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Software help

Software help

Software help

(OP)
I'm looking for some software to lay out blueprints. Does anyone know of any goods ones that don't cost a fortune? This is coming out of my own pocket and I can't yet afford autocad or anything like that.

RE: Software help

There are lots of cheap CAD packages; DesignCAD comes to mind. You should do a search on this site; there have been a few postings about this subject.

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RE: Software help

Give GeneralCaddPro a shot.
It is a well developed package based on concepts of the old DOS Generic Cad.
http://www.generalcadd.com/

The support group Forum is unequaled and you generally can expect help the same or the next day.
And you might have a say on the development of new features.

There is a free trial download.

RE: Software help

Try Draftsight by Dassualt
http://www.3ds.com/products/draftsight/overview/
about the best AutoCADLT knock off I have found. Some bugs, but it is *FREE* Almost all the same setting and function are there but renamed and re-organized. They really tried to make an Autocad clone here.
The catch is they want to sell support services and presumably upgrading to a professional package at some point. For all that it is 100% unlocked and usable. It looks like they upgrade it somewhat regularly.

The makers of TurboCAD make a program called DoubleCAD
http://www.doublecad.com/
it is the same thing as the TurboCAD LT product as best as I can tell but re-branded. The catch is they offer the "Pro" version for sale and will send you an email every once in a while to move up. I found this to be too much like the turbocad product than AutoCad and a harder transition because I am so used to Autocad. I just wanted to to that one thing the way I have been doing if for 10 years and couldn't.

both cases you need to provide an email to verify install. I have used both in a production environment. You can get the job done and if you are used to using AutoCAD LT is should be OK transition. If nothing else it will allow you to work until you can afford a fully supported cad package.

MAP

RE: Software help

You could also try Alibre by 3D systems, they have a 30 day free trial and their basic program is $199. Their more advanced programs have a translator that can import and display Autocad, Catia, Solidworks and other parts and drawings.
http://www.alibre.com/
B.E.

The good engineer does not need to memorize every formula; he just needs to know where he can find them when he needs them. Old professor

RE: Software help

...and to muddy the waters, I use Bricscad... it's a full blown Cad program with nearly all the features of the latest AutoCAD offerings and for half the price of LT...

Does good 3D and parametrics, in case your interested.

Dik

RE: Software help

I could teach you Turbocad or its likeness in about 10 minutes. Just get away from the AutoCAD mind-freeze and simplify your life.

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