When designing your HO model train layout, you might want to consider some tools other than a measuring tape and a piece of paper. The software available today for planning your track and scenery design is easy to use and affordable. The hardest decision might be deciding on which product to go with.
Where can you find this software, and how much should you pay? The first place to look for train layout software is the place where you purchase your train. Most model suppliers have connections with computer programmers, especially the larger shops. If you have a contact person in the business, ask him or her for their opinion on the best package.
A $50 software called "3D Railroad Concept and Design" offers the power of detailed track information with input of the dimensions and design you choose. It has a catalog listing of manufacturer products and, of course, 3D graphics. Your design can include grade changes in the track and terrain.
Some layout software is free to download. This might be sufficient for your needs, but read the ads carefully. Some software works only for certain hardware or brands of train products and might not work with what you have. Quality software will give you a materials list of the items you need.
No matter what you use to layout your train track and setup, you will need to know some things about your train to be able to create a working design. Software may not help if you design a steep grade that your train cannot climb or a curve that is too sharp. The speed the train is going is also a factor when it comes to curves and grades.
Always check a layout in the real world to be sure it is not a mistake before you devote a lot of time to the project. When you have roughed in your design, lay the track in the configuration you want and run the train with cars to see how well it works.
If the track layout is temporary, there may be problems at transitions that can cause your train to flip or jump off. You will need to determine if these are caused by the design or just the need to work on the temporary connections.
When checking your design, it's good to have the complete train set. Even though you may want to expand your count of boxcars at a future time, you should test with the number of cars that will be the normal operating quantity of your original setup.
A locomotive going around a track on its own might work very well, but it may behave differently with 40 cars tied to it. It is very important to know what the pulling ability is going to be on grade changes based on the length of your train.
Your HO model train layout should be a creation solely your own, and anything that is unique may have some design flaws. Make sure you get the kinks out of your design before you spend countless hours assembling your design. Always test the train for an extended run, not just two or three laps around the track.
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