progeCAD 13.0.14.11 Update Released on CADDIT

CADDIT has released another important update for progeCAD 2013 Professional on caddit.net. progeCAD is CAD design software for building and landscape design, civil and structural drafting. Features include PDF printing, DWF, STL file for 3D printing of drawings & full 3D modeling and 3D rendering. progeCAD will edit complex AutoCAD files with xrefs, blocks, hatching, mtext and more at very low cost.

progeCAD 2013.0.14.11 update fixes and enhancements include:

 

• Added PUBLISH command
• Fixed several crashes
• Fixed paper size order in print dialog
• Restored name of block in QSELECT list
• Fixed localization of some sentence in Recover manager dialog
• LISP: Added vl-cmdf function to VLISP project
• LISP: Added layoutlist lisp function
• Inserted error message for conversion PDF to JPG
• Upgraded PDF and JPG driver from version 4.5.3.3 to version 4.5.3.5
• Fixed missing uninstall part for pdf printer
• Fixed UCS toolbar, button ORIGIN.
• PDF2CAD: set tickness to 0 for all entities converted
• PDF2CAD: removed request to open files
• PDF2CAD: fixed some messages
• Fixed creation of PC3 with specific option in HP Djet 500 plotter
• Fixed esnap NEAR to circle with little radius (0.1)
• Fixed OFFSET error of 2Dpolyline
• Fixed import of PGP files with tabs
• Fixed icad.fmp file to remove substitution of fonts
• Fixed crash opening drawing with password and scrollbars activated
• Global linetpe scale - Property dialog not working
• Fixed crash using Explorer->blocks
• VBA: The method AddAttributeDef doesn't assign current layer to entity
• VBA: fixed several VBA methods
• VBA: Block.Delete method is not supported
• Restored default settings: User can restore only Menu or Toolbar
• Removed message prompt for searching missing references
• Added SNAPGRIDLEGACY variable to constrain cursor movement to GRID also when no command or selection active (default is off)
• Added CTRL+ENTER to press OK button to close EATTEDIT dialog
• Improved selection of attributes in EATTEDIT dialog directly on double clicked
• Fixed crash pressing OK in print dialog
• Fixed crash using property palette
• Improved ability to cancel search of closed boundary in hatch dialog
• Improved closed area recognition fixing various deadlocks and improved algorithm
• Changed CH alias to ENTPROP command
• Fixed filter names after creation in LAYERS dialog
• Fixed paths tab in options dialog
• VBA: Fixed property closed on object LWPolyline.
• Added progressbar in hatch area compute and increased ESC management (also analyzing sub paths)
• Added Autocad 2013-2014 clipboard format to allow PASTECLIP in autocad recent versions
• Added check to avoid crash on COPYCLIP+PASTECLIP in another application
• Fixed LAYFRZ command with dimension
• Fixed crash on ESC on print preview
• Fixed EXTRUDE command with large coordinate
• Fixed direction of extrusion
• Fixed search order for SHX files, now pcad first searches in drawing folder then in other search paths
• Changed plot header and footer separator char from "," to "|"
• Fixed API to set overridden plotting configurations
• Fixed crash when dimassoc = 0 dimlinear doesn't work.
• Fixed DWFOUT command, now uses dialog to choose filename and uses parameters in dialog
• Fixed VIEWPOINT command removing ESNAP when user type coordinates on keyboard
• Fixed display of RECOVER message loading a corrupted file with double click
• Removed plot length limit from paper size
• Fixed attribute edit during INSERT command
• Fixed INSERT with NWUCS
• Fixed margins for plotters with large paper size (A1 etc.) removed PRINTAUTOROTATE variable behavior

progeCAD 2013 Released - AutoCAD 2013 & Windows 8 Support

Sydney, Australia 30 October 2012 - The long awaited progeCAD 2013 has been released on the CADDIT.net website. Since 2006 progeCAD has offered high-quality CAD software with distinctive AutoCAD-like features - like native AutoCAD DWG read/write (no conversion) and similar commands and toolbars. Engineers, architects, surveyors, builders, landscape designers, manufacturers and other hobbyists and professionals alike prefer progeCAD as the affordable AutoCAD alternative. progeCAD 2013 is a major new release, and the first version to include IntelliCAD 7 source code into its product.

progeCAD pricing will continue at the low $400+ level (as opposed to AutoCAD's full $6000 license cost plus Autodesk maintenance subscription, etc). progeCAD 2013 continues to offer features used in previous versions, like DWG-to-PDF and PDF-to-CAD support, the free EasyArch add-on for architectural drawing, 3D solids and rendering, advanced hatching, text and dimensioning commands, thousands of free symbols and more. progeCAD 2013 also adds new features including:

PC3 plotter configuration file support

New Print Style Manager Interface

New Printing / Plotting Interface

AEC visualization (AutoCAD Architectural Desktop objects)

STL (mesh) and DAE file export

New Dimension Style Manager Interface

Advanced Spline Editing

New wireframe "HELIX" command

New ACIS Solid "LOFT" command

CAD Underlays of PDF, DWF and DGN files

Microstation DGN File Import (selected versions, as underlay)

New LMAN (Layer Manager)

Improved Purge command

Multigrip editing

New overall GUI style

Windows 8 Support

AutoCAD DWG 2013 file format support

AutoCAD and progeCAD users alike are invited to download progeCAD 2013 free at: http://www.caddit.net/progecad/progecad.php

This is a free full version 30 day trial which will allow you to save, print, etc and experience the cost savings benefit of CADDIT progeCAD for yourself. progeCAD 2013 licenses will be available as progeCAD single, mobile USB, network NLM, academic and corporate solutions.

Please contact CADDIT International for more information about progeCAD HERE: http://www.caddit.net/store/index.php?main_page=contact_us

For technical questions and user experiences about progeCAD, visit our forum HERE:
http://www.caddit.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=3

progeCAD 2013 Free Upgrade Offer - Begins 15 August 2012

Sydney, Australia 13 August 2012 - CADDIT announces a global free upgrade offer for all new and upgrade purchases of progeCAD Professional 2011 from CADDIT.net. The free upgrade will be for the upcoming progeCAD Professional 2013 version, after its release. progeCAD 2013 is currently scheduled for release in the next few months. progeCAD 2013 is the first release to have IntelliCAD 7 technology included in the end-user version. Along with this new technology, several new progeCAD features are planned:

• PC3 plotter configuration file support
• New Print Style Manager Interface
• New Printing / Plotting Interface
• AEC visualization (AutoCAD Architectural Desktop objects)
• STL (mesh) and DAE file export
• New Dimension Style Manager Interface
• Advanced Spline Editing
• New wireframe "HELIX" command
• New ACIS Solid "LOFT" command
• CAD Underlays of PDF, DWF and DGN files
• Microstation DGN File Import (selected versions, as underlay)
• New LMAN (Layer Manager)
• Improved Purge command
• Multigrip editing
• New overall GUI style
• Windows 8 Support
• AutoCAD DWG 2013 file format support

Here it is - the very first sneak peek of progeCAD 2013 :)



Lower level enhancements of progeCAD 2013 include the use of several new developer languages (APIs) in progeCAD: true DRX and IRX application support with VBA and VSTA object models for prototype applications, while still supporting legacy SDS and AutoLISP languages making the new progeCAD 2013 an excellent foudation for specialized CAD application development.

The progeCAD 2013 free upgrade promotion begins 15 August 2012 AEST (Australia Sydney Time) for all new full and upgrade orders placed for progeCAD Professional 2011 version (current) ENGLISH LANGUAGE ONLY - including progeCAD Pro, progeCAD USB, progeCAD Network NLM and OFFICE licenses. This promotion does not include progeCAD Standard licenses.

For more information visit our website or contact CADDIT.net HERE.

Fast Architectural Drawing: progeCAD's Free 'EasyArch'

progeCAD 2011 is a low-cost AutoCAD alternative which supports direct reading and writing of complex detail drawings in AutoCAD's '.dwg' file format. The latest progeCAD Professional 2011 release includes several significant features over previous versions. This article explores just one of these new features: progeCAD 2011 Professional's  new "EasyArch" add-on for 2D architectural on-the-fly drawing of walls, doors, stairs and more. EasyArch architectural objects are also parametric, allowing most parameters to be conveniently redefined via dialog boxes at a later time.

EasyArch offers the fast 2D creation of:

• Walls
• Doors
• Windows
• Glass Walls
• Staircases
• Basic Furnishings & More

EasyArch objects can be quickly drawn by selecting the desired item from the "EasyArch" pulldown menu in progeCAD, or enabling any of its several floating toolbars. Object preferences, including text and dimension preferences can also be changed:

The Draw Walls function allows you to specify the thickness (or width) of your wall disregarding the initial and final thickness as it seems to only change to equal each other. You can choose your justification of your drawing line of your wall bearing in mind the width of your wall and the sizing when it comes to the corner. At the corner, progeCAD automatically generates the next lines coming off the corner of the wall taking into account the width and justification of the drawing line. The command line features many helpful functions for your wall including:

• Arc (A): defines an arc for your wall with input angle.
• Closing (C): completes the wall automatically for you when progeCAD can recognize the opportunity to.
• Header (H): closes the last drawn length of wall much like a niche.
• Triangle (T): creates a triangular wall partition for you.

Windows and glass walls can be added as architectural blocks to and existing wall or even line with much ease. Available windows include generic windows, glass walls and French windows. The software asks for the:

• Width: how wide the window will be.
• Opening Frame Distance: where the frame is located in the wall.
• Height: of the window (3D only).
• Angle: Direction of window frame outwards.
• Windowsill projection: the measurement of definition of the windowsill.

EasyArch also offers a curved opening tool allowing the opening to be placed on a curved wall. Each available curved opening is the same as the generic ones available. EasyArch incorporates staircases into the list of available architectural blocks for customization and dimension editing. The available blocks of stairs include spiral-helical, corner step, flights and angle flight staircases. All required variables are asked for in the command line upon creation:

To download a free 30-day trial for progeCAD Professional including EasyArch, see the CADDIT webpage HERE. For a more complete overview of EasyArch for progeCAD 2011 Pro download this FREE PDF E-Book HERE. CADDIT is based in Sydney, Australia and has been supporting progeCAD users since 2007.

progeCAD 2011 Released with New Architectural Options

progeCAD 2011 Professional has been released on CADDIT, with a twist: three new modules for architects. progeCAD is already a low-cost design tool of choice by architects and designers for its reliability and strong compatibility with the well-known AutoCAD solution from Autodesk in the USA. For years progeCAD software has supported advanced AutoCAD-like drafting commands for layouts, blocks, rendering, 3D boolean modelling, PDF and XML publishing and more.

Experienced progeCAD users will immediately notice that progeCAD's former 10000 block symbol library ALE has been replaced with the new iCADlib manager which has been extended to over 20,000 CAD symbols. iCADlib includes integrated keyword-category search and access to dozens of up-to-date CAD symbols via online access to a new progeCAD/Traceparts library.


Specific to architectural design, progeCAD is introducing two new products. EasyArch is a free collection of editable 2D macros for doors, windows, walls, stairs and other architectural elements commonly used in house and building design. EasyArch features the ability to dynamically insert and trim walls with common predefined blocks of architectural symbols such as windows and doors with parameters for easy dimensioning and attribute definition. Here is an example of the dialogue box for editing a staircase drawn with EasyArch:

Also in testing at CADDIT is also progeCAD Architecture - a complete 3D parametric BIM building design package for progeCAD. Some YouTube demonstrations of progeCAD architecture have been made available at http://www.youtube.com/user/pCADArchitecture. We are currently evaluating its suitability for Australian design requirements and would welcome individual requests to give the test version a go.

progeCAD 2011 Professional can be downloaded from CADDIT for a full 30 day trial at THIS LINK.

CADDIT is offering a 15% discount to all progeCAD upgrades purchased in the next 30 days until 1 September 2011. Our 15% upgrade discount includes all progeCAD Professional, progeCAD USB and progeCAD Network licenses. CADDIT is an international CAD/CAM/PLM software partner based in Sydney Australia. CADDIT can be contacted via any of the details posted at THIS LINK.

Free Upgrade to progeCAD 2011 Windows. CAD for MAC Released.

25 May 2011 Sydney time - CADDIT has announced the upcoming release of progeCAD 2011 for June-July timeframe. As of 25 May 2011 Sydney timezone, all new licenses and upgrades purchased of progeCAD 2010 Professional for Microsoft Windows, including progeCAD USB, Network NLM and Office license options, will receive a free upgrade to the new version of progeCAD 2011 for Windows upon its release, at no additional charge. This offer also includes all users who upgrade progeCAD now from an older version or from another older CAD package. This promotion does not include progeCAD Standard, and will conclude at the announcement of progeCAD 2011 release.

Over four years in development and planning, progeCAD 2011 for Windows is a largely re-written product from the ground up. progeCAD 2011 is a milestone release as regards compatibility to AutoCAD and other design products. progeCAD 2011 longer stores DWG/DXF using the old internal ITC database, rather is built directly on Teigha® DRX. This dramatically improves file performance (read/write speeds, etc). Although ITC SDS modules will still be supported for some time, progeCAD 2011 is the first generation offering developer access to a genuine DRX C++ API.

progeCAD is a trusted name for many companies looking for reasonably-priced CAD software for working with AutoCAD DWG files, plan view drawing, fixture plumbing and electrical layout and other design work. A free download of progeCAD is available at this LINK.

- - -

No AutoCAD LT for MAC? Try iCADMac from CADDIT.

CADDIT has announce the availability of iCADMac in Australia and New Zealand. iCADMac is the low cost 2D/ 3D DWG and DXF CAD alternative for MAC users. Concurrent with AutoCAD commands, iCADMac opens, saves and edits direct AutoCAD® native DWG files. It is a user friendly 2D/3D CAD software using a conventional-style OS/X interface. Due to iCADMac's high level of compatibility with AutoCAD it is ideal for design professionals like architects, commercial draftsmen, land and planning surveyors, structural detailing and building designers, kitchen and bath modelers, engineers and others who use Apple computers for their work.



iCADmac offers features to make it a complete primary CAD package with hundreds of commands for 2D design and 3D modeling. These features include full geometry set of lines, arcs, splines, text, dimensions, hatches and other entities. PDF import and export makes data exchange with graphic artists easier. Tables and cells can be used for bills of materials, component lists, revisions and text to organize and manage information within your drawings. iCADMac can insert, edit and clip Raster images (scanned images, photos, images from the Internet, etc.). in a drawing; iCADMac supports jpeg, bmp, gif, and png image formats with added support for polygonal image cropping. ACIS 3D solids support allows for the direct construction of complex 3D models in your CAD drawing. The newly updated iCADMac 26 April release now includes iCADlib (the new CAD block library with 20,000 blocks), Traceparts access, and several fixes related to printing and file access.

MAC users can sign up for a free 30 day full-function iCADMac demo at this LINK. Micrsoft Windows users should consider downloading progeCAD instead. iCADMac pricing is available from CADDIT.net.

iCADmac "CAD for Mac" Released on CADDIT

CAD on MAC OS/X (Version 10 or 'X' of the Apple operating System) is back. AutoCAD for Mac was (re)announced in August 2010. However, the cost of AutoCAD on Mac (several thousand dollars) makes this new option unviable for some small business looking for CAD software for Mac. As a low cost alternative to more expensive CAD on Mac systems, CADDIT will begin to offer the iCADMac product line from progeSOFT.

iCADMac "CAD for Mac" features include:

• Native Mac OS/X CAD software - no Boot Camp, VMware Fusion or Parallels virtualization required.
• Similar user interface to what some CAD for Mac users are already accustomed.
• Read and Write AutoCAD .dwg CAD files, edit and print.
• Convert PDF in to CAD / Print to PDF out from CAD
• Raster image modification tools for use in CAD drawings
• 3D solid modeling using the same ACIS libraries as licensed by AutoCAD
• Table and cell support used for bills of materials, component lists and more.
• Advanced interface for gradient hatching, entity property bar etc
• ALE symbol library including ready 15.000 Blocks for use in your drawing
• AutoLISP and ODA DRX C++ programming support
• Permanent perpetual license
• 12 Months free upgrade maintenance with new license with option to renew

CADDIT will be offering an AUD$175 discount to RRP pricing until 22 April. Architects, engineers, technicians and other CAD users looking for "CAD for Mac" will also enjoy free upgrades to additional functionality released in the iCADMac product for 12 months from the date of purchase. iCADmac can be downloaded for a free for a 30 day trial HERE. Questions about iCADMac in Australia and New Zealand should be directed to CADDIT here.

Note for Windows users - those looking for a reliable, low-cost 2D / 3D design solution on Microsoft Windows should download progeCAD for Windows HERE.

CAD Software Update for progeCAD 2010 Users

CADDIT.net has released a new update of progeCAD 2010 10.0.10.8 for immediate download on their website. progeCAD is a low-cost compliment for AutoCAD from Autodesk, offering similar commands and editing AutoCAD DWG files but costing thousands less to buy. The progeCAD 10.0.10.8 update is free to all licensed progeCAD 2010 users and offers several key fixes that our users have requested, including these listed below:

For End Users:
Gradient hatch: improved visualization in printing
Improved performance when layouts have hidden or shaded viewports
ICAD.LSP continues loading even when reading ICAD.SDS fails
Fixed active layout in status bar opening a drawing on paper space
Last path used to open drawings is saved correctly
Fixed save of Dynamic blocks of DWG 2010 version
Fixed save of drawings containing Multileader and improved plot settings extraction
Fixed change of active DIMSTYLE in dialog
Changed reopen of property palette after print, to avoid conflict between print dialog and property palette
Fixed isolated crashes caused by certain entity displays
Fixed isolated crashes on Trim/Extend commands
Fixed problem of command typing with Windows 7 (Chinese Version)

For Developers:
Fixed 'send of message' to VBI workspaces

New Features:
Added Beta version of LispDefender (Lisp protection)
Added Proxy capability for both updater and registration

AutoCAD LT users are especially invited to try this latest release of progeCAD 2010. progeCAD offers several important features that AutoCAD LT does not, including 3D modelling and rendering, full programmability (C++, VBA, AutoLISP), multiple profile support, Network Licensing, DWG 14 export, Express Tools, Image Tools, advanced PDF printing and more. A free no-obligation trial of progeCAD Professional can be downloaded HERE.

New progeCAD 2010 10.0.8.9 Released from CADDIT; Automatic Upgrade for Current Users

progeCAD 2010 Professional 10.0.8.9 is available from CADDIT with several more small bug fixes for issues reported from our forum, customer and user feedback. These fixes include:

- Fixed "copy as block" when name is already defined in the destination drawing
- Fixed a hatch display regen bug
- Fixed polar Lisp function
- Wblock file format now uses system DWG default version (2007)
- Fixed point dragging when ORTHO and ESNAP are On
- Occasional crash on auto-save issues have been addressed
- Fixed memory leaks found with the MIRROR command
- Fixed some issues with display of some non-Latin characters
- Fixed graphics visualization issue after REDO

Current progeCAD 2010 users also having an Internet connection will be upgraded automatically if the automatic update tool is enabled. No manual download will be necessary when the update works in that case. On some systems it may be necessary to first login as administrator before this update can be performed.

Other CAD users are encouraged to download this latest as a version free trial. progeCAD 2010 Professional will run for 30 days before users can choose to license it or not. Current license options for progeCAD include single-seat, floating network licenses, mobile USB, large office licenses and more. SME small and medium enterprise may also inquire as to our quantity discounts for 5- 10- and 20-license packs. progeCAD is free for schools who join the CADDIT progeCAD educational program in Australia and New Zealand. Other questions about progeCAD software can be directed to our support office in Liverpool, Australia.

progeCAD Upgrades: What are my choices?

Until 11 May 2010, CADDIT.net is sharing in a global limited-time 15% discount for all upgrades to progeCAD 2010 Professional. This includes discounts to the following basic upgrade options:

• Upgrade progeCAD 2009 to progeCAD 2010
• Upgrade progeCAD 2008 to progeCAD 2010
• Upgrade progeCAD Network License
• Upgrade progeCAD USB License

The procedure for upgrading progeCAD online is simple: select the matching progeCAD upgrade for your current license, fill out the bottom text box of the product page with your current serial code(s) and complete the order as usual.

It is also possible online to migrate or convert different CAD licenses to progeCAD Professional, Network or USB versions.

To upgrade from an older version of AutoCAD LT (2004 or newer), IntelliCAD 6, certain versions of TurboCAD Professional, Vectorworks, Microstation, BricsCAD and other software HERE. As with direct upgrades for progeCAD, upgrading simply requires entering a valid license code and a description of the old CAD software in the bottom text box provided. Always check this cross-over order form for a list of software currently qualifying for upgrade.

To convert from either progeCAD Professional stand-alone license or another CAD package to progeCAD Professional USB version, use this order page and select which system you are upgrading from the drop-down menu "product-current" toward the bottom of the order page, as well as filling out the current serial number. The final price for the USB upgrade varies depending from which previous CAD program that one upgrades from.

For example, why "upgrade" from AutoCAD LT 2006 to progeCAD Professional 2010? Here are some reasons: AutoCAD DWG 2010 file editing, Windows Vista & Windows 7 support, 3D modeling and rendering, AutoLISP and VBA programming, Google Earth export, Express Tools, Quick Dimensioning, PDF import, Raster to Vector tools, gradient hatching - all offered in progeCAD at modest cost - but not in AutoCAD LT 2006. In fact, while the gap between AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD widens, the gap between progeCAD and AutoCAD is narrowing.

A full version of the new progeCAD 2010 Professional (with 10.0.4 patch) can be downloaded HERE. It will run without limitation for 30 days before you can decide if it meets your needs.

progeCAD 2010 Released. AutoCAD Clone Reads AutoCAD 2010 Files, Windows 7 Compatible

Sydney, Australia - CADDIT and progeSOFT are happy to announce the milestone software release of progeCAD 2010. Also to be known as "progeCAD CLASSIC", this will be the final and best release ever available on the established IntelliCAD 6 platform (future versions will be based on new IntelliCAD 7 DRX technology). AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT software compatibility has been a priority. This unique "bridge" release delivers many features users have requested:

AutoCAD 2010 DWG file read/write
Windows 7 compatibility
PDF import & export with layers support
Brand New Property Palette, with hide & fly-out.
Brand New Boundary Hatch Interface, including gradient hatching
Advanced CTB (Greyscale print and Screening)
Polygon Layout Viewport Boundaries in Paper space
SOLPROF - 2D profile image extraction from ACIS solids
Improved Selection Windows with Dynamic Entity Highlighting

progeCAD 2010 now supports export to the following file formats: PDF, 3DS (Autodesk 3D Studio MAX), POV (Povray raytracer), Lightwave, ACIS .SAT, SVG (XML format), O2C, GoogleEarth KML, DWG and DXF (also a number of raster image formats).

Performance & stability improvements have been made throughout progeCAD. Real time pan, zoom, file operation, printing, 3D shading while rotating 3D models (via "shade" command + CTRL-Right Mouse Button), 3D operation has improved, paper space operation - all these aspects have been improved upon as well. The greatest advantage remains Windows 7 and AutoCAD 2010 support.

Why called "progeCAD CLASSIC"? While it is a new product, progeCAD 2010 represents the final version based on time-proven IntelliCAD 6 technology, a few parts of which evidently still trace back to the very early days of IntelliCAD. Future progeCAD releases will use a new DRX technology from the completely rewritten IntelliCAD 7. So from a certain historical point of view, progeCAD 2010 is perhaps the greatest direct realization of a software design that started fourteen years ago. To salute this long-standing achievement, CADDIT has dubbed progeCAD 2010 a "CLASSIC".

Interested to try it out? Here is a link to download the full version of progeCAD. progeCAD offers Professional, Stand-Alone, USB Dongle, Network NLM and Full Office Licenses. Free support for all versions of progeCAD is offered directly from CADDIT technicians on the CAD forum.

P.S. We will begin notifying customers who took advantage of our free upgrade offer about their new licenses as soon as perhaps next week.

CAD Training Course 28 January 2010 Near Sydney

A special one-day progeCAD CAD training course will be held Thursday, 28 January 2010 in Newcastle, NSW Australia. Special pricing for this event in Australia should especially appeal to small businesses on the Australian East Coast. All materials needed for participating in the class will be provided upon arrival. The class will be divided into four sessions on basic and advanced design. Lunch will be catered for.

progeCAD is a powerful tool for AutoCAD-compatible CAD drawing. progeCAD offers most of the same commands and DWG file format support, but at a much lower cost compared to AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT software. Recent years have also seen many customer-driven improvements in speed and flexibility. In 2009 progeCAD added in-place text editing, paper space sheet size display and 3D Google Earth model export. New buyers are now also enjoy a free upgrade to the 2010 version upon release. A 30 day trial version can be downloaded from CADDIT.

Newcastle Computer Training is centrally located on Wood Street, Newcastle NSW not far from major highways and public transportation. A wide choice of accommodation is also available. All software, hardware and needed training materials will be provided on site.

Specific questions about next class content material are being answered by CADDIT on (02) 8777 5588. Registration for progeCAD Training 2010 can be completed by phoning or by registering online at HERE at CADDIT.

TransMagic R8 sp3 Released in Australia through CADDIT

Vendor-neutral design collaboration over the network, CAD model repair and healing, cross-platform solid model translation, model analysis and measurement, batch translation, perspective rendering - these are just a few features enhanced by the latest release of TransMagic in Australia / New Zealand by CADDIT. TransMagic converts CATIA, SolidWorks, Unigraphics, JT, Pro/ENGINEER, Inventor and many other 3D formats.

TransMagic R8 sp3 enhancements include:

• TransMagic is now fully supported on both Intel 64-bit and Windows 7 systems.
• Drastically improved rendering performance for re-rendering geometry changes. The rendering engine now intelligently determines only what has changed and re-renders only that vs. re-rendering the entire scene after small changes.
• New "Show Un-Repaired Geometry" dialog that gets launched when appropriately during the Auto-Repair Wizard
• TransMagic now offers two different methods for stock size calculation "bounding box" - precise and fast.
• CATIA V5 Environment now created on a per user account basis - allows any account type to establish the TM V5 Environment automatically without any user rights issue.
• Siemens Unigraphics JT Facet Resolution can now be one of five settings for "normal deviation" and correspond to the following settings: Lowest accuracy (fastest) = 45 degrees, Low = 30 degrees, Normal = 15 degrees, High = 10 degrees, Highest accuracy (slowest) = 5 degrees
• Added JT assembly output types: Single File Assembly Entire assembly in one file. Typical Assembly Assembly JT files + part JT files. Typical Assembly w/Directory Typical assembly JT file + directory. All Assembly Files Each assembly is a JT file including parts.
• Upgraded to JT Open 5.3.
• More enhancements to stability, speed, command-line interface and batch mode CAD file translations.

TransMagic native 64-Bit permanently changes the landscape for large CAD file translation by solving this common manufacturing problem. TransMagic reports that the new platform offers 10-20% better performance and a tremendous increase in CAD software file size capability. Translating multi-gigabyte files on a single computer is now a reality, with TransMagic 64-Bit.

TransMagic users with active maintenance can upgrade to SP3 free of charge. TransMagic 8 sp3 can be downloaded directly from CADDIT in Australia HERE. CADDIT can be contacted about options for TransMagic 64-bit, batch mode and command-line translation enterprise solutions HERE.

Choose One / Get One progeCAD Add-on Free from CADDIT

Until 31 December 2009, new buyers any CADDIT CP-System progePLAN module will get the second one for free, provided that the user also purchases the yearly maintenance plan for both modules (@AUD$140.00 each). This offer will only be available by direct request to CADDIT, please contact us for more details. All new users will also receive a free upgrade to soon-to-be released CAD-Profi 7.

progePLAN/CAD-Profi System is a comprehensive collection of four individually licensed, specialized 2D design modules for:

• Electrical and industrial circuit wiring, lighting, fire & safety, power distribution or telecommunications plans and schematics
• HVAC and plumbing, water-supply-and-sewage, medical, cooling duct installation and gas distribution design
• Mechanical design, parametric steel profiles, comprehensive mechanical parts library, steel pipes, industrial equipment of heat exchangers
• Architecture Design for building planners to easily draw basic architectural design using walls, parametric windows, doors and more.

CAD-Profi System is a CAD software add-on which works in AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT (using LTX extender available form CADDIT), progeCAD, IntelliCAD, BricsCAD and many other systems. Users can download a free 30 day trial of CAD-Profi System HERE.

Outsource Your Technical Projects to South Asia

Whenever someone mentions outsourcing, you can't not think about South Asian countries, especially India, Sri Lanka and the Philippines. This is because these countries are known for three things - eager workforce, cheap labour and high-quality technical services offered by qualified professionals. Unlike with writing projects, technical work don't need native English speakers, nor do they need an excessive understanding of each and every field of business. Technical work is always specialised, clearly specified and done according to certain global standards. Because of this, technical projects can easily be outsourced to professionals in South Asian countries.

For instance, MEP designing is a highly technical and specialised skill and only qualified, trained and experience professional CAD designers undertake such projects. Especially useful in mechanical and electrical engineering, MEP designing is also used in architecture and civil/structural engineering disciplines. Regardless of the project scope, excellent MEP designing services are offered by several freelancers and since they lack huge overheads and often work from home, their quoted prices are 1/3rd of the cost you would normally receive from corporate service providers.

When you're considering outsourcing your MEP designing and other technical projects to a South Asian country, it's necessary to realise that each country has its own economic system and while one person may quote $100, another may quote $50, depending entirely on the freelancer's location. Besides the level of experience and qualifications, the prices quoted will be highly effected by how many people are involved in the project, the number of days estimated for completion and the actual physical location of the person working on a project.

As of early July 2008, $1 equals approximately 43 Indian Rupees, 107 Sri Lankan Rupees and 45 Philippines Pesos. So, from among the three most popular outsourcing destinations, the current global economic situation suggests your technical work should be outsourced to a professional in Sri Lanka. To get the most out of every dollar you spend, you should definitely consider outsourcing your technical projects to Sri Lanka.

Read More......

Make Money From CAD

CAD just stands for computer-aided design. This technology has changed the way a lot of people complete their work. CAD has helped a wide variety of professionals see new ideas and create new ideas all with a computer program. The need for people who can use these CAD software programs has increased greatly over the years. It is less expensive to look at a variety of ideas on a computer than with most other methods. With a CAD software program you can create nearly anything you want, such as blueprints for a building, designs for furniture, even lay out road markings, and so much more.

Here are some professionals who use CAD software programs or hire someone who does –

* Builders

* Architects

* Engineers

* Plumbers

* Landscape Architects

* Fashion Designers

* Interior Designers

* Carpenters

* And More

If you could learn how to use a CAD software program you would be a great asset to nearly any design or building business! You could become a CAD designer earning $25 per hour or more depending on your skill levels and your clients.

Begin your CAD designer business by downloading some free trial CAD software and teaching yourself how to use a variety of them. Some clients will prefer one CAD software program over others, so you should learn the most popular ones, or create an expertise in just one particular CAD software program. This learning process should take a few weeks so you can learn how to design and develop computer generated designs, blueprints, and more.

Your main expense will be in purchasing the proper CAD software program and then you can start to market your services to a variety of businesses. You can sign up for freelance websites and bid on projects for those who need CAD designers. You should get some business cards, set up some flyers in your local area, send out direct mail to your area, and set up a website for your business.

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Press Release: The Open Design Alliance (ODA) today announced the availability of a new enhancement request system

Phoenix, AZ, October 26, 2009 – The Open Design Alliance (ODA) today announced the availability of a new enhancement request system designed to improve communication between ODA Sustaining and Founding Members and ODA development.

As a member-driven organization, the ODA has consistently delivered technology that stems directly from the focus set by members through long-term development relationships and close communication. The newly implemented enhancement request system further strengthens the role of members within the organization by enabling them to enter and vote on new requests for ODA platform components, enhancements, and features. Members will also be able to collaborate on requests with each other and with ODA development.

ODA Chief Technical Officer Neil Peterson stated, “The ODA has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. As the size of our organization and the sophistication of our platform increases, we need to adopt infrastructure tools which are better suited to handling the increased communication load. The new enhancement request system will play a key role in future growth by providing an organized framework for expressing and prioritizing new ideas and development goals. It’s a strong addition to the membership infrastructure of the ODA.”

More information about the ODA and its members is available at http://www.opendesign.com/.

Computer Aided Design

Computer aided designs (CAD) are essential components of any high quality engineering projects.

In modern engineering, designs are often complex and require more than just paper drafting to fully visualize the design in full details. That is where CAD comes in to provide stunning visual aids to help you, the designer, as well as your client, understand and communicate via a virtual prototype, leaving less room for miscommunication.

At CAD Design, we offer solutions to engineering undergraduates who are often burdened with heavy workload, let alone multiple projects to handle. As student once, we understand the amount of workload undergraduates go through.

With CAD Design, you can find reliable help for your project outsourcing, at a highly competitve rate.

We make use of Solidworks and Autodesk Inventor, two of the leading CAD software used in engineering industry as well as most established universities.

We are a team of freelance graphic designers, each equipped with good knowledge in handling CAD designs. Portfolios are available on our website.

We offer a wide range of services, including detailed dimension drawing, exploded views, illustrative and realistic studio rendering.

Rates are not fixed, due to complexity of individual project. However, be assured that our rates are highly competitve so as to cater to college students' budget.

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"Foreign DWG File" Scare Tactic from Autodesk?

AutoCAD 2010 users might see this "Trusted DWG" message box when opening DWG file created in progeCAD:

See it? Looking scary ..almost like an anti-virus warning? But read closer: "This file was saved by an application that was not developed or licensed by Autodesk." Well, duh... We knew that already. So why the big warning? Have a wild guess, then read here.

Now our concern changes from what was "bad file warning" to "how do I stop this idiot box from opening every time I open a file from progeCAD?" The answer in AutoCAD 2010 is simple: either click the little check box at the bottom which says "Always open DWG files regardless of origin" or disable "Open - Foreign DWG file" in the System "Hidden Message Settings" - it amounts to the same thing.

progeCAD is a low-cost compliment for AutoCAD users to reliably create, edit and print AutoCAD files without the high cost of AutoCAD software. A free 30 trial of progeCAD may be downloaded HERE.

Free Fonts for CAD and Graphic Design

Wikipedia defines font (also fount) as "traditionally defined as a complete character set of a single size and style of a particular typeface". Good use of fonts can help accomplish goals like making ideas stand out tastefully, making content clear and easy to read or translating information in another language. There are three major font categories: bitmap, outline and stroked. TrueType fonts (originally developed by Apple) and Postscript Type 1 (developed earlier by Adobe) are examples of bézier vector outline type fonts.

Scalable vector outline and stroked fonts usually offer the best results in modern design. During the mid 90s fonts cost about $40 for a single face, but needed to be purchased in packages. Today there are many sources where usable fonts can be downloaded for free. Here is a list of some links for these...

Showfont.net is a site written in frames offering free TrueType fonts and previews, organized alphabetically and downloaded free after verifying the captcha image. Handy for some unusual themes and logos.

http://www.betterfonts.com/ offers many of the same fonts, presented differently with no captcha check. http://www.creamundo.com/en/ is similar but also offers web pages in Spanish.
http://www.searchfreefonts.com/ has a large collection including many varieties of standard typefaces like Swiss 721 and Arial.

Specific to CAD, there are several sites for downloading AutoCAD SHX fonts:

• CRCweb/RAND still hosts several free SHX fonts and hatch patterns HERE.
• There are a few AutoCAD fonts on cadforum.cz HERE
• FreeCADapps still hosts the 19-font pack acadfont.zip HERE
• CBEN.net has a small selection of free CAD fonts.

These are just a few of the resources available, we are sure there is more. Feel free to add you favorite site to the list in the comments below.