About
Atlas Track Planning Software (ATPS) is a dedicated layout design tool created by the Atlas Model Railroad Company for hobbyists building model train layouts. Available as a free download for Windows (XP through 11), ATPS provides an intuitive drag-and-drop environment to plan layouts using pieces drawn from Atlas's nine track lines, including HO Code 83/100, N Code 55/80, and O Scale 2-Rail/3-Rail systems. Users can model flex-track routes in a realistic way, arrange multi-level layouts with varying heights and grades, and easily draw infrastructure elements like train stations, houses, industries, and roads. The 3D view mode lets you visualize your completed layout before purchasing a single piece of track. Once your design is finalized, ATPS automatically generates a shopping list of the exact Atlas track pieces needed, streamlining the buying process. The software is regularly updated — the latest release (April 2025) includes improved helper window behavior, an updated N Code 80 library, French language translation improvements, and full Windows 11 certification. A library of sample layouts in N, HO, and O scales is also available for download to help beginners get started quickly. ATPS is ideal for model railroad hobbyists of all experience levels who want to plan, prototype, and perfect their layouts digitally before committing to a physical build. It is currently Windows-only with no Mac version planned.
Key Features
- Multi-Scale Track Libraries: Choose from Atlas's nine track lines spanning HO (Code 83/100), N (Code 55/80), and O Scale (2-Rail/3-Rail) to design accurate, scale-specific layouts.
- 3D Layout Visualization: View your completed layout design as a full 3D model to check spacing, aesthetics, and track flow before building.
- Multi-Level Layout Support: Arrange your layout across multiple levels with different heights and grades, enabling complex, realistic mountain or helix designs.
- Automatic Shopping List: Generate a precise list of required Atlas track pieces directly from your design so you can order exactly what you need.
- Infrastructure Drawing Tools: Easily sketch train stations, houses, industries, roads, and other scenery elements to plan your full layout environment.
Use Cases
- A beginner model railroader planning their first HO scale layout by experimenting with different track configurations before buying any components.
- An experienced hobbyist designing a complex multi-level N scale layout with grades and helixes to maximize a small room space.
- A club or group collaboratively designing a large O scale display layout and generating a consolidated Atlas track shopping list.
- A hobbyist using sample layout templates as inspiration to adapt a pre-designed Atlas plan to fit their specific room dimensions.
- A model train retailer helping customers visualize and plan custom layouts using Atlas track products before making a purchase.
Pros
- Completely Free: ATPS is available as a free download with no subscription or license fee, making it accessible to hobbyists of all budgets.
- Official Atlas Track Data: Uses authentic Atlas track component libraries, ensuring designs translate directly into accurate real-world purchases.
- Regularly Updated: Atlas continues to release updates with new track libraries, bug fixes, and Windows 11 certification, keeping the software current.
Cons
- Windows Only: The software runs exclusively on Microsoft Windows (XP through 11) with no Mac or Linux version planned, limiting accessibility for non-Windows users.
- Atlas Track Exclusive: The software only supports Atlas brand track components, making it unsuitable for hobbyists who mix track brands.
- No Cloud or Mobile Access: As a desktop-only application with no cloud sync or mobile companion, layouts cannot be accessed or edited on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Atlas Track Planning Software free to download?
Yes, ATPS is completely free. You can download it directly from the Atlas Model Railroad website with no payment or subscription required.
Which operating systems does ATPS support?
ATPS runs on Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11. There are currently no plans to release a Mac or Linux version.
Which model railroad scales are supported?
The software supports HO Scale (Code 83 and Code 100), N Scale (Code 55 and Code 80), and O Scale (2-Rail and 3-Rail) using Atlas track libraries.
Can I see my layout in 3D before building it?
Yes. ATPS includes a 3D view mode so you can visualize your completed layout design from multiple angles before purchasing any track.
Does the software generate a parts list for purchasing?
Yes. Once your layout design is complete, ATPS automatically generates a shopping list of the exact Atlas track pieces needed to build it.
