Cad program that you could suggest?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) programs, particularly focusing on free or inexpensive options suitable for various applications, including robotics. Participants share their experiences and preferences regarding different CAD software.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest TurboCad as a potential option, while noting that truly "good" CAD systems are typically not free.
  • AutoCAD and Pro-E are mentioned as good but expensive options, with a suggestion that older versions of TurboCad and architectural CAD programs can be found for around $10.
  • One participant expresses a desire to create prototypes for robotics, prompting suggestions for inexpensive versions of TurboCad or AutoCAD Lite.
  • Concerns are raised about the learning curve associated with TurboCad version 8, with some participants finding it simple while others struggle with its interface.
  • Solidworks is highlighted as a user-friendly option, though it is noted to be expensive, with a mention of Alibre Design as a similar alternative offering a free trial.
  • Participants discuss the availability of demo versions of Autodesk software and the potential for students to access software at reduced prices.
  • Autosketch is mentioned as a simpler and cheaper alternative, though its availability is questioned, with some participants suggesting it may still be downloadable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of opinions on the usability and availability of different CAD programs, with no clear consensus on the best option. Some participants find certain programs easier to use than others, while others express confusion or difficulty with specific software.

Contextual Notes

There are references to the costs of various CAD programs, but some participants express uncertainty about the current pricing and availability of specific versions. The discussion also highlights the potential for student discounts and the existence of trial versions, but these details vary by location and availability.

B166ER
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i was wondering if any of you fellows, new of a good ( and free ) cad program that u could suggest?


thanks regards
 
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A google search for TurboCad might help, though if you really want a "good" CAD system, it won't be "free" (well, not legally anyway).
 
AutoCAD and Pro-E are good, but not free.
 
There are a few cheap CAD programs out there, ($10.00 turbocad older limited capability versions).

There are some pretty good architectural CAD programs out there that are not as versatile as AutoCad but work great for quick drafting of square or rectagular rooms with an occasional odd angle. Such as Borderbund's "Home Architect," also available for about $10.00 for older versions, or about $50.00 for up-to-date.

AutoCad Lite is available for about $50.00. This is supposed to have some of the features of AutoCad.

What do you want to draw?
 
i would like to draw like prototypes for robotics and other aplications
 
The inexpensive version of ISMI TurboCad or AutoCad lite would probably be fine for that, unless you're already used to one of the more expensive versions, then you will find yourself wanting and lacking the other features or controls. Search the bargain areas and software departments of stores like OfficeMax or Staples for these.

If you want to test some out, here are some free trail versions of various CAD software:

http://www.icivilengineer.com/Software_Guide/CAD/

PS. I may have been wrong about the cost of AutoCad Lite. The site I listed says it's over $500.00.

Here is a site offering Cheap and free CAD versions:

Free and Cheap CAD
 
have any of you used turbo cad version 8?
i have that cad program but it is hard for me to understand how to use it, have any of you had experience with that cad program?


thanks regards
 
As I recall, it's pretty simple and basic, with an interface not dissimilar to AutoCAD. If you really want hard to understand, you want to try Pro-E!

If you can get a license for Solidworks, that has a very simple user interface, and some pretty helpful online tutorials.
 
yea it does have a very simple user interface i guess i just need to remember how to remember wat is wat, I am only 16 so I am having a hard time understanding it more into physics and electronics then computers even though electronic and computers are in the same subject.

thanks regards
 
  • #10
brewnog said:
As I recall, it's pretty simple and basic, with an interface not dissimilar to AutoCAD. If you really want hard to understand, you want to try Pro-E!

If you can get a license for Solidworks, that has a very simple user interface, and some pretty helpful online tutorials.

Yeah, all things considered, Solidworks is king. But it's still pretty expensive.

There's a new program called Alibre Design that's a lot like Solidworks, from what I can tell. They offer a 30-day free trial (and the seat price isn't bad either). That should be enough time to learn everything you need to know about parametric modeling, and are afraid to ask. But that's twelve hours a day, six days a week. Don't tell your mom.
 
  • #11
If you do not want to get a program through copying, I believe AutoDesk occasionally releases full-featured demo CDs of their software- time limited. I'm not sure about how to get them, though...never had to resort to using one.

For your purposes, AutoDesk Inventor sounds excellent...it's not a true drafting program. You "sketch" out your work, and the program will adjust the dimensions to suit how it all fits together. Calculates moments and mass/volume, as well. I don't know how SolidWorks works, but it is known as being quite capable, as well.
 
  • #12
I use Autocad2000 but also use Autodesk Autosketch. I don't know if autosketch is still available but it's simple to use and was a much cheeper program.

Regards

Don
 
  • #13
never heard of autosketch new to me
 
  • #14
Autosketch isn't around anymore (ok you can download it probably).
If you're a student you might be able to get a students licence.
In holland you can get licences for a lot of software for bargain prices if your a student (e.g. WinXP pro for 20 euro's).

I don't know where you live but you might try that (if your a student).
 
  • #15
never heard of autosketch new to me

You can purchase autosketch 9 at a reduced price for students here: http://www.studica.com/products/product_detail.cfm?productid=557

Regards

Don
 

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