Computer Software for Model Trains

I know, you would gladly trade ten hours with a sledge hammer and vice grip instead of one minute in front of your laptop. PC’s should be quaranteened from the world of model training. Model training has been just fine without the computer chip, thank you.  But it’s the information technology age, and there’s no reason why our computers can’t play a part! For tracking down the dificult to find model train you so loved as a kid the internet was irreplaceable. So I don’t have to tell you that the internet has its uses for model train enthusiasts like us.  But I’ve been looking around and there is some great model train software out there as well.  Here are some of my premium finds:

Laying Out and Mapping Model Train Software:  

Track mapping model train software is one of the hidden treasures of the internet.  These programs help you to plan out your track plan in advance so that you can figure out how best to conquer the spatial limits of your model train empire. Pre-set default track designs give you a solid starting point that with small changes can be made to fit the individual peculiarities of your area. The space age graphics of the layout design software even let you to preview your prospective imagined track design in realistic 3 dimensional graphics! If your ability to visualize is point of contention this is an helpful aid.

Model Train Software to help detail your model train and its landscape:  

Another really good bit of software is one of these products that help you to print out and sometimes to even individualize the details for your locomotives and landscape. Crafting the the side of one of your tiny office structures so that it now carries the faded Coca Cola logo is as simple as printing a set of mailing labels. To print the lettering in the style and size that you fits your train’s specific type and design, you just select the style you want, print it, and decal it on your train. The sizes and styles can be specified to fit the specifics of your model train’s size and historical context.  This is a huge improvement over pre-fabricated decals.  It opens up far more options for you to individualize your model train empire.

Model Train Software will soon be able to help you with signaling:  

One of the most intriguing developing stories in the model train field is the current effort to create a Java based computer controlled signaling system. An icon on your computer screen could be the portal right into the master control for your entire multi-train model train layout. If the build-it-yourself hardware aspect of wiring and signaling have forever been a chore for you, then this is a dream come true. Wow. Your PC now is transfigured into the headquarters for your entire model train track design.  No more fussing with the signaling box. It should make things easier for me.

These are just a few of the ways that your computer can help you in your model training. I’m sure these won’t be the only computer advances we’ll want to know about.   Just like in the real world of trains, computers will no doubt become an indispensable tool for simplified the day to day aspects of operation.

Here is more information on Model Railway Trains. Here is a website with a free mini-course dedicated to Model Trains.