Free Software for Easy Drawing on Windows XP

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding free software suitable for drawing schematic pictures on Windows XP, particularly for setting up physics problems. Participants explore various software options and share their experiences with different tools.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a need for software that allows easy drawing of schematic pictures, mentioning XFig but noting difficulties with installation on Windows XP.
  • Another participant suggests Inkscape as a potential solution, providing a download link.
  • A different participant recommends Drawplus 4 as an alternative option.
  • One participant proposes using the built-in Paint tool in Windows, suggesting it can be more versatile than commonly perceived.
  • Some participants argue that for schematic pictures, vector graphics software is preferable to Paint, reiterating the superiority of XFig and sharing a guide for installation on XP.
  • Equation Illustrator is mentioned as another possible tool for creating schematic images.
  • A participant indicates they have downloaded Inkscape and will consider other options if it does not meet their needs.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on the best software for the task, with no consensus reached on a single solution.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on the user's familiarity with installation processes and the specific requirements for schematic drawing, which may not be fully addressed in the discussion.

Clausius2
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I am looking for a single free software to draw easy schematic pictures, such as those for setting up physics problems and so on. You'd be able to draw arrows, lines, a bit of text, easy geometrical forms and so.

I have heard about XFig, but it is needed Linux or Unix I don't remember. I tried some time ago to install it from a web page somebody gave me just here, but I wasn't able.

Do you have some suggestion?

Please, if possible I want it to be running under WinXP.

Thanks.
 
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You could try Drawplus 4
 
I've been looking for something similar. In the meantime, try the standard Paint drawing tool built into Windows, with a little imagination it can be a little more versatile than most people think it could be.
 
schematic pictures -> vector graphics -> NOT paint.
xfig is properly superior to other free programs, I once installed it under XP by following the guide here: http://www.cs.usask.ca/grads/wew036/latex/xfig.html

You might also be able to use Equation Illustrator:
http://www.mgcsoft.com/index.htm
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Triss said:
schematic pictures -> vector graphics -> NOT paint.
xfig is properly superior to other free programs, I once installed it under XP by following the guide here: http://www.cs.usask.ca/grads/wew036/latex/xfig.html

You might also be able to use Equation Illustrator:
http://www.mgcsoft.com/index.htm

Thanks everyone. I've downloaded Inkscape. If it doesn't fit to my need, I will try with some other you posted.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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