SCARM

SCARM

SCARM is free and open source software for designing model railways and model railroad layouts. It allows users to create track plans, choose components like tracks and locomotives, and simulate trains running on the layout.
SCARM image
model-railroad track-planning railway-simulation

SCARM: Free Model Railway Software

Design model railways and layouts with SCARM, a free and open source software, creating track plans, choosing components, and simulating trains

What is SCARM?

SCARM (Simple Computer Aided Railway Modeller) is a free and open source software application for designing model railway and model railroad layouts. It allows users to easily create track plans, assemble layout components like various types of tracks, structures, locomotives, and rolling stock, and simulate operation of trains on the layout.

Key features of SCARM include:

  • User-friendly graphical interface for interactive layout design
  • Comprehensive library of common model railway components to add to layouts
  • Support for designing layouts in a variety of popular scales including HO, OO, N, Z etc.
  • Advanced alignment, curvature and transition tools for flexible track drawing
  • Wiring tools for power districts, blocks and routes
  • Simulation mode shows animated trains running on the track plan
  • Printing and PDF export options to share or print designs
  • Supports unlimited undo and redo of track plan changes
  • Free and open source software (GPL license) available for Windows, macOS and Linux

SCARM offers an intuitive and efficient approach to model railway design and simulation for railway modelers. With user-friendly controls and extensive component libraries, it makes planning and testing layout designs quick and enjoyable.

SCARM Features

Features

  1. Design model railway layouts
  2. Add tracks, locomotives, rolling stock
  3. Simulate train operations
  4. Automatic design tools
  5. Support for common model railroad scales
  6. Export designs and simulations

Pricing

  • Free
  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

User friendly interface

Powerful features for design and simulation

Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Cons

Limited library of pre-made components

Steep learning curve for advanced features

Lacks some features of paid alternatives


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