but it`s a well resourced tool.
    One feature I used and found very helpful was the ability to print out a full size plan. On a number of occasions I just printed part of it full size.....laid it out on a table and placed some trains on it to check lengths and clearances etc.......very helpful.
    When it came time to actually lay track, I printed out the full size plan, stuck it to the baseboards and laid track over the top........Join the dots track laying.
    Here are a couple of examples of plans for Great Chesterford Junction.
    The first plan has measurements in inches

    [​IMG]

    This version is 95% correct for the final plan

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]
    http://www.click:tophat:Gormo
     
  3. Toto

    Toto I'm best ignored Staff Member Founder Administrator

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    Certainly a good aid when it comes to track laying and also just to get a feel for the layout.

    Cheers

    Toto
     
  4. paul_l

    paul_l Staff Member Administrator

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    Hi Gormo

    its not a program Ive tried yet but seeing your results may well be getting a shot.

    Funny i do the same sort of thing with templot, laying out buildings, stock etc just to see if it looks ok, better than laying a ton of track, then having to start again.

    Paul
     
  5. gormo

    gormo Staff Member Administrator

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    Yes I agree Paul
    http://www.click:tophat:Gormo
     

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