To control a route in Prime Rail Control, point at the relevant train or track, click the start signal, and then click the destination signal. The status bar confirms the action or explains why it was refused. Most train commands apply to the train beneath the mouse cursor, so position the pointer over that train or its track before using a key.
Build and cancel routes
- Normal train route: left-click the start signal, then left-click the destination signal.
- Shunting route: hold
Ctrlwhile left-clicking a signal, then select the destination as required. - Manual route: hold
Shiftand left-click the signal, then trace the path through the points yourself. - Call-on route: hold
Altand left-click the signal. Complete the guided call-on procedure; once it is granted, build the route from that signal. - Shunting without a signal: hold
Ctrland left-click the shunting set, then click the destination track.
Press Esc to cancel a route currently being built. The same key also hides track information and pop-up windows. Right-click a signal or track to open its context menu. Use the middle mouse button and drag to pan the layout, and use the wheel to zoom.
Inspect trains, tracks, and bookings
F1opens the timetable for the train under the cursor. Over an empty track, it shows trains booked on that track.F2displays information about the track and the train occupying it.F3shows station and track lists, including bookings.Gopens the train graph.F4orF7opens the dispatcher window for points, track consents, call-on signals, and faults.
Press H during the simulation to open the shortcut window. This is useful when you need to check a command without memorising the controls.
Control the train under the cursor
These commands require the pointer to be over the appropriate train or its track:
| Key | Use |
|---|---|
F11 | Convert a standing train to shunting; it leaves the departure board. |
F12 | Convert a standing shunting set back to a train. It must have a locomotive or powered unit. |
F8 | Detach the locomotive for a runaround, a locomotive at the wrong end, or a breakdown. |
Shift+F8 | Detach the rear banking locomotive. |
Ctrl+F8 | Split wagons by clicking dots counted from the tail; this is available only for a damaged wagon or train breakdown. |
F9 | Attach the adjacent set or wagons. |
Alt+F5 | Reverse a standing multiple unit, driving-trailer set, or push-pull set in place. |
Shift+F5 | Divert the train; direction checking remains off until the train reaches the next timetable station. |
Ctrl+N | Assign a number to the selected train or newly formed set. |
Give permissions and change the controlled station
Use F5 to choose the station you operate; the automatic dispatcher handles the other stations. The automatic dispatcher is off by default and can be toggled with Ctrl+F5. Use Ctrl+H for train-entry consent and Ctrl+U for direction consent on the line to the neighbouring station. On desks with numeric route selection, type the two-digit track and point code, choose the throat with L or P, and use Backspace to clear the entry or Esc to cancel it.