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Discussion Boards => HO => Topic started by: RedMt Dave on January 04, 2024, 02:11:21 PM

Title: HO Layout using SCARM
Post by: RedMt Dave on January 04, 2024, 02:11:21 PM
So I'm using the free version of the SCARM software to design my track layout using Bachmann track.
I have two small imperfections (according to the software) where my track ends are just slightly off. I have tried every combination of track lengths and cannot get my layout perfectly aligned.
My question is this: How precise do the track ends need to be? Is there enough "play" with standard rigid track to get the track pieces to connect?
Thank you in advance for your guidance.
Title: Re: HO Layout using SCARM
Post by: BobZ on January 04, 2024, 04:20:14 PM
What is the distance between the track ends? My layout is fairly large EZ-Track (16x16 L Shaped). Most of it was designed using AnyRail. I had several locations where the track ends were slightly apart and I found there was enough 'play' to connect or I found the 'right' combination of shorter lengths. Good luck.
Title: Re: HO Layout using SCARM
Post by: RedMt Dave on January 04, 2024, 07:16:31 PM
Hey Bob, It looks like it is less than 1/4" long. I've been able to adjust the layout so that there is only one place where this occurs.  Everything else now lines up.
I tried using the free version of Anyrail, but it stops you after 50 pieces of track.  Looks like my revised layout will have about 90 pieces.
Thanks for your reply.
Title: Re: HO Layout using SCARM
Post by: Len on January 05, 2024, 02:58:38 PM
One way around the 50 piece layout limitation is to do two half layouts. Print to the same scale and tape them together.

Len
Title: Re: HO Layout using SCARM
Post by: jward on January 06, 2024, 05:55:51 PM
In both SCARM and AnyRail, you can go under Settings and adjust the tolerances to allow tracks with mismatched angles to connect, within reason of course.


In SCARM, go to Settings> Edit> Tolerances and set them. I have mine set to 5 degrees, and .25" which will allow connections to any track within those settings.