Timetable List (F4)

Note: Exact Options and details may vary between Simulations

Each SimSig simulation you play involves two pieces of software. First there is the sim proper, namely the software that displays the panel map of the area with trains, and can introduce extra challenges such as delays and faults. Then there is its timetable (abbreviated to TT) to which the trains run. Although each sim you download and install contains at least one built-in timetable, the sim and its timetable(s) are quite separate. For this reason, experienced SimSig players are able to create their own timetable for a particular sim.

When you select File > New Simulation, SimSig will ask you to select a timetable from a list. If you have downloaded extra timetables, they will also appear on the list. The sim itself may be capable of displaying one or more slightly differing layouts on its panel according to which scenario the TT applies. For example, the Exeter sim offers you a choice of including Tiverton Junction, which you should select if running a pre-1986 timetable. In 1986 Tiverton station was moved to what is now Tiverton Parkway, so use this latter option with modern day timetables.

Once you have selected your timetable and commenced playing the sim, you will find that pressing F4 or clicking Timetable > Edit in the Control window menu opens the Timetable List window. This contains several tabs, enabling you to:

• Confirm which timetable and version your sim is currently running (General tab), along with a short description if provided by the TT's author;
• See which types of trains the timetable uses (Train Types tab);
  
• List all trains appearing in the sim, sorted by ID (description), departure/entry time or entry/exit location (Timetables tab, very useful!)
• Locate any train on this list, given its description (Find Train subwindow, from the Timetables tab)
• Display any train's timetable (Timetables > Edit > Location List (identical to Show Timetable window)
• Edit any train's timetable, either temporarily or permanently (Timetable Editor subwindow)
• Edit any TT rules (e.g., applying between two trains) (Rules tab)
• Run one of several TT analytic or debugging tools included with the sim (Tools 1, Tools 2 tabs)

The Timetable List's functions are thus of three main types:

• For the player, to display the TT details, particularly the trains in the area and those due to appear, the timetable for each, and ways to search for a train.
• For both the player and TT creator, a way to edit the current timetable to fix problems, such as faults in the timetable, problem trains, etc. Edits may be temporary or permanent.
• For the TT creator, a way to create a timetable and debug it when completed.

Although the Timetable List is often referred to synonymously as the Timetable Editor, the latter is just one of several tools included in the Timetable List.

(see also Introduction to Writing Timetables)

General - shows the timetable name, adds a description and includes start and finish times.
Train Types - lists train types used in the timetable, and permits editing.
Timetables - the actual timetables of all trains, and permits editing of any train's TT.
Rules - lists all rules applicable to the trains.
Tools 1 - tools to analyse errors in the timetable and to export/import TT data.
Tools 2 - matches inbound/outbound workings and lists arrivals/departures.