Starting TrackLayer

There is only one program for both TrainPlayer and Tracklayer.  Which features you have are determined by the license code you enter.  If you have not purchased a TrackLayer license, this section of the manual does not apply to you.

The free demo version includes all features of both programs, but some features are restricted -- you can't save or print a layout with the demo version.

The Track Tools

The main difference you see on the screen when you are in TrackLayer mode is the addition of the Track Tools:

Tools are as follows. 

Edit tool	for selecting, moving, deleting track or other objects
Straight tool	for drawing straight track sections and switches
Circle tool	for drawing guide circles, used in making curves
Turntable tool	for drawing turntables
Station tool	for drawing station areas (also available in TrainPlayer)
Run tool	for running trains -- with this tool selected, the program behaves just like TrainPlayer

The Blank Layout

When TrackLayer starts, it presents a default blank layout: 4' x 8', HO scale, with a 12" grid:

At this point you can:

• Load an image.  If you have a picture or track plan you want to work with, ignore the default layout and instead load the picture.  If the image is already in the form of a graphics file, see "Loading an Image" in the next section; otherwise, see "Preparing the Image" to get the image ready for TrackLayer use.
   
• Start drawing.  The default 4x8 space is ready for track, and useful for learning or sketching.  If you want to start drawing, you can go to "Straight Track and Switches."
   
• Change the size and scale.  If a 4x8 HO layout isn't what you have in mind, create a new blank layout the size and shape you want.  See "Creating a New Blank Layout."  Once you choose a particular size and scale, that becomes the default for all new layouts.