Re: Cad software

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "apaulsalerno"
<apaulsalerno@y...> wrote:

>
> Ive asked this before, some comments would be appreciated. What is

a

> decent CAD program for hobby or small shop use. Something not to
> expensive, but capable and well written? What do most people use?
> What should I stay away from?

I would recomend that you search the archives on this one.

There are top-of-the-line programs, AutoCAD for instance, that are
really full featured. The problem is that the learning curve is
steep as you get into the basic learning of the program.

There are other, much less feature packed that work alike, and some
that are different.

One problem is speed of idea to output. I don't think anyone brags
about AutoCAD being a fast program to use, even with in-depth
knoledge.

I cut my teeth on an old DOS program that is (for me anyway) far
faster than any windoz program. I found that as soon as you need to
pick thing with the mouse, you spent too much time picking and less
time drawing.

As I understand there is a free version of intellecad available, but
it is not easy to find as they really want you to buy a new version,
not use an old version.

TurboCAD is a favorite for home hobbiests because it is available for
a pretty low cost and does much of is needed from a CAD package.

But, there are other flavors that work in a unique way. DeskCNC has
it's loyalists. mostly from people who learned on it and not
AutoCad. But, I like my old DOS variety of CAD becasuse that is what
I learned. I think it is what you are most comfortable with. I
think Dolphin is also a non-traditional package. But, like DeskCNC,
once you know it, you don't want to change.

IF, and this is for the beginner, IF, you EVER plan on getting a job
with your CAD skills, find out what is used in your area and take the
time to learn that. Nobody hires a draftsman and then teaches them
CAD.

Ditto for CNC machine shops. Although that is much different. old
machines are often PLC driven so have to be taught in-house.



As for where to get some of the free CAD programs.

http://64.7.93.99/

so cheap, they didn't even spend the $$ for a URL.

Look for files size and make sure it exports DXF.

A note about QCAD, there is a WinQCAD pcb software package that is
expressly for PCB layout, and there is QCAD for win and linux that
is a real CAD program.

and another note, emachinshop offers a 'free' cad, but the only
export is to their servers where they will make your parts for $$.
you are locked in. I have heard of people trying to reverse engineer
their output, but that means it is not supported, and most likely,
you would be locked into one verson and no updates.

My recomendations ? try TruboCAD as it is free and many others use
it. that means user groups and peer to peer support. It will teach
you how to CAD.

Once you have the basics, then your next CAD package will be more of
a personal selection than an introduction

Dave