Inventory software is a great idea for several reasons. It can help avoid buying duplicates, keeps an accurate want list, forms the basis for insurance valuations, keeps track of where your items are at and their condition. The following is a survey of model train inventory software. If you know of others, please add it in the comments below.
MiTrains by ShenSoft – “an inventory program specifically for model railroaders and rail fans. One that eased the burden of typing wherever possible” Download – USD: $50. OS: WinXP
RailFanExpress – “is an inventory software for the model railroader.” USD: $20. OS: WinXP
RRTrains 2000 – “is a small program used to create a detailed inventory of your model railroad collection.” Freeware last updated July 2004. OS: WinXP
SofTrak – “is the easiest to use and most complete solution for managing your collection of railroad equipment. It is designed for use on Macintosh or Windows computers with Filemaker Pro®.” USD: $60, OS: Mac OSX and WinXP, also requires Filemaker Pro database.
TrackMyTrains – “is a comprehensive database system designed especially for model railroading enthusiasts and collectors. Our subscribers keep their collection databases on our website with complete control over how it is organized and who can see their information.” USD: $30/year, Web Application.
TrainMinder – has optional paid modules adding Lionel and American Flyer images, data and prices. USD: $40-85, OS: WinXP
TrainTracker - offers very extensive optional modules including, MTH, K-Line, Pre, Post and Modern Lionel and American Flyer data. USD: $29-130, OS: WinXP
YardOffice -Tracks motive and rolling stock with custom notes, photos and DCC codes. Registered version allows printing of labels and reports. Free limited version or registerd USD: $27. OS: WinXP
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What about “Trainminder” sofeware? Do you have an opinion as to which is the best available?
Robert, thanks for pointing out Trainminder. I have added both Trainminder and TrainTracker to the list. Personally, I have been looking for software that works on a WinXP desktop/notebook _and_ a Windows Mobile PocketPC. The closest thing I have found is an Excel workbook on the WinXP desktop/notenook that can be read natively on the PocketPC using Softmaker.de Office 2008. It lacks the convenience of a packaged solution, but allows me to keep the inventory with me and updated at train shows.
After more research and trying things, I like Yard Office. The free version is very functional. The registration of $27 price is very hobby friendly. The registered version allows me to export an Excel spreadsheet to my PocketPC. This allows me an easy way to keep track of what I have/want when I am traveling or at a train show using the PocketPC. I wanted an inventory program, so if you want operations and switch lists, then another option might be better.