Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Oct 09, 1999 08:42am | #1

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   John - If you haven't already found it, further down this page is a thread called "software recommendations". This might get you pointed in the right direction. Also, there are several CAD related threads in the archives. Do an archive search for CAD and see what turns up.

2. 
   Frank_Mitchell | Oct 13, 1999 03:44pm | #2

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   John-- look into Vectorworks by Diehlgraphsoft. It's cross platform and they're about to come out with version tailored specifically for architecture..fantastic support and product development... yes, I own stock, but only after I had become familiar with software, and no, I'm not professional architect nor engineer, more of a retired hobbyist.

1. 
   John_Scull | Oct 16, 1999 05:43pm | #3

   *I appreciate your advice, I have in the past had a small design program, it came with a pad, a stylis and a eraser. You would click on a corner and pull out the shape and then edit the result. I have gotten to where I really dont want to write or draw anymore, this goofy machine has got to produce all the paperwork. Thank you.

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   Wendell_Mullet | Oct 19, 1999 09:43am | #4

   *You might want to check out SOFTPLAN Architectural Design Software. It will do all phases of residential drafting. It's more money than most of the basic house plan drawing software but still a lot less than Autocad. I've recently upgraded to version 10 and haven't nearly learned to use all the features. I do recommend it. Here is the phone no. for the order desk: (800) 248-0164

3. 
   Guest_ | Oct 19, 1999 07:54pm | #5

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   John

   I've used AutoCAD, QuickCAD and various others, but the best so far is Chief Architect by ART. I got the demo for both SoftPlan and Chief Arch and compared the two and the best bang for the buck is Chief Arch. They both have web sites where you can download a demo (takes a very long time) or you can order a free demo via snail mail. SoftPlan $2,000 and change or Chief Arch $695.00. You don't need to be an architect or engineer to use either program.

   Vince

4. 
   RoyA | Oct 19, 1999 10:34pm | #6

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   I have used several "high end" 2D/3D cad systems including IBM Cadam, SDRC IDEAS, CimCad and AutoCad. The system I like best is the one that cost the least, Visual Cadd. Originally a derivative of Generic Cad it was sold to Corel whom then sold it to IMSI (www.imsisoft.com). It is a solid, easy to use, fast 2D Cad package. If you call direct they will probably let you have it for about $199. even though it retails at $499. Another inexpensive package if your looking for just creating solid models is 3D Solid Modeler (from IMSI also). About $99. Most my work is mechanical but both will work great for just about anything.

5. 
   John_Scull | Oct 19, 1999 10:34pm | #7

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   I am looking for a simple CAD system. I really want to do single line drawings for footprint and roof diagrams. I know it probably is not possible but I would like one with a roof calculator in it.