Drawing software

[Dandelion Acres]

What do you guys use for CAD drawings? I want for both commercial fire and
resi systems, and don't want to go through the steep curve of AutoCad (big
bucks too!).

 

[Jackcsg]

I've been using TurboCAD for about 12 years now. The software runs around
$120.00 for the professional version, and let's you do everything AutoCAD or
even AutoCADLT will let you do including printing drivers. You can even save
drawings in a wide range of formats, including .dwg, visio, and a host of
others. I use a HP 1220C for "B" scale, 11x17 drawings for submittals. It's
an easy learning curve. And just about the most cost effective road you can
go down for a professional package.

Jack

 

[Crash Gordon®]

I have TurboCAD too...easier to use than the big ones.
I mostly use SmartDraw now - I use it for monster houses.

 

[alarman]

What do you guys use for CAD drawings? I want for both commercial
fire and resi systems, and don't want to go through the steep curve
of AutoCad (big bucks too!).

Smartdraw. AcademicSuperstore.com has the best price at $109.00 for the full
version 7.
js

 

[Crash Gordon®]

I like SmartDraw...it's easy and does a ton of stuff. Lately, I've been using it to design entertainment centers. I take a pix of the wall of the house the built in is gonna go on, then Import it into SmartDraw then make several rough layouts on top of the image for the builder/homeowner to pick from...If he wants to pay me I'll make more detailed drawings but usually all they need is a rough idea for the framer to follow.

 

[A.J.]

Have you purchased additional shapes for alarm systems beside those basic
ones found with Visio Pro ? I have found free third party stencils for CCTV
and Access controls, but no free security alarm stuff.

 

[GQC]

Using Excel's borders works very nicely ; make up your own customized
tool bar ; change all rows hieghts to 8 ; change all column width's to 1
; file sizes typically 20 - 60- kb ; I tried Visio & Turbo Cad a several
years ago, bu Excel is easier to use.

gqc

 

[Crash Gordon®]

So you use a spreadsheet to make drawings? That sounds like fun.
Do you use Paint to do your taxes?

 

[Jim]

Try a trial version of Smartdraw. Those that haven't upgraded their
Smartdraw in a while might want to check out the latest version 7.
They have added many new features and plug-ins. Easy learning curve on
this product. Those that have a moderate sized company may want to look
into D-Tools. They use a Visio platform.

BobbyD

I just saw this advertised in Hometech Products. I don't know anything
about it but you can try. It's called NetZoom by Altima Technologies
Inc. No web site given. Says it is designed for creation of diagrams in
the areas of computer, telecomm, A/V and residential and security
networks. Works with most appllications., including Microsoft Visio
2003, Microsoft Powerpoint 2003, Igrafx, Auto CAD and NetViz. Features
libraries that contain more than 60,000 shapes and 2000 manufacturers,
connection strings detailing end to end connections and chassis
configurations, using related chassis and modules. Offers search
feature that includes a query interface for locating equipment shapes,
a preview feature and free updates and tech support. No cost was given.

 

[[email protected]]

paint shop pro 7 ... but i mostly do properties, not just buildings.
and i make all my own cctv icons. Tried cad didnt like it.

 

[Crash Gordon®]

Try SmartDraw...its easy and has tons of downloadable symbols. You may even find an older version online that you don't have to pay for - but the do have a trial version. It even does Visio type of stuff.


paint shop pro 7 ... but i mostly do properties, not just buildings.
and i make all my own cctv icons. Tried cad didnt like it.

 

[Robert L. Bass]

I use Visio Pro...

For finger painting??? Nifty!