JMRI Operations

The Operations feature simulates prototype railroad operations by routing cars between industries and generating switchlists.

Core Concepts

• **Locations:** Towns, yards, or stations on your railroad
• **Tracks:** Specific spots within locations (industries, yards, staging)
• **Cars:** Your rolling stock roster with types and loads
• **Trains:** Move cars between locations

Setting Up Locations

1. Go to Operations → Locations
2. Click "Add" to create a location
3. Add tracks to the location (spur, yard, staging)
4. Set track length and car types accepted

Building Your Car Roster

1. Go to Operations → Cars
2. Add each car with:

• Road name and number
• Type (boxcar, tank, hopper, etc.)
• Length
• Load/empty status

Creating Trains

1. Go to Operations → Trains
2. Click "Add" to create a train
3. Set route (which locations the train visits)
4. Configure what car types the train will handle
5. Set departure time and direction

Generating Switchlists

1. Click "Build" on a train
2. JMRI routes cars to appropriate industries
3. Print the switchlist
4. Work the train following the list
5. Click "Terminate" when complete

Tips for Realistic Operations

• Match industries to car types they would actually use
• Set realistic track capacities
• Use staging for off-layout destinations
• Schedule multiple trains for complex sessions