Replies

1. 
   PaulBinCT | Jul 07, 2005 09:52pm | #1

   I'd suggest starting with a search for "CAD" etc here, it's been discussed many times.  Personally I like Chief Architect, have also used MiniCad (now Vectorworks) neither is cheap, or necessarily easy to learn but both are very powerful.

2. 
   FastEddie1 | Jul 07, 2005 09:55pm | #2

   For you, the obvious upgrade, if you want to stay ion 2d, is the current version of Autocad LT.  If you want to go to 3d, there seems to be two preferred programs: Chief Archy and Soft Plan.  Do a search and you'll find lots of discussions.

   I use Chief for 3d and Autosketch for 2d.  Would have liked to stayed with Autocad LT but I can't afford it anymore.

    

   I'm sorry, I thought you wanted it done the right way.

1. 
   Turnagain | Jul 07, 2005 10:15pm | #3

   Autocad LT is priced pretty high but it can read my old files.  Thanks for the input.

3. 
   MrAIA | Jul 07, 2005 10:25pm | #4

   You may want to also check out IntelliCAD (the most robust and current developer is BricsCad - find them at http://www.bricscad.com) which allows you to use pretty much everything that you're used to in Acad (including LISP routines, PGP settings, pen settings, PaperSpace, Viewports, etc.).

    

   If you're open to moving to another program (and can read your DWG files) also check out DataCAD and DataCAD LT (http://www.datacad.com).  DataCAD is much better suited to architects and drafters in the construction trades, and includes most of the routines that you pay extra for in Acad.

    

   HTH

    

    

4. 
   MikeK | Jul 07, 2005 11:37pm | #5

   Chief Architect is good for 3D design, although I'm finding it a little clunkly for producing working drawings.

   Mike K

   Amateur Home Remodeler in Aurora, Illinois

5. 
   JohnSprung | Jul 08, 2005 01:40am | #6

   I'm still using LT 2000.  I bought the latest version of LT before the upgrade pricing expired, but I didn't find anything in it that was worth unlearning the old version and learning the new.   I'd say fuggedaboutit unless you need to upgrade to a 3D program.

    

   -- J.S.