Does Torus run my trains?
No — Torus plans the work and keeps track of it, and you run the trains the way you already do. It stores each locomotive’s DCC address for reference, but it never touches your throttle or command station.
What computer does it run on?
Torus launches for Windows, on the PC you keep near the layout. Nothing else has to be a Windows machine — crew devices only need a browser.
Do I need to install anything else?
No. No Java, no database, no separate web server — the installer brings everything with it.
What scale does it work with?
All of them. Torus keeps track of cars, industries, and paperwork, and none of that cares what scale you model. HO, N, O, S, G, and Z all work the same.
How do I get my license key?
Checkout runs through Lemon Squeezy and your key arrives in the receipt email. Start Torus, paste the key into the activation window, and that is the last you will see of it.
How do subscribers get the extra $10 off?
Join Railworks Studio with your email and we will send you a code. Use it at checkout and it comes off the launch price.
What if it isn’t for me?
Email me and we will sort it out — I would rather refund someone than leave them with software that does not suit their railroad. The
refund policy has the details.
Do I get free updates?
Yes, permanently. Every update is included in the one-time purchase — no renewal, no maintenance plan, and no version you’ll be asked to buy again.
Does it need an internet connection?
Only to download and activate it. After that a session runs on your own machine and your own network. Torus runs a small web server so crew devices can reach it, which is why Windows asks once on first launch — click Allow and tick Private networks. If the connection drops mid-session, nothing stops.
Can I use Torus on my own?
Yes. Run the session solo from the layout PC, work the switch lists on screen or print them, and the railroad keeps its state between sessions exactly as it would for a full crew.
How many people can connect at once?
There’s no seat limit. Bring the whole crew, each on their own phone, tablet, or laptop, and everyone sees the same board as cars move.
How do crew devices connect?
There’s nothing to install on them. Torus shows a network address under Trainmaster, and your crew opens it in the browser their phone already has.
Can I bring in a roster I already have?
Yes. Torus imports CSV from Excel, Google Sheets, or JMRI Operations — in JMRI that is Cars → Tools → Export to file. You map the columns once, and a backup is written before anything changes.
Can I back up my layout data?
Yes, from Trainmaster. Do it before a big change or after an op night. Your railroad is a file you own and can copy anywhere.
What if I change computers?
Install Torus on the new machine and restore your backup. Your industries, rolling stock, and session history all travel in that one file.
Do you have something for clubs?
Club setups vary more than home layouts do.
Write to me with how yours is organised and I’ll give you a straight answer rather than a policy that does not fit.
